Today I finished judging the romance contest entries.I hope the writers who submitted their work learn half as much from my comments as I have learned from reading their pieces. Here are some more reflections:1. You have to have a sympathetic protagonist. Sorry, but a perfect woman will not make me want to keep reading. Want to hear the single biggest compliment readers send me about Kiki Lowenstein? Stand back...They like her.They like that … [Read more...] about More Things That'll Keep You Unpublished
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Mourning the Passing of Stuart Kaminsky
I was so sad to hear of the passing of Stuart Kaminsky. He had written many, many mystery books and was honored numerous times by the Mystery Writers of America. He was a gentleman, a brilliant writer, and a generous colleague to all in our profession.We met at Sleuthfest, oh, three years ago? He stepped in to fill a short story class after Elaine Viets had her stroke. I asked him after the session what he thought about outlines. He told me that … [Read more...] about Mourning the Passing of Stuart Kaminsky
Things That'll Keep You Unpublished
Probably the LAST thing I should be doing with my time today is writing a blog post. Nevertheless, I am compelled to share what I'm learning.See, I'm judging a contest for writers, new and hopeful authors. There's a wonderful set of criteria which guides me. Very helpful. Very insightful. But mainly, I'm calling upon what I've learned over the past five years. And I'm using up far too much time doing this...except...except...it comes at an … [Read more...] about Things That'll Keep You Unpublished
Craft Room Spots Still Available at Bouchercon!
A SPECIAL EVENT THE CRAFT ROOMTHU - SAT55-minute sessionsSo many of today's cozy mysteries involve a craft such as scrapbooking, knitting, candle-making, etc. Register for a session in the craft room (Vision Room, 3rd floor) as authors demonstrate their craft and introduce themselves and their books. You'll have hands-on experience making your own craft, too!This idea comes from author Joanna Campbell Slan, author of a scrapbooking mystery … [Read more...] about Craft Room Spots Still Available at Bouchercon!
I'm So Behind, I Look Like I'm Out Front…
Sigh. Today I slept until 3pm. Yes, 3 in the afternoon. Which I think is some indication of how incredibly tired I've been. The move, my mom's death, all the running around to New York City and to Minneapolis, and back finally caught up with me. Of course, maybe there's also the new trick I've learned. See, I've learned to sleep through the sound of acorns pelting our house. Yeah, at first, David and I thought a neighborhood kid was shooting our … [Read more...] about I'm So Behind, I Look Like I'm Out Front…
