Breaking the Rules, Page 3

guidelines and got rid of all those nasty little comments you added. There's no need for them and they just put people's backs up.

  I've also uploaded my stories onto your website. I was going to put my name to them, since I've been trying to get published with Modern Flux for so long, but remember what I said about writers needing to make sacrifices? That's why I've attached your name to them. Perhaps your readers will appreciate the change of direction. Heaven knows, they need a break from the filth you peddle in some of the other stories.

  Rule 10. Know when to break the rules

  I've tried so hard and I've followed all the advice, but I don't seem to be getting anywhere. "Add more detail… take it out… add some colour… but don't distract your reader from the plot…" Everyone seems to have an opinion. You know what? I'm just so damned tired of it all now.

  Come and take a breath of fresh air at the window. It will do us both good to clear our heads before we leave.

  No, please don't struggle. It's not that far down, honest. Here we go, just let me untie-

  No, wait.

  Oh.

  You've gone.

  I think I'll stop there.

  About the Author

  A. F. McKeating is from Cumbria, England originally. She has had a varied career, from museum assistant to civil servant. She has had pieces of fiction published in various places, such as the Ranfurly Review, Friction magazine and on Everydayfiction.com. She enjoys reading as much as writing and believes there's always time for a good story.

  Other Books by A. F. McKeating

  The Monster Inside

  Past the Shadows

  and coming soon…

  A Shade Darker – the sequel to The Accidental Career of Hilary Darke