Category: Writer

If I only had one day to stop over in – Monte Carlo – what would I do?

The One Place You Must Visit in Monte Carlo to Make Your Stopover Unforgettable

Ever found yourself with just 24 hours in Monte Carlo, wondering how to make the most of it? Perhaps you’re on a European adventure, a business trip, or simply passing through—either way, a one-day stopover in this glamorous Mediterranean gem is a gift. And while it’s tempting to try and cram in as much as possible—the glitzy casinos, the yacht-lined harbour, the chic boutiques—there’s one experience that stands above the rest, capturing the very soul of this principality in a single, breathtaking moment.

If you’re looking for that one place to visit that will make your day truly memorable, look no further than Le Rocher de Monaco, or as it’s more commonly known, The Rock of Monaco.

Why The Rock of Monaco?

Monte Carlo is often synonymous with luxury—fast cars, high-stakes gambling, and opulent lifestyles. But to truly understand the heart and history of this tiny sovereign state, you need to go to its ancient core. The Rock is Monaco’s historic old town, perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean. Here, centuries of history blend seamlessly with stunning views, charming streets, and an authentic sense of place that you won’t find in the more tourist-heavy areas below.

How to Spend Your Day on The Rock

Start your morning by taking a short walk or bus ride up to this elevated enclave. As you ascend, the modern bustle of Monte Carlo fades away, replaced by narrow cobblestone lanes, pastel-colored buildings, and the scent of salt air mixed with blooming flowers.

Your first stop should be the Prince’s Palace of Monaco. This isn’t just a museum—it’s the official residence of the Grimaldi family, who have ruled Monaco for over 700 years. If you time your visit right (between April and October), you can even tour the State Apartments, adorned with frescoes, antique furniture, and historical artifacts that tell the story of Monaco’s royal legacy. And don’t miss the Changing of the Guard ceremony at 11:55 AM—a brief but captivating display of tradition.

Next, wander through the Saint Nicholas Cathedral, a beautiful Romanesque-Byzantine masterpiece where Grace Kelly married Prince Rainier III and where both are now laid to rest. The serene atmosphere and stunning altar make it a peaceful retreat from the outside world.

But the true magic of The Rock lies in its hidden corners. Lose yourself in the Jardin de la Petite Afrique, a small but lush garden with exotic plants and panoramic views of the sea. Pop into a local café for a quick espresso or a glass of Provençal rosé, and savour a simple lunch at a family-run restaurant offering socca (a chickpea pancake) or barbagiuan (a traditional stuffed pastry).

As the afternoon sun begins to soften, make your way to the Fort Antoine Theatre, an open-air venue built into the old fortress walls, or simply find a quiet bench along the ramparts. From here, you’ll witness one of the most spectacular vistas in the Mediterranean—the entire Monaco coastline, the sparkling harbour filled with yachts, and the endless blue of the sea stretching toward the horizon.

Why This Makes Your Stopover Memorable

In a place often defined by extravagance, The Rock of Monaco offers something deeper: a connection to history, culture, and timeless beauty. It’s a reminder that Monaco isn’t just about what money can buy—it’s about legacy, resilience, and the simple joy of a stunning view shared over centuries.

By choosing to spend your day here, you’ll leave with more than just photos. You’ll carry with you the feeling of having touched the soul of Monaco, if only for a moment. And isn’t that what the most memorable travel experiences are all about?

So, on your next stopover in Monte Carlo, resist the urge to see it all. Instead, go to The Rock. Let its history inspire you, its views awe you, and its charm remind you that sometimes, the best way to experience a place is to slow down and savour its heart.

Happy travels!

What I learned about writing – Query Letters

What Makes a Query Letter Successful?

Your ticket to the publishing world, distilled into a single page.

If you’ve ever stared at a blank document wondering how to convince a literary agent—or a magazine editor—that your manuscript is worth their time, you’re not alone. The query letter is the publishing industry’s version of an elevator pitch: a concise, compelling snapshot of your work that must grab attention, convey professionalism, and leave the reader wanting more.

In this post, we’ll break down exactly what goes into a successful query letter, why each piece matters, and how you can craft a letter that feels both polished and uniquely yours. Grab a notebook (or a digital equivalent) and let’s turn that one‑page ask into a powerful first impression.

1. Know the Goal: What a Query Letter Actually Does

PurposeWhat the Agent/Editor NeedsHow You Deliver It
HookA reason to keep readingA tantalizing opening line or logline
SnapshotA clear idea of your story/essayA tight, 150‑word synopsis
CredibilityConfidence in your ability to finish/marketBrief author bio & publishing credentials
FitEvidence that you belong on their listTailored market comparison and personalized greeting
Call‑to‑ActionA polite request for the next stepClear, courteous closing

If any of those columns are missing, the letter falls flat. A successful query hits all five without feeling like a checklist.

2. The Anatomy of a Winning Query Letter

Below is the typical order of a query for a fiction manuscript (non‑fiction, memoir, or article queries follow a similar skeleton with a few tweaks).

SectionApprox. LengthWhat to Include
Header1–2 linesYour name, address, phone, email (top‑right) – optional but professional.
Date & Agent Info1 lineDate on the left, then agent’s name, agency, and address.
Greeting1 line“Dear [Agent First Name],” – never “To Whom It May Concern.”
Hook/Logline1 sentence (15–25 words)The big idea—genre, protagonist, conflict, stakes. Think of it as a movie trailer tagline.
Synopsis1–2 paragraphs (150–250 words total)Briefly outline the inciting incident, major plot points, and ending. No sub‑plots, no analysis—just the story’s arc.
Manuscript Details1 lineWord count, genre, and any relevant comparables (e.g., “The Nightingale meets All the Light We Cannot See”).
Author Bio1–2 sentencesRelevant writing credits, platform, or life experience that informs the story. Keep it relevant; a teaching degree is fine, a love of cats is not—unless it ties directly to the manuscript.
Closing1–2 linesThank them for their time, express willingness to send sample chapters or the full manuscript, and sign off with “Sincerely” or “Best regards.”
Signature1 lineTyped name (hand‑signed if sending hard copy).

Pro tip: Keep the entire letter no longer than 350–400 words. Agents read hundreds each week; brevity is a virtue.

3. Crafting Each Piece: Tips & Tricks

a. The Hook (Your Elevator Pitch)

  • Lead with the protagonist, not the setting. “A teenage prodigy discovers a hidden library that can rewrite history” beats “In a dystopian London…”
  • Show the conflict & stakes. “She must choose between saving her brother or exposing a government conspiracy that could end the world.”
  • Genre‑specific language matters. Romance agents love “enemies-to-lovers,” thriller agents crave “a ticking‑clock race against the NSA.”

b. The Synopsis (The Story in Miniature)

  • Write it as if the story is already sold. Use present tense and active verbs.
  • Include the ending (agents want to know you can finish).
  • Avoid adjectives that feel like fluff (“beautiful,” “heart‑warming”). Let the plot do the heavy lifting.

c. The Author Bio (Your Professional Brand)

  • One line for credentials: “Author of the short‑story collection Echoes (Prairie Press, 2022).”
  • One line for relevance: “Former forensic accountant, which informed the financial intrigue in The Ledger.”
  • If you have a platform, mention it briefly: “Blog with 15k weekly subscribers on true‑crime storytelling.”

d. The Comparables (The Market Fit)

  • Pick 2–3 recent, well‑known titles in the same genre.
  • Explain why they’re comparable in one clause: “The Goldfinch meets The Girl on the Train in its blend of literary depth and suspense.”
  • Avoid over‑reaching (don’t claim your debut is the next Harry Potter unless you have a massive, proven platform).

e. The Closing (Polite & Proactive)

  • Stay humble: “Thank you for considering my manuscript.”
  • Offer what they need next: “I would be delighted to send the first three chapters or the full manuscript at your request.”

4. Formatting Essentials (Make It Easy to Scan)

ElementRecommended Style
FontTimes New Roman or Garamond, 12‑pt
Margins1″ on all sides
Line SpacingSingle‑spaced within paragraphs, double‑spaced between paragraphs
LengthOne page (max 400 words)
File TypePDF (unless agency specifies otherwise)
Subject Line (email queries)“Query: Title – [Genre] – [Word Count]”

A clean layout tells the agent you respect their time and know basic business etiquette.

5. Common Pitfalls (And How to Dodge Them)

MistakeWhy It HurtsFix
Writing a “cover letter” (long, formal, no hook)Agents think you haven’t read the guidelines.Follow the query template exactly; keep it concise.
Over‑describing the settingDrowns out the plot/conflict.Limit setting details to what’s essential to the conflict.
Using jargon or insider slangConfuses or alienates the reader.Write for a non‑specialist; keep language clear.
Leaving out word count/genreAgent can’t file it correctly.Always include word count and genre line.
Being overly casual (“Hey there!”)Unprofessional tone.Use a proper salutation and closing.
Spelling/grammar errorsSignals carelessness.Proofread, then have a beta reader or editor glance over it.
Copy‑pasting a generic bioShows lack of research.Personalize each query to the agent’s interests.

6. A Real‑World Example (Fiction)

[Your Name]
123 Maple Lane • Anytown, NY 12345 • (555) 123‑4567 • you@email.com

February 10, 2026

Ms. Jenna Patel
Literary Edge Agency
200 West 45th Street
New York, NY 10036

Dear Ms. Patel,

When a disgraced climate scientist discovers a hidden Arctic research base that can reverse global warming, she must decide whether to expose the secret—risking her freedom—or let the world burn.

In The Ice Below, 92,000‑word climate‑thriller, Dr. Maya Ortiz is framed for falsifying data and forced into exile. While living among a nomadic Inuit community, she uncovers a clandestine government project capable of seeding clouds to cool the planet. As corporate mercenaries close in, Maya must rally the community and a skeptical journalist to broadcast the truth before the project’s creators weaponize the technology. The story ends with a global broadcast that forces world leaders to confront the ethical limits of climate engineering.

The Ice Below will appeal to fans of The Water Will Come and The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo—combining hard‑science climate stakes with a relentless, female‑driven thriller.

I am a former climate policy analyst who spent five years on the Arctic research program that inspired the novel. My short story “Thaw” appeared in Clarkesworld (2023) and was selected for the Pushcart Prize anthology. I hold an MFA in Creative Writing from Columbia University.

Thank you for your consideration. I would be delighted to send the first three chapters or the full manuscript at your request.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Notice the tight hook, clear synopsis, market comparables, relevant credentials, and professional formatting—all fitting on a single page.

7. Quick‑Reference Checklist

  • [ ] Targeted to a specific agent/editor (personalised greeting).
  • [ ] Includes a compelling one‑sentence hook.
  • [ ] Provides a 150‑250-word synopsis with an ending.
  • [ ] States word count, genre, and 2–3 comparables.
  • [ ] Features a concise author bio with relevant credentials.
  • [ ] Polite closing with a call‑to‑action.
  • [ ] Proper formatting (12‑pt font, 1″ margins, single‑spaced).
  • [ ] Proofread for spelling/grammar errors.

If you can tick every box without forcing anything, you’ve built a successful query letter.

8. Final Thoughts: The Query Letter Is a Conversation Starter

Think of your query as the first line in a dialogue with a potential champion of your work. It should intrigue, inform, and invite. By respecting the agent’s time, demonstrating market awareness, and showcasing your professionalism, you turn a simple email into a compelling pitch that stands out in a crowded inbox.

Pro tip: After you send a query, give the agent six weeks before politely inquiring about status. Patience + professionalism = good agency relationships.

Now, go ahead and draft that letter. Remember: the goal isn’t just to be read—it’s to be remembered. Happy querying!

‘What Sets Us Apart’ – A beta readers view

There’s something to be said for a story that starts like a James Bond movie, throwing you straight in the deep end, a perfect way of getting to know the main character, David, or is that Alistair?

A retired spy, well not so much a spy as a retired errand boy, David’s rather wry description of his talents, and a woman that most men would give their left arm for, not exactly the ideal couple, but there is a spark in a meeting that may or may not have been a setup.

But as the story progressed, the question I kept asking myself was why he’d bother.

And, page after unrelenting page, you find out.

Susan is exactly the sort of woman to pique his interest.  Then, inexplicably, she disappears.  That might have been the end to it, but Prendergast, that shadowy enigma, David’s ex-boss who loves playing games with real people, gives him an ultimatum, find her or come back to work.

Nothing like an offer that’s a double-edged sword!

A dragon for a mother, a sister he didn’t know about, Susan’s BFF who is not what she seems or a friend indeed, and Susan’s father who, up till David meets her, couldn’t be less interested, his nemesis proves to be the impossible dream, and he’s always just that one step behind.

When the rollercoaster finally came to a halt, and I could start breathing again, it was an ending that was completely unexpected.

I’ve been told there’s a sequel in the works.

Bring it on!

…

The book can be purchased here:  http://amzn.to/2Eryfth

…

If I only had one day to stop over in – Belfast – what would I do?

One Day, One Stop: Why Titanic Belfast Is the Only Place You Need to Visit

You’ve just landed in Belfast for a quick stopover. The clock is ticking, the rain is drizzling, and you’ve got only 24 hours to soak up the soul of Northern Ireland’s capital. Where do you go? The answer is simple: Titanic Belfast—the world‑class visitor experience that turns a fleeting lay‑over into an unforgettable adventure.

1. The Power of a Single Icon

Belfast is a city of layers—industrial heritage, political history, vibrant street art, and a buzzing food scene. Trying to cram them all into a single day inevitably leads to a frantic dash from one museum to the next, leaving you exhausted rather than inspired.

Titanic Belfast, by contrast, packs history, architecture, storytelling, and emotion into one spectacular 10‑storey building that dominates the city’s waterfront. It’s not just a museum; it’s an immersive journey that:

  • Narrates the ship’s birth, tragedy, and rebirth in a way that feels personal, not just factual.
  • Showcases Belfast’s industrial spirit—the very shipyards that built the Titanic were the backbone of the city’s economy.
  • Offers panoramic city views from its rooftop glass lift, giving you a quick, breathtaking orientation of Belfast in under five minutes.

Put simply, stepping into Titanic Belfast means you walk through the heartbeat of the city without having to hop on multiple buses.

2. What Makes the Experience Memorable

FeatureWhy It Stands Out
The BuildingDesigned to look like the hull of a ship, the glass‑clad “ship’s bow” reflects the River Lagan and the surrounding skyline—perfect for a quick photo op.
The Storytelling GalleriesTen interactive galleries guide you from the Edwardian era, through the ship’s construction, to the fateful night in 1912, and finally to the modern-day legacy.
Full‑Scale Titanic ReplicaWalk the exact length of the grand staircase, explore the first‑class lounge, and stand in the engine room—feel the scale that no textbook can convey.
“Iceberg” Immersive TheatreA 3‑D projection room that drops you into the chilling moment the ship struck the iceberg—thrilling, yet respectful.
Rooftop Observation DeckA glass lift ascends 100 m, delivering a sweeping 360° view of Belfast, the shipyard, and the surrounding hills. A perfect “one‑minute” city overview.
Café & Gift ShopFinish with a cup of locally roasted coffee and pick up a handcrafted Titanic souvenir—a reminder of your day for years to come.

3. How to Fit Titanic Belfast Into a One‑Day Itinerary

TimeAction
08:30 – Arrival in BelfastDisembark, collect luggage, and hop on a Metro (bus) 400 from the airport to Titanic Quarter (≈ 15 min).
09:00 – Ticket & Quick BitePurchase tickets online in advance (≈ £19 adults) to skip the queue. Grab a quick pastry at the on‑site café while the line moves.
09:15 – Start the TourDive straight into Gallery 1 – “The Legend Begins.” Use the audio guide for a personal pace.
11:30 – Lunch BreakHead to The Dock Café (right outside) for a 30‑minute sandwich and a local craft beer.
12:00 – The Grand Staircase & Engine RoomFollow the self‑guided route through the ship’s interior—don’t miss the first‑class lounge for that glamorous glimpse.
13:15 – Iceberg Immersive TheatreReserve a 10‑minute slot; the 3‑D experience is short but powerful.
13:45 – Rooftop Observation DeckTake the glass lift up, snap panoramic shots, and soak the city’s layout—use this time to check your next travel connections.
14:30 – Gift Shop & DeparturePick up a souvenir, maybe a Titanic‑themed notebook, and hop back on the Metro 400 to the airport (or train station) for your onward journey.

Total time: ~ 6 hours (including travel, meals, and a comfortable buffer). This leaves you plenty of room for a quick coffee at a local shop or a stroll along the River Lagan before you head out.

4. Insider Tips for a Seamless Visit

  1. Buy Tickets Ahead – The online “Skip‑the‑Line” tickets guarantee you’ll be inside within minutes, even during peak tourist seasons.
  2. Wear Comfortable Shoes – You’ll be walking on metal decks, stairs, and the glass lift.
  3. Pack a Light Rain Jacket – Belfast weather is famously unpredictable; the rooftop deck is glass‑enclosed, but the queue line can be exposed.
  4. Use the Free Wi‑Fi – Download the Titanic Belfast app for audio commentary and interactive maps.
  5. Time Your Photo – Early morning light reflects beautifully off the building’s glass façade, giving you a stunning Instagram shot before the crowds arrive.

5. Why Titanic Belfast Beats All Other Options

Alternative SpotTime RequiredWhat You Miss
Belfast City Hall1‑2 hrs (plus waiting for tours)No deep connection to the city’s industrial roots.
St. George’s Market2‑3 hrs (plus food time)Great for foodies, but weather‑dependent and less “iconic.”
Murals & Political Tours3‑4 hrs (including travel)Powerful, yet emotionally heavy for a brief lay‑over.
Giant’s CausewayFull day (4‑5 hrs just travel)Too far (≈ 1.5 hrs each way) for a single‑day stopover.
Titanic Belfast4‑5 hrs (including lunch)All‑in‑one: history, architecture, views, and a strong sense of place—no extra travel needed.

6. A Quick Story to Seal the Deal

When I first stepped onto the rooftop lift of Titanic Belfast, the city unfolded beneath me like a living map. The old shipyard cranes, the sleek new apartments, the River Lagan glinting in the winter sun—all of Belfast’s past, present, and future converged in that single moment. Within minutes, I felt like a true visitor, not just a passer‑by. That’s the magic of the place: it compresses a city’s story into an unforgettable, tactile experience.

Final Thought: One Stop, One Story, One Memory

If you only have a day in Belfast, make it count. Titanic Belfast isn’t just a museum—it’s a narrative bridge that connects the grit of a shipyard community to the awe of a world‑famous ocean liner, all under one iconic roof. One visit, and you walk away with a clear picture of Belfast’s spirit, a handful of stunning photos, and a story you’ll recount for years to come.

So next time your flight itinerary leaves you with a fleeting stopover, skip the scramble and set your compass for Titanic Belfast—the one place that guarantees your day in Belfast will be nothing short of memorable. 🚢✨

365 Days of writing, 2026 – 29

Day 29 – Synopsis Tools

…

Crafting the Perfect Synopsis: Tools to Help You Succeed

As a writer, you’re likely no stranger to the daunting task of condensing your entire manuscript into a concise, compelling synopsis. A well-written synopsis is essential for capturing the attention of literary agents, publishers, and readers alike, but it can be a challenging and time-consuming process. Fortunately, there are several tools available to help you create the perfect synopsis.

In this post, we’ll explore some of the most effective tools and techniques for crafting a synopsis that showcases your work in the best possible light.

1. Synopsis Templates

One of the most useful tools for creating a synopsis is a template. A template provides a structured framework for organising your thoughts and ensuring that you include all the essential elements of a synopsis. You can find a variety of synopsis templates online, or create your own using a word processing program like Microsoft Word or Google Docs.

Some popular synopsis templates include:

  • The Snowflake Method: This template involves breaking down your story into smaller and smaller pieces, starting with a one-sentence summary and gradually expanding to a full synopsis.
  • The Three-Act Structure: This template is based on the traditional three-act structure of a story, with a setup, confrontation, and resolution.
  • The Hero’s Journey: This template is based on the classic hero’s journey narrative pattern, with stages like the call to adventure, the road of trials, and the return with the elixir.

2. Writing Software

There are many writing software programs available that can help you create a synopsis, including:

  • Scrivener: This popular writing program includes a synopsis feature that allows you to create an outline of your story and organise your thoughts.
  • Novelise: This writing software includes a built-in synopsis tool that helps you create a concise and compelling summary of your story.
  • Writing.com: This online writing community offers a variety of tools and resources for creating a synopsis, including templates, prompts, and writing exercises.

3. Online Synopsis Generators

If you’re struggling to come up with a synopsis on your own, you can try using an online synopsis generator. These tools use artificial intelligence to analyse your story and create a synopsis based on the characters, plot, and themes.

Some popular online synopsis generators include:

  • AutoCrit: This writing tool uses AI to analyse your manuscript and create a synopsis, as well as provide feedback on character development, pacing, and other elements of your story.
  • ProWritingAid: This writing software includes a synopsis generator that helps you create a concise and compelling summary of your story.
  • Synopsis Generator: This online tool uses a simple questionnaire to gather information about your story and create a synopsis.

4. Writing Guides and Resources

In addition to templates, software, and online generators, there are many writing guides and resources available that can help you create a synopsis. Some popular options include:

  • The Writer’s Digest Guide to Query Letters: This book provides comprehensive guidance on writing a query letter, including tips and examples for crafting a compelling synopsis.
  • The Synopsis Workshop: This online course offers in-depth instruction on writing a synopsis, including video lessons, writing exercises, and feedback from industry professionals.
  • Writing Excuses: This popular writing podcast often features episodes on writing a synopsis, with tips and advice from experienced authors and industry professionals.

Conclusion

Crafting the perfect synopsis is a challenging task, but with the right tools and techniques, you can create a compelling and effective summary of your story. Whether you prefer to use a template, writing software, online generator, or writing guide, there are many resources available to help you succeed. Remember to keep your synopsis concise, focused, and engaging, and don’t be afraid to seek feedback and revise your work until you’re satisfied with the result. With practice and patience, you can create a synopsis that showcases your work in the best possible light and helps you achieve your writing goals.

Inspiration, Maybe – Volume 2

50 photographs, 50 stories, of which there is one of the 50 below.

They all start with –

A picture paints … well, as many words as you like.  For instance:

And, the story:

Have you ever watched your hopes and dreams simply just fly away?

Everything I thought I wanted and needed had just left in an aeroplane, and although I said I was not going to, i came to the airport to see the plane leave.  Not the person on it, that would have been far too difficult and emotional, but perhaps it was symbolic, the end of one life and the start of another.

But no matter what I thought or felt, we had both come to the right decision.  She needed the opportunity to spread her wings.  It was probably not the best idea for her to apply for the job without telling me, but I understood her reasons.

She was in a rut.  Though her job was a very good one, it was not as demanding as she had expected, particularly after the last promotion, but with it came resentment from others on her level, that she, the youngest of the group would get the position.

It was something that had been weighing down of her for the last three months, and if noticed it, the late nights, the moodiness, sometimes a flash of temper.  I knew she had one, no one could have such red hair and not, but she had always kept it in check.

And, then there was us, together, and after seven years, it felt like we were going nowhere.  Perhaps that was down to my lack of ambition, and though she never said it, lack of sophistication.  It hadn’t been an issue, well, not until her last promotion, and the fact she had to entertain more, and frankly I felt like an embarrassment to her.

So, there it was, three days ago, the beginning of the weekend, and we had planned to go away for a few days and take stock.  We both acknowledged we needed to talk, but it never seemed the right time.

It was then she said she had quit her job and found a new one.  Starting the following Monday.

Ok, that took me by surprise, not so much that it something I sort of guessed might happen, but that she would just blurt it out.

I think that right then, at that moment, I could feel her frustration with everything around her.

What surprised her was my reaction.  None.

I simply asked where who, and when.

A world-class newspaper, in New York, and she had to be there in a week.

A week.

It was all the time I had left with her.

I remember I just shrugged and asked if the planned weekend away was off.

She stood on the other side of the kitchen counter, hands around a cup of coffee she had just poured, and that one thing I remembered was the lone tear that ran down her cheek.

Is that all you want to know?

I did, yes, but we had lost that intimacy we used to have when she would have told me what was happening, and we would have brainstormed solutions. I might be a cabinet maker but I still had a brain, was what I overheard her tell a friend once.

There’s not much to ask, I said.  You’ve been desperately unhappy and haven’t been able to hide it all that well, you have been under a lot of pressure trying to deal with a group of troglodytes, and you’ve been leaning on Bentley’s shoulder instead of mine, and I get it, he’s got more experience in that place,  and the politics that go with it, and is still an ally.

Her immediate superior and instrumental in her getting the position, but unlike some men in his position he had not taken advantage of a situation like some men would.  And even if she had made a move, which I doubted, that was not the sort of woman she was, he would have politely declined.

One of the very few happily married men in that organisation, so I heard.

So, she said, you’re not just a pretty face.

Par for the course for a cabinet maker whose university degree is in psychology.  It doesn’t take rocket science to see what was happening to you.  I just didn’t think it was my place to jump in unless you asked me, and when you didn’t, well, that told me everything I needed to know.

Yes, our relationship had a use by date, and it was in the next few days.

I was thinking, she said, that you might come with me,  you can make cabinets anywhere.

I could, but I think the real problem wasn’t just the job.  It was everything around her and going with her, that would just be a constant reminder of what had been holding her back. I didn’t want that for her and said so.

Then the only question left was, what do we do now?

Go shopping for suitcases.  Bags to pack, and places to go.

Getting on the roller coaster is easy.  On the beginning, it’s a slow easy ride, followed by the slow climb to the top.  It’s much like some relationships, they start out easy, they require a little work to get to the next level, follows by the adrenaline rush when it all comes together.

What most people forget is that what comes down must go back up, and life is pretty much a roller coaster with highs and lows.

Our roller coaster had just come or of the final turn and we were braking so that it stops at the station.

There was no question of going with her to New York.  Yes, I promised I’d come over and visit her, but that was a promise with crossed fingers behind my back.  After a few months in t the new job the last thing shed want was a reminder of what she left behind.  New friends new life.

We packed her bags, three out everything she didn’t want, a free trips to the op shop with stiff she knew others would like to have, and basically, by the time she was ready to go, there was nothing left of her in the apartment, or anywhere.

Her friends would be seeing her off at the airport, and that’s when I told her I was not coming, that moment the taxi arrived to take her away forever.  I remember standing there, watching the taxi go.  It was going to be, and was, as hard as it was to watch the plane leave.

So, there I was, finally staring at the blank sky, around me a dozen other plane spotters, a rather motley crew of plane enthusiasts.

Already that morning there’s been 6 different types of plane depart, and I could hear another winding up its engines for take-off.

People coming, people going.

Maybe I would go to New York in a couple of months, not to see her, but just see what the attraction was.  Or maybe I would drop in, just to see how she was.

As one of my friends told me when I gave him the news, the future is never written in stone, and it’s about time you broadened your horizons.

Perhaps it was.

© Charles Heath 2020-2021

Coming soon.  Find the above story and 49 others like it in:

In a word: bath

Everyone knows that Bath is a city in England where the rich and pampered used to ‘take the waters’, whatever that meant.  I’ve been to Bath, and it has many terrace houses built in a crescent shape.

I’ve been to the baths, too, which is another use of the word bath, a place where you clean yourself, or just soak away the troubles of the day, usually with a glass or three of champagne.

Apparently, the Bath baths have been there since Roman times and having been there and seen how old they look, I can attest to that fact.

We had a bath before we had a shower, and these days, a bathtub is usually a garden bed full of flowers rather than a body.

Being given a bath sometimes means you were comprehensively beaten in a game, like football.

Throwing the baby out with the bath water is a rather quaint expression that means nothing like it literally does but describes a wife or husband cleaning up a spouse’s space without due regard to what she or he might want to keep—that is, throwing everything out.

If you take a bath, yes, you might get wet, but in another sense, it might be when you take a large hit financially.  And, these days, it doesn’t take much for super funds to suddenly have negative growth.

A bathhouse could be a place where there might be a swimming pool, not just a bath, where people gather.  A notable one was seen in the movie ‘Gorky Park’.

‘The Devil You Don’t’ – A beta reader’s view

It could be said that of all the women one could meet, whether contrived or by sheer luck, what are the odds it would turn out to be the woman who was being paid a very large sum to kill you.

John Pennington is a man who may be lucky in business, but not so lucky in love. He has just broken up with Phillipa Sternhaven, the woman he thought was the one, but relatives and circumstances, and perhaps because she was a ‘princess’, may also have contributed to the end result.

So, what do you do when you are heartbroken?

That is a story that slowly unfolds, from the first meeting with his nemesis on Lake Geneva, all the way to a hotel room in Sorrento, where he learns the shattering truth.

What should have been solace after disappointment, turns out to be something else entirely, and from that point, everything goes to hell in a handbasket.

He suddenly realizes his so-called friend Sebastian has not exactly told him the truth about a small job he asked him to do, the woman he is falling in love with is not quite who she says she is, and he is caught in the middle of a war between two men who consider people becoming collateral damage as part of their business.

The story paints the characters cleverly displaying all their flaws and weaknesses. The locations add to the story at times taking me back down memory lane, especially to Venice where, in those back streets I confess it’s not all that hard to get lost.

All in all a thoroughly entertaining story with, for once, a satisfying end.

…

Available on Amazon here: https://amzn.to/2Xyh1ow

…

The cinema of my dreams – I always wanted to write a war story – Episode 51

For a story that was conceived during those long boring hours flying in a steel cocoon, striving to keep away the thoughts that the plane and everyone in it could just simply disappear as planes have in the past, it has come a long way.

Whilst I have always had a fascination in what happened during the second worlds war, not the battles or fighting, but in the more obscure events that took place, I decided to pen my own little sidebar to what was a long and bitter war.

And, so, it continues…

…

Wallace had not returned upstairs by the normal stairs, but the one by the radio room, far removed from the basement area where the prisoners were kept.

If he had, he might have realised that something was very, very wrong.

There were no more prisoners, except for Martina.  The other defectors that had been captured had, on Johannsen’s orders, taken away by the three remaining resistance fighters, to be executed in the woods not far from the castle.

They had gone an hour before Schmidt’s men had departed, but in a different path, and would avoid running into the others.  Johannesen had given Fernando’s second-in-command a silenced luger and told him to only use that gun for the execution.  And to make as little noise as possible.

When they had left an eerie silence fell over the cellar.

Johannsen passed by Martina’s cell and looked in.  She was lying on the ground, still badly injured from the beating Fernando had given her.  She let him look at her for a minute, then said, “When is this going to be over.  I’m not going to tell you anything.”

“I don’t doubt that for a moment?”

“Where did you send the rest of the prisoners?”

“Back to Germany.  Someone else can deal with them.”

She didn’t believe him for one moment, but let it pass. “Why betray your country?”

“England?  England wasn’t my country, it’s just where I ended up before the war.  Then it seemed a good idea to become a double agent.”

“Germany isn’t winning the war, you know, despite what the fools in Berlin keep telling you.”

“I could have you shot for saying that.”

“Then get on with it.  I’m over waiting for whatever you’re going to do to me.”

“All in good time.  The new people have brought some very good interrogators and they promise they’ll have you singing like a canary in no time.”

She shrugged, and it hurt.

“Fools.”

“Actually, I’m inclined to agree with you.  So much so, I believe, if I can get you out of here, you might put in a good word for me.  Atherton is out there, and he’s coming, isn’t he?”

“Atherton is just a boy pretending to be a soldier.”

He smiled.  “That’s what he wants everyone to think, but Thompson, the man you take orders from, he thinks Atherton is one of his best agents.  And he will have a plan, and being the archaeological major that he was, he’ll know how to breach this place.”

And the fact she didn’t argue or deny what he was suggesting told him she was waiting.

“You expect too much, there are no more resistance fighters except for a few young lads, and that dog of his.”  She laughed.  “Rescued by three children and a dog.  I wonder if Germany will record that piece of history if it comes to pass.  Go away, whoever you are, and leave me to die in peace.”

“When the time comes, I’ll be back.”

She ignored him, and rolled over to face the wall.

The two guards had been watching him, though they had not been following the conversation.  The officer in charge, Wallace, had told them to keep an eye on everyone who came and went, and though Johannesen was on that watch list because he treated them better than Jackerby or the commandant did, they simply ignored him.

At their peril.

Johannesen wandered up to them, bade them a good evening, and then shot them.  He dragged the bodies to a place where no one would look and then headed along to the radio room.  The guards and radio men would not be changed for another eight hours, so no one was going to miss them.  Unless someone came down top check, but Johannesen had done several nights observation, and no one had.

The two radio men disposed of, it was time to block off the entrances to the basement so no one could come down.  These exits or entrances were large iron gates bolted and locked with ancient locks.  There was only one key to each, and Johannsen had the key ring with them on it.  He’d taken that of one of the dead guards.

Once the entrances were locked, he went back to Martina’s cell and unlocked the door.

At the sound of the key, she turned back.

“Time to go,” he said.  “We have a very small wind to escape before they find out upstairs.”

“I cannot save you, if Atherton thinks you are a traitor.”

“Atherton is probably the only level headed person in this area.  He’ll appreciate what I;ve done and give me a second chance.”

She shook her head.

“Once a traitor, always a traitor.”

“Be that as it may, just hold that thought.  I’m giving you a gun, and I’m hoping you won’t use it on me.”

He went into the cell and assisted her to stand.  She was weak, but the thought of escaping death put a little life into her limbs.

“It will not be a quick getaway,” she said.

“Just as long as it is a getaway,” he said, as they headed for the exit.

At the same time, there was a very large explosion from above, the percussive sound almost deafening them.

“What the hell was that?” Johannesen muttered.

“Most likely the diversion we needed, that you forgot to arrange.”

…

© Charles Heath 2021-2023

A photograph from the inspirational bin – 15

It’s the obvious items in the photograph that you see first, or that your eyes go to first.

The ocean, the beach, the buildings. You can see a shopping mall with MacDonald’s sign above it.

Yes, it’s late afternoon, and you can see long shadows of the buildings.

So, if I asked you what did you see in this photo, what would your reply be?

From a thriller writer or murder mystery writer’s point of view, it’s what you don’t necessarily see.

So, for the purposes of the story, the opening line for the world-weary detective, handing the photo to his partner, “What’s is it you can’t see in this photo?”

A partner that hadn’t been on the job very long, in from the suburbs, and had seen little more than break and enters car theft, and school kids hi-jinks.

“What am I supposed to be looking for?”

“You want to be a detective, or be looking for old ladies cats?”

His partner takes the photo in hand and looks at it again.  There has to be a reason why the old man had given it to him, or perhaps there wasn’t and he was just playing with him again.

No, he thought, there has to be something…

And then he saw it, quite by accident.  A hand, a gun, and following the line of fire, at the end, what looked like someone in the bushes.

In a photo taken from a higher floor of the building over the road, looking down on what was supposed to be a rooftop recreational area.

Only there had been no report of a missing person or a gunshot wound in the last seven days.

“When was it taken?”

“Two days ago?”

“And no reports of a shooting, or a body?”

“No.  And yet the person who took this swears he saw a body, but by the time he came back, there was nothing.”

The detective handed his partner a second photo.  Time-stamped five minutes later.  With no gun and no body.

What will happen next?