#302 Lost in Translation with Ruth O’Leary

This week, we're running a takeover in collaboration with Ruth O’Leary. This contest’s winner will not only be awarded $250 — they’ll also receive a special bonus prize: personal feedback from Ruth herself! Here's what she has to say about her takeover:

Hi everyone, my name is Ruth O’Leary and I’m a bestselling Irish author of contemporary fiction. My debut novel, The Weekend Break, is set in Galway, Ireland, while my second novel, A Week to Remember, takes readers along the Camino de Santiago in Spain. Location plays a key role in my stories, as travel is one of my greatest passions. (I share my travel adventures regularly on my website and Substack — feel free to follow along!)

Speaking of travel, I’m currently writing this from a train in South Korea, where I’m exploring this beautiful country with my family. I don’t speak a word of Korean, nor do I understand it — which brings me to the theme of this contest.

As writers, we often create characters we love, but to keep our stories compelling, we must place obstacles in their way to build tension and add some drama. This week, I’d like you to write stories where your characters struggle to communicate, whether that be through language, misinterpretation, or even emotional barriers.

Miscommunication and misunderstanding can lead to hilarious, dangerous, or even romantic outcomes. I hope you find some inspiration in my prompts below — I can’t wait to read your work!

Special Update: The Results

Ruth's top pick for her takeover was "The Wrong Seminar" by Scott Monson. Here's what she had to say about it: "This story had me laughing out loud on an airplane, much to the bemusement of my fellow passengers. The humour hit in all the right places, but beyond the laughs, this story is also a poignant look at an industry that promises a life unlimited at a high-dollar cost, while offering no personal care to those who sign up to achieve their dreams. It has a very strong opening, bringing us directly into Marcus’ world. The humour is achieved by how quickly and convincingly he is swept into the leader role himself. It is then beautifully rounded off by bringing us back to the Marcus at the start of the story — changed, yes, but back to where he began. A skilled and entertaining read."

Congratulations to contest winner Scott Monson and the runners-up, Iris Silverman and Aleksandra M!