A Whirlwind Few Months

What a whirlwind the last few months have been — and how slack I’ve been at posting!

I’ve been delighted to have had a few stories accepted and a few shortlists that I’m over the moon about. More on that soon! 🤫

MARTELLO

At the end of May, I had the privilege of reading at the launch of the Martello Journal, which took place in the gorgeous O’Connell House on Merrion Square.

The story selected was The Master, a piece very close to my heart. Úna and Jack, the editors, couldn’t have been lovelier, and the evening was topped off with a drinks reception for everyone involved.

BANTRY

Then, in July, I made a return to Bantry and the West Cork Literary Festival. This is always one of the highlights of my year, although unfortunately, due to work commitments, I was only able to attend for one night.

I had the opportunity to read my piece Stealing Jesus, which was a runner-up in the From the Well competition. It was such a special occasion, and I was asked to sign three different anthologies — a new experience for me, to say the least!

Bantry is always full of fantastic and talented writers, and this year provided a great chance to catch up with Patrick Holloway, Joanne and Alice before making the drive back to Armagh.

MARTELLO AGAIN

More recently, I had the pleasure of reading for Martello again, this time as part of their Campfire Stories edition — and in a pretty special setting: the James Joyce Martello Tower in Sandycove.

I read my story Polished Black Size Elevens, and there was something particularly memorable about sharing a story in a place with so much literary history.

Throughout the evening I had the pleasure of listening to a raft of incredible prose writers and poets.

It was another brilliant Martello evening, and a real privilege to be part of it.

It’s been a busy few months — and there’s a little more news still to come. 🤫