I was over the moon to hear prominent UK book vlogger, Simon Savidge, praise my book on his YouTube channel, Savidge Reads. THIS TASTE FOR SILENCE, he said, is "stupendous...incredible writing."   You can see more via the link below. Thank you so much, Simon. 
(Photo: Simon Savidge)

I'm truly delighted that my flash fiction piece, 'Vigil', has been awarded 3rd Place in the 2019 Bridport Flash Fiction Prize. Here's what the judge, Kirsty Logan, said about it:

"'Vigil' by Amanda O’Callaghan was one of the smallest stories in terms of word count, but packs
an incredible punch. It's a testament to the fact that in the hands of a talented writer, only a few
words are needed to convey a huge story with real emotional impact."

The 2019 Bridport Anthology is available from the Bridport website, linked here: 

I'm thrilled and deeply honoured that THIS TASTE FOR SILENCE is one of six books shortlisted for the prestigious Readings Prize for New Australian Fiction. Winner announced next month. So lovely to see three short story collections on the shortlist. Thank you, Readings. 
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https://www.readings.com.au/news/the-readings-prize-for-new-australian-fiction-shortlist-2019
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Eleven weeks after its launch, I'm delighted that THIS TASTE FOR SILENCE is heading off for its second printing. Sincere thanks to all who bought or borrowed my book. Your support has been amazing and I'm so grateful. 

"A stunning achievement [...] If you only read one short story collection this year, make it this one."
(Ellen Cregan, Readings' "Best Books of 2019 so far")

"This is one of the most substantial and memorable collections of short fiction by an Australian writer that I have read for a very long time."   (Kerryn Goldsworthy, Sydney Morning Herald, 17/06/19)

My book has been out in the world for six weeks now, and I am absolutely delighted to have had some great reviews. Sure feels good after all the hard work! Thanks to everyone for your wonderful support.