Blogging about my books, the writing process, mindset, and anything else I feel like sharing.
My debut novel, Murder Audit, is launching today, almost two years after I started the first draft. Although I’m really excited about it, I’ve been reluctant to announce the release. While finalizing the files for publishing, I realized I could have published the novel a lot sooner than I did, but I was struck by fear.
Read MoreI recently interviewed Sara Robinson, MA, author of the forthcoming book Choose You: A Guided Self-Care Journal. We discussed self-care (of course), creating great content, and landing a book deal. Sara also shared some great tips for getting your writing done. You can view the interview by clicking the video below, or keep reading for a summary of what we discussed.
Read MoreLast week, I thought I would treat myself to a matcha green tea latte one morning after I dropped my kids off at school. I ran into a friend at the coffee shop. She asked if I was on my way to work to which I replied, “No, just heading home”.
Later, I laughed at myself as I drove home, sipping my latte. I work from home, and I was, in fact, heading to work. I had a lot of exciting things planned that day: write a couple blog posts, edit one I'd written another day, and record some videos for my Skillshare course (affiliate link).
Read MoreThis is the dilemma my protagonist, Cynthia Webber, faces in Murder Audit. Her piece-of-work boss, David Jerew, threatens her career and her life if she tells the truth about what she found during the routine audit of David’s top client, Prairie Pipeline Company.
When I started writing Murder Audit, besides wanting to show that accountants are more than short men with bow ties and glasses held together with tape, I knew I wanted to focus on the fiduciary duty a professional accountant has to their client. This is a professional ethical relationship built on the highest trust. Sadly, when I was a CPA, I met a number of people in the profession whose ethics I questioned. If you read Murder Audit, you will see that David, the antagonist, has no ethics.
Read MoreIt says, “Hello, Writer.” Does this mean I’m officially a writer?
About a month ago, I was snooping around the Internet researching writing retreats when I came across the Firefly Creative Writing website. It has such a fun, inviting feel to it that I spent some time viewing their services. They offer writing retreats and a host of other services: coaching, editing, workshops, and studio time. As I was about to leave the site, I noticed a section called, “subscription service”. I’m a sucker for snail mail, so I was intrigued.
Read MoreOkay, I admit it - I like routines! I love knowing what I’m going to do and when I’m going to do it. Having a set time to for work and a set time for fun is really helpful for me. With September right around the corner, and the kids heading back to school, I’m counting the days to get back to a solid writing schedule. Finding time to write is one of the biggest complaints aspiring authors have, so I thought it would be fun to see what tips other writers have for creating a writing routine.
Read MoreAs little as one year ago, I would have lumped all changes I made to my writing into the category of “editing”. But since taking my first novel through the process of revising, editing, and proofreading, it’s clear to me that these three processes are very different. While revising, editing, and proofreading do overlap, they each serve a different purpose and have different objectives when it comes to improving your writing.
Read MoreI recently read On Writing by Stephen King. Well, technically, I listened to it. It was the first audio book I’ve ever ‘read’. I think the fact that it was Stephen King’s voice I was listening to made it that much more enjoyable. It was only a year ago when I read my first Stephen King novel, and I admit, as someone who isn’t a fan of the horror genre, I was scared. It was ‘Salem’s Lot and overall, I enjoyed the story but it didn’t turn me into a Stephen King fan.
Read MoreHi, I'm Michelle! Writing is a passion of mine. I love to entertain and educate through my writing. I started out writing about business and money and have moved on to thrillers and picture books.
Spending time with family is what I'm all about. Life's too short!
I have two amazing sons who love Lego and ninjas...and TV (sigh)!! We read a ton of storybooks to make up for the TV thing. One of the best ways to explain things is through stories of course.
If it was up to me, I'd have chips and dip for dinner every night with a super dark chocolate bar to round out the meal...and maybe an apple! It's a good thing I've got kids and a husband. They keep me responsible (and healthy).
