Avi's Blog, page 21

This is not about writers’ block

One of the questions I am almost always asked is, “Do you ever have writers’ block?” I heard it just the other day. 

Manuscript ghosts

In the process of rewriting and revision, there is a myriad of line and word changes. That goes without saying. But quite often there are much bigger alterations.

Publication Day: Loyalty

February 8, 2022. This is publication day for my new book, Loyalty (Clarion). Publication Day is often a day for some (mild) celebration.

Researching the details

If one bothers to read the reviews of my historical fiction or the letters that my readers write to me, you will note the constant comments about the many details I put in my books. Reviewers appreciate them. My readers seem to love them.

A writer in rehab

When snow began to fall I thought I’d beat the worst of it by going on my regular walk about. Three quarters of my way I slipped on ice, fell, and—I could barely walk.

National histories

Could I write an engaging, exciting story about a teenage boy who comes from a family of Massachusetts loyalists, suffers the consequences of that at the hands of rebels only to become caught up in the roiling buildup toward the war for independence?

Writing historical fiction

Over the years I’ve written three novels about the American Revolution. Why the fascination with history? There is the obvious: history provides great stories. Not dates and battles, but human stories. 

Reading my manuscript to my wife

I’m at that point in working on a new book when I ask my wife if I can read the manuscript to her. This is not a casual moment. Aside from being very smart, my wife is patient.

When publishing houses get bigger

I have learned that one of the companies I publish with was sold to another publishing company half a year ago. Today—six months later—was the first time I heard about it. 

A New Year

This writer’s new-year resolutions: Get through to the next year.  Stay healthy.  Exercise hard so that  I can finish the two books I’m working on.  Write every day.  Become a better writer.  Write my best book ever. If  I can.  Meet deadlines.  Think about that next book I might write.  Get the two books scheduled ... Read more