Author Archives: Dianne Ascroft

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About Dianne Ascroft

I'm a Canadian writer and author, living in Britain. My Century Cottage Cozy Mysteries series is set in 1980s rural Canada.

Peek Into ‘And Twice The Marrow Of Her Bones’

Posted on May 9, 2011 by Dianne Ascroft

Today I’ve invited Susan Avitzour, who is currently on a blog tour, to share an excerpt from her memoir, And Twice the Marrow of Her Bones. Her book tells the story of her life as she coped with her daughter’s leukemia and eventual death. The … Continue reading →

Posted in May 2011 | Tagged , , , , , , | 4 Comments

Airing My Expat Experiences

Posted on May 3, 2011 by Dianne Ascroft

Last Thursday evening I had to chance to test my newfound Skype skills when I chatted with Expats Radio presenter, Peter Anstis, about being a Canadian in Northern Ireland. Although I’m not a keen public speaker, I had fun with this as Skype’s … Continue reading →

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Bealtaine Beckons

Posted on April 28, 2011 by Dianne Ascroft

Sunday begins Ireland’s Bealtaine Festival which runs throughout May. The countrywide festival turns the spotlight on older people and the arts – celebrating our achievements and encouraging everyone in this age group to get involved and unleash our creativity. In this week’s … Continue reading →

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A Closer Look At The Devil To Pay

Posted on April 19, 2011 by Dianne Ascroft

Today I’m continuing my interview with Hugh Fitzgerald Ryan, author of The Devil To Pay. As I said yesterday, I was intrigued by the historic events the novel is based on and wanted to know more about them but it was the novel itself  that first captivated … Continue reading →

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The Devil To Pay Reveals A Frightening, Fascinating World

Posted on April 18, 2011 by Dianne Ascroft

I recently read The Devil To Pay by Hugh Fitzgerald Ryan. The novel is based on the life of 13th century Kilkenny woman, Alice Kyteler who was the first person accused and condemned for witchcraft in Ireland. She owned a banking business and also ran an inn at her dwelling. … Continue reading →

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Ruminate To Write

Posted on April 4, 2011 by Dianne Ascroft

The past few weeks have been rather hectic for me and I’ve not had time to just chill out and let my mind wander. I think time spent tossing ideas about in our heads and mulling over them helps writers use their creativity … Continue reading →

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Foreign Flavours Welcomes Submissions

Posted on March 24, 2011 by Dianne Ascroft

Last year I joined Writers Abroad, an online group comprised of ex-pat writers. We’re living in countries around the world, all settled away from our homelands. I’m enjoying the community and also benefitting from sharing information and critiquing work with … Continue reading →

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If You’re Irish Come Into the Parlour…

Posted on March 17, 2011 by Dianne Ascroft

…draw up a chair to the fire and lose yourself in a book. You don’t really want green beer and overcrowded pubs today, do you? Take a break from the festivities and enjoy some Irish culture. Even if you’re not Irish, in honour of St Patrick’s … Continue reading →

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Christina Courtenay’s Scarlet Kimono

Posted on March 11, 2011 by Dianne Ascroft

When I visited Manchester one weekend last October I took the opportunity to attend an Evening with Bernard Cornwell at the Royal Northern College of Music. Standing in the queue, waiting to enter the auditorium, I overheard 2 women behind me talking about … Continue reading →

Posted in March 2011, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

Spiritual Scribblings In Senior Times

Posted on March 7, 2011 by Dianne Ascroft

This week is starting out right – mild weather and bright skies. It’s put a spring in my step. I feel like I’ve left winter behind. Ok, so I’m an optimist…But I’ll remain so until the next onslaught of wind, … Continue reading →

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