This is how it began. My sister Anna, a brilliant and witty writer, suggested that we should try to write a romance novel according to the guidelines published by Mills & Boon. Not as easy as it sounds, apparently. She created a finely judged opening paragraph and sent it to me. And, intoxicated by the stylistic possibilities that are simply not offered by my usual literary output of press releases on Bedfordshire’s latest social housing project, I have taken up the gauntlet. The idea is that we will take it in turns to develop the story, in full view of you, dear reader.
We are taking this project seriously, but I am already acutely aware that writing about simmering desire with one’s own sister might be possible only with tongue tentatively in cheek. We have agreed not to discuss our plot ideas, so the novel will unfold as unpredictably to us as to our readers. This could lead to trouble later on, but for now it seems a very liberating way to start.
Who knows where this project will take us? To the dizzying heights of publication by the world’s leading romance brand? Probably not. But wherever we end up, it should be fun getting there…
Hang on, don't take it yet! I think something's slipped!
ReplyDeleteWhat do you mean no one has c ome to the work christmas party dressed in fancy dress?
ReplyDeleteoff to settle the war of the seas...
ReplyDeleteYARRRRRRRR Hoist the blog sail!
ReplyDeleteI find you strangely attractive as a pirate...not that you aren't dashing anyway...
is that a sword in your pocket or are you just pleased to see me!
ReplyDeleteWhy are there pirates in Mills and Boon Wannabe's garden? Because there yaaaaaargh!
ReplyDeleteThanks for your captions, everyone. Amazing how they cheer up an old sea dog...
ReplyDelete