I'm leaving the country and you are coming with me, sort of
General over-sharing plus news, opportunities and events for writers & journalists
My dear wordsmiths,
Welcome - if you are new here I’m Nicola, I’m a journalism leader by day (I’m Editor in chief (north) for National World publishing) and querying author by night with a little side hustle as a radio presenter and additional work as a travel writer. Nice to meet you! This is my little blog-ish corner for over-sharing life and providing useful info and chat for writers. I always appreciate a subscribe and a follow - let’s chase our dreams together.
Once again I find myself writing this in a hotel room. Last time it was Leeds and this time I’m in ‘that’ London although London is not my ultimate destination as I’m at Heathrow Terminal five and flying tomorrow on a trip (with my travel journo hat on) which I’ll share next week. I’m actually at the Sofitel and this is definitely not an ad as my review would read; I’m in a perfectly acceptable, clean, bog standard room that looks like it needs a refresh, with a close view of a multi storey car park plus straight into other people’s windows and it wasn't cheap. The toiletries are posh but attached to the wall. Though you can walk straight into the terminal, which is why I booked it!
Anyway, if you are thinking of stalking me (not highly likely) , you’ve missed me, but it wouldn’t be very interesting anyway as so far I’ve opened up this laptop and also once of those mini wines from M&S because - holiday. I may go all in and have some bacon crisps to celebrate temporary freedom from the news cycle which is in a post-election lull. Currently contemplating a lonely trip to the restaurant for an over-priced fish and chips - get your smallest violin out as my trip involves a lot of food! (clue). Actually I love being in hotels alone and I’m pretty sure my husband is enjoying the peace.
I was thinking of taking a week off newsletter life this week but I haven’t missed a single one yet so.. here you go. The same applies to my weekly show (Sundays 7-9pm) at Central Radio North West which I pre-recorded Monday night. This was very weird as I had to pretend it was Sunday and that - as I spoke - the Euros final was ongoing and we all know who won Wimbledon. A little peep behind the veil! I was very tired and honestly I think I may have lost the plot as tunes on the schedule include a veritable feast of cheese, think Taylor Swift, Justin Timberlake, Harry Styles and the Spice Girls. I might rename the show Nic’s cheese sandwich. Though I have also included a little extract from my Booky podcast chat with author Katie Fforde.
Catch up on latest Write Reject Repeat:
Bridgerton meets Handsmaid’s Tale: Meet The Virtue Season Author L.M. Nathan
Ups and Downs in Dubai and meet journo turned author Alex Morrison
I’ve made the decision to bring my laptop (which means you are coming too) because although the trip itself will be hectic, I’m spending eons on planes, trains and automobiles and the work I am doing is editing rather than actual writing which I struggle to focus on while travelling. I decided to set myself a writing goal - or rather an editing one - and I’ve already managed a little on the train though it was so packed my neighbour was reading my screen which I hate. When she opened her own laptop I got my own back though as I learned she worked in product and marketing at a luxury holiday resort chain ( and her name). Working on train is really not good for data security so top tip - get one of those security glare thingies - I’ve been googling them. Do you work while travelling?
News, events and opportunities
Contact me to take part in a Q&A: If you are a writer or a journalist and would like to be profiled on here please get in touch. I want to to give a really rounded and realistic view of what it’s like in both professions, even if you are just starting out or in the trenches. It’s all helpful to other and we are a community! I’m also interested in hearing about other similar themed Substacks and potentially some reciprocal recommendations. I also regularly shout out new book releases - if this is you get in touch. Obviously I’m away this week but will reply anon.
New from Irvine Welsh: Trainspotting author Irvine Welsh has left his native Scotland behind for his new novel Resolution: the third instalment of his Crime series following detective Ray Lennox which is based in Brighton. The new book sees the detective leave his police job behind to embark upon a new life in Brighton where he meets rich pillar of the community Matthew Cardingworth. Lennon soon makes a connection between the latter, a series of violent attacks and the disappearances of a group of foster care boys.
Theakston Old Peculiar crime writing festival: Held between 18-21 July 2024, this is the annual gathering of crime writing professionals and enthusiasts, authors and readers in Harrogate. Grab a pint of Yorkshire’s finest ale, relax in the hotel gardens, and dip into an intoxicating mix of comedy, cabaret, heated debate, and scintillating socialising International bestselling novelist Ruth Ware takes the reins as Festival Programming Chair in 2024. Lineup via the link.
Cheltenham Literature Festival ‘not going anywhere’: Cheltenham Literature Festival is still on after an investment firm withdrew its funding, a senior member of its team has said (reports the BBC) Baillie Gifford has ended sponsorship deals with a number of book festivals, including Hay Festival and the Edinburgh International Book Festival following controversy over links to fossil fuel firms and Israel.
Reuters Digital News Report 2024: This year's report (linked) reveals new findings about the consumption of online news globally. It is based on a YouGov survey of more than 95,000 people in 47 countries representing half of the world's population. The report looks at the growing importance of platforms in news consumption and production, including more visual and video-led social media such as TikTok, Instagram and YouTube. It explores audience attitudes towards the use of AI in news, the role of creators and news influencers, how much people pay for news and more.
Ok, I’m going to leave it there, please like, share and subscribe - a little goes a long way! Keep scribbling! Nx
Have a wonderful time and good luck with the editing!