Incitement (41 page)

She deliberately trained her gaze out along the coastline. Even so, in her periphery she picked up a figure entering the house. Then, Hughes’ screams began. He begged her
at the top of his voice to return. She walked down the grass-covered path, away from the cottage. In the distance, sea birds drifted up on thermals along the cliffs and then spiralled back down
towards the surf. The morning sun had cleared the horizon now and she welcomed its warmth.

David Graham has a background in telecommunications and IT. In addition to working throughout Europe, particularly in Scandinavia, he has travelled extensively.

He has a keen interest in history, economics and current affairs.

David lives with his wife and two young sons in Dublin.

This is his first novel.

I’d like to thank:
The John Murray Show,
the
RTÉ Guide
and Kazoo Independent Publishing Services for running the competition and for providing
all the authors with the opportunity.

The judges: Sarah Webb, Ferdia Mac Anna and Bob Johnston for reading the shortlisted entries.

Robert Doran for his brilliant editing and eye for detail. Chenile Keogh for running the project. Vanessa O’Loughlin for answering all my questions and for the invaluable advice.

Helene Graham and Jim Graham for the tireless proofreads. Deirdre McDermott and Brendan Kirwan for reading the drafts and providing encouragement.

And finally, Claire Wright for sharing her medical knowledge.

Any mistakes or inaccuracies are mine alone.