When I began writing historical fiction, I knew I would need to research settings, events and people related to a time period. Hair styles, clothing, furniture, and other items needed accurate description. However, I never thought I’d research women’s cosmetics. My current story drove me in this direction. I needed to understand the cosmetics available […]
I received notice last night that I am a finalist in the ACFW Genesis contest for unpublished writers. Last year, I finished as a semi-finalist. The winners will be announced Saturday evening at the ACFW convention in New Orleans. (I chose not to attend this year, so will not experience the excitement and anticipation of
Thrilled to be a Finalist in the ACFW Genesis ContestRead More »
I announced last month on social media my new book cover for a novelette Dreams in Conflict, but I forgot to post it here. I was so focused on final edits, researching and plotting a new novel, taking a weekend getaway and wrangling an appliance replacement, it slipped my mind. I’ll post again when the
An author of historical fiction must perform research to understand the time period. I love to research and often must time-box my efforts, lest I get lost in the research and never write anything! One thing I consult, and enjoy, is a map from the era. I’ve always enjoyed looking at maps. Years ago, I
I have been researching the 1850s for new stories. I wanted a character who was an unmarried woman, interested in the early women’s right movement, living in Boston and independently wealthy. In our current time period, such a character is very plausible and could gain wealth in different ways. She could inherit, of course, make
I’m excited to announce my March newsletter will feature a short story by a fellow American Christian Fiction Writers member, Mary Kay Moody. Mary was a 2023 Finalist in the ACFW Genesis Contest for unpublished writers. I think you will enjoy her story “The Night Visitors.” Offering her story is part of my goal to
March newsletter to feature a story by Mary Kay MoodyRead More »
A painful realization grips Aksah, fueling her desperation. How can she save her brother? This biblical fiction short story releases in my February newsletter and will only be available to subscribers. If you don’t receive the newsletter, subscribe now so you don’t miss the story. Aksah is a minor character in my novel set in
I’m queuing up another newsletter for readers of historical and biblical fiction. This issue includes: The newsletter is free. Subscribe now! The issue publishes on Thursday at 10 a.m. Central time.
Today I put the finishing touches on a short story for Christmas. I’ll be shipping it in my newsletter by the end of the month. If you haven’t, be sure to subscribe to my free newsletter. Don’t miss “A Good Christmas.” The story is set in a small town in eastern Kansas in 1933, the
Do you remember climbing your first tree? I climbed a small mimosa tree at my great aunties’ house when I was in early elementary school. I even tried to climb the big pines in their front yard while they watched, but was too small. Climbing a tree can give you a new perspective and a
