tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1609070564477936032024-03-02T17:29:05.570+00:00Crime Scene NIThe spot where Gerard Brennan, author and playwright, blogs about reading and writing... but never arithmetic.
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He recently turned his back on gainful employment to pursue a crime fiction related PhD at QUB.Gerard Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18301381067485712366noreply@blogger.comBlogger762125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-160907056447793603.post-72874666099830908642018-07-10T14:48:00.001+01:002018-07-10T14:48:27.935+01:00Irish Times review of DISORDER<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This review, written by Declan Burke, appeared in The Irish Times on Saturday 21st April 2018.<br />
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Potential for violence<br />
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Set in Belfast, Gerard Brennan’s Disorder (No Alibis Press, €9.99) opens with stoned student Jimmy McAuley wandering into some “recreational rioting” and sounding off to TV journalist Grace Doran about “the subhuman imbeciles throwing their toys out of the pram over flags and marches”. When the clip of his rant goes viral, Jimmy finds himself at the heart of a maelstrom, caught up in corrupt DI Tommy Bridge’s long-running investigation into Loyalist hard man Clark Wallace.<br />
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Disorder reads like Adrian McKinty adapting one of Carl Hiaasen’s shaggy dog tales for a Northern Ireland setting, a coal-black comedy caper in which everyone seems to be feeding off the manic energy generated by the potential for violence that seems stitched into every page.<br />
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McAuley is an endearingly shambolic creation, his innocence in sharp contrast to Belfast’s brutal cynicism and the overall tone of world-weary acceptance, a tone leavened and accentuated by Brennan’s dust-dry humour: “the sound . . . swelled and faded in the form of a passing siren. There was an emergency somewhere in Belfast. There always would be.”<br />
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<i>Declan Burke is an author and journalist. He is currently Dublin City Council / UNESCO writer-in-residence.</i><br />
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<a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/culture/books/the-best-new-crime-fiction-1.3459742" target="_blank">Original link.</a><br />
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Get your copy of Disorder from <a href="https://noalibispress.com/" target="_blank">No Alibis Press</a>,Gerard Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18301381067485712366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-160907056447793603.post-21265141109352149842018-06-14T15:22:00.000+01:002018-06-14T15:22:52.540+01:00Upcoming Events<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/445367872552794/" target="_blank">Lit Crawl Belfast</a>:<br />
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As part of the Belfast Book Festival, come to No Alibis see me and Rosemary Jenkinson read from works by our favourite crime authors, as well as from our own, on Saturday 16th June at 6pm.<br />
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I plan to read from The Maltese Falcon by Dashiell Hammett and an excerpt from Edgar Allan Poe's story, The Tell-Tale Heart. I've been practising and timing my readings and everything, because the lovely Jan Carson warned me not to run over my time-slot, and I'd prefer it if she didn't have to tell me off.<br />
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I know after watching the recent Novel Ideas video featuring Rosemary that she's a great reader (as you'd expect from a playwright of her calibre) and I'm really looking forward to hearing her read from her new short story collection Catholic Boy. And to getting my copy signed.<br />
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1956751054367310/" target="_blank">Bangor Library DowNoir</a>:<br />
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And I'll be reading, Q&Aing and strumming at Bangor Library on Thursday 21st of June at 7:30pm (not the 19th as I mistakenly advertised on my latest podcast episode!) with Simon Maltman.<br />
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I'm a fan of Simon Maltman's work, and particularly enjoyed the Bongo Fury novellas. They're lean, mean, fast and fearless. I imagine he'll be reading from his latest novel, A Kill for the Poet, which I know will be a treat. And he's a much better singer and guitarist than me, so that'll be good for keeping my troublesome ego in check.<br />
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Be there or be quare disappointed.<br />
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<br />Gerard Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18301381067485712366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-160907056447793603.post-12023262725651511752018-06-13T16:19:00.000+01:002018-06-13T16:19:15.889+01:00The Gerard Brennan Disorder Podcast<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've finally done it. After years of thinking about it, months of talking about it, and weeks of reading about it, I've figured out how to record and distribute a podcast from the comfort of my own bedroom/office/studio. And by the time you read this there might even be a second or third episode available for you to sample.<br />
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For now, I'm still experimenting with the format, but I'd like to get some feedback on what the sweet spot for a one-man crime fiction show is, so tell me if it's over too quickly or runs too long. As I say in the first episode, I do want to address questions about the creative writing process, and to talk about the books I'm reading or have recently read.<br />
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Tuning in will also keep you up to date on my upcoming releases and all that jazz, because self promotion.<br />
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These early podcasts are basically for the people who have asked for audiobook versions of my work. I'm starting with my novella, BOUNCE. It's free, the sound quality is pretty good, and my accent is weird.<br />
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Why haven't you downloaded it already?<br />
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Links:<br />
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<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-gerard-brennan-disorder-podcast/id1397403230?mt=2" target="_blank">iTunes</a><br />
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<a href="https://disordergb.podbean.com/" target="_blank">PodBean</a><br />
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<a href="https://tunein.com/podcasts/Podcasts/The-Gerard-Brennan-Disorder-Podcast-p1129667/" target="_blank">TuneIn</a>Gerard Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18301381067485712366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-160907056447793603.post-76887618421006452882018-05-18T18:53:00.000+01:002018-05-18T18:53:53.901+01:00Fireproof Now Available in Paperback<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
For the first time ever, <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Fireproof-Gerard-Brennan/dp/1981070303/ref=la_B004KLEWS6_1_1_twi_pap_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1526665494&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Fireproof is available in paperback</a>.<br />
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Here's a little of what Ken Bruen had to say about it, once upon a time:<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">"Equally hilarious and jaw-droppingly violent at once. </span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Reading this novel was a total blast.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">"</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Tempted?</span>Gerard Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18301381067485712366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-160907056447793603.post-27290251868393457702018-04-17T19:21:00.001+01:002018-04-26T18:07:52.894+01:00Your Turn at the Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'll be forever grateful to Conor Maguire for being so determined to get this play on the stage. And for finding the perfect actors to bring it to life. Come one, come all, and let's get this show on the road.</div>
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YOUR TURN<br />
SUNFLOWER PUBLIC HOUSE<br />
TUESDAY 8 & WEDNESDAY 9 MAY, 8.00PM<br />
TICKETS £8.00<br />
<a href="http://cqaf.com/your-turn/" target="_blank">BOOK TICKETS</a><br />
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A riotous new comedy makes its premiere at the Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival this year. Every parent will know when it’s your turn, it’s your turn, except when it isn’t…<br />
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Relationships, stand-up, and how not to dispose of nappies all feature as a couple wake up to the reality of parenthood.<br />
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Penned by Gerard Brennan, who co-wrote The Sweety Bottle with his father, Joe, the first play to transfer from The Baby Grand to the main stage at The Grand Opera House.<br />
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Doors 7:45pm | Unreserved Seating<br />
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Tickets also available from: Visit Belfast | 028 90 246 609<br />
9 Donegall Square North - Open 7 days a Week<br />
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<br />Gerard Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18301381067485712366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-160907056447793603.post-21030935770237154252018-04-14T22:42:00.001+01:002018-04-14T23:17:09.228+01:00Calling All Stars<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's been a wee bit quiet on the review front recently. Yes, I do read them, and yes, I'm still that needy.</div>
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If you have a blog, an Amazon or Goodreads account, could you do us a favour (i.e. me, my publishers and mine)?</div>
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Take a few minutes to slap a few lines into one of them text boxes. Especially Amazon, as they quite often translate to direct sales.</div>
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It doesn't have to be a long review. If you've commented on a Facebook post or sent me an email to tell me how much you enjoyed something I've wrote, just copy and paste, or paraphrase what you've already written. </div>
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Or you can say, "He could probably do better!" if you don't feel particularly generous. That'd be grand too.</div>
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Here's a link to my <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Gerard-Brennan/e/B004KLEWS6/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_1" target="_blank">(UK) Amazon page</a> to make it even easier for you.<br />
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Before you get all, "I fought you was a Mick!" on me, I'm using that link because I figure that's where most readers find my work online. But I'll take them anywhere I can get them. I like readers from all around the planet.</div>
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Yes, I said 'around' the planet. No offence, Flat-Earthers. Pobody's Nerfect.</div>
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Thanks in advance, you're a <u>star</u>.</div>
Gerard Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18301381067485712366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-160907056447793603.post-54363086265656699802018-03-09T11:32:00.001+00:002018-03-09T11:32:20.663+00:00Three Crime Writers and Hopefully More Than One MicrophoneLuca Veste, his <a href="https://www.facebook.com/twocrimewriters/" target="_blank">Two Crime Writers and a Microphone</a> podcast partner, Steve Cavanagh, and I (yeeeooo!) will be chatting about books and stuff in less than a week. In real life and in the same bookshop.<br />
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We'd love to see No Alibis packed to the gills next Thursday. This is a special book for Luca. New characters, a different side of Liverpool, a blurring of the genre lines that pays off with twisted beauty. I loved it and it's an honour to participate in the Belfast launch.<br />
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Steve and Luca are a riot on their podcast, and with Steve fresh off the American tour circuit for his cracking new novel TH1RT3EN, you'd be mad to miss this. I'm going to have to try really hard to actually participate in the event rather than just sit back and enjoy a great night of craic from both.<br />
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More details, you say?<br />
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Fill your boots:<br />
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<span class="blogheader" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">Luca Veste at No Alibis Bookstore</span><br />
<span class="blogheader" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">Thursday 15th March 2018 at 6:30PM</span><br />
<span class="blogheader" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">Tickets: FREE</span><br />
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No Alibis Bookstore are pleased to invite you to celebrate the launch of THE BONE KEEPER, the latest novel from Luca Veste, on Thursday 15th March at 6:30PM. Luca will be joined by local authors Steve Cavanagh and Gerard Brennan. Tickets for this event are free, and can be booked through <a href="https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/luca-veste-book-launch-tickets-43070253287" target="_blank">EventBrite</a>.<br />
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<b>THE BONE KEEPER</b><br />
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What if the figure that haunted your nightmares as child, the myth of the man in the woods, was real?<br />
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He'll slice your flesh.<br />
Your bones he'll keep.<br />
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Twenty years ago, four teenagers went exploring in the local woods, trying to find to the supposed home of The Bone Keeper. Only three returned.<br />
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Now, a woman is found wandering the streets of Liverpool, horrifically injured, claiming to have fled the Bone Keeper. Investigating officer DC Louise Henderson must convince sceptical colleagues that this urban myth might be flesh and blood. But when a body is unearthed in the woodland the woman has fled from, the case takes on a much darker tone.<br />
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The disappeared have been found. And their killer is watching every move the police make. </div>
Gerard Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18301381067485712366noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-160907056447793603.post-25246134187735342202018-03-08T20:04:00.001+00:002018-03-08T20:31:07.217+00:00DISORDER AppreciationDISORDER is the book that just keeps on giving. And everybody's been lovely about it. The release of this <a href="http://www.irishnews.com/arts/2018/03/01/news/co-down-author-gerard-brennan-on-new-no-alibis-published-novel-disorder-1266106/?param=ds12rif76F" target="_blank">Irish News article</a> started off the official release date (March 18). Check it out, if you haven't already. Following that, The Mourne Observer ran a piece, and I hope that'll generate even more local interest in my work. And we've had our first couple of <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Disorder-Belfast-Noir-Gerard-Brennan-ebook/dp/B07941Q7TK/ref=la_B004KLEWS6_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1520537311&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Amazon reviews</a> too (thanks to Mr Maltman and the Village Reader). The more the merrier, though. If you're feeling suitable moved, I'd love to read more thoughts on the book. My ego loves a wee boost every now and again, you know?<br />
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I'm also digging this snazzy press release (click to enlarge):<br />
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I uploaded a couple of videos from the pre-Christmas soft launch of the book to YouTube. You'll find both below. The sound isn't great, and the camera has been held sideways to make me look taller, but you'll get an honest taste of what this book means to me, and a wee bit of a reading without any offensive swearing. Apart from when I say "ballbag," but that's not really a curse-curse, is it?<br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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Addendum:<br />
<br />
I forgot to include a link to my Novel Ideas interview on NVTV. D'oh! <a href="http://www.nvtv.co.uk/shows/novel-ideas-gerard-brennan/" target="_blank">Here it is</a>.</div>
Gerard Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18301381067485712366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-160907056447793603.post-22775450001182830702018-01-25T17:24:00.000+00:002018-01-25T17:24:00.733+00:00Disorder on Kindle (et al)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkixw-70vq3vrBdFVo8ZYkYZ0ziIV3ubPgtCeFy8Adfwz1kFqQwo-LBPtjpko5Ak9y0FOvBEHvG15V1L3EcjbudNNAe6JiOpDYIfhjoC_2vH4MWlB10pbwWkCnLb0_zj1aZ4bFOYowmoU/s1600/disorder+cover2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="328" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkixw-70vq3vrBdFVo8ZYkYZ0ziIV3ubPgtCeFy8Adfwz1kFqQwo-LBPtjpko5Ak9y0FOvBEHvG15V1L3EcjbudNNAe6JiOpDYIfhjoC_2vH4MWlB10pbwWkCnLb0_zj1aZ4bFOYowmoU/s320/disorder+cover2.jpg" width="209" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Oi! You know that book I wrote? No, not that one. DISORDER.<br />
<br />
Aye, well <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Disorder-Belfast-Noir-Gerard-Brennan-ebook/dp/B07941Q7TK/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8" target="_blank">you can get it on your Kindle now</a>. And on other e-readers, I believe. I haven't checked because I don't have those kind of e-readers. But sure, have a hoke about the site if you're into Apple Books or whatever.<br />
<br />
Here's a wee blurb for it, in case you need convincing:<br />
<br />
"Tommy Bridge is on a mission. A Yoga mat, his Buddhist teaching and a Glock, his main weapons of choice. Tommy has had a tough time as a Cop. Now he has a clear and definite purpose. Deal with a local crime Kingpin and he may just achieve some sense of redemption.<br />
<br />
Patricia, “Dev”, Devenney, Tommy’s partner. Made from more traditional stock. All Dev wants is for Tommy to be at peace with himself…hopefully keeping him alive along the way.<br />
<br />
Clark Wallace, the Kingpin. Clark has values, traditions, honour- unfortunately, none of them are really traits that normal folk would adhere to. Clark is like a bad nightmare in technicolour and this movie is about to go into 3D.<br />
<br />
Jimmy McAuley. The student. Failing at University. Soaring with the Weed. Quite simply, Jimmy is in the wrong place at the wrong time - stoned and about to learn a harsh life lesson. Hopefully he can pass this exam.<br />
<br />
Grace Dornan. The reporter. Grace knows what her Prize should be. The only problem for Grace is that she may let the “truth” behind this grand saga be the last thing she seeks."<br />
<br />
Sounds like a cracker, so it does. Grab a copy and see what you think, ye rocket ye.<br />
<br />
Peace.Gerard Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18301381067485712366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-160907056447793603.post-19930900772008704972017-12-19T13:56:00.001+00:002017-12-19T14:23:48.336+00:00Disorder Launch<p dir="ltr">If you can make it, you should. It's going to be mega.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMuDNAuWwdJJDz4UKqujXBY7e9AJyMMWVBQKPPMxTjMqfZOeWli8wV2bLZZocbUaQQGDC3reW6OxLh6DVIBJHhGv1SVIZd3pBwaHhLsmAL6STCYiGlWbsZ3UyZKKAbAaEmf-ZnXV2EfUg/s1600/received_10155868375432158.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMuDNAuWwdJJDz4UKqujXBY7e9AJyMMWVBQKPPMxTjMqfZOeWli8wV2bLZZocbUaQQGDC3reW6OxLh6DVIBJHhGv1SVIZd3pBwaHhLsmAL6STCYiGlWbsZ3UyZKKAbAaEmf-ZnXV2EfUg/s640/received_10155868375432158.jpeg"> </a> </div>Gerard Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18301381067485712366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-160907056447793603.post-35227174137062599002017-12-13T14:57:00.001+00:002017-12-13T14:57:11.441+00:00Disorder Book Launch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNqfu_vjEM4hHnVlQoDZD1tlmavmXBw1eluoB4hqNUqaeGNXFjYBqRgxgqFZCWxVUnGyhzFsb6cxB1L3NBTyHvxg-MTouTWu6dsGb8V8graJjp-eeVlXOW9ebLBUUw1pE6DiCvK_4lX5k/s1600/received_10155868375432158.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1132" data-original-width="1600" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNqfu_vjEM4hHnVlQoDZD1tlmavmXBw1eluoB4hqNUqaeGNXFjYBqRgxgqFZCWxVUnGyhzFsb6cxB1L3NBTyHvxg-MTouTWu6dsGb8V8graJjp-eeVlXOW9ebLBUUw1pE6DiCvK_4lX5k/s320/received_10155868375432158.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
That's what's up.Gerard Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18301381067485712366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-160907056447793603.post-15329348962901110262017-10-05T15:19:00.002+01:002017-10-05T15:19:45.155+01:00Three Weeks!So, it's only three weeks to go until NOIRELAND kicks off. Holy smokes! It's flying in.<br />
<br />
You'd think that they'd have run out of major announcements at this stage, but you'd be wrong. Just last week they revealed that Aidan Gillen would be interviewed by none other than the New York Times best-selling author, Brian McGilloway.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeqTf_Dr2KBHpjB7p9bonGWvs7pA-wys77RDTj7J9r_VUxqfWA8nWqAsTxfwjYUKtMf9IzpuntDCvFLxhkpNyouRfVrW1BusbPP9qp8YVikbgY33yQ-zyXO8mTlmTOgP-ij4qZLjr1c2w/s1600/aidan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="366" data-original-width="650" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeqTf_Dr2KBHpjB7p9bonGWvs7pA-wys77RDTj7J9r_VUxqfWA8nWqAsTxfwjYUKtMf9IzpuntDCvFLxhkpNyouRfVrW1BusbPP9qp8YVikbgY33yQ-zyXO8mTlmTOgP-ij4qZLjr1c2w/s320/aidan.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Seriously?<br />
<br />
Yeah!<br />
<br />
This is going to happen on Saturday 28th at 19:30, by the way. From the <a href="https://www.noireland.com/programme" target="_blank">NOIRELAND website</a>:<br />
<br />
"PLAYING IN THE DARK: Aidan Gillen talks Crime with Brian McGilloway*<br />
<br />
Internationally renowned actor Aidan Gillen will be discussing the influence of crime fiction on his life and career, from the books and television shows Gillen enjoyed growing up to the award winning roles he has become renowned for. Aidan Gillen has earned an international reputation as one of Ireland’s finest actors. Gillen has starred in some of the most iconic and influential crime dramas produced in recent years, including the multi-award winning The Wire and RTÉ’s Love/Hate. He will be appearing in the new series of the BBC's Peaky Blinders, which starts this autumn.<br />
<br />
*Subject to schedule"<br />
<br />
I wonder what they'll announce next?<br />
<br />
Oh, and don't forget that I'll be hosting a workshop on the Friday morning before the festivities kick off. Look!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeBRjVQaqL40vbx-7bX10VqZR4-aanvngrgdtwRcm-iGw3GjMl_QoAcRaleNytqlL9kAAhZyEpqgG-y0UIBDbTZHO1JsQsRvIVRUBtLYtnOKJ8x7yaNhg7rnqDlAZEI-hlEwK9nxR4EY4/s1600/workshops.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeBRjVQaqL40vbx-7bX10VqZR4-aanvngrgdtwRcm-iGw3GjMl_QoAcRaleNytqlL9kAAhZyEpqgG-y0UIBDbTZHO1JsQsRvIVRUBtLYtnOKJ8x7yaNhg7rnqDlAZEI-hlEwK9nxR4EY4/s320/workshops.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
So, like, if you can't make it to the Aidan Gillen thing, my hair's nearly the same colour, and my mother says I'm really handsome too. So you're sorted either way, really.Gerard Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18301381067485712366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-160907056447793603.post-42432219551742756902017-09-28T10:48:00.000+01:002017-09-28T10:48:48.099+01:00Workshop Workshop Workshop<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5926dc18f5e23113abea89a7/t/59c54a5da9db09e05427fc7e/1506101888074/Noireland+Twitter+Header-03.png?format=1500w" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="267" data-original-width="800" height="106" src="https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5926dc18f5e23113abea89a7/t/59c54a5da9db09e05427fc7e/1506101888074/Noireland+Twitter+Header-03.png?format=1500w" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Well now. That aul' saying about waiting for a bus all day and two come along at once seems to apply here.<br />
<br />
Tonight I start my eight-week <a href="http://www.theduncairn.com/all-events/2017/9/28/writing-crime-fiction-with-gerard-brennan" target="_blank">crime fiction course at The Duncairn</a> in Belfast. Really looking forward to getting stuck in. I always find that teaching makes me more energetic when it comes to my own writing, and the book I've been trying to finish for the last few weeks could do with a wee boost.<br />
<br />
But here, there's more (hence the two busses thing). You know that Noireland thing I was telling you about in the last post? That crime fiction convention you've been hearing loads about on Facebook and Twitter and all? Well, they've recently announce an addition to the programme. A day full of writing workshops! And I'm part of that. Here's what it says on the <a href="https://www.noireland.com/workshops/" target="_blank">Noireland website</a>:<br />
<br />
Friday 27th October, 10:00-13:00 <br />
<br />
A NOVEL IN THREE ACTS<br />
<br />
Gerard Brennan will begin the day by introducing you to some of the fundamentals of writing a crime novel. From plotting, writing a crime character and then on to creating a three act structure for your novel.<br />
<br />
Gerard Brennan recently earned his PhD in Creative Writing from Queen’s University Belfast. His publishing credits include Undercover (2014), Wee Rockets (2012) and The Point (2011); winner of the Spinetingler Award for Best Novella in 2012.<br />
<br />
Snazzy, right?<br />
<br />
And the super-talented Claire McGowan is taking the afternoon shift:<br />
<br />
14:00-17:00 <br />
<br />
TAKING THINGS A STEP FURTHER<br />
<br />
Now that you've gotten to grips with the basics, Claire McGowan will talk in more detail about character, viewpoint and dialogue. She’ll address how you create suspense in your novel and what to think about when writing a crime series.<br />
<br />
Alongside a successful career as a novelist Claire McGowan runs an MA in creative writing at London’s City University. She regularly gives workshops and talks at festivals and has taught in the Guardian Masterclass series.<br />
<br />
How cool is that? <a href="https://www.noireland.com/workshops/" target="_blank">Go register for it</a>. Now.Gerard Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18301381067485712366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-160907056447793603.post-21199454390776505832017-09-01T16:12:00.000+01:002017-09-01T16:12:04.468+01:00NOIRELAND!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieeRwoobeeV-IkafYzvHsZKZwiAzOfo3NfPXj6cK4K_UvpuYvDruYtDjc5c_VmJcesN0t6dcaLBe8MiG0CI2w-7ycGeQa_OcNtpUYrRN6OSU4nSvshDDawTviLWQaui8E5IpNreqNlbgc/s1600/noirland.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1500" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieeRwoobeeV-IkafYzvHsZKZwiAzOfo3NfPXj6cK4K_UvpuYvDruYtDjc5c_VmJcesN0t6dcaLBe8MiG0CI2w-7ycGeQa_OcNtpUYrRN6OSU4nSvshDDawTviLWQaui8E5IpNreqNlbgc/s320/noirland.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
There's a new crime fiction festival on the circuit. And it's in Belfast! Yeeeooo!<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
NOIRELAND is brought to you by David Torrans of No Alibis Books, and considering his standing in the crime fiction community, here and internationally, that's so fitting.<br /><div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I could talk it up here, but you don't need me to. All you need is <a href="https://www.noireland.com/" target="_blank">this link</a> to their snazzy website and you'll get all the information you need. Maybe <a href="https://www.noireland.com/news/" target="_blank">sign up for their newsletter</a> as well to make sure you don't miss any updates. I did, and I got a sneak-peek at the events programme. Some major names in there!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And you can follow the Twitter handle <a href="https://twitter.com/NOIRELANDFest" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'll be there, soaking it all in. It's going to be class.</div>
</div>
Gerard Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18301381067485712366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-160907056447793603.post-38788259040726356662017-08-31T16:45:00.001+01:002017-08-31T17:57:34.497+01:00There's Only One Conor McGregor<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/rUf1XsfqjoY/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rUf1XsfqjoY?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
Mayweather beat McGregor. Fact.<br />
<br />
More facts: McGregor lasted longer than most educated boxing fans thought he would. He landed more shots than any other Mayweather opponent except for Canelo Alvarez ("But that's because Floyd changed his style..." SHUT UP! He changed his style because he had to.). And millions of self-proclaimed boxing fans won't bother watching Canelo Vs Triple G. Criminal.<br />
<br />
And an opinion: McGregor brought more attention to boxing than anybody else who faced Mayweather in recent years. I'm not talking about the real boxing fans who know loads of facts and figures (yawn) about the sweet science. I'm not even talking about the fair (May)weather fans or the new McGregor UFC disciples. It's the people who were drawn into Mystic Mac's spell after a lifetime of not knowing a jab from a cross. Who did that? The one and only Conor McGregor.<br />
<br />
Right, that last sentence, and the title of this post are both a bit misleading. As the Facebook group, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SPIDEPRIDE/?hc_ref=ARSzmXOHVRF6mkNFaa9yo5YS9l4OKZmqU0FCLHfNoIpLt_QDvo7LH7aK1YLdF0YbZd4&fref=nf" target="_blank">Spide Pride</a>, pointed out before the fight, his son is called Conor as well. But let's leave cute Conor Og (or Junior) alone for the sake of decency. If you want to be shitty, you can find a comments section somewhere else that'll welcome you with open arms.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Spide Pride were gently taking the piss out of Mick Konstantin's excellent song of the same name when they posted:</div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/images/emoji.php/v9/f55/1.5/24/1f3b6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" class="img" height="24" role="presentation" src="https://www.facebook.com/images/emoji.php/v9/f55/1.5/24/1f3b6.png" style="border: 0px; margin-top: 0px; vertical-align: -3px;" width="24" /></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: inherit;">there's only one Conor McGregor</span><span class="_5mfr _47e3" style="color: #1d2129; font-family: inherit; line-height: 0; margin: 0px 1px; vertical-align: middle;"><img alt="" class="img" height="24" role="presentation" src="https://www.facebook.com/images/emoji.php/v9/f55/1.5/24/1f3b6.png" style="border: 0px; margin-top: 0px; vertical-align: -3px;" width="24" /><span class="_7oe" style="display: inline-block; margin-bottom: 0px; width: 0px;">🎶</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: inherit;">Is BALLIX......sure his kids called Conor also?</span></div>
<br />
That's cool. And the singer probably didn't even notice. He was busy. McGregor invited Konstantin to Vegas off the back of that, and in the candid videos that followed, I couldn't help but smile at the idea that Konstantin was a bard of sorts, leading an army of ne'er-do-wells in green football shirts through Vegas. Now, in reality, a lot of that army was probably felled by alcohol poisoning, sunburn, and beaten dockets by the time Mayweather stopped McGregor in the tenth round. BUT I doubt Konstantin and the pasty troops will think about their heat rashes and other unfortunate self-inflicted health issues when they tell their part of the story in years to come. They'll talk about taking over as one rather than taking part as individuals.<br />
<br />
The lyrics of Konstantin's song include a reference to McGregor knocking out Mayweather. That didn't happen in this reality. But that still doesn't mean it was impossible.<br />
<br />
I've read and heard plenty of arguments against that last statement. And I saw Mayweather school McGregor in boxing live; with bleary eyes; fuelled by black Irish coffees, and a promise to my kids that I'd wake them before dawn and heat up pizza for breakfast.<br />
<br />
But I still believe McGregor could have knocked out Mayweather. He could have. Anything's possible.<br />
<br />
In another version of this world, Conor said, 'Feck da money!' and wheel-kicked Floyd. Just for the craic. In yet another reality, Floyd agreed to step into a cage instead of the square circle. There's even a scenario in the infinite universes in which the fight won't happen until 2018, and people will still argue that Floyd isn't too old to outbox an MMA fighter. And they might be right in that timeline. Or wrong.<br />
<br />
But that's not how it panned out here in this reality on the 26th of August 2017. The 27th, even, where I was sitting.<br />
<br />
And yet, a short YouTube video in which my family paid homage to Mick Konstantin's song, is approaching 7,000 views at the time of writing this post. After the fight. The loss. The lack of knockout on Conor's part.* That's double the views from the week before, when McGregor's win was still a possibility.<br />
<br />
There are also surprisingly few shitty comments on the video as well, considering it lives in YouTube, the spiritual home of the lowly shit-poster. Now, I'll admit, I deleted a couple of the first negative comments because I felt a responsibility towards my children and their feelings. I forgot for a minute that they're tough, and confident, and (unlike me) they don't read the comments. So now I just let them hang there. Trolls and keyboard warriors will do what trolls and keyboard warriors do. My eldest already knows that, and she's been stung a lot worse by sham friends than shit-posting strangers. Her brothers don't give a fuck about anything. The three of them will be fine.<br />
<br />
So I'm relaxing on that hair-trigger of parental guilt and Irish temper. The safety is on.<br />
<br />
And I welcome you to sample a wee bit of craic with the Brennans:<br />
<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/G4wg5Qza458/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/G4wg5Qza458?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
#DownWithTheMayweathers #CarefulNow #AndStillTeamMcGregor<br />
<br />
*Technically, Mayweather didn't knock McGregor out either, but I'm glad the ref stopped it. That ref gifted McGregor a longer career. Love him or hate him, you know you want to see what McGregor does next.<br />
<br />
No?<br />
<br />
Just me, is it?<br />
<br />
Aye. Dead on.<br />
<br />
<br />Gerard Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18301381067485712366noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-160907056447793603.post-52806451807228005472017-07-27T21:50:00.000+01:002017-08-03T19:21:22.083+01:00Don't Forget What Got You To The Dance<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0631/7333/products/gerard_brennan_yellow_1024x1024.jpg?v=1499699916" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="798" data-original-width="800" height="319" src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0631/7333/products/gerard_brennan_yellow_1024x1024.jpg?v=1499699916" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Writing got me to the dance. I need to be a respectful partner, and apologise for stepping on one or two toes as and when I stumble.<br />
<br />
That's a clumsy metaphor, by the way. I'm not doing a whole lot of literal dancing right now.<br />
<br />
It's the middle of the summer holidays. I have a knee injury that's keeping me away from the gym, but I can bend my leg enough now to fit it under my desk for more than ten minutes at a time. The kids are at summer schemes, so I'm getting a few hours a day of undisturbed laptop time. Mostly I'm catching up on admin-type things ahead of a burst of academic writing, exploring funding opportunities, and trying to finish writing a second <a href="http://www.authorrightsagency.com/?page_id=419" target="_blank">Shannon McNulty</a> novel. You'll meet her at some point in the future. My agent, <a href="http://www.authorrightsagency.com/" target="_blank">Svetlana Pironko</a>, is doing all she can for her. Watch this space for publishing news.<br />
<br />
While I'm used to multi-tasking (or taking a scatter gun approach to my workday), every so often I have to remind myself that the most important thing is the actual writing, both creative and critical. And while blogging is less popular (or maybe less necessary) among writers these days, I'd still like to keep Crime Scene NI alive and jiving in some shape or form. After all, it was instrumental in putting my work on the Norn Iron Noir map when I started it back in... <a href="http://crimesceneni.blogspot.co.uk/2008/03/first-report.html" target="_blank">March 2008</a>!?<br />
<br />
I'd published some short stories back then, and had no idea where writing would take me. A little over nine years later, I've built an impressive writing CV, and I had a period of three years in which I didn't have to show up to the 'dayjob' at all. Currently, again thanks to writing, I only have to show up three times a week at the most. And I have a PhD. In English (made up of creative and critical crime fiction components). I also hold an MA in Creative Writing. Like, I literally have two degrees from Queen's University Belfast to rub together. I didn't even have one at the start of this nine-year twist.<br />
<br />
So, basically, I'm a writer, I introduce myself as such now, and I've learned enough about the business of writing to know that there's a lot to be said for the security of a steady job. Hopefully I'll land a better part-time job that's more directly related to writing than the current one. That's more of a reality now than ever since I now have teaching experience. Because if I'm not writing, reading, or talking about writing and/or reading (i.e. teaching), I'm not really working. I'm passing time, waiting for the band to tune up.<br />
<br />
Oh, look. Here's something worth stretching for:<br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/Northern%20Ireland:%20Writing%20Crime%20Fiction%20with%20Gerard%20Brennan" target="_blank"><br /></a>
<a href="https://irishwriterscentre.ie/products/northern-ireland-writing-crime-fiction-with-gerard-brennan" target="_blank">Northern Ireland: Writing Crime Fiction with Gerard Brennan</a><br />
<br />
This blog has been a patient and loyal dance partner from the start, and to honour it, I'm naming my eight-week, Belfast-based crime fiction course, Crime Scene NI (AKA CSNI). And it starts on Thursday 28th of September. If and when I start a writing podcast, I'll use the blog's name there too.<br />
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I want you to click that link above, so that's all the information you're getting for now. The course content is currently being planned out (I like to get started early), but at a tenner per two-hour workshop, I give you my solemn oath that you'll get your money's worth. And I'm friendlier than most of my author pics would suggest.<br />
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NB, I read comments, here and on social media, so if you have any questions about the course, go ahead and ask them now so I can start humming a tune and working out the steps.Gerard Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18301381067485712366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-160907056447793603.post-25266589810148736582017-07-14T11:32:00.000+01:002017-07-14T11:34:57.897+01:00Episode 38 of Two Crime Writers and a Microphone<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4gfb2TFMyEkdMd77RBBL0vKGUz5qM5g1y-FfB4mF8YzbRavvag_Q3CQ6cPUDlNzUoVKfpy9B-6vGo-8hVnQZMETq512ntblSqzYwVO92aqrOTvc35jeVhU9icsEyU2J0qINBDsRKwDUw/s1600/DEg9YlSW0AImFw3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4gfb2TFMyEkdMd77RBBL0vKGUz5qM5g1y-FfB4mF8YzbRavvag_Q3CQ6cPUDlNzUoVKfpy9B-6vGo-8hVnQZMETq512ntblSqzYwVO92aqrOTvc35jeVhU9icsEyU2J0qINBDsRKwDUw/s320/DEg9YlSW0AImFw3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />
I love podcasts. They entertain me in traffic, they help me sleep. And when I'm in the house on my own (as rare as that is during the summer holidays), they keep me company during coffee breaks.<br />
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So it was really cool to actually appear on one. Especially one that let me talk about crime fiction, with a dash of boxing and MMA. If you know me, you'll know these are a few of my favourite things. I also got to read an excerpt from my <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B073V65895/ref=la_B004KLEWS6_1_7?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1500027934&sr=1-7" target="_blank">recently re-released novella, The Point</a> (hence it's appearance in the lovely collage above, which I swiped from the @TwoCrimeWriters Twitter feed).<br />
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<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/two-crime-writers-and-a-microphone/id1171513001?mt=2" target="_blank">Here's a link to their iTunes page</a>. I'm in Episode 38. The other 37 are great too. I know because I've been listening from the start. I've subscribed to the series. You should too. Maybe review it as well, if you're feeling generous. Podcasts chart better when they're well-reviewed. Messrs <a href="http://stevecavanaghbooks.com/" target="_blank">Cavanagh</a> and <a href="http://www.lucaveste.com/" target="_blank">Veste</a> finance this gig out of their own pocket, to give us free entertainment. Pay them back with a little love.<br />
<br />
If you use an Android phone there are many ways to get the podcast. <a href="http://twocrimewritersandamicrophone.libsyn.com/website" target="_blank">Here's one</a>.<br />
<br />
Listen, become a fan, thank me later.<br />
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Peace.<br />
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<br />Gerard Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18301381067485712366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-160907056447793603.post-19798158701527715832017-04-07T19:54:00.000+01:002017-04-07T19:56:36.261+01:00Police at the Station and They Don't Look Friendly by Adrian McKinty<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51U6ihqXDYL._SX326_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51U6ihqXDYL._SX326_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="210" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">I finished reading this one over a week ago, but I've been too
lazy to write about it. Apologies for that. But luckily, this book has left a
lasting impression on me. Adrian McKinty is officially the best in the
business. <a href="http://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/551496/police-at-the-station-and-they-dont-look-friendly-by-adrian-mckinty/9781633882591/" target="_blank">Police at the Station and They Don't Look Friendly</a> is the sixth
instalment of the Sean Duffy series. When I read Rain Dogs, number five in the
series, I proclaimed it the best of the lot. And, somehow, McKinty has found a
way to make this one sing even louder.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">The crime aspect of the novel is a nice puzzler, but for me, the
investigation plays second fiddle in this novel. What I really enjoyed more
than anything was the continual development of Duffy's character. Although he
exists in the 80s (this particular mystery set in 1988), Duffy has been ageing at
roughly the same rate as me since his debut in The Cold, Cold Ground. He's just
turned 38 in this novel and seems much more world-weary than my bright-eyed and
bushy-tailed self. I did find myself sympathising with his grumbles quite often,
however.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Please God, let there be more Sean Duffy novels. It's officially
my favourite police procedural series, and I hate the prospect of not spending
more time with the wry bastard. If nothing else, we need to know what future
titles Adrian can convince his publisher to make room for on his covers. Can he
sell one even longer than <a href="http://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/551496/police-at-the-station-and-they-dont-look-friendly-by-adrian-mckinty/9781633882591/" target="_blank">Police at the Station and They Don't Look Friendly</a>?Gerard Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18301381067485712366noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-160907056447793603.post-71688514057231119632017-04-07T16:56:00.002+01:002017-04-07T16:56:56.842+01:00Blue Boy Tour DatesCheck out the tour dates for The Blue Boy of Glenmore:<br />
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<br />
The Brennan family lived very close to the area that this play takes place. When I was six, we moved to Warrenpoint, the town on the other side of Carlingford Lough. Joe Brennan has had a lot of time to reflect on his version of Omeath, and the surrounding areas, over the last thirty years. Expect brilliance.Gerard Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18301381067485712366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-160907056447793603.post-64196291188901347772017-03-31T16:47:00.000+01:002017-07-27T20:25:54.123+01:00Simon Maltman - An Interview<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111;">Simon Maltman is a Best-selling crime fiction author from Northern Ireland. </span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #111111;" /><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #111111;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111;">Please check out the books available on <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Simon-Maltman/e/B01MSZ0AQ9/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1490974917&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Amazon</a> and stay in touch through the links below.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #111111;" /><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #111111;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111;"><a href="http://facebook.com/simonmaltmancrimefiction">Facebook.com/simonmaltmancrimefiction</a><span id="goog_680598396"></span><span id="goog_680598397"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a> </span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #111111;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><a href="https://twitter.com/simonmaltman" target="_blank">@simonmaltman</a><span style="color: #111111;"> on twitter</span></span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #111111;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><a href="http://simonmaltmanblogs.blogspot.co.uk/">simonmaltmanblogs.blogspot.co.uk/</a></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">What are you
writing at the minute?<br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">1. I’ve
just had my short story collection published last week, it’s called More Faces.
That’s been taking up a lot of my time recently. I’m also working on the follow
up to my novel, A Chaser on the Rocks, and have finished the first draft. The
series is about a modern day PI with mental health struggles, who also writes
about a 1940’s PI and the books function as a story in a story. I’m also trying
to do anything but start the second draft because I start to lose interest and
will eventually have to discipline myself to do it!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br />
<b><span style="background: white;">Can you give us an idea of Simon Maltman’s typical
up-to-the-armpits-in-ideas-and-time writing day?</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">2. I’ve
recently left my job as a health care manager and am looking after my kids full
time during the day, and trying to write in the evenings. Usually I’ll get an
hour or two at it most nights and I always have small goals in my head of what
I want to get done. In-between tantrums and poo during the day, I try to do a
bit of the networking and promo side of things. I keep a notebook and like to
jot stuff down. I usually have a rough idea of where I want something to go,
but the fun thing for me is definitely in the sitting down and writing and
seeing where things end up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">What do you do
when you’re not writing?</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">3. I like
devouring TV series with my wife, though we usually take it turn about to fall
asleep by about the second episode. I like writing and recording music and I
love movies, particularly old Film Noir. I’m also very partial to going out for
coffee and something sweet. Coffee, generally, is a big part of the day.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br />
<b><span style="background: white;">Any advice for a greenhorn trying to break into the genre
fiction scene?<br />
</span></b><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">4. I
think that once you have worked at it and think you have something decent, then
the main thing is to put yourself out there. You have to also expect a ton of
rejection, because that’s just the way it is. If you send enough emails and try
enough times, you’ll get there if you have something in the first place that
others will enjoy. You just have to put the work in, in every aspect.<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br />
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<b><span style="background: white;">Which writers have impressed you this year?<br />
</span></b><br />
</span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">5. I’m
not great at keeping up with the trends. I wish I found time to read more
actually. Recently, I’ve been enjoying some of my favourites who I hadn’t read
in a while- Raymond Chandler and Richard Stark. I read a couple of Rebus’s
recently too. I’ve just finished the crime anthology Dark Minds, which I was
very fortunate to be included in and there are forty great writers in that who
I hadn’t read before. I have a huge list of authors I want to get into more.<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br />
<br />
<b><span style="background: white;">What are you reading right now?<br />
</span></b><br />
</span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">6. I’m
reading an ARC of the indie author Frank Westworth’s new novel- The Redemption
of Charm- I think it’s actually released today. He’s very good.<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br />
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<b><span style="background: white;">Plans for the future?<br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">7. I need
to start redrafting this novel and put it to one side haha. There’s a novella
that I want to finish from a while back too and I’ve got the starting point for
a new standalone novel. Hopefully I’ll be getting started on them in some way
in a few weeks. I like to keep busy and don’t like things I want to do piling
up in my mind!</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br />
<br /><b><span style="background: white;">With regards to your writing career to date, would you do
anything differently?<br />
</span></b><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">8. I’m
not sure, not particularly. I really think it’s all about building things up
all the time and there’s a lot of pressure on authors now to manage every
aspect of that. I’ve only really been writing fiction for about four years, so
I just want to carry on and hopefully build up more of an audience as I go.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br />
<b><span style="background: white;">Do you fancy sharing your worst writing experience?<br />
</span></b><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">9. Haha
I’m not sure what that would be. My pet hate is going through pages and pages
of track changes from my publisher- I’ll do anything to avoid that! Maybe the
worst experience was talking to my Nana and Aunties after they had read my
novel with all those ‘naughty words!’<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br />
<b><span style="background: white;">Anything you want to say that I haven’t asked you about?<br />
</span></b><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">10. No, I
don’t think so, cheers. Thanks very much for having me along and thanks to
everyone who has been supporting me along the way, take care!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Thank you, Simon Maltman!</span></b><br />
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Gerard Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18301381067485712366noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-160907056447793603.post-29106569332529032632017-03-23T15:34:00.001+00:002017-03-23T15:40:47.407+00:00Blasted Heath Pull the Plug<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://us2.campaign-archive1.com/?u=78b2c3b60001073b7b7ee9941&id=78016081c2&e=85aedef61b" target="_blank">I'm sad to see Blasted Heath go</a>. Not just because they've published a lot of my books (<a href="http://blastedheath.com/gerard-brennan/" target="_blank">three novels, three novellas and a short story collection</a>), but also because they've published so many great stories from a great bunch of writers. I read fantastic work from Anthony Neil Smith, Ray Banks, Heather Hampson, Elaine Ash, Nigel Bird, Damien Seaman, Gary Carson, Len Wanner... as I list these names I remember their worlds, and I hope to read many more of their words in the future.</div>
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Quick shout out to the Heathens above: sorry if I've missed anybody. I read a lot, and some of those books might be tucked behind another memory.<br />
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But the real point of this post is to thank Al Guthrie and Kyle MacRae for helping me reach readers. It's been a Blasted blast indeed. Thank you, good luck, and don't forget to write/email/Tweet. Do either of you still do the social media? It doesn't matter. You guys rock and always will.<br />
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Here, remember I got that Heathen tattoo? Still don't regret it, feckers. And it's not wrinkly yet.<br />
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Anyway, the books are going to be available for a few more days, I think. You can't keep good talent down, so they won't be unavailable for ever, but if you want the Blasted Heath version of any of their great titles, you need to move your hole. I'm no mathematician, but you can get my entire Blasted Back-list for <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=gerard+brennan+blasted+heath" target="_blank">less than a tenner</a>. I think. Somebody else can run the numbers and let me know for sure.<br />
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Heathen love, peeps. Watch this space for news of future projects. You'll know when I know, and right now I know sweet feck all.<br />
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Keep 'er lit.Gerard Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18301381067485712366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-160907056447793603.post-81232312063789777302017-03-16T15:23:00.000+00:002017-03-16T15:23:13.199+00:00Here and Gone by Haylen Beck<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/content/dam/catalogue/pim/editions/332/9781911215561/cover.jpg.rendition.460.707.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://www.penguin.co.uk/content/dam/catalogue/pim/editions/332/9781911215561/cover.jpg.rendition.460.707.png" width="198" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/1113232/here-and-gone/" target="_blank">Here and Gone</a>, Stuart Neville's first novel under the pen name, Haylen Beck, will be published by Penguin in the summer. I was lucky enough to get my hands on an advanced review copy. The novel marks a new direction for the Northern Irish crime writer, and I delighted in following it.<br />
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The novel is set in Arizona, a far cry from Belfast, the backdrop usually favoured by Neville. And it's an idea that's simply too big for the wee city. In the opening chapters we learn that the protagonist, Audra, is driving across America to escape her abusive husband. She's about to start her new life, with her kids safely in her care. But an encounter with the law in a dying town in Arizona results in Audra's worst nightmare. Her children were <i>here</i>, and now they're <i>gone</i>. And the world is convinced that she's to blame.<br />
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While writing as Haylen Beck, Neville makes great use of the talents he honed in writing his Belfast-set books. The multi-POV narrative, and glimpses into the minds of the villains as well as the heroes, are delivered in short, breath-taking chapters that spur the reader on to make one more cup of coffee and read just three or seven more passages. The work isn't as dark as the preceding Neville canon, but it's going to get your heart pumping with suspense and well-placed action.<br />
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To be honest, I feel sorry for the readers who have to wait another three and a bit months to get their teeth into this one. Keep an eye out at your local independent bookstore for copies of <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/1113232/here-and-gone/" target="_blank">Here and Gone</a> that slip through before the release date. And thank me after you've read it. I know it won't take long.Gerard Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18301381067485712366noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-160907056447793603.post-84560216977958700592017-03-03T11:37:00.001+00:002017-03-03T11:44:51.174+00:00The Blue Boy of Glenmore, by Joe Brennan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Love this poster.<br />
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It's getting closer. My dad's latest play. I'm really looking forward to seeing this one. To date, I've only read the script. Seeing it, with the high standard of acting long associated with Brassneck Theatre Company, will make for a fantastic experience. And yeah, all right. Because I'm family, it's likely I'm biased, but I know that of the four plays he's written on his own since we co-wrote The Sweety Bottle, this one best showcases Joe Brennan's strengths as a playwright. Can't wait to see how Tony Devlin's vision of it comes out on the stage.<br />
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Check out the <a href="https://www.brassnecktheatrecompany.com/whats-on" target="_blank">Brassneck Theatre Company website</a> for updates on venues, ticket sales, etc. If you can't make the opening run at the Roddy McCorley Social Club you might find a tour venue that suits.<br />
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So did you <a href="https://www.brassnecktheatrecompany.com/whats-on" target="_blank">click it</a>? Go on. Need more convincing? Check out the pitch:<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Winter 1978. Cooley Mountains, Ireland.<br />
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Jemmy John is a tortured soul. The sheep on the glen and the farm are his life, but his younger sister Colleen yearns for something much more.<br />
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With the help of a local car mechanic, Colleen is determined to escape Glenmore for the chance at a better life... but her older brother Jemmy is having none of it! The life-long conflict between these sibling rivals is the catalyst that ignites the shocking events that unfold.<br />
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An absorbingly haunting and sensational dark-comedy, 'The Blue Boy of Glenmore' is a truly unmissable piece of theatre from the multi award-winning Brassneck Theatre Company, who brought you 'The Holy Holy Bus', 'Man in the Moon' & 'A Night With George'</blockquote>
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Now click <a href="https://www.brassnecktheatrecompany.com/whats-on" target="_blank">the link</a>.</div>
Gerard Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18301381067485712366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-160907056447793603.post-36136235293529890042017-01-22T17:35:00.001+00:002017-01-22T17:53:07.391+00:00Ian Sansom's Latest<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://d1a37ygoufymvg.cloudfront.net/resized/width-298/path-assets/covers/v2/9780008146740.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://d1a37ygoufymvg.cloudfront.net/resized/width-298/path-assets/covers/v2/9780008146740.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
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[Insert preamble about being behind on my reading here]<br />
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[Insert claims that 2017 is a good year to catch up on reading]<br />
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[Get to the point]<br />
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Did you know that Ian Sansom had a new book out? I've known for over a week, and I'm only telling you now. Sorry about that.<br />
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I have been reliably informed that this novel is available from all good bookshops. It's definitely stocked by the greatest bookshop, a shop that nurtured this series in more ways than one.<br />
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And we're getting close to payday.<br />
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Get thee to <a href="http://noalibis.com/default.asp" target="_blank">No Alibis</a> and buy a book by my favourite genius, Ian Sansom:<br />
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<a href="https://www.harpercollins.co.uk/9780008146740/essex-poison" target="_blank">Essex Poison (The County Guides)</a><br />
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About the Book:<br />
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October 1937. Swanton Morley, the People’s Professor, sets off to Essex to continue his history of England, The County Guides. Morley’s daughter Miriam continues to cause chaos and his assistant Stephen Sefton continues to slide deeper into depression and despair.<br />
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Morley is an honorary guest at the Colchester Oyster Festival. But when the mayor dies suddenly at the civic reception suspicion falls on his fellow councillors. Is it a case of food poisoning? Or could it be murder?<br />
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Join Morley, Miriam and Sefton on another journey into the dark heart of England.Gerard Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18301381067485712366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-160907056447793603.post-7601152525798553972016-11-29T17:36:00.000+00:002016-11-29T17:36:50.552+00:00BBC Radio Ulster Noir<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I finally got around to listening to the "Belfast Says Noir" documentary, a Marie-Louise Muir and Steven Rainey investigation. <a href="http://adrianmckinty.blogspot.co.uk/2016/11/the-belfast-noir-boom.html" target="_blank">Adrian McKinty</a> actually blogged about this over three weeks ago, but I've been to Texas and back since then (seriously, Austin, Texas). A chest infection has slowed me down a little, and I was lucky enough to catch up with it 4 days before it disappears from the <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b080x86x" target="_blank">BBC Listen Again</a> service. Jump on it now. There's an impressive list of contributors too. You'll find further info about each of the Northern Irish crime writers featured on this here blog:<br />
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<a href="http://crimesceneni.blogspot.co.uk/search?q=stuart+neville&max-results=20&by-date=true" target="_blank">Stuart Neville</a><br />
<a href="http://crimesceneni.blogspot.co.uk/search?q=adrian+mckinty&max-results=20&by-date=true" target="_blank">Adrian McKinty</a><br />
<a href="http://crimesceneni.blogspot.co.uk/search?q=claire+mcgowan&max-results=20&by-date=true" target="_blank">Claire McGowan</a><br />
<a href="http://crimesceneni.blogspot.co.uk/search?q=steve+cavanagh&max-results=20&by-date=true" target="_blank">Steve Cavanagh</a><br />
<a href="http://crimesceneni.blogspot.co.uk/search?q=brian+mcgilloway&max-results=20&by-date=true" target="_blank">Brian McGilloway</a><br />
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Quite a lot to pack into one <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b080x86x" target="_blank">half hour programme</a>! There's an even longer list of established and upcoming Northern Irish crime fiction writers who weren't featured, which kind of proves one of the points Brian McGilloway made in his interview: "A rising tide lifts all the boats." I'd be delighted to see this continue to grow. The sky's the limit, after all.<br />
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I imagine it's simply a timing issue, but Steve Cavanagh didn't mention the new podcast he does with Luca Veste: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/twocrimewriters/" target="_blank">Two Crime Writers and a Microphone</a>. I listened to episode 7 of their new show today. I laugh-coughed out loud more than once. Check it out through iTunes, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC16Z7A36jhhRSScVrZTjAHw" target="_blank">YouTube</a> or whatever Android podcast app you use (I listen via BeyondPod).<br />
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If you don't happen upon this post within the next four days, you can content yourself by checking out the writers' work instead. All of the above were featured, or had an editorial role, in <a href="http://www.akashicbooks.com/catalog/belfast-noir-northern-ireland/" target="_blank">Belfast Noir</a>.<br />
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I might actually <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b080x86x" target="_blank">listen again, again</a> to Ulster Says Noir if I need some motivation to write, and I'll definitely continue to listen to <a href="https://twocrimewritersandamicrophone.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Two Crime Writers and a Microphone</a>. It's the podcast I've been waiting for. More on that in a future blog post.Gerard Brennanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18301381067485712366noreply@blogger.com1