For what it’s worth, my advice to writers.


Cindy Gerard and me

The first book I wrote, a paranormal historical, led me to friends and colleagues who helped me discover the amazing world of writing. My second book “Sin on the Strip” was my attempt at writing a contemporary, a romantic suspense at that. It seemed to strike a chord with women and not all of it positive. You see, a smart woman would find another way to help women. I had all but given up on this book until I had the opportunity to have Cindy Gerard read a partial. Her generosity and kind words gave me the courage to pitch the book to an editor, who eventually bought it.


My Siberian husky, Loki, when
he wants me to stop writing

As writers we need to read incessantly, join writers’ groups and enter contests. Make use of the constructive comments and pretty much toss the rest. If you can’t take the critics, you’re in the wrong business, and writing is a business. Never forget that.

A very smart woman once told me, writers who refuse to learn will never be successful. So take workshops and make an effort to attend conferences. Network, network, network. My hat is off to those who can do it alone, but it’s a heck of a lot more fun with friends and colleagues.

And lastly, be humble when accepting praise and draw courage from those who believe in you.

Dame Agatha Mary Clarissa Christie

This talented writer instilled in me the love of mysteries. I’m not often fooled by the who dun’ it or the twist, but Agatha got me every time. Her books were the intriguing puzzle I couldn’t wait to solve and, of course, never did. Murder on the Orient Express is one of my favorites. My high school summer holidays wouldn’t have been the same without a bottle of baby oil in one hand, and a Christie book in the other.

She was born September 15, 1890, and when she died, January 12, 1976, we lost one of the greatest mystery writers this world has ever seen. 2015 marks her 125th birthday. For more information on Agatha, go to http://www.agathachristie.com

 

 

Extras Index