Here are a few scenes from the new book for your amusement! Our heroes have reached New York City and are taking an afternoon walk: There is nothing quite so […]
Conflict 101
Conflict and tension can be difficult to create and maintain. You don’t need an all-powerful super villain to oppose your character, but you do need some sort of believable conflict […]
Cut to the Chase
Ever pick up what looks like a good read, only to drop it after the first couple of pages? You’ve probably encountered a weak opening – something even an experienced writer […]
Beta-Reading 101
I belong to a writing critique group, and I recommend that any serious writer do the same. A good critique group will give you honest feedback that will help you […]
Writing Advice: The Top 10
When you’re a writer, everybody you know seems to have some bit of wisdom for you – most of it wrong. Here are 10 of the best tips I’ve ever […]
Characters: Public vs. Private
Everyone has a public side that they show to everyone, and a private side that is only shown to their most intimate friends (and sometimes, not even to them!). So […]
For You: 1800’s Parties
This is another interesting tidbit from Light and Shadows of New York Life, 1875 – all about how to throw a good party. New York has long been celebrated for […]
Make A Writer Happy
People are always happy to talk about their favorite books and authors, but did you know you can help them out? The best thing a reader can do for their […]
For You: The Lads Travel
In the latest book, the lads (and friends) must travel across the country by train. Here’s an excerpt from that chapter for your enjoyment: Half the car had been arranged […]
The Price of Fashion in 1870
I’ve found a great little book for my research: Light and Shadows in New York Life, published in 1872. There’s a chapter that gives some idea of how much a […]