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!
Episode 40 of Freedom Flights features a crucial annual event in the Night Witches’ and Chayka Air’s calendar. Or rather, the clear up before the event. The episode was becoming too long to add more scenes. Can you tell what will happen next, or do you need a Part 2 before Episode 41, which will be set in January 2025? I am planning to reference key events in this episode, rather than ignore any vital details.
Apologies if I’ve left gaps previously. If I have, please let me know.
I will continue trying to foreshadow future incidents without making my characters react as if they know what will happen 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 40. Winter Warning.
2024
Monday, December 16th – Squadron Command Centre, Chayka Field, Volyn Oblast, Ukraine
Kalyna and Vasy Chayka studied the squadron personnel list in the Command Centre.
“We must decide who we’re sending to Canada for the Christmas Chayka Air Fundraiser,” said Kalyna. “What are our priorities this year?”
“At our meeting last month on defensive measures, we made an extensive list,” said Vasy. “Some items are in the pipeline, but others are outstanding. Most of all – personnel.”
“Our journalist friend, Aaron Garcia, recruited medics recently… and one K9 unit. Could he raise the security personnel? Or is he going home again?”
“Not if it means leaving Conchita Gutiérrez,” replied Vasy. “I thought Andżelika and Estera Sówka, as they are the First Lieutenants in charge of our security… the Night Owls.”
“Excellent. The Sówka sisters understand our security requirements. However, the Kearneys also want a Ukrainian pilot on their podcast. Someone who can inspire all our supporters. Their coverage is always invaluable.”
“Who do you have in mind?”
“Pilots who have flown combat missions. I’ve narrowed those down to two… both recovering from injuries.”
“Master Sergeant Polina Melynk is off duty, as is Lieutenant Olha Tkachuk. Whether our doctor feels Olha has adapted to her prosthesis well enough to travel is one question we need answered.”
“We can check about both pilots,” said Vasy, messaging Sacha Proulx.
*
Medical Centre, Chayka Field, Volyn Oblast, Ukraine
Doctor Sacha Proulx and Chief Paramedic Osinniy were discussing general medical issues when the Chayka majors arrived as arranged.
“Many thanks for sparing the time,” said the cousins in unison.
“We’ve discussed our two patients,” said Sacha. “Both have recovered, although neither is ready for active duty. Lieutenant Olha Tkachuk had more serious injuries, but it’s been over four months since her prosthetic left arm was fitted on July 16th. Even the second prosthesis fitting was over six weeks ago. Olha is fit enough to fly to Canada.”
Osinniy continued, “Master Sergeant Polina Melynk was wounded on Tuesday, September 3rd, so would be healthy enough physically to travel. But she isn’t managing to handle her mental recovery. She needs more psych sessions, rather than a long journey and press attention.”
The cousins nodded, and Kalyna replied.
“If Olha agrees with your assessment and feels ready for such a protracted trip, we will send her and two others as the Night Witches’ representatives fundraising in Canada.”
Sacha handed her some printouts.
“These are guidelines for Olha, concerning travelling abroad with a prosthesis, although she is aware of almost everything. Flying as a pilot is more demanding than flying as a passenger. We’ve also included documents to ensure that there are no problems at security checkpoints, especially regarding medical questions.”
**
Friday, December 20th – Edmonton International Airport, Alberta, Canada
The Sówka sisters and Olha waited for the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority screening officers to finish checking their documents and kit bags. Despite the paperwork, the officers were confused when they found three military uniforms.
“Why are you in Canada and not fighting in Ukraine?” asked the older officer. “Maybe these aren’t yours,” He glanced at their passports. “Since when were Polish women involved?”
“We are volunteer security personnel,” said Andżelika, indicating her sister. “Our pilot companion is Ukrainian and was wounded while serving with an all-female squadron.”
“We’re guests of Chayka Air in Cold Lake,” added Estera. “The documents should confirm everything.”
“If they’re not forged,” said the younger officer. “How do we know you’re not dangerous Russian spies?”
An intercom buzzed in their office. A minute later, a colleague came out and whispered something to the older man, and the officers all left the interrogation room.
“We must insist on calling Chayka Air,” said Olha. “I don’t understand why these officers refused?”
After a short wait, a different man came in and told them to follow. He led them to the main office, where a woman and a Canadian Air Force officer greeted them.
“I’m Aliona Sokol from Chayka Air, and my RCAF friend here is Lieutenant Colonel Todd Manning. These CATSA officers were being extra diligent due to an anonymous tip-off about foreign agents attempting to infiltrate via a flight from Warsaw. A scam call, perhaps?”
“When you didn’t appear on time, despite your Verified Traveller IDs,” added Todd. “I was forced to use my RCAF rank to inquire whether you were detained incorrectly. I also fear the threat may not be a hoax, so we’re investigating that.”
Once the CATSA officers returned all their documentation and apologised profusely, Aliona and Todd escorted Olha, Andżelika and Estera out into the central area of the terminal.
“How far is Cold Lake?” asked Olha. “It will be good to stop travelling… although it’s a change of pace for us.”
The trio of travellers smiled.
“Almost 200 miles, or about 320 kilometres,” replied Aliona. “But we’ll get there soon, and then you can relax until tomorrow. What time did you leave Chayka Field?”
“0700 on Thursday,” said Estera. “We needed enough time to catch today’s 0600 flight from Warsaw.”
“A long flight,” said Todd. “I saw you had a layover at Amsterdam Schiphol, which means over 15 hours in the air. Apologies for the next hop.”
They approached an area providing access to smaller private jets.
“In Chayka Air’s Phenom 100,” added Aliona. “It’s fast and comfortable, so we’ll get you to Cold Lake in plenty of time to recover before tomorrow afternoon’s itinerary.”
“Just don’t tell her mother, Kalyna,” said Todd. “She’s the latest Chayka pilot to graduate.”
“Although my brother Mykola is sure to tell… or dad.”
**
Saturday, December 21st – Chayka Air, Cold Lake, Alberta, Canada
Olha raced the Sówkas back to the guesthouse behind the Chayka Air hangars and administrative buildings. She might have won, but a shout from nearby made her stop.
“Hiya. Are you the three Ukrainians over here to raise funds for the war? I’m Mykola Sokol, son of your commander…well, one of your leaders. The other’s my aunt.”
The twenty-something boy leaning out of a window waved them over.
“I’m the only Ukrainian,” said Olha, putting her arms around the sisters. “My friends are Polish and support the squadron.”
“We coordinate the Night Owls,” said Andżelika. Providing security, medics, and K9 units for search and rescue, and guard duties. We’re after recruits while we’re here.”
Mykola glanced behind him before responding.
“I wanted to fight in 2022, but my parents claimed I wasn’t experienced. I haven’t learned to fly, like my sister Aliona, although she runs the company. I help when I can.” He looked round briefly. “I’m being called. Cya later.”
The trio dashed back to the guesthouse, knowing their first appointment was imminent.
*
Aliona showed the trio into the spacious hangar being set up for the fundraiser. Olha looked up as they passed under Zharptytsia, the prized Polikarpov U-2, the original Chayka sisters had escaped war-torn Europe in.
“Amazing and brave that they flew from Byelorussia so far across occupied territory to Sweden. Our Night Witch sisters, forever revered.”
1944 Polikarpov Po-2 of The Shuttleworth Collection, United Kingdom Michał Prokurat
The others nodded as Aliona led them onto the stage at the end of the hangar. Clodagh and Darina Kearney had set up an area for recording the next session of Kearney Encounter, their podcast. They directed the uniformed trio to seats in front of the main camera and microphones. Behind was a Ukrainian flag and the squadron’s Zharptytsia insignia.
“We’re pleased you three agreed to this,” said Clodagh, taking seats to the side with her sister. “This is not going out live since we will edit in footage from tonight’s fundraiser. So, you can take your time answering our questions. Okay?”
The interviewees smiled and agreed.
“Welcome, Kearney Encounter friends. Today’s podcast comes from Chayka Air, where their annual Fundraiser for Ukraine takes place,” said Darina, to a second camera covering the hostesses. “Every year since 2022, a few of the Night Witches squadron have attended the event to talk about the war and how we can help Ukraine achieve peace.”
Clodagh continued the introduction.
“This year’s guests, from left to right, are Lieutenant Olha Tkachuk, one of the squadron’s Ukrainian fighter pilots. In the centre is First Lieutenant Andżelika Sówka, co-founder of the Night Owls with her sister, First Lieutenant Estera Sówka, on the right. Before the sisters tell us about the Night Owls, I must ask Olha if she can talk about the squadron’s current operations?”
“I can, in general, although as some may have noticed, an injury postpones my return to active duty. However, I am aware of the missions my colleagues are flying. With the Russians launching almost nightly attacks at our cities, most night missions involve intercepting rockets and missiles. After many of these cowardly attacks hit civilian targets, our medevac helicopters respond, taking search and rescue teams to destroyed buildings. Our attack helicopters protect them… and often destroy the aerial threats too.”
“I presume the enemy uses drones to spot targets like runways,” said Clodagh. “So, your flights still move between airfields”
Olha winced while the Sówka sisters glanced at each other.
“The drones have increased steadily, especially since the summer.” She hesitated before adding, “I’ll leave the issue for the Night Owls to address.”
“Before that, are you willing to talk about your horrific drone experience, please?” asked Darina.
Olha closed her eyes but nodded.
“On July 13th, a group of Russian ORLAN 10 spy drones recced Myrhorod Air Base, minutes before Blue Flight landed. My wing sisters, Taisia Kovalchuk and Halyna Boyka, were killed, but I escaped my MiG-29, only for a cluster bomb to destroy it. The flying debris mangled my left arm…” She paused and bit her lip. “My arm was amputated.” She lowered her head. Then she rolled up the sleeve on her left arm. “It was replaced with this prosthesis at the Superhumans Center near Lviv. Only my flight leader, Adriana Pavlenko, survived the attack… physically unscathed.”
Andżelika put a comforting arm around the shaken pilot, who leant into her.
“A traumatic experience,” said Clodagh. “Our thanks for bravely sharing that. This is just one example of what the heroes in Ukraine can face any day, often every day.” She let the truth kindle the audience’s emotions. Then, she continued. “The Russian attacks continue, and not just on military targets in the East, but on cities across the country. The Night Witches must prepare for the likelihood of attacks on their airfield, and this is why the Night Owls were formed. Please, tell us what you can, Andżelika?”
Estera smiled encouragingly at her sister, who replied.
“Last summer, the squadron asked our uncle, Geralt Sówka, to form a trained security unit to replace the ground crews’ patrols. He recruited us and ten other female officers, all of us trained by GROM, the premier special missions unit of the Polish Armed Forces. We selected these space cadet blue uniforms, and Uncle G chose the Owl insignia for its powerful symbolism… and ‘sowa’ means owl in Polish.”
“And like owls, you operate predominantly at night,” said Darina. “Sorry. Please continue and explain the Ukraine angle.”
“Like the Night Witches, every recruit to the Night Owls swears allegiance to Ukraine, sharing the fight for freedom. We’re not just armed with guns, we’re also trained in unarmed conflict. Although our main recruits have been Ukrainian, we welcome other nationalities.”
“You are here with a purpose. Estera, please explain?” asked Clodagh.
Estera took a sip of water.
“The squadron’s defence plans require an enlarged squad, especially when some of us assist as medics with the medevac missions. We also operate six K9 units, which again serve on patrols and search & rescue missions. For example, Olha’s cousin, Anhelina Tkachuk and Quetzal, her red & white Siberian Husky, are one of our K9 units, specialising in search & rescue. The goal is to double the squad by recruiting security specialists, paramedics, and versatile K9 operatives.”
“Are you able to offer supplementary training?” asked Darina. “Or do they need to be fully trained?”
The Sówka sisters conferred before Andżelika replied.
“As long as they know the fundamentals, we have the personnel and facilities to instruct them further. We also have access to language facilities for anyone needing to brush up on their Ukrainian.”
Before anyone could say anything more, there was a commotion at the hangar entrance. Aliona rushed in, followed by her brother and a Chayka Air security guard with her Doberman Pinscher. All three had semi-automatic pistols as sidearms.
“There are six armed intruders on the airfield,” said the guard. “My colleagues are attempting to apprehend them.”
“We also alerted the Cold Lake RCMP detachment,” said Mykola. “Of course, Aliona warned the Canadian Forces Base as our neighbours.”
“Neighbours concerned about intruders after yesterday’s alert at Edmonton International. It’s wiser to be forewarned.”
Automatic gunfire echoed through the avenue of buildings. Colleagues called on the guard’s radio.
“Intruders heading your way, Tetyana. We’ll try to stop them. Secure the hangar immediately.”
As Mykola and his sister began to slide the hangar doors shut, Andżelika and Estera ran to help them. Tetyana dashed to a side room, shouting in what sounded like Canadian-Ukrainian.
“There should be other weapons in here. We might need them.”
“We keep some in that office… locked away,” Aliona said to the Sówka sisters. “I’m sure you two are more than proficient.”
As Olha joined them, Aliona led them to where Tetyana unlocked a hidden gun safe and took out three SIG Sauer P320s.
“Aliona, as Chayka Air’s CEO, can you authorise these three officers as security?” asked Tetyana in her Ukrainian dialect. “Since they’re from the Night Witches, they’re trained.”
When her employer nodded, Tetyana handed Olha, Estera and Andżelika the pistols. Then she radioed her colleagues.
“Zoriana, what’s your status? We now have six armed personnel, plus an eager Borago. Over.”
“They’ve split into two groups. One is preparing to blast the main hangar door… but the RCMP will deal with them. Steinarr is tracking the others, who are likely looking for a side entrance. Over.”
“Will prepare reception at rear. Over and out.”
Tetyana left Aliona, Mykola, and Olha covering the main door from a safe distance and dashed with her K9 and the Sówka sisters onto the stage.
The Kearneys and their two camera operators were filming the developing crisis.
“Shadow both groups. We must record this,” said Darina, dividing their team.
Down steps behind the stage were a narrow corridor and a large central steel door for bringing supplies or equipment into the hangar. Tetyana checked the handle, and the door swung inwards. Unable to lock it, she looked around.
A metal staircase at one end of the passageway went up to a gantry leading around the inside of the hangar. A small window gave a view from the gantry to the rear of the building.
Telling her K9 to stay, Tetyana climbed up to the window. She glanced through the dusty glass, then pulled away, gesturing down towards the door. She pointed to a pile of crates at the opposite end of the corridor.
Andżelika and Estera gave thumbs up and hid behind the crates, with a camera operator. Borago noted this and hid near the foot of the stairs, waiting as his owner crept down and lay beside him.
The door moved slightly, then swung open as three armed men slipped inside, rolling instinctively. Crouching, they scanned what must have seemed an empty corridor. Unaware they were being watched, but hearing voices, the trio moved towards the steps onto the stage.
Swiftly, Tetyana released her dog and fired a warning shot, which was followed by two from the crates. The intruders spun round, but Borago bowled them over as they tried to shoot.
Another dog entered the fray through the open doorway. The intruders found themselves surrounded by armed security guards and forced to the ground.
“Great timing, Zoriana,” said Tetyana. “I guessed Steinarr would be right behind them.” She bent down to where both Dobermanns were terrifying the prisoners. “She wasn’t going to let Borago have all the fun.”
As the male intruders stood, arms handcuffed behind them, one garbled something. Another shook his head to silence him, but not before Andżelika smiled.
“Too late. Some of us understand Russian.” She turned to the Chayka Air security guards. “He mentioned a third group already here.”
“The ones sent to neutralise our alarms,” said Zoriana. “Our military police colleagues caught them sneaking around. They’re interrogating them.”
“No doubt that bunch disabled this rear door, so I couldn’t lock it,” said Tetyana, escorting the first prisoner outside.
The handcuffed intruders were taken around the outside of the hangar to where the RCMP officers had secured three more intruders.
Aliona had escorted everyone else outside and appeared relieved that the Sówka group were safe.
“Lieutenant Colonel Manning has commandeered our securest room for Cold Lake’s Military Police to interrogate all three groups of intruders.”
“With our assistance,” added the senior RCMP officer. “You also have the use of one of our K9 officers, Corporal Isla Clacher.” He indicated a female handler with a German Shepherd. “She trained with your Douglass sisters before they found their Ukrainian roots.”
Tetyana and Zoriana grinned and then saluted both RCMP officers.
“Experienced officers have advised me,” said Aliona, “That the hangar needs to be thoroughly searched for explosive devices before our Fundraiser. Guests will start arriving in about two hours.”
“We’ll need more than three K9 units,” said Isla. “Even with human assistance.”
Before anyone could respond, two vehicles pulled up with K9 insignia, one Military Police, the other Air Transport Security. The handlers let their dogs out, then attached tactical gear and leashes to them.
“I’m Sergeant Corynn Amsel, and my German Shorthaired Pointer is Rikke,” said the Military Police handler.
“And my Beagle is Rosheen,” said the CATSA handler. “I’m Ailish… Ailish Delaney.”
Mykola turned to his sister, “Five K9 units from four units. How’s our CEO going to coordinate them?”
She smiled. “I’ll delegate to one of the Night Owl First Lieutenants.” She glanced from Andżelika to Estera. “They’re both experienced in leading a team which includes six K9 units from three countries. Does one of you Sówka sisters want to take charge… if our handlers accept?”
Estera encouraged her sister to step forward, saying, “Another chance to demonstrate teamwork.”
Cameras still rolling, five keen handlers gathered around Andżelika with their eager dogs.
“This will be a perfect example of the solidarity Ukraine needs,” said Aliona. “Ensuring our venue is secure for another extremely successful Fundraiser.”
It’s time for another Insecure Writer’s Support Group post, and an opportunity to reflect on the dawn of my book adventure.
First, it’s just a month since I submitted my Snowdon Shadows police procedural, Fevered Fuse, to London-based publisher Joffe Books. Not surprisingly, I’m still waiting for the publisher to answer. I’ve yet to start rewriting ‘Fates Maelstrom’, the second book in my Snowdon Shadows series, but I have written another episode of my Ukraine saga, Freedom Flights – Strategy and Tactics.
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!
June 4 question – What were some books that impacted you as a child or young adult?
My distant memory of books I read in my childhood throws up a few titles that have endured.
Initially, I had to research Fingerling, whom I vaguely recalled was a gnome in the illustrations. Actually, his original name is Pinkeltje, and he’s “a fictional character from the eponymous children’s book series by the Dutch writer Dick Laan. Pinkeltje is a white-bearded gnome and wears a pointed hat and is as big as a pinky finger, hence his name, meaning “fingerling” (literally “little pinky”) in Dutch.” I’m unsure how many English translations of the original twenty-nine books my parents bought for my siblings and me, but I remember enjoying a few.
However, I vividly remember devouring The Story of Ferdinand (1936), “the best-known work by the American author Munro Leaf. Illustrated by Robert Lawson…” This wonderful children’s book tells “the story of a bull who would rather smell flowers than fight in bullfights. He sits in the middle of the bull ring, failing to take heed of any of the provocations of the matador and others to fight.” I adored the illustrations and the story even more, especially as the ending felt perfect, and it probably had an impact on my storytelling. I’m certain the fact that my Chilean grandmother had a Pekinese called Ferdie, aka Ferdinand, added to the appeal. Perhaps, he was named after the bull.
As I recall my childhood, there are other books, like A.A. Milne’s stories, especially those about Winnie the Pooh, many of Beatrix Potter’s stories, and another favourite, The Happy Lion, which I received on my birthday, being a Leo. This 1954 children’s picture book by Louise Fatio, illustrated by Roger Duvoisin, “follows a Happy Lion in France who, after escaping the small zoo where he lives, is surprised that people, who loved visiting him there, are now scared of him.”
I still have one of the books that I read and loved as a child, George Brooksbank’s ‘Old Mr Fox’. With a cover by celebrated Scottish wildlife artist Archibald Thorburn, this was my father’s copy, which he was given in 1932 for Christmas, the same year the book was published. This treasured book inspired me to write my first short story… about a fox running free.
C.S. Lewis’s The Chronicles of Narniafed my passion for fantasy, which became the first genre I embraced in my writing. I read all the books in the series, some numerous times, and again, I still have the set. Lewis was the first of the Inklings, whose works I read fervently. Two more were later discoveries.
I could list other books I read as a child, but none were truly influential until, in my teens, I added Science Fiction to my reading addiction. The authors included Isaac Asimov, Arthur C. Clarke, Robert Heinlein, Douglas Adams, Philip J. Farmer, Harry Harrison, Karl Vonnegut, Frank Herbert, Harry Harrison, Poul Anderson, …and the list goes on. Imagine my surprise when I found Anne McCaffrey’s Dragonriders of Pern series crossed from engrossing fantasy into space, and became gripping Science Fiction.
Inkling three would be Owen Barfield, but not until I was in my twenties. Before then, though, for me, there was only one masterful Inkling.
My favourite author, even now, is J.R.R. Tolkien, whom I first discovered when I read his essay based on his lecture “Beowulf: The Monsters and the Critics“. So, reading “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings” came a few months later. I read the whole of “The Lord of the Rings” over one very long weekend when I was at Eton College in 1969, age 16. I still have the three hardback copies with their detailed fold-out maps.
Although most of these books had some influence on my writing, Tolkien’s works had a much greater impact. Ironically, my first effective creative writing teacher, the poet and writer Roger Woddis, said my writing was becoming ‘purple prose’ as I wanted to imitate Tolkien. Fortunately, I restrained myself from writing ‘purple prose’ while improving. I also read more books as I grew older. But that’s another chapter.
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!
It’s time for another Insecure Writer’s Support Group post. Although I started writing this on April 1st, I’ll stick to the truth and avoid fooling you.
Fact 1. Yesterday, as promised, I received the final edit from my editor’s assistant of my police procedural, Fevered Fuse. Hopefully, this means I will submit the manuscript to the first publisher by the end of this month and should hear back within three months. While waiting for the publisher to answer, I’ll begin rewriting ‘Fates Maelstrom’, the second book in my Snowdon Shadows Mysteries.
Fact 2. In late March, I began writing Episode 36 of my Ukraine saga, Freedom Flights, but it’s now on hold, unlike the deadly war, the fragile peace negotiations, and treacherous Putin’s machinations. Hopefully, the rational leaders can negotiate a dependable and lasting peace in the next few months.
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!
April 2 question – What fantasy character would you like to fight, go on a quest with, or have a beer/glass of wine with?
Fact or Fiction? I guess most fantasy is fiction, although centuries ago the first storytellers based their tales on fact. Like some of the heroes and heroines in the Icelandic Eddas were possibly real people, so they could be considered as ‘fact’.
Unlike my choices. First, Geralt of Rivia, aka The Witcher, No. 1, for questing with.
No. 2. Drinking companion: harder as some like Gimli the Dwarf would drink me under the table. However, another of the Nine Companions in The Lord of the Rings, Frodo Baggins, might be preferable with a similar consumption to me.
No. 3. I don’t fancy fighting any of my favourite fantasy characters, as I’d start at a disadvantage, unless, as a Leo, I faced the Cowardly Lion from author L. Frank Baum’s The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.
Instead, why couldn’t I choose someone to marry? Perhaps Menolly, the Harper heroine in some of the early novels in the Dragonriders of Pern series, written by American-Irish author Anne McCaffrey.
Or maybe the shieldmaiden Éowyn from The Lord of the Rings, or my favourite female character from The Witcher novels by Andrzej Sapkowski, and in the Witcher games, the redheaded medic Shani, who’d be the perfect drinking companion… and invaluable in a fight.
The Witcher 3: How Shani’s Role Evolved from the Books to the Games
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!
Although it’s time for another Insecure Writer’s Support Group post, I’ve been too distracted by recent international events to plan for this.
At least I managed a March 1st post for my wife’s birthday and St David’s Day.
I have started writing Episode 34 of my Ukraine saga, Freedom Flights, but it’s been hard to write scenes set in September 2024 knowing what happened last Friday in the Oval Office. At least, over the next three days, Volodymyr Zelenskyy was made welcome in the United Kingdom and able to discuss with mutual respect Ukraine’s path to a genuine and steadfast peace.
Leaders from around the world gathered in central London for peace talks on Sunday March 2nd 2025. Press Association
First, with Sir Keir Starmer, my Prime Minister, then with the 18 leaders at the biggest European peace summit since the end of the Second World War. Finally, Zelenskyy’s meeting with my sovereign, King Charles III at Sandringham, his Norfolk home, demonstrated what staunch support the British people, from the Monarch to ‘commoners’ like me, have for the heroic Ukrainians and their courageous President.
President Volodymyr Zelensky with King Charles at the entrance to his Sandringham home where they met for an hour on Sunday. Press Association
Hopefully, the rational leaders can negotiate a dependable and lasting peace in the next few months.
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!
March 5 question – If for one day you could be anyone or *thing* in the world, what would it be? Describe, tell why, and any themes, goals, or values they/it inspire in you.
I struggled for days over this question, in part because of recent events. Trump’s speech to Congress angered me so much that I wished I could return home—yes, to the United Kingdom. My wife and I regret not accepting my brother’s offer in August 2022 to fly us home with our dogs.
If I could be anyone or anything for a day, there are some dark and crazy answers like a 2025 Count Claus von Stauffenberg even though his politics hardly differed from Hitler’s.
If I morph into someone else, do I take on that person’s personality? If I became Hemingway for a day, would I write as well as him, but would I also drink heavily?
7th October 1939: EXCLUSIVE American writer Ernest Hemingway (1899 – 1961) works at his typewriter while sitting outdoors, Idaho. Hemingway disapproved of this photograph saying, ‘I don’t work like this.’ (Photo by Lloyd Arnold/Hulton Archive/Getty Images)
Ideally and morally, a character from my Freedom Flights might suit my current circumstances. Perhaps then I could walk again, although my sniper character is in a wheelchair, having been wounded… and she’s female. Not that I would mind, as I might better understand all my pilots. Maybe flying a jet or helicopter would dissolve my fear of flying. Or I could be a K9 handler, which I came close to being in RL. Dogs are among my best friends.
The key is being able to help Ukraine inspired by Volodymyr Zelenskyy, perhaps as one of the indispensable medics.
The Ukrainian medics risking their lives every day on the front line are credited with saving nine times as many wounded comrades as do their Russian counterparts – MAXIM TUCKER
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!
I have been following and voting in WRITE CLUB 2019 and voting on the excellent final 30 entries in the Preliminary rounds. I plan to continue voting in subsequent rounds hoping my favourites win.
I submitted an entry – under a pen-name – but did not reach the standard of other entries. Re-reading my submission, I know why.
But what do you think? Should I have used this for the April WEP/IWSG Challenge, Jewel Box? All critiques and comments welcome.
THE LIST
by Zilarrezko Ezpata
Supercilious servants seldom deserve attention when they thrust a drab
packet into my hands. Howsoever, this maid is incessantly thus. Why her
mistress accepts her insolence vexes me. I accept the delivery but offer no acknowledgement
and send the servant on her way, back to my sister-in-law’s house on Harrison
Boulevard. My man can convey my response.
Locking out the oppressive heat behind the front door, I walk across the tiled
hallway. The package is lighter than expected. Dreary plays my brother intends
for his conjectured theater, or native artifacts I will capitalize? My throat
constricts but my mind exalts.
I discard the brown paper as I carry the tawdry ivory-inlaid box contained within
to the maple desk in my tranquil sanctuary.
Placed inside the ruby-red interior are ten jewelry cases that flush my body
in warmth. A sealed message lies on top. The wax has an imprint, but somehow blurred.
Intentional? Never. Made in haste.
My heart beat rises. Profit beckons. My stomach flutters.
Fingers caress the soft vellum envelope. I falter
at the unusual leopard-spotted variety but dismiss an irrational image. The
perfume pervading the room banishes the remembrance. I break the seal.
Only my love,
Arantxa dabs Angel’s Trumpet on her
missives.
A precious and profitable attachment.
My spirit soars on pounding beats, body burning.
Zigor
I return the gifts you used to seduce
me, without success. Unlike base men such as you, I am neither a heart-cheater nor
a soul-thief.
Herewith, the moonstone pendant. You
promised a diamond as in the book, but that was beyond you. Why didn’t I take
heed then?
The crude cameo locket that will never
be me. Not even an old-fashioned eye portrait. My eyes are blue not black.
The Art nouveau enameled barrette affronted
me.
One pearl earring shed like a tear,
the other dust. You are the dream-crusher.
Did you intend the amethyst bracelet
to enslave me?
The faux emerald and sapphire choker?
Tighter than a scoundrel’s purse. My breeding detects peridot and topaz so as paltry
as you.
The rough-cut ruby brooch that drew
more than my blood. Why the deceit with a mere red garnet?
Perchance, the diamond necklace you
locked around my neck meant aught. But never was I gulled by your growing
falsehoods.
Can a lie-weaver ever repent? No, thus
I spurned this silver band stolen from some naïve conquest.
Only overreached by the gold ring that
never engaged my soul or eyes.
I am smothered by her two-faced words.
My head whirls, and my mouth burns. Confused, I stagger to my armchair. I read
her last lines.
This blood-lined box that holds your
cheap baubles, unfit to grace this lady.
Finally, the Palouse colt. Or what
remains of him—the vellum produced from his skin.
Writing Wings 