The Time It Takes

Books are magic, and writers are wizards, and some spells do their work over time, space, and inside readers’ beings. None of this is easily or tritely quantifiable.

Critique Partner Horror Stories: Red Flags & Relationship Ruins

It’s emotionally risky, this writing business, so please respect your time, protect your energy, and cherish those CPs you hope to keep.

Four Ways to Write Through the Fog #AuthorToolboxBlogHop

When I get stuck on a writing project, it feels exactly like driving through fog—I can’t see far enough ahead to feel comfortable where I am, the clear road behind is as shrouded as the way forward, and there’s no telling when some swift insight will blow through so I can go back to “normal.”

The Right Way to Grieve a Human Being?

Who knows the right way to grieve, to honor the passing of another’s life, to channel and heal the hurricane of emotions? Oh yeah? You all know how? And your way works for everyone? Every time? Thanks, Dude. I can always count on you for support at least. I don’t know the right way for […]

Grieving My Abuser

I was Robert Cook’s first wife and the mother of his first child. When I met Robert, I was young, vulnerable, and eager to belong. I was swept away by his confidence, his talent, and his potential. When his abuse began in earnest, it crippled me–mind, body, and soul– and I am lucky I escaped […]