Hello Reading Friends!
After taking a little break from blogging and book reviews to focus on writing and planning for 2022, it feels good to be back. I’m happy to report that I aim to continue reviewing, as I love supporting authors in this way and connecting with readers too. However, I’m setting aside author interviews for now, and instead will write articles about creativity, my writing progress, the craft of writing – because I have exciting news to share…
I’m absolutely thrilled to be one of ten authors supported as a Scottish Book Trust New Writers’ Awardee for 2022. I can’t quite believe this is true, as it means so much to have my writing recognised in this way.
WHAT THE AWARD MEANS…
As well as connecting with a fantastic group of writers, awardees are offered support in the form of mentoring, social media and presentation training, a week’s writing retreat, the opportunity to read our work to industry professionals, and more…
WHAT I WILL BE WORKING ON…
Writing friends know that I have been novel writing for years, but lacked the confidence to send manuscripts to agents and publishers. Then when the pandemic hit, I found I couldn’t concentrate on long form, so decided to give flash fiction writing a go, with the aim of getting used to writerly rejection! And yes, I’ve had my fair share of rejection, but I was delighted to enjoy successes too – longlisted, shortlisted, publication, wins.
Slowly, my confidence grew and a new goal began to take shape – to create a debut flash fiction collection… And I can’t thank the Scottish Book Trust enough for supporting me in my journey towards this goal.
So, an exciting year lies ahead and I would love if you would join me as I share the highs and lows, and see where this opportunity leads.
Before I go, I also want to wish the other awardees Many Congratulations, and can’t wait to get to know them and their writing – it’s going to be fun!
Oh Rae, such lovely, lovely news. Many congratulations. Anne
Thank you, Anne. It’s a fantastic boost at the beginning of another writing year. : )
Absolutely delighted for you! Well-deserved. Will you be coming to Cove Park?
Hello Mairibeth/ Flash Fiction Buddy! No the retreat is scheduled for later in the year at Moniack Mhor. Hope to make it back to Cove Park one day. : )
Fantastic news! Wishing you much joy and success!
Thanks, Sareen – it’s fun travelling this writing road together. I’m looking forward to helping celebrate your successes too in the coming year. x
That really is wonderful news Rae, so well deserved. I’m delighted for you and can’t wait to see what the future holds for you xx
Thanks so much, Jo. It’s a fantastic opportunity – one that will help keep me focused! : )
Wonderful news, Rae. You are an inspiration.
That’s so kind, Dorinda. This writing life has so many ups and downs, but I’m definitely learning to enjoy the special moments when they come. Wishing you loads of special moments with your writing too.
I’m so very pleased that you’ve been recognised like this, Rae – it will make such a difference to your career and confidence. Wishing you great things ahead. x
Thanks so much, Rosemary. It’s been an exciting day, but now the hard work begins! : )