At the Foot of the Cross by Angela Taplin

Posted on April 1, 2015 by Margaret Graham

An evening of music, prayer and meditations for Good Friday from Radio 2

Radio 2 recently recorded an evening of music, prayer and readings for Good Friday. Tickets were free through a ballot so on a damp evening in February a friend and I went along to Methodist Central Hall, hard by the Houses of Parliament. Arriving about 5.30, we found most people heading home so we had a chance to walk round the outside of this famous landmark without benefit of surging tourists and selfie sticks. It’s such a fine building and in the twilight gap between showers it looked beautiful.

We made our way through ancient courtyards to Methodist Central Hall, another impressive and imposing building. It was the first time I’d been to a radio recording for many years (the last time was a pop quiz in the 70s, I think). The music was provided by the BBC Concert Orchestra with a chorus drawn from a number of London choirs, with three soloists – Jermaine Jackman, winner of The Voice 2014, Louise Marshall and 12 year old Helena Paish, one of the BBC Radio 2 Young Choristers of the Year.

Readings were given by Patrick Robinson, star of Casualty and Strictly whilst prayer was led by The Revd Michaela Youngson. The evening was presented by Diane Louise Jordan, well known for her appearances in Songs of Praise. We assembled in the auditorium which was dominated by the beautiful cupola and where the acoustics were perfect.

The music programme was varied: traditional English, gospel, well-known hymns, with an underlying thread of connections to the Great War. Butterworth’s The Banks of Green Willow, a pastoral piece inspired by English folk songs, was rendered particularly poignant by the knowledge that he died in 1915 during the first battle of the Somme. The second half consisted of Sir John Rutter’s Requiem in which the pure tones of Helena Paish shone clear in the Pie Jesu. It was a thoughtful and moving evening.

At the end of it all, my friend and I felt happy to have been part of it and will look forward to hearing it all again when it is broadcast at 8pm on April 3^rd, Good Friday, on Radio 2.

Independent Bookshop Opens Doors to Independent Authors

Posted on March 30, 2015 by Margaret Graham

by Catriona Troth.

Foyles on London’s Charing Cross Road, is playing host to The Indie Author Fair (IAF) on Friday 17th April 2015.

When we wrapped up the Indie Author Fair 2014, most of us assumed that would be it for another year. That was before the Alliance of Independent Authors (ALLi) approached us to run their Member Showcase at the London Book Fair Indie Author Fringe Festival, run by The ALLi /Indie ReCon.

IndieReCon is a free online writers’ conference, which has been running since 2013. This year, they are working with ALLi to run a live event at Foyles, London’s largest indie bookstore, with the support of London Book Fair’s Book and Screen Week.

To follow this, Triskele Books are organising a second Indie Author Fair – a pop-up bookshop at which more than fifty of ALLi’s members will be represented. The Fair is being sponsored by XPO North, who are bringing with them an exciting group of emerging writers from the Highlands and Islands.

“Bringing writers and readers closer together is a core part of ALLi’s mission,” said Orna Ross, Director of ALLi (Alliance of Independent Authors). “We are delighted that the Indie Author Fair will showcase the talent and enterprise of so many ALLi members and look forward to fostering new author-reader bonds at the fair.”

Indie Author Fair 2015 will take place from 16.30–19.30 and is FREE to the public with drinks reception, goodie bags and personalised signed copies available.

You can read about the full collection of books and authors on show at the Fair here.

Organiser Catriona Troth said, “The Indie Author Fair is an unmissable event for readers, writers, publishers and observers of the publishing scene, providing an opportunity to meet the best indie authors in the business, talk to experts and discover great new books.”

Why Writers Return To Carcassonne By Jane Carling

Posted on March 17, 2015 by Margaret Graham

I am always on the look out to find ways of improving my writing and I also know that not only is a good tutor essential, but one needs time to think and concentrate. So hey, why not combine it with a holiday? I struck lucky when, two years ago, I discovered French House Party. It is a country retreat that provides an all-inclusive oasis of calm for both experienced writers and novices who seek inspiration away from daily distractions of life.

Located in the hamlet of Pexioria, the converted stone barn is about twenty minutes from Carcassonne in SW France. Each of the pretty eight bedrooms are en-suite, individually styled and in June the scent of lavender fills the air, whilst just across the track are fields of sunflowers. If only I could paint. On arrival at Toulouse, I was whisked away in an air conditioned limo to this haven and was greeted by my host, Moira Martingale with a glass of champagne as she introduced the group to one another. There were only six of us last year, although they can cater for up to twelve. The only important decision required was Red, Rosé or White as delicious meals, prepared by the innovative Regine, was placed before you.

Sarah Hymas runs the creative writing courses. She is an accomplished mentor, coach, editor, and a recognised poet who also writes short stories and performs plays. Effortlessly, she really made us think outside the box, encouraged our inner creativity, dispelled any inhibitions to overcome writing blocks and has a wicked sense of humour.

The course began at ten each morning until lunch, then we were free to write, walk, cycle
(the Canal du Midi is close) play tennis or table tennis, swim, or just sit in the sunshine with fellow scribes.

Included in the price, are two suppers in excellent restaurants, one of which is highly acclaimed and set within the Medieval City walls of Carcassonne. There is also a free day for relaxation, to write, to shop or visit local attractions and one evening was dedicated to discussing our work over a leisurely Dinner.

This year they have introduced a retreat week, “Pen and Think” for those wishing to focus on personal projects and Sarah will provide individual support and critique.

Since discovering French House Party, I have made some great new friends including a Tasmanian hermit who is now travelling the world, an enigmatic octogenarian who was writing her risqué memoirs and a fun character whose interpretation of French House Party was not quite what he expected. In between the laughter and fun, there is much discussion and sharing of writing and publishing tips.

Although this is not a cheap week, it is worth every penny for anyone of any age who is writing a novel, short stories or just starting out as a writer. Stepping out of one’s comfort zone is daunting, but last year the disparate bunch of people blended so well that my laugh lines had doubled on my return. So, armed with excess baggage of eye cream, in June I shall be returning for the “Pen & Think” week to indulge in the delights of words, warmth, and a little wine whilst hoping to get some work done.

As a romantic Indie novelist, I like to write fast paced romantic stories set in sunny locations and to date I have published two books, Pandora’s Box is set in Greece and my latest, Ruby’s New Coat, is a wartime romance, set between London and Crete.

Details are on my website: www.janecarling.co.uk and both can be purchased on Amazon.co.uk and Kobo.com.

For more information about French House Party visit www.frenchouseparty.co.uk

Frost Editor Catherine Balavage Interviewed By Writing Magazine

Posted on March 12, 2015 by Frostie

If you have ever been curious about Frost Magazine editor Catherine Balavage’s writing day then grab a copy of the April 2015 edition of Writing Magazine. Catherine is interviewed by Lynne Hackles. She talks about Frost, writing books and her acting career.

Catherine is not the first Frost team member to be interviewed by Writing Magazine, contributing editor Margaret Graham was also interviewed about her writing day in a prior issue.

Head down to a newsagents and get your copy now. Available at WHsmith.co.uk, Waterstones.com, all good newsagents or the Writing Magazine website.

Why Did I Take Up The Ukulele? By Sylvia Chadwick

Posted on March 12, 2015 by Margaret Graham

Life is like a road with many turnings and my musical interests have been many and varied.

It started way back as a child when I loved the weekly “Singing Together” programme broadcast on the radio for schools. At secondary school, our music teacher was inspirational, and talented enough to play every instrument in the school orchestra. I longed to emulate him. I began as hundreds of others have done by playing the recorder and moved on to the violin. My parents? Tolerant or deaf I would think. I eventually became part of the youth orchestra and finally became the leader… more about my age than ability.

I began to play an accordion because my dear old Dad thought it was a super instrument and you could always earn a bob or two in a dance band. At the time I just wanted to make music so I started to learn on a small 48 bass one and soon moved to a much larger one, which was almost as big as me… being rather a small child.

However this was not ‘cool’ as in the 60s everyone played the guitar and what teenager wants to be different than their peers. If only my dad had known that that it was the best tool I ever had for teaching young children to enjoy singing.

All this led to Chester Teachers’ Training College to study music and drama as part of my teaching course. It was here that I took up the piano. I was catching up with my secondary teacher.

It was in retirement that I joined High Wycombe and district U3A. Somehow my musical skills were discovered. A friend approached me one day saying that she knew that I played the guitar but did I play the ukulele?

Did I? Well no, but I remembered a ukulele which I had been bought as a kind of joke Christmas present a couple of years earlier. I was in business. We went to listen to an established group in Marlow to see what we thought. First impressions? It was in a pub, so bring it on. In the back room were around 40 players. We sat down to listen when someone put a ukulele in my hand, I managed a few chords and I realised that I was hooked.

So lets start a group up in the U3A we decided. We hoped that we could find a teacher but no one came forward so without more ado I was coerced into leading the group.

We have been going around 6 months now and the group is growing from an initial start of around 12 to over 20. We have a percussion section too, and that is growing well.

We meet once a month to play and we had our first ‘gig’ at our Christmas U3A coffee morning. It was great fun and seeing the smiles on everyone’s faces was fantastic. Its not a difficult instrument to get the basics going but it is really good fun to play together. I am still learning and keeping enough steps ahead of the group to be able to pass on the skills. My philosophy is that you cannot be sad when you are singing a cheery song and playing a ukulele. I love it. So we just keep strumming.

Ode To Azerbaijan by Jenny Falcon

Posted on March 11, 2015 by Margaret Graham

Firstly ‘Where? followed swiftly by ‘Why?’
Was how conversations began
When we told our family and friends
We were off to Azerbaijan.

‘Why not?’ we said, ‘it’s different
A World Heritage site indeed
So off we went, an intrepid four
To see what we could see.

Our destination was Baku
A five and a half hour flight
Our boutique hotel in the Old Town
Near all the notable sights.

The first day, locally we explored
Cobbled streets, lots of steps, lovely sun
A wide promenade by the Caspian Sea
Very old; stunning new; oh what fun.

Second day, off with our guide Yassim
Gloopy mud volcanoes to see
Followed by ancient petroglyphs
From many years B.C.

A different guide for our next trip
Fire Mountain and Fire Temple, too
Where flames have burned non-stop
Over 2,000 years, yes it’s true.

Another day walking round Baku
Up close to the Flame Towers so tall
Martyrs Alley, with graves of Azeris
Who when fighting the Russians did fall.

Baku’s a very clean city
Much money is there being spent
Smart shops, parks, hotels and museums
To attract tourists is their intent.

We always enjoy an adventure
New sights, sounds and culture to learn
And this trip was no exception
If asked, we would surely return.

Frost would love to receive more poetry. Contact Margaret: frost@margaret-graham.com

Meet You At The Pug And Puffin In Lyme Regis By Wendy Breckon

Posted on March 6, 2015 by Margaret Graham

No, not for your favourite tipple, but for a much better treat: when you have skipped on the sand, dipped a toe in the water and chased the seagull that stole your pasty why not … take a stroll up Broad Street to Pug and Puffin. If you are a dog lover, or a dog lover’s friend like me, this is one place that warms the cockles. It is vibrant and imaginative. We‘re talking funky and fun. The doors opened on March 28th, almost a year ago and the shop remains very popular. I don’t own a canine friend, but here is a unique place where dogs can be spoilt and owners stuck for choice. The thoughtful family have placed a water bowl outside too for thirsty pets.
Martin Luscombe, (Lyme Regis born), Janet his wife, and Jenny their daughter have combined their artistic talents brilliantly. Naturally, all three love dogs and have owned many breeds, shapes and sizes over the years. This became the inspiration for a delightful shop. Noah, their three and a half year old Pug, is of course reflected in the eye catching sign outside.
What can I say about Noah? Cuddly, cute, good natured and with such a handsome face. He looks quite at home relaxing in a dog basket wearing a trendy bandana. Adorable.
Lyme Regis is one of those dog friendly, seaside places. The Luscombe’s intention was to reflect this. Inside, there are so many quirky and unusual gifts. What do you choose for that very special pooch in your life? Martin, a self taught artist and his daughter Jenny are the painters and designers behind the products. Janet is the creative needle woman making doggy bandanas, snazzy bags, purses, and vibrant collars.
Incredible talent. Oh … and how about a colourful dicky bow for the dog and that very special occasion. The perfect, original present for a friend or a neighbour’s pet. Even your own.
Apart from a wide selection of accessories peeping out from shelves, or on papier mache models of dogs, (my most coveted items), there are many other best sellers.
Small wooden signs with ‘Lyme Regis’ emblazoned on them are extremely popular with holiday makers or passersby. There is a superb array of colourful doggy cards, (I love the alphabet ones too), and if you need a clock or a new mug, you won’t be disappointed.
So, if the sun is replaced by a sudden shower, and there is no room for two under the umbrella, why not splash out on a ‘pack-a-mac’ for your four legged friend. Don’t forget to pick up, before leaving, a plaque that says ‘I’D RATHER BE WALKING MY PUG’. (Other breeds available of course).

Enjoy your visit. Stay a while. Pug and Puffin is a charming, friendly shop. A visual delight. You won’t leave empty handed … and your dog will be eternally grateful.

At The Break of Day By Margaret Graham Book Review

Posted on February 25, 2015 by Catherine Balavage

Margaret Graham has written many good books, in fact she is working on her 14th. Many of these books are compelling and well-researched books set during wartime. At The Break of Day is no exception. It is yet another brilliant novel to lose yourself in while the author takes you into another time and setting.

Many of the main characters in Margaret Graham’s novels are women making the best of themselves in hard circumstances. In this novel Rosie Norton is facing a bright future in America in 1946, until she is called home from Pennsylvania. Rosie was evacuated by her grandfather in 1939 by her beloved grandfather and she returns to a devastated Europe which is still picking itself up after the war. She has developed an American accent and finds it hard to be accepted by the people around her. Many who refer to her as a dumb yank. She is supported by her childhood sweetheart Jack, but lies and people with bad intentions get between them. Jack is sent to war in Korea and a homeless Rosie, together with the child he doesn’t know they have, is left to fend for herself in London.

This is a wonderful novel that I really enjoyed reading. The character of Rosie is a great one. She makes the most of herself and her circumstances. She is an inspirational character who it is impossible to not fall in love with. I also loved the parallels between the UK and US. McCarthyism is on the rise in the US and her American family write about it in their letters. This is an engaging novel which captures the time it is set in perfectly. Highly recommended: another triumph for Margaret Graham.

At the Break of Day is available here.

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