Inspired by Life ... and Fiction

Novelists bound by the pen, sisterhood, & more

Notes from RWA17–Dolphins and Swans and Stories–Oh, my!

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I just got home two days ago from attending the Romance Writers of America annual conference which took place this year in Disney World at the beautiful Swan and Dolphin Resort Hotel. I'd been there twice before but the first time I never left the hotel and the second time I had a horrible experience due to my former doctor giving me the wrong blood pressure prescription. This time, I wanted a … [Read more...]

Be Still

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I'm in the Caribbean at the moment, so author Carol Moncado is guest-blogging for me today AND offering a giveaway.  So be sure to check the bottom of this post for the inside scoop on the prize pack we're offering. I first touched bases with Carol when she sent me a note of encouragement after the release of my first novel for the Christian market.  Shortly after, I was able to meet her in … [Read more...]

Creativity and Inspiration & Audio Giveaway

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This new book  I'm writing has been a bit of a bear. It's a book that will require me to dive deep into places I don't want to necessarily go, and it's also being written in a season of chaos in our life. [Tweet "Join @cara_putman for a tour of her #writing desk and audiobook #giveaway. #amwriting #inspiration"] I've learned the hard way that chaos and creativity don't go together well in my … [Read more...]

Unpack and Repack

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On Monday afternoon, my flight from Spokane touched down in Boise after five days and four nights at our annual brainstorming retreat. This was our 15th retreat, and every year they grow sweeter and sweeter. Yes, we brainstorm book ideas. We usually do a book each for nine novelists. We also have a couple of non-fiction writers who are with us. In addition to brainstorming, we share deep thoughts … [Read more...]

Mourning Like Jane Austen

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This past Saturday I attended the monthly meeting of the Minnesota chapter of the Jane Austen Society of North America. My author-friend Michelle Griep attended with me. Our guest speaker was Candice Hern, fellow JASNA member and fellow Regency author. Candice has written many novels, is very knowledgeable, and is a collector of Regency ephemera and antiques like magazines, fashion plates, … [Read more...]

Ooops! We Goofed. (Thus, a Giveaway!)

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UPDATE: THE WINNERS OF THE DRAWING ARE: KATHY EGER AND BRENDA MURPHREE. Congrats, ladies. If you will e-mail your snail mail addresses to me at debraney@mac.com, I'll get your copies in the mail ASAP. As you know, my husband and I are in the process of getting some of my older titles updated and back in print and e-book formats through our Raney Day Press. When I ordered a couple of copies of … [Read more...]

Three Ways Authors Can Keep Research Details From Boring Their Readers

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I always enjoy when I have the chance to talk with readers and book groups. Whether via a library presentation, through a Skype session, or in person, readers always ask me about my research: How do you do all your research? How much time does it take? Do you try to visit the places that you’re researching? Since I'm a historical writer, research is an integral part of my writing … [Read more...]

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