Writin', editin', drinkin' 'n' KILLIN... with me old bud, David Barber...

Mean 'n' moody crime writers love Killin...

Spent five wonderful days with my long time writing buddy, David Barber, and his lovely family, up in Crieff, Scotland. We supped some ale, I'll tell yer! I really needed to recharge the old batteries, and Dave and Lisa were perfect company to relax with.  The bonus that our kids get on great, made the break one to remember.

Although the day trip on the train from Dunblane to Edinburgh was enjoyable, the highlight of the holiday, scenery-wise, was definitely a little village in a valley, named KILLIN.  The name is intriguing in itself, but in no way reflects the place, as it's simply stunning.  Dave bumped into Matt Hilton there earlier this year, and I can see the attraction - it's a writer's dream.  If me numbers ever come up, then that's where I'm heading!  I'm not at all envious of Dave working up there, and he never sends me picture-texts rubbing it in with the tag line: 'my view from work!'

Killin is a writer's dream ...

Once our families retired to beddy-bo's, Dave 'n' I mixed our drinks and discussed all things writing (plus, a bit of football, of course), including, our novels, our ezines, deadlines and ideas for the future. If we'd have had more time we'd have spoken about time management. Anyway, I think we're both more focused now.

On our way up from Manchester, then on our way back down, we dropped in at The Mill in Gretna Green to see popular Crimesquad reviewer, Graham Smith, at the family hotel (for weddings), where he works.  Graham's certainly an expert on crime fiction, devouring a couple of novels a week.  Plus, he attends the crime events and festivals, where he regularly interviews authors old and new.  Coincidentally, he's just reviewed Matt Hilton's latest novel, Dead Men's Harvest.  Since Matt's 'author of the month', there's a nice interview with him too.

With Crimesquad's Graham Smith at Gretna Green.

Graham's also writing a crime novel and has joined Dave and my-good-self in the race to hit our respective first draft deadlines! Nowt like a bit of stiff competition to kick you up the arse, eh?

So now, I've returned to claustrophobic city life totally inspired... but I can feel the walls closing in already...

Thanks to Dave 'n' Graham and their lovely families for making us feel so welcome.