Puzzling

I've got a special treat for you today, two whole cryptic crosswords by me, for you to download. These are PDF files, which you can print out. The answers are included, too. Nixie Cryptic #1 Nixie Cryptic #2 Griff is tucked up in bed, and doesn't seem that impressed — but hopefully you will enjoy them!

On Saturday 25th August we all gathered at Paperchain Bookstore in Manuka to celebrate the launch of Solving Cryptic Crosswords For Dummies and Cryptic Crosswords For Dummies! My second technical editor, Deborah Green came from interstate for the event, and stayed with us overnight. We all got dolled up — the crossword corset had its first outing — and headed for Manuka, with a car full of nommy goodies! This was a really exciting day for me, as — although I have written 5 books now — these are the first ones I've had a proper book launch for. The place was packed — 50 or 60 people came along, many of whom were long-lost friends, as well as many new friends and family. Indexers and BookCrossers were well represented! My high school English teacher (now principal of Narrabundah College) Kerrie Grundy gave the introductory speech. I won't mention how long ago it was that she taught me! I then gave my 15 minute talk. No-one dozed off, ...

Welcome to my new blog! This is a place where I'll write about puzzles, how to solve them, where to find them, interesting facts about them, how I write them, cool stuff about English, and other wordy kind of stuff. I will do my best to answer questions posed by you, too. Puppy pictures are inevitable, too. I look forward to many interesting conversations with you! — Denise (Jejune)