Got the connections, but 'whale' and 'actor' really ought to be accepted. I tend to write the shortest thing I think will be judged correct.

Not sure why "female singers" and "whale" were not accepted

Great grid! Lots of red herrings. Good fun

First submission so very grateful for the helpful feedback.

Hi- good first go! I especially liked the glade group- clever choices. Some people dislike mixed groups ie Pink amongst surnames- not a prob for me but it's a heads up. Tricky part of submitting can be the linking terms boxes- there's a help button- this is what causes most complaints. Good luck with your future grids, I'll look out for them!