Note: Chris Grabenstein will be one of the Guests of Honor at Sleuthfest, March 1 - 3, 2012. He's the author of the John Ceepak series, for which he won the Anthony Award for "Best First Mystery." JCS: Chris, I know that unlike most authors, you didn't just get a wild idea and start writing. Before you started your Cepak series, you studied James Patterson's success. What sorts of decisions did you make? How have they worked for you? … [Read more...] about Keep It Spare and Lean: An Interview with Chris Grabenstein
character development
Living a Deeply Satisfying Life
Took a quiz on BlogThings, and "discovered" this:Your Life is Deeply Satisfying You live a satisfying life even when it's not easy. You are dedicated to being happy.You make sure to what you're passionate about. You don't waste any moments.You surround yourself with people you cherish. There is a lot of love in your life.You are thankful for everything you have. You don't take anything for granted.It's really true. Going through all my old … [Read more...] about Living a Deeply Satisfying Life
Desire Paths–Why Authors Must Create Them to Sell Books
Ever notice those footpaths between bushes, those stomped down walkways that go from a parking lot to the sidewalk, the ones clearly NOT planned by the landscaper where folks have made their own trail to get from Point A to Point B?Those are called Desire Paths. That's a term architects use to desire "non-authorized" walkways. Ones that occur spontaneously rather than through top-down planning.You and I must establish Desire Paths to our books if … [Read more...] about Desire Paths–Why Authors Must Create Them to Sell Books
