I recently spoke with a friend of mine about my decision to quit my job and step into the writing world full-time. When I told him that I’ve finally found the space in which I belong, I quickly followed it with an apology.
Archive | Musings
My James Patterson Encounter
I wish I were writing to tell you about my recent sit down with the New York Times Bestseller, but unfortunately, I’m not. I don’t get the chance to rub elbows with celebrities that much. Still, I am going to share a story that has stuck with me until this very day.
How Writers Support One Another
As writers, authors, readers, and members of the literary world, we know the importance of supporting one another. While we don’t always do so—we are human after all—it is something that those in the realm of books do more often than not (at least that’s what I’ve experienced).
Author Insights: The Books That Started It All
You know those books you remember fondly. The ones that you may read repeatedly, or that you remember from your youth. The books which inspired you to become a reader, a writer, a librarian, a publisher, an agent, or an author? Yeah, those. We all have them.
Nobody Washes Dishes in a Suspense Thriller: Why I Love Cozy Mysteries
Guest Post by G.P. Gottlieb, author of Charred: A Whipped and Sipped Mystery I prefer reading mysteries in which characters live normal lives. They do their jobs, grocery shop, go to the dentist, and order new air purifier filters. When I read a novel, I want to see (or be able to imagine) regular people who […]
The Story of My Settings
They say you should write what you know. Many of us writers start with something we know. Then we take it to the next level. For example, I doubt that J. K. Rowling has ever met a wizard (one could hope), but she’s been down on her luck, like her protagonist Harry. She may even […]
Writing As Therapy
I’m going to be blunt—whether you think you need a dose of therapy or not, it’s at your fingertips whenever you need it. I was shocked when one of my fellow author friends shared with me that he’s been journaling as a way of therapy. To be clear, I’m not shocked about writing as therapy […]
Celebrating December Holidays Through Books
I love holidays. All holidays. And what would holidays be without books that tell stories about traditions, journeys, customs, stories, and personal anecdotes. In fact, many authors have launched their careers just by writing about the holidays. The memories that stories invoke in each one of us is incredibly personal but treasured. That’s why so […]
5 Tips for Writing Stories that Give People Hope
In times of personal and global struggle, the authors who dare to publish stories of hope are heroes in their own ways. Their inspiring tales motivate us by bringing levity to our often dark and challenging reading lists. If you’re looking to add your name to the canon of uplifting storytellers, here are five tips […]
Why Book Conferences Are Worth The Investment
You don’t need me to tell you that conferences are invaluable. Knowing that, take this conference boost as a gentle reminder. Whenever I attend a conference, I’m energized, inspired, rife with new ideas, and overflowing with amazing connections. Conferences are not just about learning the craft or having a favorite book signed by the author. […]