Testimonials
Here's what some writers have shared about working with me.
Keren Maas
'A Life Unimagined'
'There were times I thought about killing him in his sleep. Either that, or killing myself so I could escape him.'
"When Keren was a child she couldn't wait to grow up, find true love, have babies and set up a beautiful home to create cherished memories in. Life didn't turn out the way she had imagined. Years of domestic violence, drug and alcohol abuse, and disappointments left Keren broken, grieving the dreams she once had. But God had not forgotten her. Her family's legacy of faith, the unceasing prayers of loving parents, and the unconditional love of Jesus eventually pulled her away from a life of shame. In this strikingly honest, raw, confronting and often graphic account we hear Keren's story in her own words and journey with her through the trials and triumphs of her testimony." (Source: publisher's note: Torn Curtain Publishing).
"Ever since I was a very small child I dreamed of being an author. In 2020 when the world went into lockdown I finally had the time to make that dream a reality and I began writing my autobiography.
"I am immensely grateful to Jane for helping me in this huge undertaking. She helped me to mould 40 years of memories into a beautiful story. She always knew the right questions to ask to prompt me to weave the story together and to fill in any gaps in the narrative.
"Thank you Jane for your encouragement, support and input throughout this journey. You have literally helped me to make my dreams come true." - Keren Maas
Keren Maas
A Life Unimagined
Keren Maas 2022
Available from the author $27.99 + p&p.
Casey Taylor
'Avalon'
Casey has written a wonderful first book (and we hope there may be many more) for the teen fiction/fantasy market. Her first book is about Seth, a 13 year old boy living in a small Colorado town. A ghostly apparition leads him through the forest to a clifftop where a strange energy opens the window to an alternate world that gives Seth the confidence and freedom to be himself, something he lacks in his life.
"I had the pleasure of having Jane as my mentor to help me write my first novel. As everything was new and daunting for me, I was lucky to have someone as patient, positive and experienced as her.
"Over the course of two years, Jane consistently provided me with invaluable advice and wisdom, honest and constructive criticism (which was much needed!), and regular boosts of encouragement.
"Without Jane mentoring me, I would not have finished my novel. She pushed me to do my best, to polish every sentence and make my story the best it could be.
"I am really proud of my novel, it is my greatest achievement and I will be forever grateful to Jane for helping make that happen. Thanks Jane!."
Casey Taylor
Avalon
Casey Taylor 2022
Available from Amazon
David O'Brien
'From Rocky Top to Clyde'
David has collected engaging rural tales of farming in the 'deep south' of New Zealand. Written from the perspective of a true Southern gentleman and 'man of the south', David's stories offer a candid insight into his deep love of family and the rural life that not only nurtured him as a young man but also sustained a lifelong career. He brings history - and some eccentric characters - to life as he describes his days as a mischievous youngster on the farm and writes of the highs and lows that all workers of the land will recognise.
"I had a desire to write some memories and a little history of my family and farming life. I started about seven years ago—2015—and did a little every now and then. However, I got stuck.
"A writers' workshop was advertised at the library in Alexandra so I went along. This is where I first made contact with Jane but very brief contact.
Sometime later I contacted Jane and we have worked together ever since.
Without Jane's advice, experience and coaching my little story would not have made it to the printer.
"In April 2022 I picked up my printed books from The Otago Daily Times in Alexandra. Thank you, Jane. I got there with your help".
David O'Brien
From Rocky Top to Clyde
David Francis O'Brien 2022
Available from the author
Dakota Kingi
'Living in My World'
This project was funded by a grant from Creative New Zealand, providing me with the rare privilege of working with Dakota. Dakota had lived with disability from a very young age but had shown an extraordinary determination to live her life as expansively as possible. Her Mum, Kim, had been her main support and encouraged Dakota to express herself through poetry and writing. Dakota lost her beloved Mum to breast cancer before we could complete the book. Dakota was just 21 years old.
"Kia Ora, my name is Dakota Kingi. I am 21 years old. I’m Maori and I am from New Zealand. I have an eye condition that limits my vision. I also have ataxia of the muscles which affects my body and balance. My hobby is creating poetry. For me creating poetry is a way of expressing myself and my thoughts.
"I dedicate my poetry and my book to my Mum as she has always been a beautiful soul looking after me and encouraging me to follow my passion.
Writer and mentor Jane Bissell was there from the very beginning of writing Living in My World and I thank her for taking my spoken words and turning them into a story that reflects my life, thoughts, and feelings so well."
Dakota Kingi
Living in My World
Dakota Kingi 2021
Available from the author
Josh Komen
'The Wind at My Back'
"Jane went above and beyond my expectations as a writing mentor. Jane guided, mentored and helped in every aspect of writing, right through to publication of my book The Wind at My Back.
"I cannot thank her enough for all of her help and writing wisdom. Jane is a true professional at what she does, not only a great writer herself but a wonderful person.
"I would recommend her to anyone who is undertaking the writing and publication of a book."
Josh Komen.
The Wind at My Back: a memoir of cancer, love and endurance
Mary Egan, 2019
