One thing I enjoy most about being a writer is hanging around with other creative individuals–people who understand talking to imaginary friends and who stop to jot down plot ideas in the middle of a conversation. I intend to make “Writer’s Coffee Shop” a regular feature on my blog, and I hope you’ll enjoy meeting some of my writer friends as we … Read More
Anyone who has spent time around me knows I have a passion for both history and photography. When those interests collide, I’m on cloud 9. During my research for the Golden Gate Chronicles, I collected a large number of historic images of San Francisco, especially any of those dealing with the 1906 earthquake. When my … Read More
Over the years I’ve recommended many writing aids–books to assist with plotting, characters, or navigating the publishing world. Today I want to recommend a book for inspiration. Dancing on the Head of a Pen: The Practice of a Writing Life is a wonderful journey into the heart and mind of a writer. Written by Robert Benson, … Read More
Did you know today is the 25th anniversary of the Loma Prieta earthquake? I doubt folks in the Bay area are celebrating with balloons and cake, but I’ve already seen many of my friends posting the “Where were you when this happened?” type of questions on the internet. Having spent years researching the 1906 San Francisco … Read More
The 2014 American Christian Fiction Writers Conference (ACFW) is quickly approaching, and I’m seeing many excited “Who’s going?” posts popping up on Facebook. I hadn’t planned on attending this year, but after one of my dear friends–Marilyn Rhoads–became a finalist in the ACFW Genesis contest, I couldn’t wait to cheer her on at the awards gala. … Read More
I’m curious . . . what makes a historical novel “great” in your eyes? What features draw you into the story? For some it may be the romantic thread, for others it could be a desire to experience a specific time period. Here are four characteristics of great historical fiction that never fail to hook me. … Read More
A couple of months ago I decided to do a fun contest. I encouraged readers to send me a photo of someone reading Out of the Ruins for a chance of winning a $25 Starbucks gift card. We’re well past the deadline, so it’s time to choose a winner. Only I can’t. I love them ALL. … Read More
I just returned from the Oregon Christian Writers Summer Conference, and I’m thrilled to announce that my debut novel, MISTAKEN, took home a Cascade Award in the Published Historical Fiction Category. [In celebration of this win, I’m hosting a special GIVEAWAY. The winner can choose either a copy of Mistaken or my newest release, Out … Read More
I’ve taken it easy the last couple of weeks, relaxing as the flurry of book launch activities has died down. Signings, FB parties, interviews, radio–it was all a bit intense. Good, but intense. There are still a few media things floating around out there, but the pace has slowed down. To be honest, I was … Read More
Happy Friday, everyone! I wanted to thank all of you who attended my Author Chat Party on Facebook last night. What fun we had! I was able to learn so much about my readers, and hopefully you were able to learn a few things about Out of the Ruins and the Golden Gate Chronicles series. My … Read More