Below you'll find a list of all posts that have been categorized as “at my desk”
Research is something I enjoy almost as much as writing—& for a historical fiction author, it’s key to authentic storytelling. I once read an engaging novel set in Jamestown Colony & was humming happily along when suddenly a dance scene commenced…& the characters began waltzing. WHAT? I share that story knowing full well that my own novels are not 100% …
I’m so honored to find The Belle of Chatham among the finalists for the renowned Christy Award! My first Christy final was for Love’s Reckoning back in 2013. I remember sitting beside my agent at that glittering gala in St. Louis. Though I didn’t win, simply being a finalist felt like such a gift. Fast-forward a few years, and …
Writing has never been a hobby for me but a consuming passion, even a holy obsession, starting at age 7. There were seasons I had to set it aside like the 5 years when my sons were small & then the 8 years homeschooling when they & that took priority. I came to publishing later in life & am so …
Reading the pages a final time before print! 393 in all. What to expect in modern literary lingo… 🌸 he falls first 🌸 cottagecore heroine 🌸 missing persons 🌸 forced proximity, slow burn 🌸 opposites attract 🌸 Georgian noir 🌸 happily ever after Prayers appreciated. So hope you enjoy every word!
Last spring in my newsletter I asked readers what future books they’d like for me to write. I had so many wonderful responses that were encouraging & inspiring! Then I met with my publisher, Revell, & do we have news for you! Back soon to share details. Just wanted to post this ahead of time in my excitement. So thankful …
An 1801 portrait by Rembrandt Peale It’s truly Christmas in July for me as I’m close to turning in my first holiday novella to my publisher, Revell. I have a love for this story like no other {though I think I say that about every novel when I’m in the thick of it}. But I do adore this joyful, poignant, …
Cover #20 is almost here! I’ve said many times that cover art is my favorite part of the publishing process & the framed art above showcases my favorites by my publisher, Revell. As David Pearson said, “The cover of a book is the beginning of a conversation between the author & the reader.” When you spend a year and a …
March is nearly here along with a spring forward adjustment to the clock which steals an hour of reading away! I’m dreaming of planting a little colonial garden but it’s too soon here in the Pacific Northwest. We’ve experienced one of the mildest winters on record. Rhododendron bushes were actually blooming in December! I missed our usual, beautiful snow, since …
I’m reading through the pages for Belle as I call this novel set in 1777. Dear to my heart, here’s the gist of it: A tale of courtship & marriage, duty versus desire, faith & forgiveness. We’re up to novel 17 now aside from my 2 novellas. It’s truly amazing that each book is a small universe or world of …
We’re now well into 2025 & this is my busiest – & hopefully best – writing year yet. Not much time for relaxing though I’m dreaming of a bookish picnic reminiscent of my childhood Kentucky days. My current chilly, damp Pacific Northwest life keeps me near the fireplace till June. Such is the fate of a sun-loving, southern expat! Since …