There’s a moment in every book’s journey that feels both thrilling and a little terrifying. It’s the day the manuscript is turned in. From the outside, it probably sounds simple—an author finishes writing a book and sends it to their editor. But behind that moment is months of work, countless hours with the characters, and a surprising mix of emotions.
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When I typed “The End” on the first draft of my upcoming paranormal cozy mystery, I’ll admit, I paused for a moment to savor it. Finishing a first draft is a milestone. It means the story exists. The characters have come to life. The mystery has unfolded from beginning to end.
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There’s something about winter that makes everything feel a little quieter. The days are shorter, the nights are longer, and it’s tempting to slip into full hibernation mode (especially when it’s cold, gray and snowy outside). But here’s the positive, January is also when the days start getting longer again. Slowly, yes. But it counts!
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If you’ve ever cracked open a brand-new book and wondered how it came to be—where the idea started, how the characters found their voices, or what changed along the way—this year is for you.
I’m thrilled to finally share that I’ve been working behind the scenes on a brand-new paranormal cozy mystery that will be published by Crooked Lane Books. The first draft is officially complete. That alone feels worth celebrating with a warm cup of tea and a happy sigh.
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Every writer has their own creative fuel—those little sparks that ignite ideas, keep the words flowing, and turn a blank page into a world full of mystery and intrigue. Inspiration can strike anywhere, but over time, I’ve found a few tried-and-true sources that never fail to get my creative gears turning. Here are five things that inspire my writing:
1. Great Books by Great Authors
There’s nothing quite like reading a well-crafted story to remind me why I love writing in the first place. Whether it’s the intricate plotting of a mystery, the charm of a small-town setting, or the unforgettable voice of a character, good books are endlessly inspiring. My reading list is always growing, but right now, I’m deep into Drop Dead Honey by Laura Childs. Her Tea Shop Mysteries are a delightful blend of cozy intrigue and Southern charm—exactly the kind of storytelling that fuels my own creativity.
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