My Publisher Died Now What?
Transitions
Transitions don’t just lead into the next thing; they make an impact. My mom spent the last several months in the hospital—not improving—not able to care for herself at home anymore. I went to the hospital to see her before Christmas. I brought her a red Poinsettia—her favorite color to brighten her gloomy room. But …
To sigh or not to sigh
I found this interesting article: Why Do We Sigh? | Psychology Today My question: Should a first-person character tell us they sighed? Sighing is an audible and visual reaction. But maybe a first-person character would only observe this in others. Would a first-person character just express the frustration in dialogue (internal and audible) and in physical actions? …
3 Reasons Authors Need Critiques
Have you ever been shocked and disappointed by a big-name author’s book and thought, I wish I could have critiqued that for them first? If seasoned authors still need trusted critique partners to say, “this is boring”, I certainly do. And I’m happy to say I have. While working on my fourth book in the …
5 Challenges to Guest Blogging
I’ve followed author, editor, and writing coach, C.S. Lakin for years. I’ve matured as a writer from her critiques, classes, and books. She loves helping writers at all levels. When I emailed her on a personal matter, she responded with sweet understanding, then shocked the heck out of me. “Why don’t you write me a …
What’s Happening?
Is your story idea good enough to become a book? Find out on my vlog. https://youtu.be/7St5HklxTUQ
Time to Write
How strong is your desire to write? In a 1964 interview, Harper Lee said, "Writing is a process of self-discipline you must learn before you can call yourself a writer. There are people who write, but I think they're quite different from people who must write." I've added this topic on my vlog. https://youtu.be/uVWkd4WohYc
Character History: Research and Organizational Tips
A writer discovers characters by inspiration or by accident. Their stories are so incredible or inspirational they must be shared. The blessing of imagination allows characters to share their personal histories with the writer who becomes the ghostwriter. As a writer of historical fiction, my research requires discovering descriptions, timelines, and eye-witness accounts of real-life …
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Review Options for Indy Authors
The excitement of having books published these days wanes as a certain entity no longer allows family and friends to post reviews. For authors who publish with small press or self-publish, family and friends are the first readers. They desire to post honest reviews. Unfortunately, unethical authors have ruined this venue for everyone. I understand …
Observations from an Introverted Novelist
Phyllis A. Still 