I know many people watch a lot of movies over the holidays (both Christmas movies and other types as well). With my annual manuscript deadline falling in January, most of my movie-watching occurs after the holiday season traditionally ends. But once I reach that deadline, I reward myself with a few movies that have become treasured old friends. Here are five of my go-to movies I like to watch … [Read more...]

Goodness, it's a busy time of year, and a very busy week for me and I'm guessing for most of you as well. My Christmas will be a simple one, due to multiple deadlines. I haven't yet baked a single cookie or wrapped a present, but will be busy today, trying to catch up! Still, I wanted to pause a moment and wish a Merry and Blessed Christmas to all the Inspired by Life and Fiction readers and … [Read more...]

This past weekend I attended the annual Christmas event of the Jane Austen Society of North America's Minnesota chapter. We gather every December to honor Jane Austen, whose birthday is December 16th. This year we enjoyed a delicious brunch at an elegant country club, where we were entertained by a talented singer/songwriter named Monica Livorsi, who performed songs from her album, All About … [Read more...]

When my first novel, Lady of Milkweed Manor, released nearly 17 years ago, I didn't think ahead and imagine I'd have twenty books someday, I was just thankful to have one! I know lots of authors have written many more novels (including several authors here on Inspired by Life and Fiction) but I am still so very thankful. Being a published author is my lifelong dream come true. And being an … [Read more...]