In this month’s writing group, one of my fellow writers brought up that they were told they need to show more, the old show don’t tell writing rule. While this rule is one hundred percent true, it also fails it’s own advice. It’s too vague to be helpful. A...

Today’s writing tip (let it go) is one that I have only recently understood. By trying different types of prompts and working on beloved ideas, I’ve realized that my best writing comes when I’m able to get out of the way. It sounds counterintuitive, but the work I don’t...

I feel like I’ve been reading up a storm lately, but it’s nothing compared to what I see on booktube. Many of the booktubers I watch, like Marines, Jack, and Jesse, read about a book a day. I don’t know how they do it other than they must be...

The biggest secret to worldbuilding is knowing that it’s more than a backdrop. Yes, scenery and fantastical weapons and costumes are part of it, but if that’s all you include, your story will fall flat. That’s because worldbuilding is more than mountains and trees and cityscapes or fun pops...

One of the most common pieces of writing advice I hear is to join a writing group. And while I wholeheartedly agree with this, it’s a lot easier said than done. First, let’s start with the benefits. Writing groups are a community Writing is a solitary practice. However, by...

I’ve seen several reading challenges and book bingos on Pinterest and other blogs. I love the idea, especially bingo. It’s both fun and interactive. And it encourages reading outside of your comfort zone. However, some of them can be very challenging. Not everyone wants to read a book that...

The third book in the Three Pines/Inspector Gamache series takes us back to the village of Three Pines where we visit again with main cast from the first two books. It’s Easter and to shake things up a bit, a our beloved group of locals decide to have a...

I’ve learned the importance of having a writing schedule the hard way. For years, I waited for inspiration to strike or to ‘feel’ like writing only to be disappointed in myself for letting time slip away without actually writing. The bottom line is, you can’t be a writer if...

I’m planning to get results in 2023 for goals I’ve put off pursuing, primarily with writing and blogging. Every year, every month, every week time seems to move faster. As of right now, I don’t have any true obstacles to keep me from working on my novel or keeping...

For the first time ever, I’m creating an official reading goal for 2023. I’ve made GoodReads reading challenges in the past. But, that’s a number, I don’t usually plan what I’m reading. I prefer to pick my next book based on whatever I’m in the mood for at the...