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
Writing
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?
How Atmosphere, Ambition, and Mystery Inspired My #WIP
I'm nearing the end of writing my current #WIP. It's not done done but it's getting there. I've completed the fourth draft, and I'm currently giving the manuscript (and myself) a rest for a week or two. The way things stand now, the novel will be published in 2026. As soon as I have a … Continue reading How Atmosphere, Ambition, and Mystery Inspired My #WIP
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.
Remembering Gratitude: The Secret Weapon for Every Creative Soul
Discover how gratitude can transform your creative practice. Learn why thankfulness isn't just feel-good advice—it's a powerful tool for overcoming blocks, sustaining motivation, and deepening your craft as a writer.
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
My Weekend Routine as a Working Writer
* * * * * The Loving Husband Trilogy Box Set will be a Kindle Countdown sale starting tomorrow, 10/15, on Amazon. If you have Kindle Unlimited, all three books are FREE until 11/16. This Halloween, surrender to the shadows of the paranormal with three novels, one Gothic romance, and many deadly secrets. The countdown … Continue reading My Weekend Routine as a Working Writer
Soundtracking Shadows: A Dark Academia Writing Playlist
In Painting the Past: A Guide for Writing Historical Fiction, I waxed poetic about how I love to listen to music as a way to get into the mindset of my story while I’m writing. Sometimes I listen to whatever I want. Sometimes I listen to music inspired by the time or the mood I’m … Continue reading Soundtracking Shadows: A Dark Academia Writing Playlist
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)