There are times when we consume novels like potato chips. We gobble them down and go looking for more. This is especially true of series fiction. Then there are novels that within the first few paragraphs, you realize you’ve discovered something special, like a fine dark chocolate. You slow down and savor the words, the … Read More
In honor of Valentine’s Day, I thought I’d post a teaser from my 1920s romantic suspense novel, MISTAKEN. As expected with any romance novel, there are many sweet moments from which to choose. My favorites are often found in the early days of a relationship–those awkward moments when a man and woman are circling about … Read More
Have you ever been curious about the day-to-day life of a writer? I’ve compiled a quick list of what my working life entails right now. I’ve also included a prayer request with each section. I’ve been feeling led to pray more earnestly about my career–I hope you will join me.1. Writing the second book in … Read More
Thursday evening, I went to the North Pole. Okay, not really. I went to North Pole, Alaska. Well, that’s not exactly the truth, either.I visited a book club in North Pole, Alaska. Via the computer. Last Tuesday, I blogged how technology (laptop computers, mainly) allowed me to be a nomadic writer–writing wherever and whenever I chose without being tied … Read More
Two laptops and my “happy light” to battle those gray Oregon winters. Long gone are the days of a writer hunched over a typewriter. I love that in today’s world, we can write anywhere. I rarely work at a desk. I have one, but it’s in the darkest part of the house and is usually … Read More
Happy Birthday, Jane Austen! It’s times like this where my brain starts turning in funny circles. What if Jane Austen (born Dec. 16, 1775) could be transported to today? What would she think of us reading her novels on iPads, Kindles, and Nooks? How would she react to her life’s work being offered for free … Read More
I’m excited to announce the winner of the Out of the Ruins cover reveal giveaway! I received 218 entries and Random.org chose entry 183. Who is #183? I’m glad you asked. It’s Linda Oliver Thompson! Congratulations, Linda! I went ahead and sent you an email. Linda will be choosing either a copy of MISTAKEN or … Read More
I’m excited to reveal the cover for my upcoming novel, Out of the Ruins, the first book in the Golden Gate Chronicles series. The art department at Abingdon Press did a spectacular job on this artwork. It’s such joy seeing a character I have dreamed about for years come to life on a book cover! Meet … Read More
“God, I can’t do this. I can’t make this story work.” I’d reached that point in the rough draft where everything seems hopeless. The characters feel flat; the plot twisted beyond help. I’d been there with Mistaken. I’d pushed through it with Out of the Ruins (Book 1 of the Golden Gate Chronicles, releasing in … Read More
I long ago gave up the idea of being the cool parent that all my kids’ friends would adore. Since I make up stories and talk to invisible people, I’m much better suited to being the “weird mom.” As a writer, I probably spend too much time locked in my house, or hanging out with … Read More