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Inspired by Life ... and Fiction

Novelists bound by the pen, sisterhood, & more

The Reality of Romance

September 10, 2020 By Cara Putman

Romance is hard work. In our novels, we often stop at the point that a couple is discovering and leaning into their new love -- unless it's a marriage of convenience, and then they have to learn to love each other as newly married strangers. They go through struggles to reach that point, real barriers, but then the book closes with an acknowledgment that life won't necessarily be easy, but as … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Writing Tagged With: marriage, romance

Creating Characters that Evoke Deep Emotion

September 4, 2020 By Jody Hedlund

I recently received an email from a writer named Ariana who is struggling with character development: “I am currently writing a book and would like your advice on it. I'm stuck on how to make it so the reader can feel like the characters in my book...if that makes sense.”   It makes perfect sense, Ariana! Thanks for asking such an important question. A vital part of the reading experience … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Writing Tagged With: Characters, Emotions, Jody Hedlund

Another Manuscript Finished

September 3, 2020 By Karen Witemeyer

It is always such a relief and a feeling of accomplishment to get a book turned in. August 15 was the deadline for Book 2 in my Hanger's Horseman series. I'm pleased to report that The Heart's Charge is in my editors' hands. This book was challenging but so rewarding to write. I can't wait to share it with you! This is my longest book to date at just under 103,000 words. The editing process … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Writing

Coming Home to Small Town Life

August 20, 2020 By Karen Witemeyer

I'm delighted to have Marilyn Turk step in for me today. You're in for a treat! Take it away, Marilyn . . . First of all, I’m so happy to be here with you! I love all the authors on this blog, so I’m honored to be here. Thank you, Karen, for the opportunity to be your guest! Did you move away from your hometown when you got married, went to college, got your first job? Did you ever move … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Assorted & Sundry, Reading, Writing Tagged With: Abigails Secret, Marilyn Turk, Small Town Maine

So You’ve Written a Book. Now What?

August 7, 2020 By Jody Hedlund

I recently received an email from Iris, a fifteen old writer, asking me a few questions about publication and writing. Here are a couple of her questions: “I am fifteen years old and want to be an author someday. I have already finished my first book but I have a few questions. Was your first book rejected by publishers, and if so, how did you deal with it? I read a lot about books being … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Assorted & Sundry, Writing Tagged With: First Book, Jody Hedlund, New Writer

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