Joylene Nowell Butler's Blog

IWSG – May 2025 – Overcoming Perfectionism in Writing

Back in March, my much-loved 18-month-old MacBook lost its screen. It wasn’t dropped, nor did I sit on it, so I’m still confused about what happened, but no matter—we’re back in Canada and the newly installed screen is beautiful.

Onward and upward…

I recently had a brief conversation with a fledgling writer about something that many years ago almost stopped my career before it began: perfectionism in writing.  I offered encouragement because of the lack of time, but they were mostly empty words. Since then I’ve thought long and hard, and the following is what I should have taken the time to say.

Recognize the symptoms for what they are:

The half-finished manuscript sitting in a drawerThe completed draft deemed “not good enough” to reviseThe abandoned short story that started so promisinglyThe novel outline that never evolved into chapter oneThe brilliant ideas that remain trapped in your mind

Recognize them, then realize these aren’t signs of inadequacy or lack of talent. They’re casualties of perfectionism—that relentless inner critic that demands impossibly high standards from your earliest drafts.

This pattern is destructive because it creates a self-reinforcing cycle: each abandoned project reinforces the belief that you’re incapable of finishing, making the next attempt even more daunting.

Remember, there is something transcendent about creating stories. Fiction allows us to momentarily escape the limitations of our single life and experience multiple realities. It encourages empathy, compassion and curiosity. In a finite existence, storytelling gives us a taste of the infinite. Why else would we spend years writing for so little monetary gain?

Breaking the Perfectionism Cycle

It’s imperative to reframe completion as a separate goal. Finishing requires its own practice, independent of quality. Your first completed projects may not be your best work, but they teach you how to reach the end—an important lesson for creating future masterpieces.

Implement a “zero draft” mindset. Think: this draft isn’t meant to be good—it’s meant to be finished. Quality comes in revision, but you can’t revise what doesn’t exist.

Set concrete, achievable milestones with rewards. Celebrate writing 10,000 words, regardless of their quality. Acknowledge completing a chapter, even if it needs work. These small victories build momentum. Just don’t celebrate by eating ice cream and cookies.

Try time-boxing when perfectionism threatens. Write for a predetermined period without stopping or editing. The pressure of the clock often bypasses the inner critic, freeing you to simply create.

Find like-minded writers. Writing groups or self-imposed deadlines create external commitments that can propel you forward when internal motivation falters. I learned more about creative writing through critiquing and being critiqued than I ever did in university. Frightening declaration.

Finally, I would reiterate, “Every completed project, regardless of quality, builds your identity as a writer who finishes things. This identity, more than any technical skill, ultimately determines your success. Your imperfect finished work always exceeds the perfect unwritten masterpiece in your mind.”

How about you? What techniques have helped you push through to completion? I’d love to hear your experiences in the comments below.

 

Ninja Captain Alex J Cavanaugh created IWSG — because Alex understands we need a place to congregate, insecurity is part of our creative nature, and together we’re stronger. Thank you, Alex!

On the first Wednesday of each month, you can write on any subject related to your writing journey or answer the month’s question. Either way, you’re in safe territory.

If this sounds good to you, sign up here.

If you haven’t anything new to report, consider answering the month’s question. It’s an optional choice.May 7 question – Some common fears writers share are rejection, failure, success, and lack of talent or ability. What are your greatest fears as a writer? How do you manage them?The awesome co-hosts for the May 7 posting of the IWSG are Feather Stone, Janet Alcorn, Rebecca Douglass, Jemima Pett, and Pat Garcia!   Be sure to visit the
Insecure Writer’s Support Group Website!!!

 

 

The post IWSG – May 2025 – Overcoming Perfectionism in Writing first appeared on Joylene Nowell Butler.

The post IWSG – May 2025 – Overcoming Perfectionism in Writing appeared first on Joylene Nowell Butler.

IWSG – March 2025 – The Perfect Instrument

March 5 question – If for one day you could be anyone or *thing* in the world, what would it be? Describe, tell why, and any themes, goals, or values they/it inspire in you.

I’ve spent countless hours imagining the unimaginable—the raw, unfiltered connection to nature that an eagle experiences with each majestic flight. Long before I truly understood why, eagles had always represented something profound to me—a symbol of grace and untamed spirit.

Fifteen years ago, I was standing in our loft overlooking the lake fifty feet below when an eagle appeared forty feet before me, soaring past our window. Almost immediately, our eyes met—a brief, electrifying connection that lasted no more than five seconds as he passed. The hairs on my neck stood up, and something inside of me shifted. I can’t explain. It was more than just observing a magnificent creature; it was a spiritual connection that defied explanation.

Since then, during stressful times, I have imagined flying alongside him, my wings spread, my eyes sharp and focused, and my breathing easy. My body feels the thermal currents lifting me high above mountain ranges while the world below shrinks, revealing intricate landscapes invisible to those bound to the ground. I become a perfect instrument of flight—each movement a dance of aerodynamic precision, muscles designed for absolute mastery of the air.

I don’t fully comprehend what stirs within me at the sight of an eagle. Perhaps it’s a universal longing for freedom, a yearning for a perspective unburdened by human constraints. In that piercing gaze, I catch a glimpse of what it means to be truly wild—unrestrained, powerful, and magnificently alive.

 

 

Ninja Captain Alex J Cavanaugh created IWSG — because Alex understands we need a place to congregate, insecurity is part of our creative nature, and together we’re stronger. Thank you, Alex!

On the first Wednesday of each month, you can write on any subject related to your writing journey or answer the month’s question. Either way, you’re in safe territory.

If this sounds good to you, sign up here.

If you haven’t anything new to report, consider answering the month’s question. It’s an optional choice.The awesome co-hosts for the March 5 posting of the IWSG are Ronel Janse Van Vuuren,Pat Garcia, and Liza @ Middle Passages!

  Be sure to visit the
Insecure Writer’s Support Group Website!!!

The post IWSG – March 2025 – The Perfect Instrument first appeared on Joylene Nowell Butler.

The post IWSG – March 2025 – The Perfect Instrument appeared first on Joylene Nowell Butler.

IWSG – FEB 2025 – Timestamps

Is there a story or book you’ve written you want to/wish you could go back and change?

One thing I’m certain of (after four published novels) is that our creative work grows right along with us.

Looking back at each of my books is like flipping through old photos – they show exactly where I was as a writer at that moment in time. These days when I read them, I can’t help but think “Oh, I should have tweaked that sentence” or “That character could have had more depth” or “I could’ve connected these story pieces better.” Sometimes it’s just a word that bothers me or the way I explained why a character did something.

Over time I’ve stopped beating myself up about wanting to change stuff. These books are like timestamps on my writing journey. What I used to see as mistakes? They were bold moves that helped me grow.

If I could wave a magic wand, would I make some changes to my published books? Yes. But now I see those potential tweaks as proof that I’m growing, not proof that I messed up. After 31 years of putting words on paper, I’ve learned that every single thing I write makes me better at telling stories.

The real beauty isn’t about getting everything perfect – it’s about embracing how we keep growing as writers.

Almost every morning, my husband and I walk to the beach to watch the tide come in.

January was stressful for me, but today I listened to the waves cresting to shore and hear: When situations defy logic and cause stress, pause and breathe. Because everything always works out.

 

Ninja Captain Alex J Cavanaugh created IWSG — because Alex understands we need a place to congregate, insecurity is part of our creative nature, and together we’re stronger. Thank you, Alex!

On the first Wednesday of each month, you can write on any subject related to your writing journey or answer the month’s question. Either way, you’re in safe territory.

If this sounds good to you, sign up here.

If you haven’t anything new to report, consider answering the month’s question. It’s an optional choice.February 5 question – Is there a story or book you’ve written you want to/wish you could go back and change?The awesome co-hosts for the February 5 posting of the IWSG are Moi, Louise Barbour, and Tyrean Martinson!
(Remember, answering the month’s question is optional)Be sure to visit the
Insecure Writer’s Support Group Website!!!

The post IWSG – FEB 2025 – Timestamps first appeared on Joylene Nowell Butler.

The post IWSG – FEB 2025 – Timestamps appeared first on Joylene Nowell Butler.

IWSG – Dec. 2024 – Cliffhangers

Ninja Captain Alex J Cavanaugh created IWSG — because Alex understands we need a place to congregate, insecurity is part of our creative nature, and together we’re stronger.

On the first Wednesday of each month, you can write on any subject related to your writing journey or answer the month’s question. Either way, you’re in safe territory.

If this sounds good to you, sign up here.

If you haven’t anything new to report, consider answering the month’s question. It’s an optional choice.December 4 question – Do you write cliffhangers at the end of your stories? Are they a turn-off to you as a writer and/or a reader? (Remember, answering the month’s question is optional)The awesome co-hosts for the December 4 posting of the IWSG are Ronel, Deniz, Pat Garcia, Olga Godim, and Cathrina Constantine!

As a suspense writer, I try to weave cliffhangers into my stories both subtly and dramatically. My focus is blending natural storytelling with careful crafting. I obsess over chapter endings until they flow seamlessly – which is seldom easy; I’m my worst critic. However, nothing beats getting readers’ hearts racing once they’re invested in the characters.

Over the years, most of what I’ve learned was from studying the greats. Do you know that feeling when a scene gives you goosebumps or leaves you breathless? That’s the experience I strive to create in my writing. Understanding how masterful authors build tension has helped me craft authentic turning points in my manuscripts that propel the plot forward. For me, true suspense arises from emotional investment rather than manipulated information.

The best novels capture our attention scene by scene, creating character connections that can change our perspectives. Readers should feel compelled to keep turning the pages because they genuinely care about what happens next, not simply because they’re denied closure.

If writing is what you love, and you strive to improve, I suggest studying your favourites. They’re your favourites for a reason.

Gillian Flynn’s character revelations in *Gone Girl*, Stephen King’s mounting dread in *Misery* and *The Stand*, Harlan Coben’s perspective-shifting endings, and Tana French’s psychological tension through unreliable narration in her Dublin Murder Squad series,… if you’re looking for suggestions.

I sometimes find myself not particularly fond of cliffhangers because it feels like the author could have made their point more quickly and moved on. This reaction has led me to reevaluate whether I need to include cliffhangers or not. When they come to me naturally, I feel confident about them. However, when I hear a little voice inside my head suggesting, “This is a good place for a cliffhanger,” I take a moment to reconsider. Most of the time, I pay close attention to the prose while reading my work aloud. I trust my instincts, even if I’m the only one in the room who does.

Over 40 years now, I’ve learned many valuable lessons. Some of those are: writing doesn’t always have to be easy, but it should be enjoyable; trust your instincts; read your work aloud; and never stop honing your craft.

Cliffhangers can vary greatly across different genres. What works in suspense may feel out of place in literary fiction or romance. Oh, and don’t forget that the pacing and frequency of cliffhangers can impact the rhythm of your story.

–Happy IWSG Wednesday and Feliz Navidad!

Joylene

ps. We’ve left our RV in Canada and are at our apartment in Bucerias for the winter. If you’re in the area, come for a visit.

 

The post IWSG – Dec. 2024 – Cliffhangers first appeared on Joylene Nowell Butler.

The post IWSG – Dec. 2024 – Cliffhangers appeared first on Joylene Nowell Butler.

IWSG – Oct 2024 – A Ghost Story Classic

Ninja Captain Alex J Cavanaugh created IWSG — because Alex understands we need a place to congregate, insecurity is part of our creative nature, and together we’re stronger.

On the first Wednesday of each month, you can write on any subject related to your writing journey or adopt the option of answering the month’s question. Either way, you’re in safe territory.

If this sounds good to you, sign up here.

IWSG’s Twitter handle is @TheIWSG and the hashtag is #IWSG.

Every month, a specific question is offered, which may prompt you to share advice, insight, a personal experience or a story. Include your answer to the question in your IWSG post or let it inspire your post if you struggle with something to say.

Remember, the question is optional!

October 2 question – Ghost stories fit right in during this month. What’s your favourite classic ghostly tale? Tell us about it and why it sends chills up your spine.The awesome co-hosts for the October 2 posting of the IWSG are Nancy Gideon, Jennifer Lane, Jacqui Murray, and Natalie Aguirre!

Be sure to visit the
Insecure Writer’s Support Group Website!!!

I still get chills remembering “The Turn of the Screw” by Henry James. I read it for a class at SFU years ago, but it left me so unnerved that I slept with the lights on for two nights. It’s not for the faint-hearted, and my limited experience with older literature made it challenging initially.

Henry James’s writing style is notoriously intricate, with long sentences and rich descriptions that demand careful reading. The story’s ambiguity—leaving you questioning what’s real—adds another layer of complexity.

Once I adjusted to the language, the chilling narrative drew me in. It’s especially rewarding for those who enjoy psychological twists in their ghost stories. I wish someone had advised me to take my time and reflect on the events as they unfolded.

“The Turn of the Screw” follows a young governess who takes a job caring for two children at an eerie estate. Immediately, she senses something amiss. Strange noises echo through the hallways, and shadows seem to move just out of sight. She starts seeing ghostly figures—two former employees–who appear when no one else is around. Their cold presence fills the air with dread, making her question the children’s safety.

What’s truly unsettling is how the seemingly innocent children begin to act weirdly. Do the ghosts influence them, or do they know something?  The tension builds as the governess becomes obsessed with protecting them, leading to terrifying encounters that blur the line between reality and imagination.

Every whisper in the dark and flicker of candlelight heightens the suspense. By the end, you’re left with a lingering unease, as if the shadows themselves are watching you. The story doesn’t just haunt the governess—it leaves you pondering what dark secrets might be hiding in the corners of your own mind.

Will I read it again? I’m not sure. While it was a deep dive into the human psyche and the darkness we all carry, the lingering unease it provoked was intense. I may watch the film adaptation, but it’ll be in broad daylight.

CopyCongratulations to Sherry Ellis for the release of her novel Bubba and Squirt’s Legend of the Lost Pearls.
* * *

Bubba and Squirt embark on their most dangerous quest yet. Whisked away through the vortex to Japan, they must find two fabled pearls that hold the key to saving their father.

To top it off, they must go back and change the events of the past. As they race against time, the fate of their father, and their own lives, hang in the balance.

Will they outwit the cunning creatures that stand in their way or face their own demise trying to save their father?

Print ISBN 9798988625124 $8.95
eBook ISBN 9798988625131 $3.99
Juvenile Fiction – Action Adventure / Fantasy & Magic / Legends, Myths, Fables – Asian

Sherry Ellis’ Bubba and Squirt’s Big Dig to China won the Reader’s Favorites Silver Medal for the Children’s Grades 4-6 category.

Links:
Amazon – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CTWN8PSS
iTunes – https://books.apple.com/us/book/x/id6477321103
Barnes & Noble – https://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/2940167677777
Kobo – https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/Search?Query=9798988625131 Goodreads – https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/206994546-bubba-and-squirt-s-legend-of-the-lost-pearls

Happy IWSG Wednesday!P.S. It’s bear season again, so I’m keeping my head up and announcing my presence every time I step outside. CopyRetry

 

The post IWSG – Oct 2024 – A Ghost Story Classic first appeared on Joylene Nowell Butler.

The post IWSG – Oct 2024 – A Ghost Story Classic appeared first on Joylene Nowell Butler.

IWSG – Sept 2024 – I Took Their Advice

Ninja Captain Alex J Cavanaugh created IWSG — because Alex understands we need a place to congregate, insecurity is part of our creative nature, and together we’re stronger.

On the first Wednesday of each month, you can write on any subject related to your writing journey or adopt the option of answering the month’s question. Either way, you’re in safe territory.

If this sounds good to you, sign up here.

IWSG’s Twitter handle is @TheIWSG and the hashtag is #IWSG.

Every month, a specific question is offered, which may prompt you to share advice, insight, a personal experience or a story. Include your answer to the question in your IWSG post or let it inspire your post if you struggle with something to say.

Remember, the question is optional!

September 4 question – Since it’s back to school time, let’s talk English class. What’s a writing rule you learned in school that messed you up as a writer?

The awesome co-hosts for the September 4 posting of the IWSG are Beth Camp,Jean Davis,Yvonne Ventresca, and PJ Colando!

 

  Be sure to visit the
Insecure Writer’s Support Group Website!!!

When I read this month’s question, something came to mind, for about a nanosecond. (Poor memory) But it did prompt other memories; like the messed-up introduction to my first online critique group.

At that point I’d been a lone writer for about 15 years so I was very excited to be connected with other writers. I needed fellowship in the worst way. I knew my life was about to change. And it did. That was the early ’90s when I was still on dial-up. And yes, I published years later because of these people.

But I digest…(I could stretch this out; I am a storyteller) Suffice it to say, I finally got connected to the Wide World Web where something strange happened. My critique partners complained about my spelling, phrases, and dialect profusely.  I am Canadian and everyone else in my writer’s group was American. I told them, or rather, suggested I couldn’t change. I was/am who I am. They said I needed to if I wanted to compete in the market. In those days self-publishing was discouraged. I listened to everything but the spelling suggestions.

Today I still spell labour, favour, flavour, colour, traveller, defence, fibre, centre and catalogue in Canadian English unless the editor asks for American spelling. And I still speak funny. My American cousins laugh at me when I say words like house, mountain, always, forwards, distribute, didn’t… and, of course: eh?

The post IWSG – Sept 2024 – I Took Their Advice first appeared on Joylene Nowell Butler.

The post IWSG – Sept 2024 – I Took Their Advice appeared first on Joylene Nowell Butler.

IWSG – August – Life is Good

Ninja Captain Alex J Cavanaugh created IWSG — because Alex understands we need a place to congregate, insecurity is part of our creative nature, and together we’re stronger.

On the first Wednesday of each month, you can write on any subject related to your writing journey or adopt the option of answering the month’s question. Either way, you’re in safe territory.

If this sounds good to you, sign up here.

IWSG’s Twitter handle is @TheIWSG and the hashtag is #IWSG.

Every month, a specific question is offered, which may prompt you to share advice, insight, a personal experience or a story. Include your answer to the question in your IWSG post or let it inspire your post if you struggle with something to say.

Remember, the question is optional!

August 7 question – Do you use AI in your writing and if so how? Do you use it for your posts? Incorporate it into your stories? Use it for research? Audio?

The awesome co-hosts for the August 7 posting of the IWSG are Feather Stone, Kim Lajevardi, Diedre Knight, C. Lee McKenzie, and Sarah – The Faux Fountain Pen!

 

  Be sure to visit the
Insecure Writer’s Support Group Website!!!

I’ve nothing much to say this month other than that everything is fine. My health is good. My mental health is very well. I’m at peace. I’m simply without words. So, I’m adding pics of deer. They’re quite prevalent in my life.

I don’t use any form of AI.  I am interested in hearing what you think about it, so please leave me a comment and I will be sure to return the favour.

Have a wonderful IWSG Wednesday day.
—
joylene

PS We live in the bush on a lake with a lot of wildlife. Every day we have deer trekking through our yard. If I’m outside I go about my business and we ignore each other. You’d think I’d carry my camera in my pocket. If I’m inside I take a quick pic through the window, which means the quality of the shot isn’t the best. I’ve tried sneaking outside to get a better shot but my sudden appearance always scares them off.

If the visitors are bucks, I stay clear.

Yesterday we had a doe and her twins visiting when another set of twins wandered in minus their mother. The first doe immediately got up and started toward them. Risking injury, my husband went outside to intervene before she could hurt them. He suggested she gather up her babies and head out. She agreed.

Turned out the motherless twins’ mum was in the trees behind us having a nap.

https://joylenebutler.com/wp-content/...

 

 

 

The post IWSG – August – Life is Good first appeared on Joylene Nowell Butler.

The post IWSG – August – Life is Good appeared first on Joylene Nowell Butler.

IWSG – June 2024 – Appreciation

Ninja Captain Alex J Cavanaugh created IWSG — because Alex understands we need a place to congregate, insecurity is part of our creative nature, and together we’re stronger.

On the first Wednesday of each month, you can write on any subject related to your writing journey or adopt the option of answering the month’s question. Either way, you’re in safe territory.

If this sounds good to you, sign up here.

IWSG’s Twitter handle is @TheIWSG and the hashtag is #IWSG.

Every month, a specific question is offered, which may prompt you to share advice, insight, a personal experience or a story. Include your answer to the question in your IWSG post or let it inspire your post if you struggle with something to say.

Remember, the question is optional!

June 5 question – In this constantly evolving industry, what kind of offering/service do you think the IWSG should consider offering to members?

The awesome co-hosts for the June 5 posting of the IWSG are Liza at Middle Passages, Shannon Lawrence, Melissa Maygrove, and Olga Godim!

Be sure to visit the
Insecure Writer’s Support Group Website!!!

 

 

I’m not sure when I joined the Insecure Writers Support Group. Mid-2008 (I think) when my first novel was released. After searching for almost 10 years for a place where I could belong. I liked IWSG immediately. I was encouraged to share my insecurities without fear of ridicule, and that was a huge game-changer.

Here at IWSG, I’ve developed lifelong friendships with members from across the globe. The world really is a much smaller and friendlier place.

So, in answer to this month’s question: What kind of offering/service do (I) think the IWSG should consider offering to members in this constantly evolving industry?… 

I’m probably not the writer to ask.

The friendships here at IWSG mean more than I can say. Listening and chatting with other members has filled a void that used to haunt me. If I have questions related to writing or marketing, I can search the internet; but where else can I link up with like-minded people who continue to support, encourage, and make me proud to be a writer?

Years ago my mother gave me a pullover/jumper with the caption: “I’m a writer; my mother’s other children are normal.” I still have that pullover. (LOL) No, that’s not my quirky way of suggesting you’re all abnormal. I appreciate our differences and commonalities, and more.

Thank you, Alex, for creating IWSG. It’s a blessing being a member.

Happy Wednesday, everyone.

—

joylene

I’m grateful that this particular deer finds comfort resting on our property. I haven’t seen her for a few days which could mean she’s had her fawn somewhere deep in the woods.

The post IWSG – June 2024 – Appreciation first appeared on Joylene Nowell Butler.

The post IWSG – June 2024 – Appreciation appeared first on Joylene Nowell Butler.

IWSG – May 2024 – I’m Standing UP for IWSG!

Ninja Captain Alex J Cavanaugh created IWSG — because Alex understands we need a place to congregate, insecurity is part of our creative nature, and together we’re stronger.

On the first Wednesday of each month, you can write on any subject related to your writing journey or adopt the option of answering the month’s question. Either way, you’re in safe territory.

If this sounds good to you, sign up here.

IWSG’s Twitter handle is @TheIWSG and the hashtag is #IWSG.

Every month, a specific question is offered, which may prompt you to share advice, insight, a personal experience or a story. Include your answer to the question in your IWSG post or let it inspire your post if you struggle with something to say.

Remember, the question is optional!

May 1 question – How do you deal with distractions when you are writing? Do they derail you?The awesome co-hosts for the May 1 posting of the IWSG are Victoria Marie Lees, Kim Lajevardi, Nancy Gideon, and Cathrina Constantine!
Be sure to visit the
Insecure Writer’s Support Group Website!!!It took me a long time to admit I’m never distracted unless I allow it. I’ve let my emotions get in the way of my writing twice in my lifetime; once lasting one year, and later almost 4.  I blamed Writer’s Block. In hindsight, I now understand I was exactly where I was meant to be.Today, not by choice, I’m distracted by pain, bad enough that I can’t sit long to write, edit, or revise.An MRI in Mexico revealed I have 4 herniated discs in my lumbar area.  Before learning that, I’d made an appointment with an Orthopedic Surgeon (I was fortunate to get in) believing I could receive therapy for the Sciatic nerve running down my left leg. He studied the MRI and told me it wasn’t my leg it was my spine, and I needed surgery. I opted to return to Canada knowing I’d probably have a 2-3 month delay before I’d see a specialist. (I know: crazy) I did take the surgeon’s advice: No bending, no lifting, no jumping, no jogging, no long stretches of sitting, very little vacuuming, and no yard work.I grew up on a farm. Physical labour was part of my childhood. A bit clumsy or as my dad used to say, “An accident looking for a place to happen,” I had numerous accidents from age 12 onward. I landed on the pavement when the saddle cinch on my horse broke while we were at a full gallop. A truck hit me one rainy night; I’d just viewed a brand-new movie titled The Exorcist. I broke my femur attempting to rescue a pigeon in Mexico (she died); my femur snapped off at the top so they had to replace my hip. I sprained my ankle two separate times slipping on ice. Three car accidents. A conveyor belt incident (don’t ask). Stuck by a pumpkin thrown from a moving vehicle. (I know: weird) Tumbled down an embankment while gardening. …Do you or have you ever had compressed disc/discs?Did you heal with exercise or pain management?

Or was surgery the only choice?

In Mexico, the effects of two spinal injections lasted almost 40 days. Hallelujah. It was akin to having a 2-month migraine change to a headache instantly. Since then Dexamethasone has lessened the pain but the side effects are horrible: brain fog and insomnia. I’ve tried everything else to no avail. Steroids make me nervous.Is it me or does 4 herniated discs sound like a lot? Surely to goodness one does not wake up one morning with FOUR herniated discs? Why didn’t my doctor (retired now) ever consider an MRI? I complained about back pain for centuries. He said it was scoliosis of the spine, that I might consider a back brace (which I wear), plus lose 50 lbs. I lost 60.Sorry for whining.  I have so many blessings in my life, and every single day I wake filled with gratitude. I appreciate IWSG and I’m sad when I can’t participate. If you’ve had this problem and want to share some wisdom, please do. I’m open to any advice/thoughts you can give.Right now my Macbook is open on the kitchen counter where I will stand to read as many IWSG comments and posts as possible. I missed you guys!–Saludjoyleneps. Be kind to your back.

The post IWSG – May 2024 – I’m Standing UP for IWSG! first appeared on Joylene Nowell Butler.

The post IWSG – May 2024 – I’m Standing UP for IWSG! appeared first on Joylene Nowell Butler.

IWSG – March 2024 – Book Recommendation, Author L.Diane Wolfe

Ninja Captain Alex J Cavanaugh created IWSG — because Alex understands we need a place to congregate, insecurity is part of our creative nature, and together we’re stronger.

On the first Wednesday of each month, you can write on any subject related to your writing journey or adopt the option of answering the month’s question. Either way, you’re in safe territory.

If this sounds good to you, sign up here.

IWSG’s Twitter handle is @TheIWSG and the hashtag is #IWSG.

Every month, a specific question is offered, which may prompt you to share advice, insight, a personal experience or a story. Include your answer to the question in your IWSG post or let it inspire your post if you struggle with something to say.

Remember, the question is optional!

Have you “played” with AI to write those nasty synopses, or do you refuse to go that route? How do you feel about AI’s impact on creative writing?The awesome co-hosts for the March 6 posting of the IWSG are Kristina Kelly,Miffie Seideman,Jean Davis, and Liza @ Middle Passages! Be sure to visit the
Insecure Writer’s Support Group Website!!!I’m excited to announce that my friend, L. Diane Wolfe has a new book out: IN DARKNESS. If you’ve read her books you know her writing will grab you from page one and never let go. Here’s the synopsis. Enjoy.

 

Special boxed set of the In Darkness series in both print and eBook out now!

In Darkness

By L. Diane Wolfe

Romance-Paranormal / Fantasy-Paranormal / Romance-Science Fiction

Print ISBN 9798988625148 $17.95, 342 pages

eBook ISBN 9798988625155  $8.99

Four souls shrouded in darkness…

A wary vampire relying on the assistance of a young woman to guide his clan to an ancient fortress. A talking shark with no knowledge of his earlier life who befriends a girl with issues of her own. A werewolf trapped by his secret smitten with a young woman battling trust issues of her own. And an alien devoid of all emotions pledged to a Terran woman determined to keep her own feelings intact.

These souls must discover the power of love if they hope to escape the darkness surrounding them…

LINKS:

Amazon print –

Amazon eBook – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CWYM915Q

iTunes – https://books.apple.com/us/book/x/id6476887107

Barnes & Noble – https://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/2940167675377

Kobo – https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/Search?Query=9798988625155\

Gardners – https://www.gardners.com/Search/KeywordAnonymous/eBook?Keyword=9798988625155

Goodreads – https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/206112336-in-darkness

A professional speaker and author, L. Diane Wolfe conducts seminars, offers book formatting, and author consultation. She’s the senior editor at Dancing Lemur Press, L.L.C. and contributes to the Insecure Writer’s Support Group.

“…it’s a brilliant read and I found myself engrossed in the story…” The Strawberry Post  

“I am so shocked because I loved this book so much and it was a book that was so unlike anything I have ever read.” – A Ravenclaw Library  

“The author’s technique of raw, magnetic characters and great plotlines is a gift. A very unpredictable story, my favorite kind!” 5 stars – Amy’s Bookshelf Reviews

TWITTER:

In Darkness boxed set by L. Diane Wolfe Amazon- https://tinyurl.com/ymu9488u iTunes- https://tinyurl.com/4s2t9nzfB&N- https://tinyurl.com/jpw6a8j4 Kobo- https://tinyurl.com/5rbb3cx2 #parnormal

—
Dancing Lemur Press, L.L.C.
Freedom Fox Press
P.O. Box 383
Pikeville, NC 27863 USA
admin@dancinglemurpress.com
www.dancinglemurpress.com

The post IWSG – March 2024 – Book Recommendation, Author L.Diane Wolfe first appeared on Joylene Nowell Butler.

The post IWSG – March 2024 – Book Recommendation, Author L.Diane Wolfe appeared first on Joylene Nowell Butler.