The Bottom Block of the Writer’s Pyramid
You need many abilities to be a writer: Storytelling, voice, a grasp of grammar, be able to evoke emotions, plot…I could go on. And on. But these are skills. They can be learned, or at least improved upon. This is a tough gig. It can take decades of work to create a worthy work of…
Read MoreThe Illusion of Control
This one isn’t just for authors. I learned very early in the school of hard knocks that I had very little control in life. Don’t get me wrong, I’m a Midwest girl, so if it’s something I DO have control of, I work hard to shape the outcome. But sadly, there seems to be so…
Read MoreBand Aids on the Past
I’m not a mental health professional – all my observations are from my life and what I see of others around me. Many of us grew up in war zones, with distracted parents. They say every child needs one person who thinks they’re ‘all that’, who is their advocate and supporter, no matter what. Some…
Read MoreWhere I’m From
If you like this, you can make your own! You can find a template for how to do it, HERE. Where I’m From I’m from Johnson Baby Oil, lemon juice hair bleach, and swimming pool perfume. From standing on towels to protect bare feet from hot asphalt, waiting to pay Smitty the Ice Cream Man.…
Read MoreIntriguing First Lines
I have a thing about first lines. I love reading them, love writing them. I’ve been pulled into a book by just a first line alone. There are many types of first lines: irony, catalyst, comparison, asking a question, dilemma, interesting character, high concept and humor. (if you want to know more about these, I…
Read MoreBalance and How to Get Better at it (not just for writers)
I was listening to a Creative Penn Podcast on my walk today, and Joanna Penn was interviewing Dan Holloway, author, runner and teacher of how to be more creative (something I need work on – I’m going to buy his book, Creative Doing on the subject.) But one thread of the fascinating conversation was about…
Read MoreThe Writer’s Life Still Surprises Me
I just looked it up – I started writing my first novel in 1997. Twenty-five years and 14 novels later, you’d think I’d have myself figured out by now. But every book, I discover new things about myself and this writing thing. Here’s a few examples: 1. I have to write. When did that happen?…
Read MoreIt’s Women’s Fiction Day!
EDITED FOR WINNERS! Andrea Smith & Nalria Gaddy, watch for an email from me (check spam filter if you don’t see it). Everyone else – I hope you’ll consider buying a copy! https://www.thestoryplant.com/the-road-to-me In honor of Women’s Fiction Day, I’m giving away two copies of The Road to Me! In case you’re not familiar,…
Read MoreThe Book Release Hangover
From the ‘thingstheynevertellyou’ file. After a looong time writing, even longer time editing, and interminable waiting, you finally have a new book coming out. The cover reveal is a blast, and you’ve gotten tons of wonderful comments! The unboxing of the books at your house was amazing, all captured for social media and spread liberally.…
Read MoreWeakness: Your Greatest Strength
I saw this meme on social media today, and it reminded me of a huge discovery I made that changed how I saw the world. See, I’ve been an outlier all my life. As a kid, I was a dreamer. My mother told me to get ready for school only to come back five minutes…
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