Colleen Young's Blog, page 11

January 1, 2020

Zero times Four

New Year’s Eve, 1989 

I am five years old. Duck Tales and Inspector Gadget make my imagination run wild. My best friend is the girl next door; we play War together and ride our bikes as fast as possible from one end of our suburban Ohio neighborhood street to the other. 

In the summer, we catch fireflies in jars and play hide-and-seek outside until our mothers call us in after dusk. I have two brothers and dreams of nothing more than these moments. 

New Year’s Eve, 1999 

I am fifteen years old. This was a big year, what with all the computer dates switching from 1999 to 2000 and no one being too sure that technology could handle it. There’s a thick cloud in the air, as if the world might end the next day. We all better make it last—this one last moment. 

I love Dawson’s Creek and Friends. We’ve moved in this decade, crisscrossing the country before settling in North Texas. My best friend and I go to Driver’s Ed together, talk about boys, pick up Slurpees from 7-11, and TP houses. 

I now have an extra brother, who’s three now. I’m not in the smart classes at school, but I want to be. My friends don’t drink, so neither do I. I am small for my age and only entered puberty about twelve months ago. I want to have boyfriends and be in love but am also terrified of boys and being in love, so I keep my distance, preferring instead to daydream about love, watching movies and reading books about it. 

I don’t fantasize about what my life will look like in the future or who I will be. I just enjoy the moments given to me. 

At the end of the night, the ball drops, and nothing much happens. The world keeps turning. 

New Year’s Eve, 2009 

I am twenty-five years old with a college degree, a professional pilot license, a husband, a two-year-old baby, and another one on the way. My favorite shows are The Office, Lost, and How I Met Your Mother. Netflix is a major thing in the form of DVD delivery, and I’m a huge fan. 

In this decade, I learned to drink, fell in and out of love a few times, and found my place in the world and lost it, again and again. My best friend is my old college roommate; our relationship solidified freshman year after being bullied by the same group of men. She and I talk most days about our lives, our dreams, our careers—though I’ve just put my own professional life aside to stay home with my growing family.

As the decade comes to a close, I feel a sudden lust for something more. I start blogging, writing about my life, telling my Facebook friends and family what’s going on with me. My life is rather lonely; though I have a few mom friends, I’m in a city far from my family and most of my friends. My college friends are mostly still in the partying and career-building stages of their lives, but I have kids now and I’m having to once again redefine my place in life. 

I have dreams of a life that is happy and full of love—and, hopefully, more money.  

New Year’s Eve, 2019 

I am thirty-five years old. I’ve self-published four books and I run my own business from home.  I’ve had one mid-life crisis (at age 33, thanks for asking). I have three wonderful children. I watch too much TV—streaming is a thing now, and it’s so amazing.  I no longer have favorites when it comes to shows, because my tastes are all over the place. 

My best friends are my husband and my college best friend, who I still talk to every day about life, love, dreams, and how to become better people. I coach soccer, help run Cub Scouts with my husband, and run a writing group in my town helping authors connect with their creativity. I can read a book with so much verocity that I can hardly put it down. 

Relationships with my family and friends have changed over the years. People have changed. That’s been the hardest thing for me to accept this decade—that people go their own ways and do their own things, as do I, and those ways won’t always overlap. The darkness inside of others surfaces and spills out into the world, into my world. There is no stopping it. There is only trying to swim above it and find the light.

I have big dreams for the next decade of my life.

My Dreams for 2029

I dream that I will raise teenagers that will be kind, bold, intuitive creatures. I dream that my children won’t be scared to stand up to bullies, that they will fight for what is right. That they will love others, but not too hard—there is so much life for them to live, and loving themselves has to come before anything else. 

I want to publish more books and be happy with my work. I want to be able to read between the lines better and be able to manage my emotions when I’m hurt. I want to fall in love with my husband repeatedly. I want to form a better relationship with God. I want to eat better 85% of the time instead of 55%. I want to see the world. 

Four times in my life, I’ve seen the ball drop and the decade start over anew, but looking at this list I feel somehow like I’ve lived so much and yet so little. I’ve lost friends and family over these decades, and there are lives that will never have the chance to see another decade zero out. There are people I miss, and their lives are tributes for me to keep trying harder because they would do the same if they had the chance.

Happy New Year to all of you. Thank you for following along on my journey with me and for all of your support. It means more than you know.  

XOXO -Colleen
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Published on January 01, 2020 00:27

December 24, 2019

When you fail at your goals

When 2019 began, I set a lot of goals for myself (as usual). I wanted to go on a hike every month, finish and publish a book, and triple the profits from my business. Now that the year is wrapping up, I’m realizing that I didn’t complete a lot of the things I wanted to check off the list. That’s upsetting, and at first it made me not want to set goals for 2020—but then I realized I was forgetting some things.

While I may not have hiked every month of 2019, I also was active. I lost ten pounds and completed two long-distance hikes—a cumulative distance of over 25 miles in a two-month span. Though I didn’t publish a new book this year, I did become more grounded in my writing, more at peace about my words and my work. And even if I didn’t pull in triple the profits from my business, I doubled them.

It’s so easy to get down about the things we didn’t do, but what if we thought about goals in a different way?

What if we thought of them simply as something we’re aiming for? If we attain them, hell yes! But if we don’t? Then maybe we can remind ourselves there’s always tomorrow, always another chance to try harder.

I am a goal-oriented person and always have been, but that doesn’t mean I was ever a straight-A student or the best athlete on the swim team. It does mean I showed up every day. I went to practice religiously and did my homework every night. I finished things I set out to complete and did the best that I could. My best will never be perfect, and I’m learning to be okay with that. 

Maybe 2019 was an “A for effort” type of year. Maybe all years are.

After thinking about all of this, I pushed the writing group I lead to set some writing goals for 2020. Even if their goal was as simple as coming to the meeting once a month, just thinking about writing for the 90 minutes we share together each month could ignite that tiny flicker inside of them into a full blaze. 

As the year ends, I want to know from you: What’s flickering inside of you? Could it lead to a flame if you set the right goal and work toward it? How can you let go of needing to be perfect and be okay with progress? XO - Colleen
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Published on December 24, 2019 05:00

December 18, 2019

Fighting Prose Interview with Jenna Michaud-Bonyadi

Welcome to my in-depth writers series Fighting Prose. Where I talk to authors in the industry on what their process is like and what it takes for them to keep on creating, through all the odds. This week I’m interviewing Jenna Michaud-Bonyadi who is a non-fiction author trying out her fantasy fiction chops!

How long have you been writing?

Since I could form sentences. I didn't get serious about publishing a book until last year.

Of the books you’ve written, which is your favorite?

I wrote a non-fiction book that was published last year. My favorite is my current WIP because it is a fantasy fiction/speculative fiction novel.

What's your favorite genre to read? Write?

So, related to the last question...fantasy fiction/speculative fiction is my favorite genre. I read from all genres though. Maybe the only thing I haven't really read are westerns? I went through a romance phase in high school but I also read a ton of Stephen King and Dean Koontz. I read all of the Clan of the Cave Bear series and even went to a book signing for the last one (still have the signed copy!). One of the first stories I remember writing was about a fantasy world and I even illustrated it! I gave it to my mom and grandma who of course thought it was fantastic. They really encouraged me to read a lot and write. They are both avid readers and would share the books they were reading with me even though I was quite young.

Tell me about your process: how do you get in the mood to write? How do your characters come together? How do you get your ideas?

So, related to the last question...fantasy fiction/speculative fiction is my favorite genre. I read from all genres though. Maybe the only thing I haven't really read are westerns? I went through a romance phase in high school but I also read a ton of Stephen King and Dean Koontz. I read all of the Clan of the Cave Bear series and even went to a book signing for the last one (still have the signed copy!). One of the first stories I remember writing was about a fantasy world and I even illustrated it! I gave it to my mom and grandma who of course thought it was fantastic. They really encouraged me to read a lot and write. They are both avid readers and would share the books they were reading with me even though I was quite young.

How do you get in the mood to write?

I pretty much have to be alone. Sitting in stillness with no distractions for even a few minutes before writing anything. I meditate. Sometimes people misunderstand that word. Just going outside for a walk with no agenda. Being in nature and just being present.

How do your characters come together?

I am not exactly sure. They just come to me and they evolve over time. An idea will come and then I explore it. The characters reveal themselves as the story progresses.

How do you get your ideas?

I let my imagination run wild. I notice things, in life, around me or in my thoughts. Then if one excites me or intrigues me I play "what if".

What do you admire the most about the writing world?

Tom Robbins for his writing style and opening my mind to the possibilities for storytelling. Stephen King for his unmistakable style and iconic storytelling. I feel like I should have a female author to admire but alas, none is coming to mind. Maybe I need to read more work by women writers? Maybe female writers are under-represented???

If you're not busy writing, what are you busy doing?

My "day job" currently is business & marketing for my husband's dental practice, managing a vacation rental on our ranch, and caring for a whole bunch of fur kids. To relax, I go trail riding or do some gardening.

Have you always been creative?

Yes, I have always had a creative side that needed to be expressed. I am not a painter, but I enjoy creating art. I would love to learn how to weld! I love three dimensional art.

Have you ever had writers block? If so, how did you get out of it?

I think writers give too much power to the term writers block. I don't let my mind go down that path. Sometimes the worlds flow more than others. You just keep going. Don't let panic set in. I mean, if you have a deadline, I can understand feeling pressured. I re-read what I have written and think about what my characters want, what is in their way, what would they do next? Asking questions about my characters helps me move forward.

For a writer starting out what advice would you give them?

Well, I am sort of just starting out myself. So I would give the same advice I give to myself. Don't give up. Just keep writing. Even if what you write at first isn't great. Keep going to find your voice. Don't be afraid of rejection. There will be people who don't like your writing and it's ok. Find the people who do. Find your audience.

What is your dream writing location?

Anywhere there is peace and quiet. I like being surrounded by nature, trees, open space. I live in a somewhat rural place and like it that way. If I was to go somewhere to write, I would choose a cabin in the woods but somewhere with little or no snow.

In reference to your books, what question do you get asked the most?

When are you going to finish it? lol

If you could bring one of your characters to life who would it be? Why?

Kala the black unicorn in my current WIP "The Unicorn Seekers". Because he is a black unicorn, duh?

What do you think makes a good story?

Suspense. You have to care about what happens next and not be able to predict it. Yeah, those two things. And a sense of humor.

As a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?

I wanted to be a veterinarian or marine biologist.























Bolero dunes.jpg





















097R.jpg

























Links to Jenna:Instagram I Website

“Thank you for letting me interview you and Good Luck with everything, Erica! ”

— Colleen

If you happen to know an author that would be great for my Fighting Prose series be sure to send them my way!

Thanks for reading!

XoXo- Colleen

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Published on December 18, 2019 01:33

Fighting Prose Interview with Jenna Michaud-Bonyadit

Welcome to my in-depth writers series Fighting Prose. Where I talk to authors in the industry on what their process is like and what it takes for them to keep on creating, through all the odds. This week I’m interviewing Jenna Michaud-Bonyadi who is a non-fiction author trying out her fantasy fiction chops!

How long have you been writing?

Since I could form sentences. I didn't get serious about publishing a book until last year.

Of the books you’ve written, which is your favorite?

I wrote a non-fiction book that was published last year. My favorite is my current WIP because it is a fantasy fiction/speculative fiction novel.

What's your favorite genre to read? Write?

So, related to the last question...fantasy fiction/speculative fiction is my favorite genre. I read from all genres though. Maybe the only thing I haven't really read are westerns? I went through a romance phase in high school but I also read a ton of Stephen King and Dean Koontz. I read all of the Clan of the Cave Bear series and even went to a book signing for the last one (still have the signed copy!). One of the first stories I remember writing was about a fantasy world and I even illustrated it! I gave it to my mom and grandma who of course thought it was fantastic. They really encouraged me to read a lot and write. They are both avid readers and would share the books they were reading with me even though I was quite young.

Tell me about your process: how do you get in the mood to write? How do your characters come together? How do you get your ideas?

So, related to the last question...fantasy fiction/speculative fiction is my favorite genre. I read from all genres though. Maybe the only thing I haven't really read are westerns? I went through a romance phase in high school but I also read a ton of Stephen King and Dean Koontz. I read all of the Clan of the Cave Bear series and even went to a book signing for the last one (still have the signed copy!). One of the first stories I remember writing was about a fantasy world and I even illustrated it! I gave it to my mom and grandma who of course thought it was fantastic. They really encouraged me to read a lot and write. They are both avid readers and would share the books they were reading with me even though I was quite young.

How do you get in the mood to write?

I pretty much have to be alone. Sitting in stillness with no distractions for even a few minutes before writing anything. I meditate. Sometimes people misunderstand that word. Just going outside for a walk with no agenda. Being in nature and just being present.

How do your characters come together?

I am not exactly sure. They just come to me and they evolve over time. An idea will come and then I explore it. The characters reveal themselves as the story progresses.

How do you get your ideas?

I let my imagination run wild. I notice things, in life, around me or in my thoughts. Then if one excites me or intrigues me I play "what if".

What do you admire the most about the writing world?

Tom Robbins for his writing style and opening my mind to the possibilities for storytelling. Stephen King for his unmistakable style and iconic storytelling. I feel like I should have a female author to admire but alas, none is coming to mind. Maybe I need to read more work by women writers? Maybe female writers are under-represented???

If you're not busy writing, what are you busy doing?

My "day job" currently is business & marketing for my husband's dental practice, managing a vacation rental on our ranch, and caring for a whole bunch of fur kids. To relax, I go trail riding or do some gardening.

Have you always been creative?

Yes, I have always had a creative side that needed to be expressed. I am not a painter, but I enjoy creating art. I would love to learn how to weld! I love three dimensional art.

Have you ever had writers block? If so, how did you get out of it?

I think writers give too much power to the term writers block. I don't let my mind go down that path. Sometimes the worlds flow more than others. You just keep going. Don't let panic set in. I mean, if you have a deadline, I can understand feeling pressured. I re-read what I have written and think about what my characters want, what is in their way, what would they do next? Asking questions about my characters helps me move forward.

For a writer starting out what advice would you give them?

Well, I am sort of just starting out myself. So I would give the same advice I give to myself. Don't give up. Just keep writing. Even if what you write at first isn't great. Keep going to find your voice. Don't be afraid of rejection. There will be people who don't like your writing and it's ok. Find the people who do. Find your audience.

What is your dream writing location?

Anywhere there is peace and quiet. I like being surrounded by nature, trees, open space. I live in a somewhat rural place and like it that way. If I was to go somewhere to write, I would choose a cabin in the woods but somewhere with little or no snow.

In reference to your books, what question do you get asked the most?

When are you going to finish it? lol

If you could bring one of your characters to life who would it be? Why?

Kala the black unicorn in my current WIP "The Unicorn Seekers". Because he is a black unicorn, duh?

What do you think makes a good story?

Suspense. You have to care about what happens next and not be able to predict it. Yeah, those two things. And a sense of humor.

As a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?

I wanted to be a veterinarian or marine biologist.























Bolero dunes.jpg





















097R.jpg

























Links to Erica:Instagram I Website

“Thank you for letting me interview you and Good Luck with everything, Erica! ”

— Colleen

If you happen to know an author that would be great for my Fighting Prose series be sure to send them my way!

Thanks for reading!

XoXo- Colleen

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Published on December 18, 2019 01:33

December 12, 2019

Fighting Prose Interview with Erica Wright

Welcome to my in-depth writers series Fighting Prose. Where I talk to authors in the industry on what their process is like and what it takes for them to keep on creating, through all the odds. This week I’m interviewing Erica Wright who’s been selected for one of O, The Oprah Magazine's Best Books of Summer!

How long have you been writing?

I remember writing my first short story (about the 13th labor of Hercules) at 12 or 13.

Of the books you’ve written, which is your favorite?

I've been staring at my blinking cursor for about five minutes now, trying to decide. They're all labors of love. (Maybe labor will be the theme of this interview.)

What’s your favorite genre to read? Write?

I read more poetry than anything else, but that's closely followed by crime fiction.

Tell me about your process: how do you get in the mood to write? How do your characters come together? How do you get your ideas?

If I'm struggling to write, I let myself read for 10-15 minutes before I get started. I'm a morning writer. I like the prioritize whatever I'm working on, then no matter how that goes, I feel better about my day. For my new novel Famous in Cedarville, the idea came from wanting to write about my small, rural hometown. Why would a silver screen actress move there, and what secrets might she be hiding?

What do you admire the most about the writing world?

The crime writing community is pretty supportive in general, but then there are superstars like Alex Segura and Kellye Garrett who go above and beyond to help young writers.

If you're not busy writing, what are you busy doing?

Mostly hanging out with my dog Penny.

Have you ever had writers block? If so, how did you get out of it?

Getting stuck is frustrating, but if you're making an effort to write and nothing is happening, I think that's a good time to take a break, see if your subconscious is trying to tell you something. Has your story taken a wrong turn perhaps? Or are you avoiding an emotionally difficult scene?

For a writer starting out what advice would you give them?

Root for your friends to succeed as much as you root for yourself. Publishing is a slow, fraught process, and you'll need those celebrations along the way.

Have you always been creative?

My creativity is pretty much limited to writing. Cooking is one of my least favorite activities, and I definitely can't paint. I actually enjoy taking visual art classes, though, because they make me more patient with my own students. Sometimes you can understand a concept, say shading, but still not be able to execute it.

What is your dream writing location?

I've never been to Maine, but Maine seems nice.

In reference to your books, what question do you get asked the most?

People want to know about the links between poetry and mysteries.

If you could bring one of your characters to life who would it be? Why?

Definitely Dolly from my Kat Stone series.























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Links to Erica:Instagram I Website I FacebookBooks:








Famous in Cedarville

By Erica Wright















The Blue Kingfisher (Kat Stone)

By Erica Wright















The Red Chameleon: A Novel

By Erica Wright








“Thank you for letting me interview you and Good Luck with everything, Erica! ”

— Colleen

If you happen to know an author that would be great for my Fighting Prose series be sure to send them my way!

Thanks for reading!

XoXo- Colleen

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Published on December 12, 2019 01:28

November 21, 2019

Fighting Prose Interview with Kandi Steiner

Welcome to my in-depth writers series Fighting Prose. Where I talk to authors in the industry on what their process is like and what it takes for them to keep on creating, through all the odds. This week I’m interviewing Kandi Steiner. I loved reading about her advice for writers on getting to know people’s lives better! Read below to find out more.

How long have you been writing?

I've been writing since the third grade. It all started with poems about stupid boys, then it morphed into short stories, and I wrote my first "book" at age 12. Of course, no one read that one except my mom. ;)

Of the books you’ve written, which is your favorite?

THIS IS SO UNFAIR. I'd say my favorite is probably On the Way to You.

What’s your favorite genre to read? Write?

To read, I love romance, psychological thriller, mystery, chick lit, and historical. To write, I love romance, motivational, nonfiction, and poetry.

Tell me about your process: how do you get in the mood to write? How do your characters come together? How do you get your ideas?

I put writing first every day, so when I wake up, I make my coffee and sit down with my manuscript. If I'm having trouble or I'm stuck, I'll take a long bath or work out. That always helps clear the mind! My characters come together slowly -- first as a dream or a fleeting thought, then they progress and grow. I outline them, build them up with the Enneagram and such, and then start writing. My ideas usually start as dreams or fleeting thoughts that I have while traveling. I get a LOT of inspiration by talking to strangers!

What do you admire the most about the writing world?

Brittainy C. Cherry. I just think she is such a positive ray of light!

If you're not busy writing, what are you busy doing?

I'm usually traveling, hanging out with my boyfriend or my friends, or pole dancing (not as a stripper, but as a fitness... LOL!)

Have you ever had writers block? If so, how did you get out of it?

Oh, of course! Like I said, for me, it's usually taking a bath or exercising. I just need to get away from the screen for a bit.

For a writer starting out what advice would you give them?

Get out and live. The best thing you can do for your writing is experience life so you have things to write about! Get your heart broken, break a few hearts in return, travel, talk to strangers, read, watch TV, ask people what their biggest memories of their lives are... living is what gives us the fuel to write.

Have you always been creative?

I really have been. When I was little, I would entertain myself for HOURS alone with my Beanie Babies or Barbie dolls. I would create wild stories, as my mom tells me, that would take place over entire years of my life. I've always loved to create!

What is your dream writing location?

My favorite place to write is inside a warm, cozy cabin -- next to a fire, with a giant window overlooking the mountains.

In reference to your books, what question do you get asked the most?

WHY DID YOU TORTURE US WITH A LOVE LETTER TO WHISKEY? ;)

If you could bring one of your characters to life who would it be? Why?

Cooper from On the Way to You. I'd love to hang out with her!























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Links to Kandi:Instagram I Website I Goodreads I Newsletter Sign-UpBooks:








Neat

By Kandi Steiner















On the Rocks

By Kandi Steiner















A Love Letter to Whiskey

By Kandi Steiner








“Thank you for letting me interview you and Good Luck with everything, Kandi! ”

— Colleen

If you happen to know an author that would be great for my Fighting Prose series be sure to send them my way!

Thanks for reading!

XoXo- Colleen

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Published on November 21, 2019 04:50

October 17, 2019

The Write Place - October Issue

We had an exciting month at our Write Place meeting. Per the usual we spent some time getting caught up on members current projects, the highs and lows. From there we moved on to our main topic of the month, Tips for dealing with Writing Critiques. It sparked some great discussion. In the last half of our time together, we moved onto our grab-bag game, where I passed around slips of paper labeled Character, Action, Place. Each member filled out the papers (according to the subjects). I recollected each subject, mixed them up and passed them back out - making sure no one received the one that they originally wrote. Then each member was given 20 minutes to make a story. This is always a fun activity and it challenges the members to think outside of their normal box/genre.

One of our members - a man in his fifties received: teenage-girl-bisexual, church, dancing at nightclub (that was interesting).

Another member was given: angel, school and flying, so she created a story about an angel flying school - it was fun and playful.

Another member was given: Bunny - a woman in her 40s, the Steam town Mall & stealing, this one ending up being a performance piece where Bunny had a high proper accent, it was fun!

I received: Barry Gritz-50 year old psychologist, Grand Tetons and sex. If you’d like to see what I did with that, scroll to the end!

This is always a fan-favorite and something breaks everyone out of their shell.

Tips for dealing with Writing Critiques1. Take A Breath And A Step Back

The first thing to do when receiving any sort of criticism of your writing is to take a breath, and distance yourself from the critique. If you're feeling disheartened, offended or overwhelmed by criticism your work has received, take a step back. Come back to deal with it later, when you've had time to put things back into perspective and you're feeling more confident.

2. Check your ego

No one receives purely positive feedback, and once you begin working with editors regularly, you will need the thick skin you’re developing. We are all on a journey towards improvement in our craft. If you receive feedback from a defensive posture, it will take longer for you to see real improvement in your writing. If a critique leaves you feeling inadequate, remember we all struggle with impostor syndrome.

3. Determine Whether The Criticism Is Useful

Anytime you receive criticism of your writing, take a moment to consider whether it's actually useful, or whether it's not worth stressing over.

4. Rely on more than one reader

Because feedback is subjective, you will need more than one critique, as well as different types of readers.

Beta readers provide comments based on their reading experience, rather than a place of expertise. Fellow writers are able to read as practitioners, and provide a critique on your skill as a writer.

Both are important to the development of your craft. Take note where similar themes emerge between readers. If more than one reader recognizes the same weaknesses, it’s a sign you should address them.

5. Don't Read Or Respond To Your Reviews

Why? Because these reviews aren't for authors – they're for readers. They're simply opinions, put forth for the benefit of the online reading community, not as a professional critique intended for the author.

6. Remember That It's Just One Person's Opinion

Writing is such a subjective art. There's no such thing as a perfect piece of writing, or a book that everybody likes.

7. Rein In The Self-Criticism

Writers are always their own harshest critics. While this can be somewhat helpful when you're editing your novel (kill your darlings and all that), it can also be destructive and detrimental to your mental health as a writer. Instead, remind yourself: 'My writing is not terrible; I just need to work on fixing these few things, and it will be much better for it'.

6. Talk To Other Writers

An educated outsider's perspective can be so valuable. You might be too close to your writing to be able to see whether the criticism is valid or not, but another writer will be able to provide a more objective view.

*information sourced from thewritersedit.com & thewritelife.com

Barry Gritz goes on a Hike

Barry Gritz looked through his binoculars up at the Grand Tetons Mountains. He’d waited all fifty years of his life for this opportunity. He bent down and made sure that his boots were secured to his feet. He adjusted his poles, tugged on the straps of his pack, tightened it just right and off he went. He knew from all the reading he’d done that the altitude would be a major issue for him, but his life’s goal was to hike to the highest peak in every state in America and the Tetons were next. He’d do it – no matter what.

Halfway through his first day his mind began to run. Much like most of his hikes, he’d start out enjoying nature and the beauty of God’s world and then he’d think about sex. Not on purpose but because that was his job. He’s a psychologist and being educated in the nineties he knew that the cusp of the sexual revolution would lead to many individuals and couples questioning their sexual aptitude. Boy was he right, business was booming.

He used to love his job. It made him feel normal listening to how confused and lost other people seemed. Plus, he had good advice. Now, he’s looking forward to retiring. At this point he can watch a couple interact with each other and immediately know everything he needed to know about their sex life.

He thinks of any grocery store: That couple that’s fighting in the middle of the dry pasta aisle–they haven’t had sex in 9 months. She’s prude and won’t allow herself an orgasm. It has emasculated him to the point that he feels guilty if he gets an erection and won’t even think about doing something about it.  At this point they are both staying because of the kids.

There’s the woman shopping for the right organic-cashew-hemp-dairy-free milk, she masturbates twelve times and day and is so in love with herself that she doesn’t need, nor makes the time for a man in her life.

There’s that man in the sausage section comparing himself to the kielbasa. He has mommy issues and can’t get aroused unless he is being yelled at by a sexual partner.

As Barry contemplates all he’s learned, he thinks about his life, which one of his partners he’ll hand his practice off to. What he’ll do when he’s completed hiking the tallest peak in all fifty states. Just then he hears a noise. A branch cracks. Sharp teeth attach to his skull, by the time he tries to fight it’s too late, he’s dead.

Too bad for his wife, she’ll have to go another nine months without sex. Or not.























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xoxo- Colleen
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Published on October 17, 2019 01:00

October 13, 2019

Fighting Prose Interview with Briana Morgan

Welcome to my in-depth writers series Fighting Prose. Where I talk to authors in the industry on what their process is like and what it takes for them to keep on creating, through all the odds. This week I’m interviewing Briana Morgan who edits, coaches writers & writes fantasy and horror.

How long have you been writing?

For as long as I can remember, but I published my debut in 2015.

Of the books you’ve written, which is your favorite?

The one I'm finishing up right now, but barring that, REFLECTIONS.

What’s your favorite genre to read? Write?

Horror for both! I LOVE spooky things. I used to write just fantasy, but now I'm pursuing horror primarily.

Tell me about your process: how do you get in the mood to write? How do your characters come together? How do you get your ideas?

Music puts me in the mood to write. I make a playlist for every new WIP. I'm not sure where my ideas come from, except to say they come from everywhere. Characters... I learn more about the characters through each draft I write. I'd like to say I'm the kind of writer who fills out detailed character profiles for everyone, but that just isn't me.

What do you admire the most about the writing world?

Stephen King

If you're not busy writing, what are you busy doing?

Editing for clients, snuggling with my cats, reading, or spending time with my partner.

Have you ever had writers block? If so, how did you get out of it?

For me, writer's block happens when I don't know where I'm going, or when I'm trying to force something that won't work. The key to getting out of that block is outlining.

For a writer starting out what advice would you give them?

Don't let anyone else tell you how to be a writer. If your process works for you, don't listen to anyone else.

Have you always been creative?

I think I've always been creative in some way. Before I wrote, I drew, but gradually the writing took over. Same with theater. Now I can't draw much of anything. I'm still passionate about acting and watching plays, though.

What is your dream writing location?

The beach, or by a lake. Anywhere near water.

In reference to your books, what question do you get asked the most?

Who does my covers! That would be the talented Johannus Steger. His work is phenomenal.

If you could bring one of your characters to life who would it be? Why?

It would be Rama, the MC of REFLECTIONS. She is tough as hell and super inspiring to me. I think I could learn a lot from her, even though she's younger than me.























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Links to Briana:Instagram I Website I Goodreads I Editing Services








Reflections

By Briana Morgan















Blood and Water

By Briana Morgan















Touch: A One-Act Play

By Briana Morgan








“Thank you for letting me interview you and Good Luck with everything, Briana! ”

— Colleen

If you happen to know an author that would be great for my Fighting Prose series be sure to send them my way!

Thanks for reading!

XoXo- Colleen

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Published on October 13, 2019 02:51

October 7, 2019

Fighting Prose Interview with H.R. Waller

Welcome to my in-depth writers series Fighting Prose. Where I talk to authors in the industry on what their process is like and what it takes for them to keep on creating, through all the odds. This week I’m interviewing H.R. Waller an author who loves a romance and dreams of bringing mermaids to life! Check out our interview below to read all about her and her process.

How long have you been writing?

I started writing around the third and fourth grade. It started with book reports for English class and I ended up getting asked to do them for the school newspaper every week. Yes, I was that nerd.

Of the books you’ve written, which is your favorite?

I’m not sure I can pick a favorite! Both of my books have elements that I really love. I am totally jealous of the mermaids in Ocean’s Power.

What’s your favorite genre to read? Write?

I’m a sucker for a good romance of course but I also enjoy reading thrillers and young adult novels as well. I enjoy writing adult romance with a twist. I also love to write young adult books geared towards teenagers. I think it’s so important to get the younger generation into reading and out of their phones.

Tell me about your process: How do you get your ideas?

It’s usually a pretty easy process for me to get into the story, I just jump in. My mind is constantly imagining things and creating new stories that it can be a little hard to keep up. I find things in every day life that catches my attention and I’m like Oh! That’d make a great story!

What do you admire the most about the writing world?

One of my most favorite authors would have to be Nora Roberts. I started reading her books at thirteen and I snatch up every book she puts out. Sherrilyn Kenyon is another author I admire not only for her writing but for her strength through her personal life

If you're not busy writing, what are you busy doing?

I’m the mother of two teenagers so they keep me busy and if I’m not chauffeuring them around I have three dogs to keep up with.

Have you ever had writers block? If so, how did you get out of it?

I currently have around six works in progress if I find myself getting stuck on one I usually just jump to another story and work on that one until my mind starts working again.

For a writer starting out what advice would you give them?

Just go for it! Write your story, start your book and go from there. If you don’t begin somewhere then you will never know what you could accomplish.

Have you always been creative?

Yes I’d say I’ve always been creative. I would draw and sketch when I was younger and I’ve always enjoyed art and craft projects. As a teenager I would make dragon sculptures out of clay. They were actually really good.

What is your dream writing location?

My bed. (Laughing) Honestly it’s my favorite place in the house right now. I recently had two major surgeries and it’s the most comfortable spot. I’d love to travel and write in some fancy hotel balcony overlooking the Eiffel Tower or on some exotic beach one day, but for now my bed will do!

In reference to your books, what question do you get asked the most?

The question I get the most is probably how do I get my ideas. I really don’t know a simple explanation for that. My idea for The Boutique Wars came when I was looking out the window from my own shop and I wondered if any town had ever had any shops try to take out the competition. The boutique business is surprisingly cutthroat I’ve learned.

If you could bring one of your characters to life who would it be? Why?

I would definitely have to say Delphina from Ocean’s Power. She’s a mermaid!























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Links to H.R. Waller:Instagram








Snarky Bitches: Boutique Wars Series Book One

By H.R. Waller















Ocean's Power: Gaurdians of the Sea

By H.R. Waller






Good Luck with Everything H.R.!

If you happen to know an author that would be great for my Fighting Prose series be sure to send them my way!

Thanks for reading!

XoXo- Colleen

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Published on October 07, 2019 04:00

September 29, 2019

Fighting Prose Interview with Willow Winters

Welcome to my in-depth writers series Fighting Prose. Where I talk to authors in the industry on what their process is like and what it takes for them to keep on creating, through all the odds. This week we’re talking to Willow Winters. who has an IMPRESSIVE 30 Books under her belt!!!

How long have you been writing?

Nearly four years.

Of the books you’ve written, which is your favorite?

Oh gosh, that's difficult to answer. I have over 30 books. Merciless and Forget Me Not will always stand out in my mind. My newest is always my favorite though, so I have to say, Desperate to Touch.

What’s your favorite genre to read? Write?

Romance - any and all forms. From PNR to shortreads to gritty dark romance. Although I love to read Chick Lit as well.

Tell me about your process: how do you get in the mood to write? How do your characters come together? How do you get your ideas?

My ideas and characters develop in my head for months to years before I get a chance to write them. I'll go for a walk to break from writing and the ideas flood me. A few will be strong enough to return and flesh themselves out, until I have a full story in my mind. When I sit down to write a book, I know it very well already. As far as "getting in the mood"... I put my fingers to the keyboard. Always. It doesn't matter if I'm anxious to write or it's just time to write. The second I put my fingers to the keys, words flow. Having those words flow is the best mood ever.

What do you admire the most about the writing world?

Oh gosh! You ask very difficult questions. The writing world is HUGE and I admire a great number of people all for different reasons. I can't name just one person!

If you're not busy writing, what are you busy doing?

Chasing around my kids. I have a 3 and 5 year old and they are my world.

Have you ever had writers block? If so, how did you get out of it?

I've had very anxious moments when sitting down to focus on writing was difficult. However, the stories kept going in my mind. So it was just a matter of waiting for the anxiousness to pass, which it always does. Self publishing is stressful, but very rewarding. I keep in mind that I GET to write and I always write what I love to write and I'm desperate to read. So it's a rare day that I don't want to write.

For a writer starting out what advice would you give them?

Never stop writing. Hard times will come, hard lessons will be learned. Keep writing. So long as the book is good, there is no reason to stop. You know what a good book is. If you love your book and your stories, don't stop writing.

Have you always been creative? Has it always been writing?

I used to love art, scrap-booking and painting. When I had my first child, I took up sewing. I do love anything really with creativity and challenges.

What is your dream writing location?

On a beach. Although every time I go to a beach I don't end up writing.

In reference to your books, what question do you get asked the most?

The reading order! Everyone wants to know where to start, but I write all of my books so that any hero's story can be read at any time. Even my series that follow a timeline, it doesn't matter where you start, you can pick up at any point to begin.

If you could bring one of your characters to life who would it be? Why?

OOOooh that is a hard one. Seth King I think. My most recent hero. He's damaged and all sorts of lost right now (I left his book on a cliffhanger). I'd tell him it gets better. (It's going to get worse before it gets better but I may omit that if he were to ask!)













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Links to Willow





Website

Instagram

Merciless

Forget Me Not

















Good Luck with Everything Willow!

If you happen to know an author that would be great for my Fighting Prose series be sure to send them my way!

Thanks for reading!

XoXo- Colleen

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Published on September 29, 2019 01:00