Inspired by Life ... and Fiction

Novelists bound by the pen, sisterhood, & more

Big Friendships & Tiny Little Doughnuts

By

I always love it when Deb (Raney), a dear friend and my writing critique partner for 20+ years and counting, comes to visit, especially when she brings Ken! It was a quick visit—not even 24 hours but we packed in a lot of fun. Friday night our kids joined us for a simple taco dinner (including Joe's delicious guacamole), then we played Blockbuster, a game where you compete to discover who knows … [Read more...]

A nonbake cake for JUNE!

By

If you like to bake like I do, the thought of baking in June isn't exactly appealing--it's hot enough outside without turning on the oven. But while watching Youtube the other day, I discovered a cake recipe that doesn't require baking . . . so if you can make pancakes, you can make this. And to give proper credit, here's a link to the video. Here's my translation of the recipe: … [Read more...]

Highs and Lows

By

The writing life (like every life) is full of highs and lows, ups and downs. One week a writer skips both showers and meals to try to make a deadline. The next she gets a great review that sets her world aright. One day a book is in major trouble. Another day it finals in a contest or receives an award. On Tuesday of this week, I turned in a book to my editor. Now I wait with bated breath to … [Read more...]

Release Day Countdown

By

Fairest of Heart, the first book in my Texas Ever After series, releases in just five days! I can't wait to share Titus and Penelope's story with you. As a young girl, I spent countless hours with my Fisher Price record player, listening to Disney storybooks and singing along with my favorite princesses on their journey to find their happily ever afters. Is it any wonder I grew up to be a … [Read more...]

Proud Mom Moment!

By

Our oldest daughter graduated from college this month! How it started.... How it's going.... Our family spent the weekend in California celebrating her graduation ceremonies. Despite all the Covid craziness that struck during the spring of her freshman year, she had a FABULOUS college experience. She loved going to school in southern California. She joined a sorority and … [Read more...]

7 Tips for Successful Book Clubs

By

As I continue to write books, one of the things I've been thinking about lately is how can I as a writer interact more with book clubs? I love the dynamic that occurs when book lovers start talking about a book they've all read. There is something magical about watching readers interact with my characters and story. It's a mix between oddly terrifying and liberating. [Tweet "Want to participate … [Read more...]

Seasons of Change

By

Hi friends, Today, am I so excited to have my good friend and fellow suspense author Nancy Mehl here at Inspired by Life...and Fiction to share about herself as well as her upcoming release COLD PURSUIT! Sit back, relax, and enjoy this post by Nancy! I love the different seasons, but my favorite season is winter. Why? I think it’s because when it’s cold outside, I can sit in front of a … [Read more...]

Monthly Archives

Blog Categories

Recent Posts

Disclosure

Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the pages on this site may be "affiliate links." This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, someone will receive an affiliate commission. We are disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."