Being a writer is amazing. It’s also frustrating, lonely and filled with doubt. How many times have we written and rewritten a synopsis? How about that comma? The one which changes to a semi-colon and then back to a comma again? Query letters, editing, blurbs, cover designs, blogs, figuring out Amazon algorithms … there’s a tonne going on. Regardless of whether you’re indie or traditional, the world of publishing is challenging and more than a little competitive. Although our friends and family want to be there for us, it can be difficult for them to understand. So, we turn to other writers, sharing our experiences – good, bad, and uncategorised.
I stumbled onto the British and Irish Writing Community when Sarah Linley, author of The Beach, extended a supportive hand, and introduced me to Phil Parker. Phil is the author of The Knights’ Protocol trilogy and the founder of the BIWC. The group has been invaluable in offering support and advice, and promoting each other’s work. It’s an environment to network in, meet likeminded folk (and a few who’ve lost theirs) and perhaps nab a beta reader or two. Regardless of your genre or style, if you’re British, Irish or even just living here, you are welcome. I’ve seen the community grow since I joined and met some brilliant people, but now it’s entering a whole new era.
Cue … Bard of the Isles. 
Bard of the Isles is a literary online magazine, celebrating the creativity, ingenuity and talent of all writers who hail from Britain and Ireland. Created and hosted by Damien Larkin, Lee C. Conley and Phil Parker, Bard is an exciting place for writers and readers. In the inaugural edition Jess Lawrence provides some insights into her experience as a copy editor, while DP Wooliscroft talks about his unusual take on the traditional trilogy. Timy Takács shares her experience on life as a blogger and RJ Barker is answering questions all about his new book, Bone Ships. Whether you’re into short stories – there are plenty of those, including one by yours truly – or need a few writing tips, this magazine has something for you.
The origin of the word bard is Celtic in its roots; Scottish Gaelic, Irish and Welsh, and brought into more common usage by Sir Walter Scott. Of course, we shouldn’t forget the Bard himself – William Shakespeare. What could be more representative?
NB: No reference intended to bard; the rasher of fat bacon put on meat prior to roasting.
Bard of the Isles is on its way up. Everyone involved wants to see it, and the British and Irish Writing Community, grow and succeed. Personally, I have no doubt that it’s going to go from strength to strength and I’m thrilled to be lucky enough to be a part of the foundations.
The BIWC has a Facebook group where you can come and meet the gang – please do. You can also get involved by using #BritishIrishWritingCommunity or #BIWC, and follow Bard on Twitter with @BardIsles.
I’ll be doing regular posts on upcoming topics and themes. And if you have any burning questions or ideas, feel free to drop them in the comments, get in touch on Facebook or hit me up on Twitter.
The first edition comes out on 1st September and it’s a belter. Make sure you don’t miss out!
https://bardoftheislesmag.wixsite.com/main
Sounds great, I’ll check it out xx
Thank you. One day to go. 👍