Another month has passed, so it’s time for another Insecure Writer’s Support Group post. And another chance to reassess my writing strategy.
I’ve shelved my Snowdon Shadows police procedural, Fevered Fuse, while I change focus. I will continue revising ‘Fates Maelstrom’, the second book in the series, although that will require months.
I’ve just posted two more episodes of my Ukraine saga, Freedom Flights. If you read Part 1 of No Cards Game, you may realise how the episode ends before you reach Part 2. Obviously, I’m still following the news from Ukraine.
Slava Ukraini
Heroiam slava!
**
Every month, IWSG announces a question that members can answer in their IWSG posts. These questions may prompt you to share advice, insight, a personal experience, or a story. Include your answer to the question in your IWSG post or let it inspire your post if you are struggling with something to say.
Remember, the question is optional!
October 1 question – What is the most favorite thing you have written, published or not? And why?
My first thought was, “These are a few of my favourite things”, but then I realised “There can be only one”, but which one? And why?
The obvious work would be my only published novel, Spiral of Hooves, the first book in the ‘Chasseur’ series. The MCs return in the first draft of a sequel, ‘Tortuous Terrain’, as does Zoo Sécurité, an organisation that appears in other series. Spiral will always be a favourite, but not quite number one. Gradually, the Zoos have become a valuable creation.
One member of Zoo Sécurité is a key secondary character in my Snowdon Shadows police procedural, Fevered Fuse, which has yet to reach an audience. However, Sparkle Anwyl has become my favourite character. But the series falls short of that Number One slot despite Sparkle and my overall arc for her career. I’ll still revise ‘Fates Maelstrom’, the second book in the series, and one day, hopefully, another Sparkle mystery, ‘Ruined Retreat’, featuring another Zoo operative.
As I attempt to assess my favourite written work by trawling through predominantly unpublished scribblings, I recognise an ongoing obsession that might be holding me back. Creating and outlining series ideas.
If I’d stuck with the characters and equestrian world created in Spiral of Hooves, I might have succeeded in publishing more. Instead, I have five or more unwritten series.
For instance, the Gossamer Flames saga grew from my two ‘Wyrm’ draft novels, written in 2011 before ‘Spiral of Hooves’ was published… but after SoH was written. Instead of revising a draft novel, I built new projects to muddle my writing plans. Like ‘Eagle Crossing’ in 2016, set in a 21st-century Viking North America called Kanata. It was extensively researched at the time of devising, as I believed Kanata was my writing future.
Eventually, I developed Sparkle Anwyl, who became my favourite character.
Yet, the favourite thing I’ve written is Feathered Fire, the 1944-based short story published in the 2020 IWSG Anthology (No. 5), Voyagers: The Third Ghost. My reasoning is, firstly, as a standalone story, all the elements seem to work, thanks in part to the editing by L. Diane Wolfe from Dancing Lemur Press.
Secondly, writing Feathered Fire gave rise toFreedom Flights, a crucial part of my ongoing writing journey. Readers asked what happened to the two Ukrainian sisters in the story, so when Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24th, 2022, I created their two granddaughters and the modern Night Witches. The present-day episodes led me to start writing about the post-1944 growth of the Chayka Family and their aviation business based in Canada, Chayka Air. Of course, there are at least two Zoo Sécurité operatives involved.
So, Feathered Fire inspired the saga that’s now a key part of my writing, alongside the unfolding career of my Welsh detective, Sparkle Anwyl. All other scribblings must be shelved… for now.
Our Twitter handle is @TheIWSG, and our hashtag is #IWSG.
Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!
Posting: The first Wednesday of every month is officially Insecure Writer’s Support Group Day. Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer – aim for a dozen new people each time – and return comments. This group is all about connecting!
The months seem to pass by so fast, and another Insecure Writer’s Support Group post is almost here. Time again to update my writing plans…or rather to request some feedback.
Since my Snowdon Shadows police procedural, Fevered Fuse, was rejected after my first submission, I’ve been thinking about my next step.
As I let my editor know what happened, she kindly sent me some suggestions. The one that struck me as most achievable at this point was being active on Substack, on which I discovered I had a dormant account. First, I should start writing short pieces, and then she suggested I post one of my existing novels or novellas in serialised form, which I should monetise.
I have four possible manuscripts that I could serialise, and that’s where I need help choosing the best one.
Fevered Fuse: Although this is fully edited and an excellent choice, I’d better hold this novel back as long as I’m still submitting the manuscript.
Freedom Flights: As the present-day episodes are on this blog, I could serialise the pre-2022 growth of the Chayka Family and their aviation business based in Canada, Chayka Air. The first four chapters (54 pages) are written, but the first one is my short story in the 2020 IWSG Anthology (No. 5), Voyagers: The Third Ghost, so not useable.
Tortuous Terrain: An early draft of the sequel to Spiral of Hooves, my published novel, so in need of revision &/r editing. A possible means to promote my debut book.
Eagle Crossing: An early draft of an extensively researched alternate history set in a 21st-century Viking North America arising from Leif Eriksson settling Vinland permanently in 1000 AD, and founding Kanata. Has potential legs.
I will probably still submit Fevered Fuse to at least two more of the small publishers on my researched list… but only if I’m convinced that the manuscript is publishable (as it stands). Or I will continue revising ‘Fates Maelstrom’, the second book in my Snowdon Shadows series, until it reads almost as engrossing as the audiobooks I listen to.
I’ve just posted another episode of my Ukraine saga, Freedom Flights. If you manage to read Conviction and Commitment, Part 1, please be patient waiting for Part 2. I must make it worth reading before posting it online.
Obviously, I’m also still following the news from Ukraine.
Slava Ukraini
Heroiam slava!
**
Every month, IWSG announces a question that members can answer in their IWSG posts. These questions may prompt you to share advice, insight, a personal experience, or a story. Include your answer to the question in your IWSG post or let it inspire your post if you are struggling with something to say.
Remember, the question is optional!
September 3 question – What are your thoughts on using AI, such as GPChat, Raptor, and others, with your writing? Would you use it for research, storybible, or creating outlines\beats?
Last month, I made my attitude to unscrupulous AI publishers clear. However, I can see the benefits of AI for our type of writing, even if I sometimes get frustrated when my AI-driven grammar software messes up my creativity – Copilot, I’m pointing at you.
As for the examples in the question, I don’t use them, nor am I tempted. I checked if any of the aforementioned ‘unscrupulous publishers’ produced them.
If I used any AI app besides grammar services, I would use Edwina, Fictionary’s Helpful AI Writing Instructor. Fictionary is the Story Editing software I’ve used on & off for some years, usually while writing early drafts and before I send a manuscript to my editor.
Incidentally, Kristina Stanley, best-selling author of the Stone Mountain Mystery Series, founded Fictionary and was one of the authors who helped me launch ‘Spiral of Hooves’.
Fellow writers, some of you might be interested in this FREE webinar on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at 2:00 pm Eastern Time, organised by The Authors Guild Foundation – The AI Revolution in Book Publishing. I would attend, but my carer is still here at that time. *
Our Twitter handle is @TheIWSG, and our hashtag is #IWSG.
Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!
Posting: The first Wednesday of every month is officially Insecure Writer’s Support Group Day. Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer – aim for a dozen new people each time – and return comments. This group is all about connecting!
Episode 41 of Freedom Flights is set in January 2025 and is released in two parts. World-shattering events may occur in future episodes. Some events foreshadowed in Parts 1 & 2 of this double-episode will take a few months to play out.
Links to the previous episodes can be found on my Freedom Flights page via the left-hand sidebar.
Episode 41. Conviction and Commitment.
Part 2
2025
Friday, January 17th– Main Hangar Bay, Chayka Field, Volyn Oblast, Ukraine
Maintenance staff perform routine upkeep of MiG-29 aircraft after the flight in eastern Ukraine on Aug. 2, 2023. (Libkos / Getty Images)
Chief Warrant Officer Janina Patriksson and Warrant Officer Kang Eun-Ji were anxious to talk again to Andżelika and Estera Sówka after learning of the military’s manpower crisis. Neither maintainers nor security could afford to have personnel sent to the front lines due to infantry shortages. Foreign recruits might be exempt, but Ukrainians could be called up, although the women serving at the front tended to be volunteers.
“Even if none of our personnel were required at the front,” said Janina. “The UAF might see us as a squadron with skilled technicians to fill the gaps at the squadrons in the east.”
“Except we’ve been training our personnel on Gripens,” said Eun-Ji. “MiG-29s are our secondary airframes. Our maintainers are specialists.”
“Exactly, especially as some maintain our rotary craft.”
Andżelika and Estera entered the hangar, already aware of the issue.
“Our only Ukrainian is a K9 handler,” said Andżelika. “All the other Owls are Polish, Spanish, or Canadian… although with Ukrainian ancestry.”
“But unlike your maintainers, the Owls are trained to handle weapons,” added Estera.
“We need to ask our two commanders to discover whether the army can draft this squadron’s personnel,” said Janina. “Or should we prepare to send some to other squadrons?”
Conchita Gutiérrez wondered if her fiancé, Aaron Garcia, would be back from Brussels this evening. She turned to his sister, Jacinta.
“Has he told you anything?”
“He never does,” replied Jacinta. “Especially when he’s covering a NATO meeting.”
“Was this an important one?” asked Adelita Palomo, co-pilot of Conchita’s and her Tiger.
Before anyone could answer, the swarthy journalist entered the restaurant and casually sauntered towards their table. He took Conchita in his arms and kissed her passionately.
Once their prolonged embrace ended, he greeted the others.
“Hopefully, everyone survived the relentless Russian aggression,” he said. “You’ll be relieved to know that in Brussels our 32 NATO allies and their 27 partners reaffirmed their ongoing support for Ukraine’s resistance against Russia’s unprovoked hostility.”
“Was the two-day session just about reinforcing that?” asked Adelita.
“The media didn’t have access to the Chiefs of Defence Sessions,” he replied. “But there were regular press briefings on NATO’s vigilance & deterrence, strengthening military partnerships, as well as on the final NATO-Ukraine Council’s virtual discussions with the Ukrainian Chief of Defence. The alliance realises it’s in their political and military interest to support Ukraine now and into the future.”
“Presumably, you’ll cover more in articles,” said Jacinta. “While you were away, the Majors asked me to check whether you and your fiancée had any South American and Portuguese acquaintances in the military, whom you could persuade to volunteer.”
“I advised your sister to ask you,” said Conchita. “I’ve since talked to my friends in the Portuguese Air Force who are flying F-16s and Black Hawks… a couple might be interested. I know you’ve covered military aviation events in Latin America, so you should have contacts over there.”
“The most likely pilots are from a country I went to for a NATO demining conference in… Columbia. Most of the military were army, but there was a squadron struggling against drug cartels mining their runway.”
“Knowing you, my love, you befriended the most bewitching pilots.”
“Merely research,” said Aaron, blushing as he unfolded a sheet of paper, which he handed Conchita. “For dredging that up, you can read this press release aloud.”
She glanced at the release, smiled and replied.
“Any lame excuse for not addressing an issue we lady pilots combat every day… peeing while flying. Hardest for fighter pilots pulling G’s and loops, so either risking dehydration or peeing everywhere as the old designs for men fail us. At least in an all-female squadron, we’ve ‘MacGyvered’ solutions.”
“Plus, the maintainers understand and clean up our urine, when necessary,” added Adelita.
“But now there’s this new AIRUS device, a urine collection system designed for women pilots and for long flight missions,” said Conchita.
“We need as many as we can get,” added Adelita.
“Good thing I persuaded Chayka Air to chase the manufacturer,” replied Aaron.
**
Monday, January 20th – Recreation Centre, Chayka Field, Volyn Oblast, Ukraine
As evening crept over the base, squadron personnel came and left as President Trump attempted to inspire watchers wondering what his second inauguration meant. The primary concern of those who came and listened to the Centre’s television was learning if the new US President was going to deliver peace as swiftly as he’d promised from March 2023 onwards.
President Trump speaks during the presidential Inauguration on Monday. Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images
Early on, Trump dropped an unsubtle comment.
“…We have a government that has given unlimited funding to the defence of foreign borders, but refuses to defend American borders, or, more importantly, its own people…”
“I fear he meant that as a criticism of the last administration’s support of Ukraine,” said Raisa Vezzoso. “Will the aid continue?”
“Perhaps President Trump should talk about this war openly,” replied Polina Moroz. “While campaigning, he promised to end the war in Ukraine in a day.”
“He seems to want to keep the Americans happy,” replied her co-pilot, Marusya Dudziarz. “Hopefully, when he’s finished declaring national emergencies on energy and immigration.”
Yet Trump continued to speak about making America great again, while condemning the previous administration’s policies and ignoring their achievements. Eventually, though, it seemed as if he was about to tackle pressing global issues.
“My proudest legacy will be that of a peacemaker and unifier,” he announced, inspiring hope in the room. He continued, “That’s what I want to be: a peacemaker and unifier. I’m pleased to say that as of yesterday, one day before I assumed office, the hostages in the Middle East are coming back home to our family.”
However, this claim turned out to be merely another pronouncement about America’s impact on the world, but nothing about issues like the illegal invasion of Ukraine.
At first, those who remained were stunned into sadness.
“I guess Trump feels like the dealmaker, so he’ll leave Putin until tomorrow,” said Vasy Chayka. “But Trump said after he won the election, he could resolve this war in one day… before his inauguration. Do we give him a week or longer? Or allow the Russians free rein?”
**
Friday, January 24th – Chayka Field, Volyn Oblast, Ukraine
Shrouded by the darkness, the driver hid the camouflaged M1126 Stryker in the undergrowth some distance from Chayka Field. Eight black figures slipped out of the vehicle and moved silently towards the base.
“Be prepared to tackle any dogs,” said the leader in Russian. “Our drones didn’t tell us how many handlers guarded this training centre.”
The Russian split his team into four pairs. He led one colleague along the central track but encountered no opposition. As the silhouette of buildings appeared against the night sky, he ordered one pair to investigate.
*
Inside the MSHORAD, Saab technician Aslög Hellström tracked the intruders while Estera directed the Night Owl patrols. Suddenly, Estera noted one figure approaching their position and making a familiar gesture as if aware of watchers.
“K9 Alpha, hold. Your suspect is our plant. Other K9s, don’t use excessive force. Apprehend only. Over and out.”
Outside MSHORAD, Tetyana Douglass held Borago back as their mysterious operative silently disabled his colleague, then waved her towards another pair. Then she heard her sister’s voice.
“K9 Delta to control. End target disarmed their partner. Proceeding to central targets. Over.”
With minimal opposition, the K9 Night Owls apprehended all the Russian intruders. The two covert operatives introduced themselves once the Russians were taken away.
“I’m Ruslan Medved, my collaborator is Mykhail Moroz,” said the familiar one. “We’re Special Forces, but our superiors can explain. Can we see our pilot sisters, please?”
While Estera radioed for Tamila and Polina, the Douglass sisters embraced.
“Although Steinarr was disappointed with our first Night Owls’ adventure,” said Zoriana. “I hope the next one is more challenging.”
“Like our recent Chayka Air action,” added Tetyana. “It can’t be a coincidence Russians were involved both times. Why?”
**
Thursday, January 30th – Dęblin Military Air Base, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland
Air Force pilots ‘step’ to an A-10 for a flight with the Airus device, a new system designed to let pilots — particularly women — relieve themselves safely and easily during flight. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Courtney Sebastianelli
Capitaine Aline Bonheur and her crew safely landed the NH90 TTH Caïman at Dęblin. Their passengers disembarked and headed towards a secure building for their crucial meeting.
Commandant Raphaëlle Balode met them outside and led them through a door guarded by a Polish soldier.
“Due to the recent threats, we’re taking extra precautions,” said Raphaëlle. “The others are already here.
Maksym Bondarenko greeted Kalyna & Vasy Chayka and their colleagues in a secluded room, directing everyone to the empty seats around a long table.
“Some faces are new,” he said. “We should introduce ourselves. All except our two Night Witch majors.” He chuckled, then paused to let everyone get seated, before he continued, “I’m Colonel Maksym Bondarenko from UAF’s Air Command West.”
“I’m Commandant Raphaëlle Balode, leader of our Dęblin flights with my deputy, Captain Lyana Rudenko.“
She allowed her neighbour to speak before the other nine participants introduced themselves.
“To begin, we must address our recent Russian threats,” said Kalyna. “First, in Canada, they attack our fundraiser. Then, they attempt to breach the façade around Chayka Field sooner than expected. It’s obvious why, but we need to increase our security.”
“This is wider than the Night Witches, as people at higher levels have been attacked,” continued Vasy. “Our contact and superior at UAF, Maksym, has received death threats. Our response is to assign one of our best Night Owls to him, K9 handler Anhelina Tkachuk and Quetzal, her Siberian Husky.”
Maksym stood and thanked the squadron.
“You deserve an explanation after the recent incursion,” he said. “Mykhail Moroz, explain, please.”
“Some of you know that Ruslan Medved and I are Special Forces. Various bodies are aware of relentless Russian covert operations inside Ukraine. Learning that a group was assigned to enter Chayka Field, SF ordered us to infiltrate them. Fortunately, Russian intelligence believed your base was only for training K9 units, and we ensured they still believe that.”
“There is another issue we need addressed, Maksym,” said Kalyna. “Janina, please.”
Chief Warrant Officer Patriksson described the concern the maintainers and the Night Owls had over personnel being drafted elsewhere.
“That’s a problem we’re trying to resolve,” said Maksym. “As you believe, your foreign recruits and your specialists on NATO aircraft will not even be drafted to other squadrons. Nor any Ukrainian security. There are plans for our military police training centre in Lviv, which may require your expertise.”
Kalyna glanced around the table.
“Anything else before we break into groups to discuss recruitment?”
Dasha and the Dęblin-based squadron chief technicians moved some boxes into the room.
“The CEO of Chayka Air obtained these AIRUS devices from its Californian developer,” said Dasha, putting an AIRUS on the table. “This is a urine collection system designed for women pilots. Most of us will want one.”
Cheers greeted the announcement.
“All we need now,” said Vasy. “Is for Trump to persuade Putin to sign a genuine peace agreement within his first 100 days.”
Episode 41 of Freedom Flights is set in January 2025 and will be released in two parts. Can you guess what world-shattering event occurs in Part 2? Some events foreshadowed in this episode will take a few months to play out.
I will continue trying to foreshadow future incidents without making my characters react as if they know what will happen later in 2025… even if they fear what could happen. Also, I want each episode to tackle just crucial incidents in a specific month, thereby I hope to reach the present quicker. I don’t want to be stuck writing about earlier months when the last shot is fired.
Therefore, until a just and lasting peace for Ukraine is reached, I will continue to write more episodes. After then addressing the essential rebuilding, I must finish writing the pre-2022 growth of the Chayka Family and their aviation business based in Canada, Chayka Air.
We must never forget the brave people fighting for freedom, with too many losing their lives. Let’s pray Western aid and weapons continue to reach Ukraine, despite how some leaders vacillate. Assistance must arrive on time to change their fortunes and prepare for the genuine peace that must come soon.
Links to the previous episodes can be found on my Freedom Flights page via the left-hand sidebar.
Episode 41. Conviction and Commitment.
Part 1
2025
Sunday, January 5th – Chayka Field, Volyn Oblast, Ukraine
The group of children were gathered outside the old hangar, which had been decorated to resemble a stable with a nativity scene inside for the Christmas celebrations.
A child exclaimed with delight and pointed into the darkness as three figures in magnificent outfits emerged.
“Los Reyes Magos,” said Adelita Palomo, then added in Ukrainian, “The Three Kings.” She introduced them individually as they approached. “As I’m sure you know, these Wise Men are Melchior… Gaspar… and Balthazar. Follow them, please. They have gifts for children.”
As Los Reyes Magos led the children inside the hangar, Adelita approached Aitana Salcedo, who was guarding the door, and switched into Spanish.
“Are the others inside?”
“Conchita and Jacinta are, as is Aaron now, wearing his King costume. But Katiuska is patrolling with Treka and the other K9 handlers, including the five new ones from Canada. Protecting these kids is the Night Owl’s priority this evening. So, let’s join the children when I’m relieved.”
Shortly, K9 handler Ailish Delaney and her Beagle, Rosheen, took over, so Adelita and Aitana went into the hangar.
Inside, Los Reyes Magos were kneeling before the infant Jesus in his crib and presenting their gifts. Gaspar gave gold, representing Jesus’ kingship; Melchior offered frankincense, symbolising his divinity; and Balthazar brought myrrh, which indicated his mortality.
“Is that real gold?” asked Adelita.
“Only if my engagement ring is,” replied Conchita. “Aaron wouldn’t say when he proposed yesterday. He just borrowed the ring for this evening’s event.”
The Kings bowed once again to Jesus, then backed up a few steps before turning to the children. Three thrones had been set up for Los Reyes Magos, who sat and began presenting the kids with candy and practical presents.
“Where did you leave your camels?” asked one small girl of the imposing Gaspar.
Tugging his dark beard, he replied, “On the far end of the base, where the dogs can guard them. Later tonight, we’ll visit your houses when you’re asleep and leave gifts for your families.”
“We can put out some grass or carrots,” said another girl. “Your camels will enjoy those.”
As the Kings and the children chatted, Conchita and her friends were ensuring the parents had what they needed… gifts from Los Reyes Magos donated by the squadron.
An hour later, Los Reyes Magos said farewell to the children, and everyone escorted them outside, where K9 handler Ailish Delaney and her Beagle, Rosheen, were on duty.
The kids all wanted to stroke Rosheen, whom they decided was the cutest dog they’d ever seen.
“Rosheen loves her work and this kind of attention,” said Ailish. “Her nose helps us find things that are hidden or lost.”
**
Monday, January 6th – Recreation Centre, Chayka Field, Volyn Oblast, Ukraine
Returning from the Epiphany service in the base chapel, Conchita and Aaron led the Spanish contingent to a corner of the rec room, originally the airport’s main lounge. Some comfortable chairs and couches were arranged around two low tables.
“Did the Three Kings leave these gifts?” asked Adelita, staring at Aaron. “Or did they take off with their camels?”
“Treka and I saw them leave towards Lutsk last night,” said Katiuska, winking at Aaron, who was already handing out presents.
Conchita unwrapped hers and held up her engagement ring and a St Christopher pendant.
“Seems Gaspar added another gold treasure to my ring.” She kissed Aaron, handing him a narrow parcel.
Removing the paper, he took out a box and opened it, revealing a pen.
“It’s also a digital recorder. I’ve left a message for you alone.”
Their friends unwrapped anonymous gifts, all selected individually, even Treka’s. But by whom? They stared at each other, then at Aaron and Conchita.
“If you were Gaspar, who were the other Kings?” asked his sister Jacinta.
“I don’t know. They just arrived,” replied the distracted journalist. “With the camels, perhaps.”
He was staring at a crowd gathered in front of the rec’s television. The Spaniards wandered over to the Canadian TV channel broadcasting Justin Trudeau’s press announcement.
Justin Trudeau at a news conference at Rideau Cottage in Ottawa, Canada on January 6, 2025. Photo: Dave Chan/AFP via Getty Images
“Every morning I’ve woken up as prime minister, I have been inspired by the resilience, generosity and the determination of Canadians,” he said. “It is the driving force of every single day I have the privilege of serving in this office. That is why, since 2015, I have fought for this country – for you -”
The ten Canadians nodded as Trudeau continued.
“-to strengthen and grow the middle class, and why we rallied to support each other through the pandemic, to advance reconciliation, to defend free trade on this continent, to stand strong with Ukraine and our democracy, and to fight climate change and get our economy ready for the future.
We are at a critical moment in the world…”
Everyone murmured in agreement, although Kalyna Chayka muttered, “But what’s next?”
As if in response, Trudeau eventually answered.
“That’s why, this morning, I advised the governor general that we need a new session of parliament. She has granted this request, and the house will now be prorogued until 24 March.”
“Suspending Parliament may lead to a Spring election,” said Tetyana Douglass.
Then, as expected, Trudeau said, “I intend to resign as party leader, as prime minister, after the party selects its next leader through a robust, nationwide, competitive process. Last night I asked the president of the Liberal Party to begin that process.
This country deserves a real choice in the next election, and it has become clear to me that if I’m having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election.”
“So, who will lead the Liberals, and what will happen to our fight over here?” asked Zoriana Douglass.
“I pray they choose Chrystia Freeland, after all she’s done for Ukraine,” said Ailish Delaney.
“Like all of us, she has Ukrainian ancestors,” added Corynn Amsel.
“And the family all speak Ukrainian at home,” continued Isla Clacher.
“As have our clan, ever since the two Chayka sisters escaped Nazi and Soviet tyranny in 1944,” said Vasy.
“Marrying two brothers from an earlier refugee wave from Ukraine,” said Kalyna, then concluded, “The ten of us need to decide what we do next, especially as there will be a Parliamentary election in Canada, sooner than expected.”
The Ukrainian Canadians all agreed and followed the Chayka cousins to a quieter room.
**
Thursday, January 16th – Squadron Command Centre, Chayka Field, Volyn Oblast, Ukraine
Kalyna Chayka turned back to the nine Night Owls waiting for the meeting.
“That was Commandant Raphaëlle Balode, our senior officer at Dęblin in Poland. She wanted to confirm the reports that Poland’s Operational Command did scramble fighter jets to secure Polish airspace last night, but there were no violations by the Russians.”
“However,” added Vasy. “As you know, Western Ukraine came under massive attacks right up to the Polish border. The enemy targeted our key energy infrastructure. 43 cruise and ballistic missiles and 74 attack drones were launched in last night’s barrage.”
After a strategic pause, Kalyna continued.
“Yet, our air force downed 30 missiles and 47 drones, of which our pilots contributed a respectable number, with zero casualties.” Cheers and fist pumps greeted the encouraging news. “President Zelensky announced the authorities have maintained the ‘operation of our energy system’. But we must be prepared for the Russian aerial onslaught to continue night after night.”
Murmurs of agreement and determination followed.
“Your responses suggest you are prepared for this,” said Vasy. “We suspect otherwise you wouldn’t have volunteered initially, given what you were told beforehand. However, we’re interested to learn your motivation behind serving with the Night Owls.”
“You’ve been here just over two months and were inspired by Aaron Garcia. Is there a common motive?”
They all nodded.
“I may be Aaron’s sister, but I speak for all three of us”, said Jacinta. “Everything he witnessed and reported made us aware of the suffering of Ukrainians as well as their desire to fight for every meter of their land. So much blood is being spilt every day, which must be stopped, whatever it takes. We were comfortable back in Spain, trained in our professions, but watching the people here suffer and, in too many cases, die. Aitana and I are qualified paramedics who can contribute far more here. Katiuska and her K9, Treka, are an experienced search and rescue duo. Together, this Hispanic trio is a team.”
Jacinta’s speech received a round of applause.
“The plight and the courage of Ukraine’s people inspire us all,” said Vasy. “Have our new recruits from Canada found a common purpose and someone to present them? We do have time for personal contributions.
The five K9 handlers smiled at each other. Then let Corynn Amsel talk.
“Ensuring the venue for the Chayka Air Fundraiser was secure brought us together as a team. Being at the event and watching the Kearney Encounter footage made us all aware of the importance of this country and the struggle to drive the Russians out. Tetyana and Zoriana encouraged us to discover our Ukrainian roots, in some cases deeper than expected. As we talked with your colleagues in Cold Lake and explored the war online, we realised our involvement out here would not only save lives through the search and rescue work, but our protection of your combat units would allow them to be more flexible in their dispersed operations. Like our Spanish sisters, we are a team… proven before we arrived.”
More cheers and applause followed.
“Excellent again. Does anyone want to add anything?” asked Kalyna.
“On a tangent,” said Isla Clacher. ‘We’re all from NATO countries and helping a country not yet a member. But the Russians claim they are fighting NATO, while our governments try to avoid escalating to that scenario. We are like the Americans in WW2, volunteering while the USA was holding back… like the ones in the Eagle Squadrons.”
“Your point being?” asked Vasy. “Are you suggesting we need non-NATO recruits?”
“Almost all of Ukraine’s support is from NATO countries,” replied Isla. “Although Russia leans towards other autocratic regimes, the Global South, led by India, continues to support them. Does Ukraine get any support from non-Western countries?’
The cousins conferred and then Kalyna answered.
“This squadron has some South Korean crew and some equipment donated from Australia. Within Ukraine, there are several volunteers from such NATO partnership countries… non-member allies for mutual security and co-operation. Recruiting qualified personnel won’t be easy… even using Chayka Air contacts-“
“Although having non-NATO personnel has advantages,” continued Vasy. “Wherever we can counter Russia’s accusations of Ukraine as a Western puppet, we should seize on it. First, we need to develop our South Korean links with the assistance of Captain Jeong Chae-Yeong and Warrant Officer Kang Eun-Ji. Second, Kalyna, we should ask your daughter, Aliona, to investigate the company’s Far Eastern, Indian, African, and Latin American connections.”
Kalyna agreed and invited further suggestions.
“My brother and his fiancée, Conchita, were discussing fighter jets recently,” said Jacinta. “They have South American and Portuguese acquaintances in the military. Whether they could persuade any to volunteer, I don’t know… but I could ask.”
**
After the new recruits left the meeting to resume their security and medical duties, Kalyna rang her daughter in Canada. Aliona understood the imperative of exploring all Chayka Air’s avenues to garner support for the Night Witches and Ukraine.
“Another concern over here,” said Kalyna, “Is the Trump inauguration on Monday receiving appropriate attention from the Canadian media? Everyone here is already uneasy, as he promised to resolve the war in 24 hours.”
“At Chayka Air, we share your unease, but Canadians are more concerned about Trump’s impact on the economy with his threatened tariffs. The press is devoting as much attention to who will be the next Liberal leader, therefore, our new Prime Minister.”
“If there is a Spring election as predicted, we’ll need to ensure the Canadians out here can vote,” said Kalyna. “Ukraine could be a key issue.”
Aliona paused before replying.
“Unfortunately for Ukraine, the Conservatives are well ahead in the polls… whoever ends up leading the Liberal Party.”
On Tuesday, August 12th, 2025, Jemima Pett is releasing The Quest for Orichalcum, her fourth novel in The Viridian System series.
Except this is the first. How come? Chronology is key. Read on to discover why and more.
The Viridian System series
#viridianseries
It started with a chase around the alpha quadrant, looking for pieces of orichalcum to make up The Perihelix. First the Federation kidnapped Pete and Lars, then the Imperium kidnapped Lars, and all that left the girls in their spaceship working out how to get home safely. Or not…
Two more books followed – Pete following his destiny to rescue his race on the planet Corsair, but diverted by a wormhole accident to the other side of the galaxy. Four travellers with no apparent way of returning to ivilization – definitely Curved Space to Corsair.
Then there was a galactic disaster – all the orichalcum communications failed. Nobody could contact anyone off planet, or steer their spaceships to a new destination. But how do the Federation manage to get their attack force to leave the outer planet’s ring system to launch a takeover of Lars and Pete’s new homeland? That’s part of the mystery of Zanzibar’s Rings.
And Jemima’s readers asked…
How did Pete and Lars meet up in the first place?
How did they meet the girls… and how many were there before Maggie, Dolores, and Aramintha?
How did they get so rich?
What is the truth behind the rumour that Lars killed a man on Excelsior?
If, like Jemima, you want to know the answers, here they are, in the memoir of a couple of asteroid miners called Pedro Garcia (Big Pete) and Lars Nilsson (the Swede). It all started before anyone, but a handful of scientists, had even heard of orichalcum.
The Quest for Orichalcum
Publishing 12th August 2025, eBook only (for now).
Jemima’s favourite quotes from the Quest are in large, centred type.
The Quest for Orichalcum tells how it all started – the revolution that transformed the galactic economy, let alone space travel. How did a postgraduate student–a refugee from an obscure planet–change galactic communications? Why did a talented software engineer take up asteroid mining? Which girls influenced their choices in life? And did Lars really kill a man in cold blood?
“No, you’ll have to talk some before I free your wrists. It’s dangerous enough letting your teeth out of armour.” Lars ripped the tape off.
About the author
Jemima at Bloggers Bash 2018
Jemima Pett started writing stories when she was eight. By ten, she was designing fantasy islands, complete with maps and railway timetables. There was no call for fantasy island designers then, so she took the science route through university and went into a business career, then retrained for environmental technology. Once in a policy research organisation, she started writing again, reports, papers and briefings. She didn’t believe she could write fiction until her guinea pigs came along and inspired her to write The Princelings of the East. She now designs planets, and the civilisations on them, with occasional forays into spaceship design, in her science fiction novels, principally The Viridian System Series. Her short stories have been published by Third Flatiron Press, among others. She lives in Hampshire with the latest tribe of guinea pigs, and enjoys doing bird surveys, wildlife gardening and painting.
You can buy the eBook early, before its release, at Smashwords. Just click this link to go to the Presale page, and get it early, and for only $2.99 (published price will be $4.99).
Enter the Giveaway!
Entries close at 11.59 15th August, New York time. Open for entries in all countries and states where this type of raffle is legal.Entries close at 11.59 15th August, New York time. Open for entries in all countries and states where this type of raffle is legal.
Lars just couldn’t remember when he’d last asked a girl to go to bed with him, and from memory, at least the last four had taken him to theirs. Well, Sylvia had taken him to his–and to the cleaners.
Extract from ‘The Quest for Orichalcum’
The beginning (231 words)
Peter Monk’s investigations of the detailed space ship workings were interrupted by a ping from the inboard messaging system. ‘Incoming for you on the bridge.’
That was from the captain, a genial but stern Scanian, as were most of the crew. Since his crew discovered Pete, stowed away in one of the smallest lockers on the Doris Jury, which fortunately he fit with enough air left to breath, Captain Grazki had been remarkably helpful. Pete worked at what he could, they taught him about the world outside his home planet, Corsair, and eventually he accessed the ship’s computer to pass the exams that he’d need to get into college.
The only likely ‘incoming’ for him would be about his application.
Stomach churning, he sauntered to the bridge.
The door slid open, and the Scanians beyond chorused ‘hah’.
“I win,” said the second engineer.
“What was the time?” another asked.
“Forty-three seconds. You were one second early.”
Grumbles and mild swear words accompanied the handing over of small tokens to the winner.
“You ran a sweepstake? On me?” Pete’s astonishment was obvious.
“Yes, you were remarkably slow, I thought.” Captain Grazki grinned at him, and waved him to his comms screen. “Read, digest, and tell us all the news. Pray to Odin that it is good. If not we will have to plan some other way to get rid of you.”
Another month has passed, so it’s time for another Insecure Writer’s Support Group post, and an opportunity to tweak my writing strategy.
First, it’s been over three months since I submitted my Snowdon Shadows police procedural, Fevered Fuse, to London-based publisher Joffe Books. As expected last month, I never received an answer, so that is a firm rejection. Their website says, ‘Do not be disheartened if you don’t hear from us. What is not right for us may be exactly what another publisher is seeking. We encourage you to look for other opportunities to publish elsewhere.’
I’m not disheartened, I’m just disappointed to wait three months for this rejection from my first choice. Months ago. I began checking out other publishers by listening to a few of their authors’ books, and I made a short wish-list of small publishers. The second on my list, based in New York, answers within two weeks (and the third, an LGBTQ+ publisher, in 16 weeks). Unfortunately, another UK small publisher only considers fiction from UK-based writers, not UK-based fiction.
However, before I submit ‘Fevered Fuse’ again, I need to know if the manuscript is unpublishable (as it stands). Or perhaps, I would be best to revise another novel, such as ‘Fates Maelstrom’, the second book in my Snowdon Shadows series, which reads better than ‘FF’. But not up to the same standard as the audiobooks I listen to.
I worry that I’m kidding myself about being a writer, even if I’ve just posted another episode of my Ukraine saga, Freedom Flights. If you manage to read Winter Warning, there’s a question to answer, but only if you want.
Obviously, I’m also still following the news from Ukraine.
Slava Ukraini
Heroiam slava!
**
Every month, IWSG announces a question that members can answer in their IWSG posts. These questions may prompt you to share advice, insight, a personal experience, or a story. Include your answer to the question in your IWSG post or let it inspire your post if you are struggling with something to say.
Remember, the question is optional!
August 6 question – What is the most unethical practice in the publishing industry?
Therefore, this abuse of copyright and the reasoning behind it, training AI, must rank as the most insidious and unethical practice. Closely followed by using AI to write books, thus flooding the market at the expense of real writers, depriving them of income.
I don’t think it’s unethical, as I realise publishers are overstretched, but knowing why a manuscript is rejected would be helpful. I guess multiple rejections mean ‘time for me to write something different’. Or stick to reading a book. 😉
Our Twitter handle is @TheIWSG, and our hashtag is #IWSG.
Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!
Posting: The first Wednesday of every month is officially Insecure Writer’s Support Group Day. Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer – aim for a dozen new people each time – and return comments. This group is all about connecting!
Writing Wings 
