Tips and Tricks, Writing

Writing Unique Characters

One of the most important aspects of a story, if not the most important, is your character creation. Characters provide the depth, connection, and relatability that readers are searching for within a book. Even the most intriguing plot falls flat if the characters don’t leap off the page.  One of the easiest pitfalls when creating… Continue reading Writing Unique Characters

Writing

How to Execute the Perfect Crime

...as an author, of course. You have thought of the perfect crime. The who, what, why, and when are all planned out. But, you now stand at the precipice. Before you is a single blinking cursor. How do you write out the perfect crime so that your audience is engaged, your story has suspense, yet… Continue reading How to Execute the Perfect Crime

Original Work, Writing

1st Place Prize

I am so happy to announce that I have won the Sadie Tells Stories Flash Fiction Contest. The theme was magic with a max of 500 words. Creating an entire world of magic with compelling characters in only 500 words was a real challenge, but I am very happy where the story ended up. You… Continue reading 1st Place Prize

Book Review, Writing

Little Women: A Book Review of the Classic Novel

Little Women is a classic for a reason. It has been on my to read list for years, especially since I adore the movie. Fierce Jo, sweet Beth, beautiful Meg, and refined Amy. These four girls captured my heart in the film and they did even more so in the book (which is really no… Continue reading Little Women: A Book Review of the Classic Novel

Prompts, WordSmith Musings, Writing

Writing Prompt #19

It was a dark and stormy night. She was thrilled. This was her favorite kind of weather. It was the sunny days you had to watch out for. She shivered at the thought. Interested in getting your short story published? Submit your short story from this prompt using my contacts page and have a chance… Continue reading Writing Prompt #19

Tips and Tricks, WordSmith Musings, Writing

How to Write Thrilling Suspense Into Your Novel

Suspense is one of the best ways to keep your readers hooked...but poorly done suspense can make your story fall flat or become way too predictable. Follow these five tips to write exciting and thrilling stories.

WordSmith Musings, Writing

Author Spotlight: Ally Carter

Ally Carter is a fantastic author who has written some of my favorite series. I longed to be a Gallagher Girl or travel to Embassy Row or maybe even try stealing my own Monet (kidding). Still, she knows how to weave a story together, creating suspense and thrills within each novel and throughout the whole… Continue reading Author Spotlight: Ally Carter