Shows
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesA Diwali Tale by Barbara PearmanShort Story called A Diwali Tale by Barbara Pearman Diwali is a five day festival of lights and one of the major festivals celebrated by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Sikhs.Barbara was one of our winners in Hi2020 new writer's opportunity to shine.Here are a few words from BarbaraIs it really that long! A lot has happened since then. You may remember I sent you a chapter of a novel I was writing. Well lockdown provided me with the perfect opportunity to really get stuck in in...
2022-05-3108 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesThe Hit - Short story read by the author JOHN LUGO-TREBBLEThe Hit - Short story read by the author JOHN LUGO-TREBBLEJohn writes the most exquisite romantic stories - each has a bit of an unnerving twist.Here we are priveldge to podcast one of john's beuatiful stories called The HitLet us know in the comments your thoughts and if you would like to hear more or John's stories.Here's a little about JohnMy mother used to say that from the moment I learned to walk, I was walking the other...
2022-04-1113 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesLondon Book Fair 2022 Talks : Getting your Illustrations PublishedLondon Book Fair 2022 Talks to three illustrators about "Getting your Illustrations Published"Donna Payne, Katie Knutton, and Juliette Rechatin will join the AOI’s Rachel Hill to talk about getting illustration published. The panellists will discuss how they find great new talent as well as nurturing relationships with artists. The session will look at working processes, and touch on contracts and negotiation as well as trends in the industry. Practical examples and honest straight talking will make this an invaluable session for illustrators at every stage of their career.Rachel Hill, CEO, The...
2022-04-0840 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesLondon Book Fair 2022 Talks to 3 independent women about publishingLondon Book Fair 2022 Talks to 3 independent women : The Tale of Three Start-upsthree independent small presses, all run by award-winning women, and all recent additions to the Children's publishing world. Having had different experiences and with different motivations and approaches to setting up by themselves, the panel will look at what it means and what it takes to set up a company in the current Children's environment, and what they've learned from this experience.Rachel Williams, Publisher and Joint MD, Magic Cat PublishingRachel Williams studied literature before becoming an editor...
2022-04-0847 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesLondon Book Fair 2022 ; Talk How to make a living from writingLondon Book Fair 2022 ; Talk with 3 authors about How to make a living from writingThe Society of Authors presents three authors about their experiences in writing and tell us about their journeys to getting published.Writing is hard – and making it pay is even harder. An expert team from the Society of Authors will guide you on how to earn pennies and make them add up to pounds. What opportunities are great, and what are best avoided? How can you negotiate a better deal? From pursuing a portfolio career, the lowdown on competitions to tips on...
2022-04-0842 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesLondon Book Fair 2022 : Talk with Dutch poet Arnold Jansen op de HaarLondon Book Fair 2022 : Talk with Dutch poet Arnold Jansen op de HaarWe are delighted to bring you a little tast from the famous London Book Fair 2022. After 2 years pawing the ground in the hope that covide restrictions would come to an end. We had the priveldge of covering some of the many events. I’m the Refrain of Other People’s Lives. Join Arnold Jansen op de Haar for an eclectic reading from his translated poems about his life and society. He will also take you on a tour...
2022-04-0820 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesLondon Book Fair 2022 - Talks : Cover DesignLondon Book Fair 2022: Talks about Cover Design -the highs and lows of working with authorsJack Smyth and Nico Taylor will be curating a new book cover themed event at the London Book Fair.Using real-life case studies across a variety of publishers they’ll look at various aspects of the cover design process: from briefing forms to the cover meeting, the pressures of designing a bestseller to what makes something ‘good’, and much more.The event will be inclusive and is aimed at all who are interested in the cover...
2022-04-0832 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesDoppleganger ; a short story by Amatullah PadghawalaAmatullah Padghawala is an Indian literary junkie with a head in the clouds imagination. She enjoys penning supernatural stories but doesn't hesitate to try her hands on contemporary fiction. She has composed mystery fiction stories as well, since the genre deeply interests her. Overall, she is fascinated by the world of fiction and can't wait to explore the remaining types- science fiction and historical fiction. Currently, she is penning her very own book with a unique concept called- The Incarnated Angel wherein an angel incarnates as a human to impart divine wisdom. Sounds incredibly imaginative, doesn't it? In short, sh...
2022-03-2212 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesTide turner short story by Sarah EmSarah Em is a twenty-nine year old teacher and writer. By day she juggles 9-10 year olds and classroom management and by night (or evening at least, she's not much of a night owl) she writes crime-fiction or non-fic think pieces on mental health and current affairs and is an advocate for tackling difficult topics and breaking down outdated taboos. When she's not writing, Sarah is a keen runner, reader and researcher (predominately of pirates, she once wrote 12,000 words all about them - ask her if you have a free four hours). You can find her over a...
2022-03-1912 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesCross Fire: Story 2 from I’m a Contract Killer by Andrew SegalThe First from a disturbing set of short stories in this second book in the Aberration series by author, Andrew Segal. Combining the macabre with the mysterious, the outrageous with the unbelievable, these dark tales will force readers to reassess their views of human nature whilst demonstrating wholly unpredictable patterns of individual behaviour.The glint of steel defined the blade held in the man’s right hand. The shank was at least eight inches long. Its owner, in his twenties, over six feet tall, in tight blue jeans, with muscles bursting from his shabby white tee shirt, fr...
2022-03-0423 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesMeet a Thriller Writer - Discover the scary adventures that make the thrillers so realHappy London Press interview Andrew Segal to talk about his adventures that influenced his new series of rime Thriller novels.Andrew is our best-selling author, whose chilling novels have an exciting and different crime-thriller voice. He has introduced a relevant, choice for his central character – Tammy Pierre from The Caribbean. Many of our readers have commented that they really enjoy Andrew’s believable worlds and complex plots that have them guessing until the end. Previously, Andrew has written a large collection of short stories each with a subtle twist. We have published the firs...
2021-07-0153 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesThe Relaxing Guitar Bros talk about making musicThe Relaxing Guitar Bros talk about making musicTwo brothers from Hampshire and the Isle Of Wight who have spent all the winter lockdown writing and recording together to bring you our original relaxing guitar music, played to soothe the soul and ease your mind. Being musicians from a young age we both were eager to give something back and help in whichever way we could during this difficult time, we hope our music can be used to ease people's minds and make them feel calm and chilled. Our music can be used for meditation, study, prayer...
2021-03-0517 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesAuthor Conversation : John Lugo-Trebble Short Story writerAuthor Conversation : John Lugo-Trebble Short story writerTalking about writing his latest story Sing! - Now available on the www.HappyStoryStore.comhttps://www.happystorystore.com/product-page/sing-by-john-lugo-trebbleSummary about SingMusic is the universal language. It not only connects people but memories, places and can travel through time.“Sing!” follows the journey of Benny Goodman’s Sing (with a Swing) record from the early 80’s in The Bronx to London in the 90’s and Cornwall in the 10’s.Starting with the death of a neighbour, the record helps...
2021-02-1707 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesCalls of Nature; four exquisite poems by Alan RaynerCalls of Nature; four exquisite poems by Alan RaynerThe new era we are travelling into with the covid lockdowns is a time to reflect on the wondrous life around us that can spiritually heal us. Here Alan reads 4 of his beautiful poems that highlights nature's calm.About AlanI am an evolutionary ecologist, writer and artist. I was born in Nairobi, Kenya in 1950 and gained BA and PhD degrees at King’s College, Cambridge in 1972 and 1975. I was a Reader in Biology at the University of Bath from 1985 to 2011 and hav...
2021-01-1806 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesWelcome to 2021 -Awakening poems by Sara ChwialkowskaWelcome to 2021 - inspiring poems by Sara Chwialkowska.Sara is a young poet - whose work takes an insightful look into mindfulness.My name is Sara and I am an English university student, I love writing poetry and short stories to express myself. My end goal is to become a published author, but in the meantime I'm working as well as studying, and I hope my Instagram page and blog for HerInkStains continue to grow :)Enjoy ("!")Happy London Press : Sharing the experience of talented authorshttps://h...
2021-01-1204 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesHi2020 Top Tier Judges discussing their choicesHi2020 Top Tier Judges discussing their choices for the overall winning storyHi2020 Short Story Competition launch on 20th February 2020, with great radio fare on Wycombe Sound 106.6FM. Thousands of entries by new writer from all over Britain and the Home Countries embraced the challenge. 34 pre-judges generously gave up time to read and score each story - infact every story was read by four judges to get a wide breath of tastes, before the quarter finalists were selected for the Top Tier Judges. We held our breath as each Top judge read through be...
2020-10-2716 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesHi2020 WINNER; The Eagle Café by Kayleigh MaddocksThe absolute show stopper winner of the Hi2020 Short Story Competition.Thousands of stories entered from all over the United Kingdom from which 35 pre-judges and 5 Top Their Judges read, debated and chose this fabulous short story by new writer Kayleigh Maddocks. This Show stopper winning storey along with 19 excellent short stories are published in a gorgeous coffee table art book with 25 artworks by award winning artists Clare newton FRSA.Limited Edition Artbook and storiesTo purchase this beautiful gift book - hop on over to https://www...
2020-10-2710 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesChapter One Atonement Camp by Evan J. CorbinAtonement Camp for Unrepentant Homophobes by Evan J. CorbinAtonement Camp for Unrepentant Homophobes follows the journey of Rick Harris, a closeted, self-hating, homophobic preacher who's sent to a camp run by drag queens for the incurably homophobic. Along his journey, Rick meets new friends who help him find his way out of the closet, but they soon discover the camp may hold its own secrets. A plot to discredit a newly-discovered, ancient Biblical text affirming God's love for all mankind, gay people included, begins to take form. Can Rick confront his dogged hypocrisies and take up the s...
2020-10-1413 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesThe Soul Talk by AkshithaThe Soul Talk by Akshitha shot sensual poemOn a rainy evening I was enjoying the weather to the hilt with the petrichore and thunderstorms. I was feeling a deep connection with nature. I started appreciating every bit of god's creation the moon, sunset and I wanted to share this infinite beauty of nature in different incarnations.So I started to pen down the stream of thoughts flowing in my mind. Close your eyes and imagine the nature's scenes while I start the podcast and do share your experience.I am Aks...
2020-10-0705 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesLock Down Diaries; MasksLock Down Diaries; Masks by Kristina PakhomenkoMy name is Kristina. I’ve spent more than twenty years in professional sport before I understood that I had passion for completely different things. Very interested in conspiracy theories, yoga, esoterics and spiritual practices. Coincidences are not coincidences and within ourselves we project what we further see in reality. All my intentions are revolved around understanding more of how the thoughts work. All my thoughts are about where they come from and what was the cause. Amazing things happen when we change our conditioned perception of the world and wh...
2020-08-0311 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesDear Publisher "Shark Attack!" by Peter la TrobeDear Publisher "Shark Attack!" by Peter la TrobeWelcome to our first in the new series of blog posts, written by a wonderful mix of published authors, renown writers and worldly bloggers.What’s in a name?Every writer, and every wannabe writer, has been here, or hereabouts: you’ve spent hours drafting and redrafting your story. Your Mum has heard the various versions so many times that she gets a strange look in her eye when you say – listen to this, what do you think of it now?
2020-07-1504 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesLockdown diaries Episode 5 Meaning of Choice by Kristina PakhomenkoLockdown diaries Episode 5 Meaning of Choice by Kristina PakhomenkoMy name is Kristina. I’ve spent more than twenty years in professional sport before I understood that I had passion for completely different things. Very interested in conspiracy theories, yoga, esoterics and spiritual practices. Coincidences are not coincidences and within ourselves we project what we further see in reality. All my intentions are revolved around understanding more of how the thoughts work. All my thoughts are about where they come from and what was the cause. Amazing things happen when we change our conditioned perception of the wo...
2020-07-1409 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesLockdown diaries series 2 by AkshithaLockdown diaries series 2 by AkshithaI am Akshitha an app developer and very passionate about writing and love travelling and get lost in the beauty of nature. I love spending time with friends and hanging out.My 3 am friends are my greatest strength and we always stand for each other. I write what i feel and what i learn from the situations.I want to spread more awarness about mental health among people. So i have started a page on instagram to connect with people.https://www.instagram.com/imurmotivator/...
2020-07-0603 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesMaid Maleen by Brandi Gang Short storyMaid Maleen by Brandi GangHello, my name is Brandi Gann, I have always loved telling a good tale. My goal as a storyteller is comparable to those storytellers of old. You know, the ones in front of a campfire spinning tales and magic alike. Each part of importance emphasized by a burst of flame or powerful silence. I want to tell stories like that. Stories of hope, of love, and of the magic the two of those can create. As you can probably tell, I tend to write fantasy and romance. This piece is t...
2020-06-2918 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesThe Sun the Moon and a Thousand furs by Brandi GannThe Sun the Moon and a Thousand furs by Brandi GannMy name is Brandi Gann and I have always loved telling a good tale. My goal as a storyteller is comparable to those storytellers of old. You know, the ones in front of a campfire spinning tales and magic alike. Each part of importance emphasized by a burst of flame or powerful silence. I want to tell stories like that. Stories of hope, of love, and of the magic the two of those can create. As you can probably tell, I tend to write fantasy and...
2020-06-2214 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesLockdown diaries episode 3 by Chameleon in High HeelsLockdown diaries episode 3 by Chameleon in High Heels ; Change is comingCarola (AKA Chameleon in Heels) is a teacher, mother of two humans and a puppy, lover of high heels and clothes by day and a passionate and fierce writer any other time of her waking life. She is curious about humans, their emotions, what motivates them and makes them tick. She loves learning and investigating, digging into sensitive and emotional topics, always keen to understand every side of a story. Five years ago, after becoming a mother for the first time, she re-discovered her love for wri...
2020-06-1505 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesLockdown diaries episode 2 by Chameleon in High HeelsLockdown diaries episode 2 by Chameleon in High Heels : Fear of going outCarola (AKA Chameleon in Heels) is a teacher, mother of two humans and a puppy, lover of high heels and clothes by day and a passionate and fierce writer any other time of her waking life. She is curious about humans, their emotions, what motivates them and makes them tick. She loves learning and investigating, digging into sensitive and emotional topics, always keen to understand every side of a story. Five years ago, after becoming a mother for the first time, she re...
2020-06-0808 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesLockdown diaries episode 1 by Chameleon in High HeelsLockdown diaries episode 1 by Chameleon in High Heels : The front door closesCarola (AKA Chameleon in Heels) is a teacher, mother of two humans and a puppy, lover of high heels and clothes by day and a passionate and fierce writer any other time of her waking life. She is curious about humans, their emotions, what motivates them and makes them tick. She loves learning and investigating, digging into sensitive and emotional topics, always keen to understand every side of a story. Five years ago, after becoming a mother for the first time, she re-discovered her love for...
2020-06-0105 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesWellness Week : Nurture Mind, Nourish body by Kate BishopHappy London Press Podcast 6: Wellness Week : Nurture Mind, Nourish body by Kate BishopThe last in the series:The state of mind, during this Coronavirus lock down ,can cause immense stress at home. The secret to overcoming problems is by moving your body, eating well and drinking plenty of water.Kate's last podcast is on how to keep healthy, happy and sane whilst working from home especially amidst a pandemic.Our Coach in residence this week is Kate Bishop, who has made six amazing podcasts t...
2020-05-0910 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesWellness Week : Virtual Friends beats loneliness by Kate BishopHappy London Press Podcast 5: Wellness Week : Virtual Friends beats loneliness by Kate BishopWe all feel lonely from time to time. Feelings of loneliness are personal, so everyone's experience of loneliness will be different.And living and working alone can feel especially isolating,Kate gives us some tips on how to remain connected during lockdown; even though we are physically distancing we can still be social.Our Coach in residence this week is Kate Bishop, who has made six amazing podcasts to help you through the ups and d...
2020-05-0803 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesWellness Week : Motivation not Procrastination by Kate bishopHappy London Press Podcast 3: Wellness Week : Motivation not Procrastination by Kate BishopWithout an office full of staff and managers - it can be hard to self motivate. Wanting to do something and motivating yourself to actually do it are two different things.So, what's the difference between those who never reach their goals,Kate explains about her techniques and tools to aid you to keep focused, work productively and get stuff done!Our Coach in residence this week is Kate Bishop, who has made six amazing podcasts to help you t...
2020-05-0705 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesWellness Week: Your Space, Your office by Kate BishopHappy London Press Podcast 3: Wellness Week : Your Space, your Office by Kate BishopWorking from home can be highly productive, but it can also go badly wrong. Without a proper office space, a prioritised schedule, and on-the-spot supervision, it's all too easy to be distracted, and to get very little doneKate explains the importance of creating your ideal working environment whether that be in your home office or on your kitchen table.Our Coach in residence this week is Kate Bishop, who has made six amazing podcasts to help you through the u...
2020-05-0604 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesWellness Week : Winding down, Switch off by Kate BishopHappy London Press Podcast 2: Wellness Week : Winding down, Switch off by Kate BishopStruggling to switch off from work? Follow this advice to help you relax, reset and rest.The days are long - there seems to be no beginning or ending. So when it's time for bed, one's mind can still be buzzing. ..Things not done... too many things still to do. Thoughts turn into worries and a circle that can stop one from sleeping. A the lack of sleep will prevent one from being productive the next day.
2020-05-0503 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesWellness Week : Encourage Routine, Nurture Yourself by Kate BishopHappy London Press Podcast 1: Wellness Week : Encourage Routine, Nurture Yourself by Kate BishopTechniques to help you create your ideal working from home routine and how to stick to it. Routine is an important part of our mental survival. it helps to get tasks completed, it provides focus for our wellbeing – and supports those we live with. Our Coach in residence this week is Kate Bishop, who has made six amazing podcasts to help you through the ups and downs of Corvid lockdown.Today's topic is about making a routine for y...
2020-05-0405 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesHi2020: Radio Show 2: Starting out writing short storiesHi2020 Radio Show 2 - Helping you write a great story to enter Hi2020Peter la TrobeA writers workshop on writing short storiesPeter la Trobe, Harlow Writers Workshop"For a reader, the magic of a short story is – its shortness. They are read settling down to sleep, on the journey to work or as a distraction in the dentist’s waiting room – because they’re short. A good story is the one that you put down thinking ‘What a shame that’s over!’ It’s plunged you into a vivid wor...
2020-04-3016 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesHi2020 Radio Show 1 - Helping you write a great storyHi2020 Radio Show 1 - Helping you write a great story to enter Hi2020Wycombe Sound 106.6fm and happy London Press are running a weekly radio show - every Wednesday 2pm -3pm. To help you write a great short story - so that you can enter the Hi2020 short story competition - Just check out how https://www.hi2020.co.uk
2020-04-2019 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesHi2020 Mini Course 3: What makes for an attractive style?Hi2020 Mini Course 3: What makes for an attractive style?Written and narrated by France Ellul. Writer's coach and English TeacherPodcast Two in the Mini course series:Next Week we will be launching a Digital BOOKAZINE all about how to write short stories - its packed full of helpful tips - From how to discover characters, planning for a Climax, what makes good writing sense and sooo much more .Hello everyone. My name is France Ellul.I teach a creative writing course consisting of a series o...
2020-04-1612 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesA touch of purple By Ida Williams, a dreamy storyShort Story: A touch of purple narrated and read by Ida WilliamsLate one night a little girl awakes to find her mother mending a special garment. Coloured an exclusive and expensive shade. One meant only for the most important person in the land.Historical roots: Purple has historically been an exclusive colour, often expensive and associated with royalty. During the reign of Elizabeth 1st it was decreed that no one other than the royal family could wear the shade. This story explores those elements from the point of view of a little girl....
2020-04-0605 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesHi2020 Mini Course 2: Why write a story?Hi2020 Mini Course 2: Why write a story?Written and narrated by France Ellul. Writer's coach and English TeacherPodcast Two in the Mini course series:.Hello everyone. My name is France Ellul. I teach a creative writing course consisting of a series of hands-on workshops. These have been focused initially on short-story writing and I’ve been asked to put together three podcasts summarising some of the material I’ve used.This is the second of three podcasts in which I share hints and tips for writing short s...
2020-03-3114 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesHi2020 Writing Tip 2 : Write a Catchy First ParagraphHi2020 Tip 2 : Write a Catchy First ParagraphRead to you by Kate Bishop.We have some excellent advice from Jerz Setonhill and HennekeIn today’s fast-moving world, the first sentence of your narrative should catch your reader’s attention with the unusual, the unexpected, an action, or a conflictBegin with tension and immediacy. Remember that short stories need to start close to their end.Mystify your reader. Make the first sentence intriguing or somewhat open-ended Don't use deception to "lure" your reader. ... Its Like false adv...
2020-03-2203 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesHi2020 Mini Course 1: Helping writers with penning a short storyHi2020 Mini Course 1: How to make a short story special?Written and narrated by France Ellul. Writer's coach and English TeacherPodcast One.This podcast - the first of a series of three - is to help aspiring writers understand some of the skills involved in writing fiction, in this case, short stories. It includes the first three of ten “Tips on Creative Writing” as well as: Authorial Voice; Omniscient Narrator; First, Second and third Person narration; and SOC, Stream of Consciousness. France uses examples from two of h...
2020-03-1714 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesThe Lyme Regis Murders - Chapter 2 read by the author Andrew SegalThe Lyme Regis Murders - Chapter 2 read by the author Andrew SegalTHE LYME REGIS MURDERSAndrew SegalHappy London Press342 ppEasy Read / Who-Done-ItCan innocence ever be an incentive to murder?A quiet seaside town is thrown into turmoil. Tammy Pierre, London based private investigator, accompanied by her sometime lover, Israeli art dealer and martial-arts coach, Dov Jordan, has just been brought close to tears by police photographs shown to her by an hysterical Eleanor Goldcrest, at the home of three innocent toddlers whose brutally murdered bodies...
2020-03-1604 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesEpisode 2; The Mermaid Bride read by the author Alexander ElyEpisode 2; The Mermaid Bride read by the author Alexander ElyBelieving their misadventures with mermaids is behind them, Neave looks forward to arriving in Plymouth and returning to normal life with her husband, Aiden. Only, Aiden's life is not as it seems, and her fight for him has just begun.Alexandra Ely (pronounced e-lee) is a young adult novelist. Growing up in rural California she has been pursuing creative writing from a young age. She credits much of her imagination to the childhood costumes and wide-open space she grew up with....
2020-03-1321 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesHi2020 Writing Tip 1: What does your Protagonist want?Hi2020 Short Story Competition - Writing Tip 1: What does your Protagonist want? Here are some Hints and tips on how to write a better short story - make sure you stay tuned for the next instalmentRead to you by Nigel TroupWriting short stories means beginning as close to the climax as possible as everything else is a distraction or waffle – remember you only have 1500 words to play with.In A short story everything is condensed down to the absolute hub of the story – it conserves characters and scenes, by focusin...
2020-03-1103 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesSign Up to Hi2020 Short Story Comp for New WritersSign Up to Hi2020.co.uk. Short Story Comp for New WritersHello to All...budding authors who would love the chance to get their story published in a beautiful hardback book.The Competition is open to unpublished writers who live in one of the three districts - LONDON - Buckinghamshire, - Hertfordshire, If you have a hidden story within you but haven't yet had the inspiration to do anything about - here is your chanceChoose from one of the topics to inspire your cre...
2020-03-0801 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesExcert from Wide illumination read by Tom RubensWide Illumination Chapter 8 read by the author Tom RubensThis work is a Contemporary Literature about a young student finding his first love affair Set in the mid-1960s, this second novel in the 'Illumination' trilogy shows itscentral character, Richard Lane, studying at university, and fostering intellectualfriendships with some of his fellow male students. Also, during his first long summervacation, he visits Germany and meets a young German woman, Helga, with whom hecomes to share a deep and intimate understanding, a...
2020-03-0611 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesShow me Heaven by Donna TaylorA True Story - Show me Heaven written and narrated by Donna TaylorHeadlines that rocked a county " MOTHER AND CHILDREN IN SEARCH FOR HOME" a mother of four was given temporary reprieve by reading Council last night after fears that she was to be made homeless.."This is the tragic true story of Donna Taylor - This Newspaper cutting came after Donna's mother had to sleep in her little blue Austin 11 because the council had previously thrown her out of her mother's one-person flat. Here the first chapter of Donna's pre-production b...
2020-02-2514 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesChapter one; The Snowdonia Killings by Simon McCleaveChapter one; The Snowdonia Killings written and narrated bySimon McCleaveA Snowdonia Murder Mystery Book 1The Snowdonia Killings - Detective Inspector Ruth Hunter lives with the pain of her partner’s unsolved disappearance. Now pushing fifty, the veteran police officer trades in the crime-ridden streets of London for a more peaceful post in rural North Wales. But Ruth has barely settled in when the body of a woman is discovered… with strange symbols carved into her skin. Teaming up with an obstinate deputy, Ruth struggles to eliminate anyone from a long line of suspects. But she’...
2020-01-3017 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesThe Mermaid Bride : Fantasy Short story narrated by Alexandra ElyThe Mermaid Bride : Beautiful romantic story written and narrated by Alexandra ElyAn adventure fantasy short story about Neive, (pronounces nee-iv) a young woman who fights all odds in an epic search to save her husband from the slimy grips of a greedy mermaid. Her love will have to overcome more than fear, it will have to be the courage to do the impossible.Alexandra Ely (pronounced e-lee) is a young adult novelist. Growing up in rural California she has been pursuing creative writing from a young age. She credits much of her imagination to th...
2019-12-3016 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesReturn : a delicate poem by Priya DolmaReturn : Poem written and narrated by Dr Priya DolmaReturn : a delicate and sensitive poem about heartbreak, when a long-term relationship stops working, but ignites so many emotions from within. The perfect ode to imperfect ends, few miscalculations, some grief and a lot of nostalgia. This is just one of many poems from a new book, called Ivory Gleam.Priya's poetry has found home, among other places, in International Times, Urban Magazine, Artvilla, Headline Poetry, with work forthcoming in Tales of Reverie by Paragon Press.Dr Priya Dolma Tamang is a medical graduate f...
2019-12-0802 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesWhat will Heaven be Like? : Short Poem by Ian Sutherland CanadaWhat will Heaven be Like? : Short Poem by Ian Sutherland CanadaThere are those of us who believe in God and those of us that don’t. I am one of those that does.And with that belief comes a belief in something called “Heaven”. There is some disagreementabout what and where Heaven is. From my readings I have concluded that Heaven is here onEarth, following a moment of change, when all that is bad ceases to be and when all is foreverafter good. This is my sho...
2019-11-2701 minHappyLDNPress Author StoriesGood Advice ; Thriller Short story by Ian J. Sutherland UKGood Advice ; Action thriller Short story written and narrated by Ian J. Sutherland UKThe story is woven from many aspects of personal experience knowledge, but the result is pure fiction.I trained as a scientist and then made a career delivering complex change in the City. Once I reached 50 I decided to challenge myself in new directions which have included standup comedy, photography and blacksmithing. I also started to blog professionally, before being tempted to try my hand at fiction.Check our happy stories weekly gossip o...
2019-11-2211 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesLittle London Adventures and Cockney Curiosities by Clare NewtonLittle London Adventures and Cockney Curiosities by Clare Newton and Narrated by Kate Bishop.Artist and photographer Clare Newton rediscovers and records the faint remnants of old London, only made visible when lit by a fleeting low winter's sun. These images are the conduits through time, analysing the sometimes uncomfortable balance between a struggling heritage to exist and the insatiable appetite of modern regeneration. But deep inside East London also lies a Victorian era. The mother of inventions, which not only stimulated change across the world then but even now their lingering artefacts and sayings effect us...
2019-11-1711 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesA Major operation : Short Story by Andrew SegalA Major operation : Short Story written and narrated by Andrew Segal.Hello, I thought I would share with you my pleasure in writing about romantic short stories. Here's something about the background to major operation.I find the woman taking the lead, being the stronger of the two in a relationship. Perhaps that is a reflection of the women I’ve lived with, worked with and loved, myself. But occasionally my male lead takes over and proves he can shoulder responsibility too, be a shoulder to cry on, a prop just when his lover needs him...
2019-11-1709 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesLyme Regis Murders: Extract reading by Andrew SegalInspiration for writing: The Lyme Regis MurdersCrime thrillers look to present one with surprises. Could it be themurderer? the victim? the setting? or the circumstances of the crimethat pique the interest and keep the fans glued? Readers want to bepuzzled, shocked, swept along and then reassured that from wherethey are sitting or reading, their hero or heroine, has things under theircontrol, that in the end all will be well. After all, it’s how we want life...
2019-11-1304 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesEight Feet High : Short Story for Adults by Ian J. Sutherland UKEight Feet High : Short Story for Adults written and narrated by Ian J. Sutherland UKI trained as a scientist and then made a career delivering complex change in the City. Once I reached 50 I decided to challenge myself in new directions which have included standup comedy, photography and blacksmithing. I also started to blog professionally, before being tempted to try my hand at fiction.Eight Feet High was one of my first attempts at competitive short story writing - no more than 2,500 words in 7 days. This was a personal challenge for me being someone...
2019-11-1104 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesGrumps & Sweeties; Children's Short Story by Ian SutherlandGrumps & Sweeties; Children's Story Suitable for 3 year +Written and Narrated by Ian Sutherland from CanadaIan is a lawyer in Toronto, Canada. He and his wife, Carol, have five wonderful children and four beautiful grandchildren.About Grumps & SweetiesWhat type of person do we want our child to grow up to be? This is a story about the most basic of choices that can make all the difference to a person’s happiness and personal development: the choice to be kind, even to those who are not kind to us.
2019-11-1004 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesHeaven Is... A short poem by Ian SutherlandHeaven Is . A short inspiring poem written and narrated by Ian Sutherland from Canada.Ian is a lawyer in Toronto, Canada. He and his wife, Carol, have five wonderful children and four beautiful grandchildren.The poem was written during a reflective time, when Ian was trying tounderstand the big picture in life.Ian Sutherland, is a full time lawyer who writes in his rare quietmoments to share his thoughts on the importance of kindness, love,hope and respect for others. He and his wife, Carol, have five...
2019-10-2902 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesStephen the Statute : Children's short story by Andrew SegalStephen the Statue : Written and narrated by Andrew SegalChildren's short story; suitable for 3- 6yr oldIt’s not always that easy to say where the inspiration for a story comesfrom. In the children’s story, Roberto the Robot, I looked at thefantasy of a machine with a mind and with feelings. The robotconnects with a little girl, and she with him. An innocent friendshipwhere the frail one is mentally the stronger. But where the physically
2019-10-1708 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesClarissa the Clown ; Children's story by Andrew SegalClarissa the Clown ; Children's story written and narrated by Andrew SegalAs a kid I remember the first time I was taken to a circus. It was Bertram Mills. Well known as one of the pre-eminent of circuses of its day, and not without justification. There was the excitement and anticipation before we arrived, the bustle, the expectant crowds of children and adults. Then there were the animals, not as prevalent today as once. But we had horses, dogs, seals, elephants and most exciting of all, the lions and tigers. How could anyone be brave enough to...
2019-10-1303 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesCuthbert the Colonel : Children's Story by Andrew SegalCuthbert the Colonel : Children's Story written and narrated by Andrew SegalBritish soldiers, renowned for their courage and bravery, train under conditions of strict and uncompromising discipline. I recall an ex- soldier telling me that his NCO had screamed at the men till he was hoarse. But he got results. What was intriguing was that when the men were off duty, as it were, the same NCO chatted to them amicably about his wife and family. Once on duty again, he reverted to the alter ego. He was respected, admired and acknowledged as able...
2019-10-1203 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesRoberta Robot : Children's story by Andrew SegalRoberta Robot : Children's story written and narrated by Andrew SegalWe live in an age of increasing, some would say encroaching, Artificial Intelligence.How would it be, if say, a robot with intelligence was actually given the chance to express itself? What would it want to say? Whom would it wish to say it to? When would the opportunity arise?Roberto the Robot expresses the thoughts that a robot with artificial intelligence, bordering on real intelligence, might think in given circumstances. He works hard and expects no reward. His maker, Bob, only sees...
2019-10-1205 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesLavender Roses : Short Story by Andrew SegalLavender Roses : Short Story written and narrated by Andrew Segalwas published in The Lady Magazine in April 2019.I was just eight years old the first time I visited Paris, but even at that age something about the city was entrancing. Too early in life to see the romance of the place, but not too early to fail to appreciate the sounds and sights. The delicious food, and the way Parisians relished their meals. Vichy water, as in those days tap water wasn’t fit to drink. Hence the custom of drinking wine with every me...
2019-10-0908 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesCatherine Wheels : Short Story by Andrew SegalCatherine Wheels : Short Story written and narrated by Andrew Segal
Another story about love. So often in my short stories I find the woman taking the lead, being the stronger of the two in a relationship. Perhaps that is a reflection of the women I’ve lived with, worked with and loved, myself. But occasionally my male lead takes over and proves he can shoulder responsibility too, be a shoulder to cry on, a prop just when his lover needs him most. As they say in France, “Vive la Difference,” and so it should be. We live i...
2019-10-0909 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesFondest Love : Short Story by Andrew SegalFondest Love : Short Story written and narrated by Andrew SegalLove stories take all sorts of formats, and thankfully in today’s world intolerance of the past is very much, just that; a thing of the past. And so we read with pleasure of love among those who are straight, or gay, perhaps bisexual and or now too, transsexual, without the bigotry and persecution that blighted so many relationships in years gone by.Sometimes an event presaging a time of sadness and loss can be an inspiration for a love story. Again, our preconceptions of wh...
2019-10-0308 min
HappyLDNPress Author StoriesSleight of Hand : Short story by Andrew SegalSleight of hand written and narrated by Andrew Segal was published in The Lady Magazine in September 2019. I love magic, and once dreamed of being a magician myself, and joining The Magic Circle. But to be a magician requires a special temperament, together with the ability to stay absolutely cool, particularly if things start to go wrong, which in the world of illusion, they all too frequently do. A number of Houdini copyists lost their lives when trying to emulate his escapes from a sealed mail bag, in a chained wooden crate, thrown into the freezing Hudson r...
2019-10-0310 min