A few years ago, I went to the 8th Annual National Latino Writers’ Conference, held at the National Hispanic Cultural Center in Albuquerque NM. It was a wonderful experience, and one I’d love to do again. It gave me an opportunity to meet other writers, celebrate my heritage, and learn about publishing. As far as … Continue reading Pros, cons, and tips for attending a small writer’s conference
Tag: fiction
When there is no hope, you write anyway
Thanks to the fickle magic of Twitter, I came across a quote that seemed especially meaningful to me right now. It's from my favorite literary badass, Junot Díaz. Díaz spent ten years writing the book that would eventually win him the Pulitzer Prize. This quote makes me wonder if there was a moment, or many … Continue reading When there is no hope, you write anyway
How to critique a story (and get some eyes on yours)
There comes a moment in the creative process when one set of eyes isn’t enough, and you need to find someone to critique your work. At the same time, you’ll probably need to do some critiquing of your own, either to reciprocate or just to improve your own skills. Here are some tips on how … Continue reading How to critique a story (and get some eyes on yours)
How to write a killer: 5 great examples
Getting into the head of someone who's taken a life isn't easy (I hope!) But well written books can transport us anywhere, even into the head of a murderer. These are five books I've found very useful in writing my novel. They're all wonderful and enjoyable reads as well. 1. Blood on Snow by Jo … Continue reading How to write a killer: 5 great examples
World building resources
The beautiful thing about writing a sci-fi or fantasy novel is that you get to create a whole world unlike any other for your novel. The terrifying thing about writing a sci-fi or fantasy novel is that you have to create a whole world unlike any other for your novel. If you’re about to take … Continue reading World building resources
How to Write a Psychopath
Psychopaths can be tricky to write, because it’s not always easy (I hope!) to get into the head of someone who lacks remorse, empathy, and a sense of morality. Psychopathy is often a misunderstood concept, even among psychologists. So here’s a little guide to help you come up with the perfect psychopath, evil laughter included. … Continue reading How to Write a Psychopath
Author Interview: Hector Kopczynski
Welcome to the fourth in a series of author interviews. Today I'm talking to Hector Kopczynski about sexuality and gender in writing, building a truly foreign fantasy world, and reading with a critical eye. Hector is currently working on both an epic fantasy project and a gritty spy thriller. Sarah: Currently you’re working on two very different … Continue reading Author Interview: Hector Kopczynski
Author Interview: Nikki Belaire
Welcome to the latest in a series of author interviews. Today fabulous romance author Nikki Belaire shares her insights into the lifestyle of the rich and famous, talks about writing characters that surprise us, and gives us a glimpse into the sequel to her wonderful novel Wine and Whiskey. Sarah: In a few sentences, can … Continue reading Author Interview: Nikki Belaire
Author Interview: Jeanne Marcella
Welcome to the third in a series of author interviews! Today I'm talking with fantasy author Jeanne Marcella about inspiration, self-publishing, and what it's like to write outside the norm. I'm thrilled to talk to the wonderful author of The Phoenix Embryo about her creative process and experience. Sarah: You’ve described your work as transgressive dark … Continue reading Author Interview: Jeanne Marcella
Author Interview: Amelia Bishop
Welcome to the second in a series of author interviews. Today romance author Amelia Bishop shares some insights about character development, her experiences with traditional and self-publishing, and gives us a glimpse into her recent novel Night Vision. Sarah: So many of your stories have a touch of the supernatural, whether it’s witchcraft or a … Continue reading Author Interview: Amelia Bishop
Sarah Kay Moll 