I'm back!

I've written the first part of this blog three times, and erased it three times, so this is my fourth attempt. 

You'd be forgiven for thinking that because of the sort of novels and screenplays that I've written, emotions would be easy for me to deal with. But they're not. In fact, I am an exceptionally emotional person; even if I don't reflect it on the outside, I'm often screaming on the inside. 

Maybe it's not a bad thing then, that after my recent bereavement, I am returning to two very different projects. One is a comedy screenplay that I am writing and which would suit Simon Pegg and Nick Frost down to the ground; the other is a sharp and introspective monologue. 

The beauty of writing these in tandem, is that the comedy elevates me from the depths of despair, whilst the monologue allows me to voice and externalise that primal inner scream. 

My father's funeral was a strange affair. Filled with funny moments and memories, heart-breaking ones, and many which were both unique and special. I wish he could have been there to experience it. I think he would have approved. 

And as for my current projects? Well he would have loved the screenplay, and he would have understood the dark monologue, but he wouldn't have been comfortable with it. 

The monologue though is intended for quite a different audience. It will be a stand-alone piece of theatre, something that will be delivered to a live audience and will take their breath away with its power and its truth. 

But working on both together works for me. Isn't that the very nature of life after all? That sometimes we cry and then we laugh or vice versa? 

Life isn't simple. Why should my work be?

Until next time - happy reading!

Old workaholic me!

At the moment I am working on a number of projects - books, films and documentaries.

I was asked yesterday how confused I got with all the different characters and plots that go on simultaneously in my head. The truth is that I'm not confused at all. All of the characters are so clear, so individually and precisely drawn, that there is no mistaking one for another. Likewise the plots are distinct, and each has not only it's own storyline, but it's own feel to how the narrative plays out.

Of particular interest at the moment is the screenplay which I am close to finishing. It's a real thriller and I think it will have viewers on the edge of their seats. Drawn from real life, there are characters you will love to hate, and ones you will empathise with.

I may not always like all of my characters but they are compelling and I hope that's what comes across to readers and viewers.

Here's what the latest reviewer of Split Decision had to say:

5 Stars
I went in not knowing what to expect, but boy was this an edge of your seat ride!!! It was one of those great ones you don't realize how great till the end! Carmen does a brilliant job with character building as well as keeping it intriguing till the end. Well done! - M. Krugel. [AMAZON.COM]

Same, but different.

Today I'm working on a book which falls into the category of literary fiction. But with a twist.

It's great to be working on a book again [I finished my second screenplay yesterday] because I can post snippets once more, and also because I can deal with the main character so much more intimately, than can be done in a play. By that I mean that I can show exactly what goes on inside the character's head. With a screenplay, this can only ever be shown by a character's actions and words, and by the portrayal of the character by a good actor/actress.

It's the screen writer's job to make sure that the audience understands the character's feelings and motivations, but to get a 100% understanding of a character, nothing beats getting inside their head in a book.

So keep your eyes on this blog for future snippets.

Happy reading.

Thanks to Michael Bryce for use of the photo.

Never a dull moment.

Today I'm writing the last few scenes of my second screenplay and then I'll be working on my current books. These projects are all very different but equally enjoyable. It's great to be caught up in  the fervour and pace of the play as it reaches its climax, yet the sweetness of the unfolding stories within the books holds great appeal too.

Anyway, whatever you are doing today, have a great one!

Happy reading!

Newest work

Hello everyone!

Yes, I am still alive and kicking, even if I haven't posted in a while. The reason for this, is that I have been working hard on my latest project.

I am currently writing a screenplay. This is in some ways a departure from my usual novels and yet it's also a natural progression and vehicle for this gritty, current work.

The story I am creating is tense, sharp and will resonate with its audience. However, due to the adult content of it, I will not be able to post snippets very often, if at all.

So if you need something to keep you amused in the meantime, head over to my books on Amazon - just follow the link on this page.  

Happy Reading.