Inspired by Life ... and Fiction

Novelists bound by the pen, sisterhood, & more

The Next Book

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I’m in between novels at the moment, and searching for inspiration. After writing 29 books, I sometimes feel like I’ve used every storyline, every setting, and every plot device there is. I’m certainly not ready to retire, but what do I write about next? As I faced the blank computer screen, casting about for ideas—life happened. My life. This past month our family suffered a huge loss when … [Read more...]

Bookish Delights

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Ever since I was a pre-schooler, books have filled me with delight. Walking into a library or bookstore filled me with wonder as a child, and I still get that same adrenaline rush as an adult. With all the responsibilities of adulthood, I find I don't have as much time to read as I would like, so I compensate by surrounding myself with other bookish delights. I collect Willow Tree figurines, … [Read more...]

A Day at the Beach—Regency style

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It’s summertime here in the northern hemisphere. If you’re having hot, sunny weather where you live as well, perhaps you've cooled off with a visit to the beach. I’ve been spending a lot of time on the beach myself. Not in reality, but in researching a future novel set on the English seaside. I’m guessing some of you may have watched the fairy recent miniseries, Sanditon (based on Jane … [Read more...]

Fun Interviews (and a Book to Win)

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[AND THE WINNER OF BRIDGES IS...Betsy Hale! Congratulations, Betsy. Please e-mail me at debraney@mac.com for details on how to get your book.] Since in-person conferences, book signings, and other gatherings have been so slim (to none!) this past year, it's been extra fun to be part of some Zoom interviews recently. Yesterday, my Books & Brew interview with author Andrew Huff went live … [Read more...]

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