One subject of writing craft that’s always fascinated me is the intersection of fiction and creative nonfiction. I’ve studied and read both over the years, learning that there’s a very thin line separating them. In most cases, a book’s label boils down to what the writer wants to call it. Or what they’re comfortable saying it truly is. This was one of the struggles I had with my first novel. With a professional background in journalism, I intended to write … Read More »

Do you struggle to write short? Is your style more Hemingway or Faulkner? There are famous authors known for writing long, beautiful sentences. It’s not easy. But, either is writing one that can cut like a knife in six words or less. For this month’s blog, I wanted to discuss ways to strengthen our work by using fewer words. My first job was writing for a newspaper. Editors expected me to strip away unnecessary words. They weren’t as strict about … Read More »

As I write my third FWA blog from quarantine, one reality is becoming abundantly clear — no one knows when this is going to end. Health experts are now saying we should all prepare for the long haul. This could be the “new norm” for some time. What does this mean for authors? I’ve seen many writers posting online about having extra time to be productive (but this hasn’t been my case). The truth is writing doesn’t require you to … Read More »

Greetings from the quarantine. While most of my blog posts have been about the writing craft, I’ve decided to focus on how the book industry is faring with COVID-19. It’s not looking good right now for publishers, booksellers or authors. International book expos and conferences have been canceled, while many bookstores have laid-off their workers and closed without any idea of when they’ll open again. Authors who had planned book appearances —  a way to promote their new books and … Read More »

Earlier this month, before the coronavirus shut everything down, I traveled to St. Petersburg for a freelance writing conference. Besides teaching at a state college in Fort Myers, I also make ends meet by writing for clients. A few hours before the conference started, I had the unique experience of visiting the Salvador Dalí Museum. Not that I’m an expert in fine art or possess the ability to paint something absolutely earth-shattering, but when I have time in a new … Read More »

Grappling with trauma through writing is the hardest, but most rewarding thing any survivor can do. Whether they are processing the horrors of war, an abusive relationship or a devastating diagnosis, writers often employ coping mechanisms in their work to aid in searching for their own truth and inner peace. On February 13, the German people recognized the 75th anniversary of the Dresden firebombing, often obscured in the history books but undoubtedly one of the deadliest attacks of World War … Read More »