Last week, I wrote about what finishing a book teaches you as a writer. This week, I wanted to take a look at what a good ending in fiction looks like. One of the first things I know about any story I’m writing is how it ends. For my current #WIP, I saw the final … Continue reading The Art of Ending Well: How to Write Satisfying Conclusions
Creative Writing
What Finishing a Book Teaches You as a Writer
Well, friends, as I've said, The Professor of Eventide is done and ready for its close-up. The first two reviews have come in and they are both five stars. Thank heavens! The funny thing is, I’m almost sorry it’s done. It has been quite a challenge bringing this story to life. On the one hand, … Continue reading What Finishing a Book Teaches You as a Writer
Writing My First Mystery: The Challenges No One Warned Me About
I love to watch mysteries. I’ve watched all of Poirot with David Suchet several times. I’ve watched two different Miss Marples. I've also watched all three Morses (Morse, Lewis, and Endeavour). I’ve read a number of mysteries too (mostly Poirot, Sherlock Holmes, and the Inspector Morse books). Finally, in Spring 2024, I decided to write … Continue reading Writing My First Mystery: The Challenges No One Warned Me About
The Art of Reading Like a Writer: What Books Have Taught Me About Craft
I’ve always believed that we can only ingest so many words from other people until we’re compelled to spill some back out. Long before we understand plot arcs, character construction, or theme, most of us fall first in love with reading. For me, reading in childhood began as an escape from a frantic, stressful family … Continue reading The Art of Reading Like a Writer: What Books Have Taught Me About Craft
Is Being an Independent Author Worth It?
This year, 2026, is the 15th anniversary of the publication of Her Dear & Loving Husband. I’ve written those words several times now, and I still can’t quite believe it. In 2026, James and Sarah Wentworth continue to find new fans all over the world. I still can’t quite believe that either. I've been a … Continue reading Is Being an Independent Author Worth It?
The Creative Power of Humor: Writing Lessons from Dickens
Charles Dickens was more than a social critic—he was a master of humor. Discover how Dickens used comedy to build characters, balance dark themes, and connect with readers, and what modern writers can learn from him.
Who Are You When You’re Not Writing?
When I wrote The Swirl and Swing of Words in 2024, I was coming off of a writing hiatus, one of several that I’ve taken over the 25 years that I’ve been a published writer. I had hopped from one project to the next for 13 years; beginning in 2009, when I began writing Her … Continue reading Who Are You When You’re Not Writing?
From Dickens To Today: Why Writers Can’t Escape Time and Mortality
As I’ve been working on my WIP, two main themes have emerged so far: time and mortality. The passing of time and impending death are common themes in some of my favorite novels, poems, and plays. Death is the great equalizer, after all. Since this is Halloween month, I thought it was a good time … Continue reading From Dickens To Today: Why Writers Can’t Escape Time and Mortality