Writing characters that are so real, your fans feel like they know them personally, is every writers goal. I've found some great little quotes that can help you along that path: "First, place an instance of self-talk very near your story's opening to immediately build characterization." ~ Nancy Kress "The…
Next up on the calendar of events for the local Treasure Valley area are a few things I'd like to share. September 14, WRITER CEO ONE-DAY WORKSHOP with Donna Cook And Colleen Story. This is an all-day workshop at the Hampton Inn & Suites, downtown Boise. You can see more…
Readers love a good mystery. One where they are surprised at the end. But how can you deliver such a suspenseful story? A strong hook Does it grab the reader's interest by teasing some further discovery? Does it pose a question the reader will strongly want answered? Does it contain…
I hope you all had a wonderful 4th of July! I spent it with a couple of amazing writer friends in a lake house in Donnelly, Idaho. So beautiful! But what's coming up next? Where's here's what I know: Wednesday, July 17 - 6:00 pm - Meridian Library on Cherry…
Pile on the doubt. Did he really see a crime or not? When in doubt, cast doubt. No only do the neighbors doubt, but now the character doubts himself. A can of traits. Every minor character has unique traits that stand out. Be sure to add all five senses. Hear…
I just finished the book Murder In Clichy by Cara Black. If you haven't read any of her Aimee Leduc series, give yourself a treat. Especially if you like France and the French language. Aimee Leduc is a private investigator in Paris, and this is book five in the series.…
I created a reading list in the same way I create my shopping list for the grocery store. After all, nourishment for my brain and spirit are just as important as nourishment for my body. Wouldn't you agree? I'm always up for the next FBI Agent Pendergast book from Preston…
Join me on Wednesday, May 15 at the Meridian Library, 1326 W. Cherry Lane. This class is part of the library's Writers Bloc and starts at 6:00 pm. We'll cover these great topics and how they relate to short stories: Character Setting Conflict Plot Theme Dialogue Killer openings and endings…
It's always fun to attend my favorite hometown bookstore, especially when I get to hear a local author read from their latest book. But on May 9, 2019, you get to come to Rediscovered Books in downtown Boise and hear me read from my latest book, The Man In Number…
BookBub is a free service that helps you discover books you'll love through unbeatable deals, handpicked recommendations, and updates from your favorite authors. Bookbub doesn't actually sell books. They simply introduce you to books you'll love that are available on retailers like Amazon's Kindle store, Barnes & Noble's Nook store,…