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Welcome, friend! This is where I pull back the curtain and share what’s happening behind the scenes—writing updates, book news, personal musings, and maybe even a few favorite recipes or reading recommendations. Whether you’ve read all my books or just stumbled across my corner of the internet, I’m so happy you’re here.
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What James Patterson's MasterClass Contest Taught Me About Writing a Thriller and why I almost didn't ask my romance readers to come with me.
Writing a thriller for the first time is like stepping into a new world full of twists, tension, and unexpected turns. It’s a journey that challenges your creativity, sharpens your skills, and teaches you lessons you never expected. As someone who usually writes heartwarming stories about love and second chances, small-town romances with slow-burn glances across a front porch, diving into the thriller genre opened my eyes to a different kind of storytelling. The book is Manus
cdeanne956
13 hours ago5 min read


Writing a Thriller Versus Writing Romance. Can You Have Both?
Writing fiction offers endless possibilities, but two genres often stand apart: thriller and romance. Each has its own style, pace, and emotional pull. Thrillers keep readers on the edge of their seats with suspense and danger. Romance stories warm the heart with love and connection. But can these two very different genres blend? Can a story be both thrilling and romantic without losing its essence? Let’s explore what makes each genre tick and how they can come together to cr
cdeanne956
Apr 64 min read


Balancing Creativity and Discipline: How to Know When to Pause Your Writing
Writing can feel like catching lightning in a bottle. When your story flows effortlessly, every word seems to fall into place, and the characters come alive on the page. Yet, knowing when to stop writing during these moments of creative surge can be surprisingly difficult. Should you keep going until the ideas dry up, or is there value in pausing even when the momentum feels unstoppable? This post explores how to balance creativity with discipline, helping writers recognize t
cdeanne956
Mar 314 min read


Crafting the Perfect Author Biography: Author Biography Tips to Shine Bright
Writing a captivating author biography is an art form that can open doors to new readers and deepen connections with your audience. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, your author bio is your chance to tell your story in a way that resonates, inspires, and invites readers into your world. This post will guide you through author biography tips that bring joy, confidence, and a touch of fun to your writing journey. Why Your Author Biography Matters: Author Bi
cdeanne956
Feb 243 min read


Capturing Small Town Charm: Tips for Writing Engaging Small Town Romances
Small town romances have a special place in readers’ hearts. They offer a sense of warmth, familiarity, and a slower pace that contrasts with the fast-moving world. Writing these stories means capturing the unique charm of small communities while weaving in heartfelt relationships that feel genuine and relatable. If you want to create engaging small town romances, this guide will help you bring those cozy streets, close-knit neighbors, and tender moments to life on the page.
cdeanne956
Feb 34 min read


Discovering Your Unique Voice in Writing
Understanding Your Authorial Voice Your authorial voice reflects your personality and style, making your work distinctly yours. It helps you stand out in a crowded literary market. Here is how you can unlock your unique voice: Reflect on Your Influences Think about the authors who inspire you. For example, you may admire J.K. Rowling for her ability to create immersive worlds or Maya Angelou for her powerful use of language. By identifying what you appreciate in their writing
cdeanne956
Oct 13, 20254 min read
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