As December settles in (and with today’s snowfall it seems to be doing so quite heartily) a period of reflection often follows. I’ve been beginning to think about what I want 2018 to look like, as well as taking some time to look back at what this year has held. I have a separate post in the works about the year as a whole but, the more I thought about it, the more I felt that writing deserved a post of its own.

If 2016 was the year where I rediscovered my confidence as a writer, 2017 was the year where I began to fully embrace it. After a flurry of flash fiction publications last December, I’ve dabbled with a few different styles and approaches over the last twelve months. From articles, to creative non-fiction and, of course, my beloved short story it has been a varied year. Alongside plotting my first novel and venturing on the long road of the first draft, I’ve had some really wonderful moments sharing my words with the world.

Marbles Magazine

My first published piece of the year focused on the current crisis in young people’s mental health. I was so thrilled to be part of Marbles’ first issue and you can read my article here.

She is Fierce Magazine

This magazine is so stunning – I was really excited to receive my copy and to have the opportunity to share my words. My piece, which tied into the theme of the issue – “reworked”, focused on my journey with writing. I also shared the piece on my blog this autumn.

Source Magazine

This mini story was so much fun to write and earned me a spot in the digital issue of Source Magazine. I enjoyed playing with style and trying something totally different for me. The story is best viewed on a laptop (experimenting can lead to formatting gripes, I’ve learned!) and can be found here.

Pop To… Magazine

I love the concept behind Pop To… Magazine, a new literary publication that encourages writers to capture interesting moments in ordinary places. Issue one focused on the supermarket and inspired me to write a story about the hidden lives within the aisles and a moment of connection. You can read a snippet of my story on the magazine’s website.

Dear Damsels

One of the absolute highlights of my year was sharing my piece “Fragments” on Dear Damsels this October. It is a creative non-fiction piece that explores my experience of losing my Mum and the role memories have played in my journey with grief. The response I received was overwhelming, not only from friends and loved ones but also from acquaintances and strangers. It really captured the magic of writing to connect us and I was so grateful for every message I received. Knowing my words had touched other people and resonated meant the world, especially with this piece. You can read Fragments in the Dear Damsels archive.