Every January since I started running about a decade ago (has it really been that long?! Jeez, no wonder my hip hurts) I’ve celebrated New Year’s Day with a long run. Traditionally, the first song I cue on my playlist is U2’s “New Year’s Day”. (Yes, I’m that dorky. No, it doesn’t bother me anymore.)... Continue Reading →
NaNoWriMo, Indie Style: My Rebel Writing Project for 2017
Heroine vows to undertake a mighty task. Despair and self-doubt gnaw on her, and she loses her nerve. But at the last moment she finds her courage and steps up to the challenge. Plot of my next novel? Not exactly. It's the epic tale of how I came to participate in my first-ever National Novel... Continue Reading →
Looking back, moving forward: 2017 Writeolutions
Maybe it's my OCD talking, but year's end always strikes me as a good time for cleaning. As long as I'm packing away the holiday decorations, why not go a bit further and start the new year organized? While tidying my office recently, I unearthed a folder crammed full of writing-related material I'd forgotten I'd... Continue Reading →
Recent Reads: “Ancillary Sword” by Ann Leckie
Ancillary Sword lacks some sharpness, but still holds an edge as unique science fiction literature. The story resumes where its predecessor Ancillary Justice left off. Breq, now captain of an imperial ship, embarks on an errand to a neighboring star system where social conflicts simmer. Leckie seems determined to include the panoply of trending laments: colonialism, the plight... Continue Reading →
Passion in Publishing: Why I’m #PoweredByIndie
“You’re a published author?” My new acquaintance’s eyes widen in surprise. “Where can I find your books?” “On Amazon,” I explain. “I publish independently.” I watch my companion’s expression for the unmistakable flickers of confusion, disappointment, or even contempt. But only a smile appears. “That’s so cool! What’s it called?” I’ve had this conversation a... Continue Reading →
Fantasy Flashback: Analyzing Two 90’s YA Books
I finally set up my writing/music studio in the new house, and while unpacking I discovered several of my favorite childhood YA titles in a neglected box of books. (No, I'm not a book hoarder. I can donate them to the library any time I want. Really.) Around ages 9-12, I gobbled up heroine-centric adventure stories, many in... Continue Reading →