I'm a new writer. I've not long finished a novel writing course through the NZ Writers College which has led me to the completion of my first novel. I also have a short story published in the NZ Woman's Weekly (Jan. 2019). I'm wanting to get my first novel published and to write several more - I already have a second one planned and have ideas for several more. But, I'm not getting any younger!

The reason for joining is to get a greater understanding of novel writing, to improve my skills, to become a published writer, and perhaps pass my knowledge and skills on to a younger generation. I thoroughly enjoyed the course I undertook with the NZWC - it was hard work and, at times, incredibly frustrating but ultimately very rewarding.

I have entered a short story into the Bridport short story competition - now it's a long wait to hear the result. The story revolves around the chance meeting between a young boy and and elderly lady, and the relationship that develops between them. Along the way she teaches him the Chess and some lessons that he can learn from this game, and his companionship has far more meaning than he realises.

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