Valerie Biel’s debut novel Circle of Nine – Beltany has been honored as a 2015 Kindle Book Award Finalist, a finalist in the Gotham Writers' YA Novel Discovery Contest and the Readers' Favorite Book Award Contest as well as being a B.R.A.G. Medallion Honoree. In addition to the young adult stories in the Circle of Nine World, she has also authored two middle-grade novels.

I am nearly to my 60-book reading goal for the entire year! Here are my favorite 17 (yes 17) from the past two months. MIDDLE GRADE The Wishtree by Katherine Applegate Purchase HERE. This is a delightful book narrated by the neighborhood’s 200-year-old oak, an special tree where people leave their wishes tied to its branches. When a young Muslim girl moves in next door to the tree, she writes her own wish that she’d like a friend, but not everyone is welcoming in their new home.

The November installment of the 2021 Author Series, where a published author shares the advice they would give to their pre-published self along with what they wished they'd known before they published their first book, features Barbara Britton. I think I met Barbara at my very first writing conference more than a decade ago. Since then, it has been fun to watch her writing career take flight! I have often featured her books, celebrated her book launches, and interviewed her about her publishing journey in this space. I love all of her books--her Biblical Fiction titles are just delightful!

This fall I’ve been extremely fortunate to achieve some quality writing time in ways that were unusually helpful: a week-long writing residency and a weekend writing retreat. Both have given me a clarity on my current work in progress and energized me to finish this story more quickly than I ever could have imagined when I started it in September. Write On, Door County Residency Do you ever go somewhere and then wonder if maybe you shouldn’t review it because you don’t want everyone to learn about your favorite beach or restaurant? Yes? That’s what Write On, Door County feels like for me.

So, the novel is in the hands of the powers-that-be. While its future hangs in the balance, what does a writer do in the meantime? It could be the perfect moment to step away from writing. Give the brain a break from creating and living inside your book’s world. Full breaks from the keyboard have benefits—and I do take advantage of it. Usually, it’s during the summer, and a pontoon boat and hot sun are involved. Sending a manuscript out to be read by industry experts is thrilling. I know revision lies ahead for my work. And my mind is still in the story and characters I’ve created.

Welcome to the 2022 Author Series. Here we will continue to share the knowledge (often hard-won) from published authors as they tell us what they wish they’d known before they published or what they wish they could tell their prepublished selves. Our February author is Sherrill Joseph, creator of the delightful Botanic Hill Detectives Mysteries for middle-grade readers! As a mother, grandmother, retired teacher, and now children's author, Sherrill Joseph has made kids her life. She wishes they ran the world.

The author series continues, sharing the knowledge (often hard-won) from published authors as they tell us what they would tell their pre-published selves. This month's featured author is the talented John DeDakis, who gives an entertaining conversation between his pre-published self and his post-published self. Award-winning novelist, writing coach, and manuscript editor John DeDakis is a former editor on CNN's "The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer." DeDakis is the author of five mystery-suspense-thriller novels.

We're joined today by another fellow Blackbird Writer, Carl Vonderau, who is sharing his wisdom on what he wishes he could tell his prepublished self as well as what he always does to make book launches successful. ABOUT CARL: Carl Vonderau is an award-winning author of crime fiction. As a child growing up in Cleveland, he loved to write. His ghost stories scared the bejesus out of other kids. But it took a long time to become a full-time author. He left Cleveland to study at Stanford, then spent more than thirty years as a banker in the U.S., Latin America, and North Africa.

Every writer benefits from writing classes or writing instruction. Even the best writers seek an outside perspective. Almost every professional, whether involved with writing, sports, or business, admits that continued instruction is helpful. Have you contemplated taking a class? Perhaps you’re seeking certification or maybe you’re enrolling in school to acquire a writing degree. I returned to school after many years to pursue a master’s degree. It was difficult and exhausting but worth it. Yes, for me, two-and-a-half years of writing classes was a fantastic choice.

I love books. I read a lot! I also like to talk about what I read. Lucky me . . . I have a blog where I can do that. Here are my favorite reads so far in 2020. Write in Time by Meg Matenaer I can’t believe this is Meg Matenaer’s debut novel! Write in Time is simply a delightful read with an interesting cast of characters that interact in authentic and often humorous ways. You’ll love them, quirks and all.

I'm pleased to share an interview with author Lynne Handy whose newest book, Old Sins, will release later this month. This is book three in her Maria Pell Mystery Series, but it can easily be read as a standalone. I love Lynne's writing (as you'll see by my review of Old Sins) and appreciated this chance to learn more about her. Enjoy! My review - 5-stars! Old Sins, featuring poet and amateur sleuth Maria Pell, grabs you from the first page and doesn’t let go. Exceptionally well plotted, the book’s mysteries and crimes—both old and new—weave together in intricate and unexpected ways.

World Reading Habits 2021 The Year of More Author Reach 2022 Publishing Trends and Predictions Why Now is the Best Time to Be an Author FEATURED ARTICLES As one would expect January brings a flurry (pun intended) of year-in-review and year-to-come articles for every industry. Here are some that help make sense of the crazy world of publishing.

There’s a long tradition of celebrating some of our favorite works of literature with collections of recipes that are directly referenced in books or inspired by them. After all, C.S. Lewis once said, "Eating and reading are two pleasures that combine admirably." Eat, Read & Dream Cookbook from IndieBRAG I have always been a fan of literary cookbooks, so when my book series was offered the opportunity to be part of one, I was quite excited. The indieBRAG Eat, Read, and Dream Cookbook highlights recipes from books that have earned the B.R.A.G. Medallion. (B.R.A.G.

We're gearing up for the holidays with the annual great gifts post from author T.K. (Tracey Kathryn) Sheffield. And I love, love, love that's she's suggesting a lot of 'experiences' vs. gifts. But I'd be remiss if I didn't congratulate Tracey on the release of her debut novel this past week. It's a fantastic cozy mystery, she gives a description of it below, but I enjoyed this book so much, I want to share my review here before we get into her post! MODEL SUSPECT: VAL'S REVIEW "Better than Janet Evanovich! It’s rare that a book makes me laugh out loud this much . . .

I didn’t become a coffee drinker until my forties. How did I survive without it? I’m an early bird, so coffee, my computer, and my characters are what I’m about at five o’clock in the morning. Also, I love local coffee shops. They’re great places to meet friends and make notes about writing projects. (I can’t write in public spaces, though. Too distracting. When I write, it has to be in a quiet spot without noise or diversion.) I’m a member of a writer’s group where we share chapters of our mystery-novels-in-progress.

There’s a long tradition of celebrating some of our favorite works of literature with collections of recipes that are directly referenced in books or inspired by them. After all, C.S. Lewis once said, "Eating and reading are two pleasures that combine admirably." Eat, Read & Dream Cookbook from IndieBRAG I have always been a fan of literary cookbooks, so when my book series was offered the opportunity to be part of one, I was quite excited. The indieBRAG Eat, Read, and Dream Cookbook highlights recipes from books that have earned the B.R.A.G. Medallion. (B.R.A.G.

I didn’t become a coffee drinker until my forties. How did I survive without it? I’m an early bird, so coffee, my computer, and my characters are what I’m about at five o’clock in the morning. Also, I love local coffee shops. They’re great places to meet friends and make notes about writing projects. (I can’t write in public spaces, though. Too distracting. When I write, it has to be in a quiet spot without noise or diversion.) I’m a member of a writer’s group where we share chapters of our mystery-novels-in-progress.

I spent August 8 - 11 at the Gaylord Texan Resort in Grapevine near Dallas where more than 150 authors signed books, memorabilia, and other keepsakes for 2200+ enthusiastic fans. The authors also presented great information at panel discussions, which I really appreciated as a writer. This is primarily a charitable event and while final numbers are still being tabulated there will be between $70,000 and $80,000 donated to amazing charities doing great work. (By the way, the pic above is indoors . . .

Last summer, I wrote a post about dialogue writing. I’m a conversationalist, a dialogue fan. I think it’s the best way to advance a story plus reveal a character’s nature without telling. Penning conversations takes special skill, however. A writer must get inside someone else’s mind to express what he or she would say. There are many blog posts that offer ideas about how to write strong dialogue. Tips about include being concise, creative, and use it to advance a story. Additional ideas are to read dialogue out loud, avoid distracting tags, and observe how others speak.

Wisconsin Writers Association 2020 Fall Conference Everyone Wants Barnes & Noble to Survive. Can It? Traditional Publishing Enjoys Its Best Sales in a Decade—Despite Supply Chain Problems FEATURED ARTICLES Wisconsin Writers Association 2020 Fall Conference – October 3 – Still time to register! The Wisconsin Writers Association Fall Conference is this Saturday, October 3. This is a steal at $30 for those who are already members of WWA and $50 for non-members. There is still to register HERE.

In my journey through the steps of independent publishing, refining my writing skills, and most recently completing a successful agent search, I’ve come across some excellent information, tips, tools, and shortcuts that I think would be beneficial to any writer. Once a month, I’ll share the “best of” information and news from the publishing industry as well as feature other authors and writing instructors with tips to share. I am incredibly thankful for the assistance and advice given to me from writing and publishing professionals and am happy pay that forward.

FEATURED ARTICLES: Should You Pay to Display Your Book at BookExpo? Facing Common Author Challenges with a Positive Outlook Should You Pay to Display Your Book at BookExpo? (Short Answer: No) The advice of Victoria Strauss is indispensable to authors and I highly recommend that you subscribe to her blog directly to make sure you don’t miss any of her pertinent warnings about less-than-honorable practices within the book industry. In one of her recent articles, she details why spending money to display your title(s) at BookExpo is not a great use of your hard-earned dollars.

In my journey through the steps of independent publishing, refining my writing skills, and most recently completing a successful agent search, I’ve come across some excellent information, tips, tools, and shortcuts that I think would be beneficial to any writer. Once a month, I’ll share the “best of” information and news from the publishing industry as well as feature other authors and writing instructors with tips to share. I am incredibly thankful for the assistance and advice given to me from writing and publishing professionals and am happy pay that forward.

My five favorite books from the past month include a fabulous historical nonfiction (perfect to expand your knowledge during Black History Month), a heart-pounding young adult novel, a sweetly funny romance, a beautifully written (& illustrated) picture book, and a poignant, gorgeous collection of short stories. What makes all of these extra special to me is that I know all of these authors and am so happy to share their beautiful work with you in this space.

November is cozy with its cool air, pumpkins, and turkey, but it’s also thrilling. For writers, that is. National Novel Writing Month is thirty days of writing, with the goal to produce fifty-thousand words for a novel. It’s a daunting challenge, but it’s also a self-directed class in writing-skills improvement. Plus, there are prizes at the end, and the NaNoWriMo site offers deals on products. (BTW, I write using Scrivener, which I recommend.

I am nearly to my 60-book reading goal for the entire year! Here are my favorite 17 (yes 17) from the past two months. MIDDLE GRADE The Wishtree by Katherine Applegate Purchase HERE. This is a delightful book narrated by the neighborhood’s 200-year-old oak, an special tree where people leave their wishes tied to its branches. When a young Muslim girl moves in next door to the tree, she writes her own wish that she’d like a friend, but not everyone is welcoming in their new home.

The beginning of 2021 has been a “hold my beer” moment. We thought 2020 was a challenge. This year apparently has upped the ante. What is a writer to do? How do writers concentrate on plot points and fiction projects when life appears to be stranger than any thriller ever composed? Methods to Improve Concentration My writing students often express frustration with their ability to concentrate. It’s a common dilemma, I say. To improve concentration, medical professionals offer advice that includes writing things down.

I’ve gotten my voice back and it only took a couple of days after speaking to wonderful attendees at Irish Fest in Milwaukee this past weekend. It was an incredible honor to be part of the Literary Corner in the Cultural Village. I met so many interesting people with a deep knowledge of Irish history and Celtic mythology. I’ve collected a host of emails of those willing to aid in researching my next Irish-themed novel (and sold quite a few books along the way.) I also was in some humbling company.

I am nearly to my 60-book reading goal for the entire year! Here are my favorite 17 (yes 17) from the past two months. MIDDLE GRADE The Wishtree by Katherine Applegate Purchase HERE. This is a delightful book narrated by the neighborhood’s 200-year-old oak, an special tree where people leave their wishes tied to its branches. When a young Muslim girl moves in next door to the tree, she writes her own wish that she’d like a friend, but not everyone is welcoming in their new home.

THE TOP TEN PUBLISHING TRENDS EVERY AUTHOR NEEDS TO KNOW IN 2021 FOUR STRATEGIC ACTIONS FOR A PRODUCTIVE WRITING YEAR INDEPENDENT PUBLISHING BLUEPRINT (Now Available) KEY PUBLISHING PATHS 2021-22 FEATURED ARTICLES The Top Ten Publishing Trends Every Author Needs to Know in 2021 The biggest news in these trends is that more traditionally published authors will move to indie publishing and that more platforms (beyond Amazon) will be competing for that indie author business. Overall, there will be more competition—and that also includes audiobook sales’ platforms.

This month Kim Taylor Blakemore is sharing the advice she wishes she could tell her pre-published self! These wonderful tips are essential reminders for those of us who have been writing for a while and invaluable advice for writers at the beginning of their publishing journeys. Like most of the featured authors in 2022, I connected with Kim through the Blackbird Writers. I'm so glad she was able to 'stop by' this month because her latest book just came out and I know she's super busy! Kim writes historical novels that feature fierce, audacious, and often dangerous women.

MORE ON VELLA – FROM AN AUTHOR PERSPECTIVE WHAT WRITERS DO TO FILL THEIR ‘CREATIVE’ WELL BEGINNING WRITER ADVICE FEATURED PUBLISHING PARTNER: JOANNA PENN FEATURED ARTICLES PTSD and Platform: Is Vella in Vain? Author Emily Shore writes an insightful article about her route to publishing on the Kindle Vella serialization platform amid personal struggles that could have derailed her progress! She details what these first days have been like along with the process and Facebook groups where authors have banded together to learn about Vella successes and struggles from each other.

Welcome to the May 2022 Author Series where published author Laurie Buchanan shares the advice she'd go back and tell her pre-published self--which is a great help to other writers. But this is also a great day for mystery / suspense readers because the second book in Laurie's Sean McPherson series, Iconoclast, releases today. These are fast-paced thrillers set in the Pacific Northwest, featuring a trifecta of malice and the pursuit and cost of justice. You'll want to read to the bottom of the post for my review and book purchasing information!

I spent August 8 - 11 at the Gaylord Texan Resort in Grapevine near Dallas where more than 150 authors signed books, memorabilia, and other keepsakes for 2200+ enthusiastic fans. The authors also presented great information at panel discussions, which I really appreciated as a writer. This is primarily a charitable event and while final numbers are still being tabulated there will be between $70,000 and $80,000 donated to amazing charities doing great work. (By the way, the pic above is indoors . . .

Every writer benefits from writing classes or writing instruction. Even the best writers seek an outside perspective. Almost every professional, whether involved with writing, sports, or business, admits that continued instruction is helpful. Have you contemplated taking a class? Perhaps you’re seeking certification or maybe you’re enrolling in school to acquire a writing degree. I returned to school after many years to pursue a master’s degree. It was difficult and exhausting but worth it. Yes, for me, two-and-a-half years of writing classes was a fantastic choice.

There’s a long tradition of celebrating some of our favorite works of literature with collections of recipes that are directly referenced in books or inspired by them. After all, C.S. Lewis once said, "Eating and reading are two pleasures that combine admirably." Eat, Read & Dream Cookbook from IndieBRAG I have always been a fan of literary cookbooks, so when my book series was offered the opportunity to be part of one, I was quite excited. The indieBRAG Eat, Read, and Dream Cookbook highlights recipes from books that have earned the B.R.A.G. Medallion. (B.R.A.G.

I’m an early riser. I adore the morning hours when no one else is awake; it’s the best time of day. I have a routine: I stretch my back, drink a mug of warm lemon water, then step outside to my wonderful backyard for fresh air. After that, it’s coffee and writing. The consistent process helps me stay on track. It’s what I need to get words on the page. Becoming aware of that need, that process, gave me a lightbulb moment; it provided enlightenment as I revised my mystery novel. There are certain things I require—movement, hydration, and fresh air—to start my writing day.

The benefits of putting words on paper In the era of social media and emojis, writing instructors are battling for relevance. Many of my students have asked why they need to know how to write. They argue that a particular career — computer science, software design, nursing — aren’t considered creative nor fall within the liberal arts program of study. While our discussion is good-natured, I make it clear that writing is not just about assignments and proper APA citation. It’s a process that’s actually good for one’s soul.

“Edith: The Rogue Rockefeller McCormick” is an exceptional book about an exceptional woman. Andrea Friederici Ross’ extensive research is obvious and draws us into Edith’s story and all she was able to accomplish (despite not being taken seriously as a woman in so many situations.) This story will make you angry on her behalf but you will also admire her ongoing tenacity. This is a remarkable work that honors Edith’s many legacies and highlights a history that might otherwise have been lost.

This is my 250th Blog Post! Can Writers Authentically Write About Cultures Other Than Their Own Cultures? Are Editors Responding to Submissions During Coronavirus? FEATURED ARTICLES It’s my 250th Blogiversary! Help me celebrate . . . do you want to win a great book? I began blogging the year my first book was published . . . that was 2014. I started out sporadically at first and then began blogging twice per month, finally making the leap to (nearly) weekly blogging in 2017.

These books with help you talk to your kids about the importance of acceptance, empathy and kindness for others.