Update, Feb. 17/09

//hangs head//

Apologies, folks -- I know I sound like a broken record, but real life can be a beggar by times. Between work and family, and yet another winter of endless shovelling (we're getting another foot of snow on the 19th... //groans//), there's been precious little time for recreational writing. However, I'm still plugging away at A Matter of Honour, albeit slowly. Simply put, stringing together coherent sentences can be tricky when one is knackered after a day's work. Still, I've been on a bit of a writing jag lately so here's hoping that you won't be waiting much longer for Chapter 16. :) I appreciate your patience.

A special note: This link, http://fanart.theotaku.com/view.php?action=retrieve&id=184385, takes you to a picture, drawn by Jensti (friend and fellow FF member), which was inspired by the chapter, 'An Azure-Lit World' from A Question of Faith. I was flattered beyond belief when I saw it. Thanks so much, m'dear!

A little bit about me... Since I have presumed to submit some reviews, I thought that it was only good manners not to remain completely anonymous.

I came across this web site by accident one day while searching for some information on an anime. I had never even heard of 'fan fiction' until that point. Started scanning some stories, and found a new source of entertainment...

I occasionally review what I read -- if time allows it. Rest assured, if I've at least put the story 'on alert', I like it, and a review will probably be in the offing someday. :) I only believe in giving constructive criticisms, but far prefer to give praise, and I'm most critical of my own writing when all is said and done. Yep, I've actually submitted a couple of stories and have had a lot of fun playing in someone else's universe.

FanFiction Preferences: stories that stay in character. I am most interested in reading fiction about anime (never outgrew my fondness for a well-done animation) and book characters, though I've taken the occasional stroll through the Labyrinth archives.

Anime Preferences: I particularly enjoy watching InuYasha (most interesting character? Sesshoumaru). I've also developed an interest in Yu-Gi-Oh (more specifically, Kaiba -- what is it about 'bad boys'?), Fullmetal Alchemist, Bleach (Byakuya, anyone?) and Avatar, the Last Airbender (I know it's not technically an anime, but it runs like one). A more recent addiction is Samurai 7, which has yet another enigmatic character -- Kyuzo. Add one more: I've joined the ranks of Naruto fans cough Kakashi cough . Do you see a trend here? ;p

Personal information:

Let's just say that I've been paying my own bills for a few years now.;) When I'm not at work, I am out in the garden (in the summer, natch), reading, walking or indulging in the occasional music session with friends. Fascinated by Irish history (also English and Scottish). Love many kinds of music, but I have a special fondness for traditional Irish. I have several 'rescue' critters (dogs and cats) sharing my home.

The pen name is accurate. I read many kinds of fiction and non-fiction, and I'm a devoted fan of mediaeval murder mysteries in particular. I highly recommend Bernard Knight's Crowner John series. Other favourite authors include Michael Jecks (the Templar series), Candace Robb (Owen Archer series), Paul Doherty (of Hugh Corbett and Brother Athelstan fame) and Peter Tremayne (Sister Fidelma series -- set in 7th century Ireland, great historical detail). I also enjoy fantasy -- read Lord of the Rings long before the movie trilogy came out.

And, yes, I confess it, I have read the Harry Potter books. Favourite character? Snape -- by far, the most interesting and complex character in the series and proof positive that a character doesn' t have to be likeable to be fascinating. He had my attention from the very first book. Oh, and regarding the revelations about his character in the seventh book? I knew it, I knew it. ;p

That should be enough rambling for now...

Best regards,

AvidReaderAlso