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The 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 MoreTest Day
A quick piece of Flash Fiction I wrote this morning: TEST DAY I don’t know if we were born to the same family for each other, or if it was random. But I’ve heard you get closer to a fellow comrade during war—even if it’s a domestic one. It was okay that we both supported…
Read MoreBook Trailer – The Road to Me
In Honor of Domestic Abuse Month
When people ask me why I started writing, I lie. I tell them that I had an idea that wouldn’t let me go. And that’s true, as far as it goes. But it’s the reason it wouldn’t let me go that is the real story. I’m not going to bore you with all the backstory…
Read MorePreview!
Reading the first few pages of my March, 2022 release, The Road to Me:
Read MoreUsing Characterization for Conflict
I have a problem with conflict in my novels. Not big, overarching conflict, but micro conflict. If you want a page-turner, you should have conflict on every page. How do you do that in a natural, non-forced way?? An easy way is by giving essential characters opposite strengths, weaknesses and idiosyncrasies. Or, give them the…
Read MorePatience Practice – How to Get More of it
I was thinking back the other day, to when I decided I wanted a book with my name on the cover. I dreamed and imagined and wished…for the day when I’d hear the magic words, Here’s your contract! And the waiting would be over. Yeah, I hear you laughing. Hey, we were all naïve…
Read MoreA SALE!!!
I’m so thrilled to announce….I’ve sold two Women’s Fiction stories to Story Plant! More as I know it!
Read MoreA Fun Contest That’s Worth Your Time
I blame Sherene Gross for my addiction. She entered the NYC Midnight Contest a couple years ago, and kept me updated on her progress as she wrote, submitted, and advanced in their short story contest. Now, I don’t write short stories, or anything that I can’t use in a novel, but she seemed to be…
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