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
Creative Writing
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
A Chapter Outline Can Be Your Friend (Even If You’re a Pantster)
Over the years, I’ve become more of a pantster (someone who flies by the seat of my pants) instead of a plotter (someone who writes out a detailed plot outline). I’m not entirely sure why the change happened. Maybe I simply learned to trust my own writing process. Maybe I realized that most of my carefully … Continue reading A Chapter Outline Can Be Your Friend (Even If You’re a Pantster)
How to Keep Going With a Writing Project When You Want to Give Up
Where is My Story Hiding? Every writer knows the moment when the glitter of a new idea has dulled and your story feels like it might be an unsalvageable mess. You start to wonder if you should put it aside for now, or maybe forever. I’m writing from experience because that’s where I was with … Continue reading How to Keep Going With a Writing Project When You Want to Give Up
How to Write a Historical Mystery That Brings the Past To Life
Historical fiction is kind of my thing. I was the executive editor of a literary journal of historical fiction for more than 20 years, and most of the novels I've written are historical. Last week I shared some general mystery writing tips. This week, I want to share what I've learned specifically about writing historical … Continue reading How to Write a Historical Mystery That Brings the Past To Life
Finding Your Voice: How To Discover Your Unique Writing Style
When I’m teaching writing, one of my favorite things to cover is the author's voice. It’s an intriguing subject for me because a strong author voice can make a piece, and a boring author voice can break it. When I was running The Copperfield Review, one thing that quickly turned me off from wanting to … Continue reading Finding Your Voice: How To Discover Your Unique Writing Style