Heidi McCahan's Blog, page 4

How To Win NaNoWriMo and Why You Need to Prep Now

November is National Novel Writing Month and NaNoWriMo encourages writers across the globe to write 50,000 words in 30 days. It’s an amazing accomplishment! Writing a novel requires making a plan. Let’s talk about how to win NaNoWriMo and why you need to prep now.

Find Your Writing Friends

The goal for NaNoWriMo is to write 50,000 words in 30 days. That breaks down to 1,667 words per day. It’s possible to knock out your word count writing in solitude. But it’s not very much fun. Take some time in October and find other folks in the writing community, either online or in real life, who are participating in NaNoWriMo. The we’re-all-in-this-together mindset will help you stay motivated on those days when you want to quit.

If you’re not sure how to find a group, visit Nanowrimo.org for more information. It’s free to create an account, there’s an awesome wordcount tracker, as well as opportunities to earn virtual badges. Check your local library as well. Often they will have special events planned to support NaNoWriMo participants.

Don’t Wait Until November First to Decide What You’re Writing About

The best way to win NaNoWriMo is to prep now. If you wait until November first to start planning your story, I promise you’ll give up quickly. It’s too daunting to write every day if you don’t know what you’re writing about. Let me be clear. I’m well aware of the age-old debate between folks who want to plot out their novel before writing versus folks who want to delight in the journey and see where the story takes them.

But this is a post about how to prepare to win. Writing 50,000 words in 30 days requires a plan. Much like the fictional characters and the story world you’re going to design for them, you’ll need a map and a strategy to conquer your obstacles and get to The End of your creative journey.

There’s nothing wrong with finding joy in the creative process. However, winning NaNoWriMo requires sustained effort almost every day for an entire month. Please believe me when I say this will be more fun and you’re more likely to succeed if you plan ahead. Brainstorm until you have a basic plot, an interesting story world and a cast of flawed yet likeable characters.

Here’s a quick rundown of the plot elements you’ll need to start writing your story:

A protagonist who wants something. This has to be something specific. World peace is an admirable goal for any hero or heroine but it’s too vague. If your protagonist is in fact fighting an epic battle on their quest for peace, write down exactly what they will be conquering: dragons, aliens from outer space, the mayor of their small town, their own inner demons, etc.Plenty of obstacles keeping them from getting that elusive thing. You have options here. An obstacle in a story takes many forms. Write down anything you can think of that might get in your characters’ way. A bear chasing them, job loss, extreme weather, finding out they have a child they didn’t know about. A word to the nice ladies writing sweet, wholesome romance novels: miscommunication is not a plot device. It happens a lot and I’m mentioning it because I’ve tried it myself. A situation that could be resolved with one conversation is not an obstacle. So don’t do it. Not even for NaNoWriMo. An interesting setting/story world. Spend twenty minutes making a list of iconic settings and story worlds in pop culture. The apartment and Central Perk in Friends, Luke’s Diner and all of Stars Hallow in Gilmore Girls, Tatooine in the Star Wars franchise are three that come to mind. Don’t panic. Your setting doesn’t have to be mind-blowing. But you do need a setting with enough sensory details to keep the story moving.Pick a Genre You Already Enjoy

The creative writers who conquer the NaNoWriMo mountain and finish the month with 50,000 words are often the writers who choose to build a story in a genre they enjoy. There aren’t any rules or guidelines that say you can’t do something different. Many a novelist has jumped into a new genre boat and found it to be an incredibly refreshing experience.

However, I’m here to coach you on how to set yourself up for success. Often writers get bogged down in the second week of November because they suddenly realize they don’t understand how to plot a story. So write in a genre that you’ve read before. Preferably a genre that you’ve read A LOT. This will help your brain intuitively craft that next scene. You’ll feel more confident, which will help you keep going when you’re exhausted.

Practice, practice, practice

Set a timer on your phone, your microwave, your smartwatch…you get the picture. For an established amount of time, do nothing else but write. Go old school with pen and paper, dictate into your phone or type on your computer. However you choose to get the words out of your head, make it happen until the timer rings. This is called a writing sprint. It will be your new best friend for all of November.

Remember: if you want to win NaNoWriMo, you need to prep now. So practice writing. Pretend you are your protagonist and write a journal entry about the best thing that ever happened in your fictional character’s life. Set the timer again and write for twenty minutes, describing every detail you can think of regarding your story’s setting. This exercise will give you some idea of the effort required for you to log 1,667 words in a day. Hint: the secret sauce is the writing sprint.

Final Thoughts How to Win NaNoWriMo and Why You Need to Prep Now

National Novel Writing Month is an incredible opportunity to stretch your creative muscles and challenge yourself to write a novel. It doesn’t have to be brilliant. It just has to be a complete story. Ideally, a story you can revisit later and revise into something worth publishing.

October is the perfect time to read a book by a favorite author in a genre that you enjoy reading. There are people handing out bad advice in the world telling you not to do this because you’ll steal other people’s work. This is the worst advice I’ve ever heard. Spoiler alert: there are no unique ideas. Everything’s been done before. But your story will be unique because it will be from your perspective, featuring the characters with unfulfilled longings, embarking on their epic journeys in the story world that you created.

So go on. Read the great books. See how James Patterson, Nora Roberts, Susan Mallery, Taylor Jenkins Reid, John Grisham, Celeste Ng, Abby Jimenez and countless others have written their bestselling novels.

Then keep prepping. November will be here before we know it.

If you’d like some additional resources, here are a few of my favorites:

Why Plots Fail by Tiffany Yates Martin: a quick read and highly informative article about how to plot effectively

Write Your Novel from the Middle by James Scott Bell: a short, useful book about how to incorporate that crucial moment that will be the crux of your whole plot.

Romancing the Beat by Gwen Hayes how to plot a romance novel. It’s easy to read, easy to implement and the best writing resource I’ve seen specifically for romance writers.

Savannah Gilbo has some incredible resources about preparing for NaNoWriMo. Her Ultimate Guide is phenomenal!

Thanks so much for stopping by. If you have any questions, I’m happy to help. Leave a comment and let me know if you’ll be participating in NaNoWriMo this year.

Please note this post contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase one of the items mentioned, I may receive a commission.

5 Late-Summer Reads I Recommend + 3 New Books You Won’t Want to Miss

Fall is right around the corner but we don’t have to give up those summer books just yet. Here are 5 late-summer reads I recommend plus 3 new books you won’t want to miss.

Two open books on a wooden table with a white coffee mug displayed against pink wallFantastic Women’s Fiction

Jill Shalvis is one of my go-to authors when I want a compulsively readable novel with characters I’ll fall in love with immediately. The Friendship Pact offers a gorgeous Lake Tahoe setting, a wonderful cast of characters that are all flawed yet loveable, and a storyline that hooked me from the first page. This is the second book in Shalvis’s Sunset Cove series, but it stands on its own. Highly recommend for readers who enjoy stories featuring mother-daughter relationships, as well as themes of redemption and second chances.

This is my first time reading a novel by Minnie Darke but it surely won’t be my last. With Love from Wish & Co. is so enjoyable. I like a book featuring a character with a moral dilemma, which I feel the heroine must wrestle with as her personal life unexpectedly intersects with her goals as a small business owner. There are several characters who get to share their point of view in this story, and the author handles those POV shifts quite well. Each character is on a path and their choices will impact the future of other characters who are also caught up in this interesting web of love and loss.
I found myself rooting for Marnie from the beginning. My favorite quote from the book comes from a teenager who describes love as the hokey pokey … you have to put your whole self in.
How profound is that?!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the complimentary digital copy. This is a satisfying and compelling read. Highly recommend!

Epic Romantic Suspense

Holy guacamole. Sunburst is phenomenal!

Last night I shirked all my responsibilities, pretended I didn’t have any writing deadlines, then sat on my porch and blazed through the last hour of the audio version. Shout out to the narrator, Cynthia Farrell, who did a brilliant job.

Sunburst is the 2nd book in Susan May Warren’s Sky King Ranch series. It’s an epic romantic suspense novel that will carry you vicariously from Nigeria to Alaska (with at least one pit stop in Florida). This story is action-packed and fast-paced, with plenty of whip smart dialogue, plus a thought-provoking inspirational message. The Kingston family has a fair amount of plausible drama, there are secondary characters with intriguing secrets, and the descriptions of the settings make me feel like I’m there.

I love reading/listening to Susie’s books and I’m so glad I won’t have to wait long for the third book in this incredible series. Sundown releases November 1st.

Outstanding Audio

Loved it! So glad I listened to the recommendations from my bookish online friends and gave this one a chance. The narration for the audio version is excellent. Nora Goes Off Script might be one of my favorite reads of the year.

Excellent narration! Julia Whelan is so talented and her nuanced voice inflections and emotion bring the story to life. The characters are well-developed. As an author, I often thought listening to Birds of California was like attending a masterclass in how to write punchy, gripping dialogue.
The story slowed significantly for me in the middle. I’m also super irritated by the gratuitous use of the F-bomb. It’s unfortunate when authors fall back on that as their go-to response between characters in conflict. The ending is satisfying and redeemed Fiona for me as a mostly unlikeable character.
This novel has open-door intimacy and as previously mentioned a ton of profanity. If you’re a sensitive reader, I’d steer clear.

3 New Books You Won’t Want to Miss

Here is a current new release that’s already a bestseller and two books arriving in October that I’ve started reading and already adore.

Marlowe Banks, Redesigned releases October 25, 2023.

A Place to Land is Lauren K. Denton’s latest novel. It releases October 4, 2022. Lauren’s author voice is like no other. I’m so grateful for the ARC I received and super excited to keep reading this one. In case you missed it, Lauren K. Denton and Sarah Addison Allen were guests on a recent episode of Friends & Fiction. It’s a powerful conversation. You can watch the replay here.

I’m a huge fan of Sarah Addison Allen’s work so I couldn’t wait to get my hands on a copy of Other Birds. I received an ARC from the publisher and purchased my own copy as my Book of the Month selection. The writing is brilliant. If you’re a fan of magical realism, I highly recommend Other Birds.

Here’s the description:

From the acclaimed author of  Garden Spells  comes a tale of lost souls, secrets that shape us, and how the right flock can guide you home.

Down a narrow alley in the small coastal town of Mallow Island, South Carolina, lies a stunning cobblestone building comprised of five apartments. It’s called The Dellawisp and it’s named after the tiny turquoise birds who, alongside its human tenants, inhabit an air of magical secrecy.

When Zoey Hennessey comes to claim her deceased mother’s apartment at The Dellawisp, she meets her quirky, enigmatic neighbors including a girl on the run, a grieving chef whose comfort food does not comfort him, two estranged middle-aged sisters, and three ghosts. Each with their own story. Each with their own longings. Each whose ending isn’t yet written.

When one of her new neighbors dies under odd circumstances the night Zoey arrives, she’s thrust into the mystery of The Dellawisp, which involves missing pages from a legendary writer whose work might be hidden there. She soon discovers that many unfinished stories permeate the place, and the people around her are in as much need of healing from wrongs of the past as she is. To find their way they have to learn how to trust each other, confront their deepest fears, and let go of what haunts them.

Delightful and atmospheric, Other Birds is filled with magical realism and moments of pure love that won’t let you go. Sarah Addison Allen shows us that between the real and the imaginary, there are stories that take flight in the most extraordinary ways.

Final Thoughts on Late-Summer Reads and New Books You Won’t Want to Miss

Thanks for stopping by and checking out my mini-reviews and new book shout outs. Hope you’ve found some books to add to your TBR pile. If you’d like to share your thoughts, feel free to leave a comment. I’m always curious to hear what others are reading and loving.

If you’d like even more book recs, this post is part of Anne Bogel’s monthly new and notable reading round-up. Please visit her home on the internet to connect with a lovely and delightful bookish community.

Happy reading, sweet friends!

Please note: this post contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase via the links provided, I will receive a small commission.

How a Secondhand Paperback Inspired Me to Chase a Big Dream

Have you ever finished reading a book and felt super encouraged to try something new? Visit a place you’ve never been? Or maybe even change the world? Keep reading to learn more about how a secondhand paperback inspired me to chase a big dream.

The author engagement team at Harlequin has encouraged us to share more about our writing life. Today’s prompt is all about the books and authors that inspired us to become writers. It’s such a fun prompt and one I’m thrilled to chat about.

When I was about five, my sister brought home a book from school that she’d made. That’s the day the writing bug bit me. I wanted to make a book so badly. Eventually I drew my own illustrations, pecked out a few words on my grandfather’s typewriter, then bound it all together with glue, cardboard and not a small amount of staples. Not bad for a first effort. I still have that masterpiece on my bookshelf.

I spent the first half of my childhood in a rural area in southcentral Alaska. Thankfully we had access to books, either from the school library, summer visits from the bookmobile, or when we went ‘to town’ to shop. My parents always made time to stop at the bookstore in the mall. (Shout out to the old Waldenbooks in the Northway mall in Anchorage, Alaska!!)

Author holding a paperback copy of Julie by Catherine Marshall

Sometime in elementary school, my best friend’s mom opened a small bookstore in her home. I read Love Comes Softly by Janette Oke then devoured the rest of the series. Life on the Alberta prairie and the chaste marriage-of-convenience romance captivated me. Then someone gifted me a secondhand paperback copy of Catherine Marshall’s Julie. It was the longest book I’d ever read and when I finished, I remembered thinking that someday I was going to write a book like that. Marshall and Oke inspired me to write the kind of fiction that offered readers hope and encouragement.

Fast forward to my college years, I was afraid to be an English major because I didn’t think I’d get a job after graduation. I had zero interest in being a teacher. God had a calling for my life and He had gifted me with creativity and an overactive imagination. Reading novels and writing essays were two of my favorite things, but I couldn’t figure out how to build a career that used my gifts. One of my classmates was Debbie Macomber’s son and I overheard him talking to his friends about his mom’s career as an author. Little did I know how those few minutes of eavesdropping would eventually change my life.

A few more years went by and I earned a master’s degree in sports medicine. My first job was at a university working as an athletic trainer. It didn’t take me long to realize this was not my passion. Watching sports for a living is a wonderful opportunity, but long hours and nontraditional schedules did not suit me once I met my soon-to-be husband. After we started a family, I retired from athletic training. One evening I was at home with our first baby when I watched Cedar Cove on television. I thought about Debbie Macomber again and wondered if I could write books in a similar vein because I loved the way I felt when I watched that show.

About 11 years ago, I decided to get serious about my writing. I’d already been blogging for a few years and researching how to pursue publication. There were a few rejections, some detours and frustrations. I wouldn’t trade experiences, milestones achieved and lessons learned along the way though. It’s been an exciting journey. In 2015, I entered a writing contest with Harlequin Love Inspired. That entry eventually became a manuscript, which eventually became my first traditionally published novel. Including both independently and traditionally published works, my 11th romance novel was just published and there are many more in the pipeline. I still marvel at the way a secondhand paperback inspired me to chase a big dream.

Thank you, Catherine, Janette, and Debbie plus the countless other trailblazers who’ve inspired other authors to create more stories our readers love.

5 Links I’m Loving On This Feel Good Friday

Have you heard the good news? It’s Friday! Any fun plans for the weekend? Let’s get this party started with some positive vibes and encouragement. Keep reading for 5 links I’m loving on this feel good Friday.

Beautiful brunette lady in wheat field at sunsetMoms and Daughters for the Win!

These ladies are Southwest Airlines’ first mother-daughter pilots. Such an inspirational story about chasing big dreams in a profession where women have had to work hard to claim a seat in the cockpit. Read more here.

Reason Number 3,4032 Why JJ Watt is a Fabulous Human

When professional athlete JJ Watt heard a woman was selling her shoes to pay for her grandfather’s funeral, he immediately stepped in to help. Don’t miss this one, especially the quote at the end of the story about what his generosity meant to her.

Message in a Bottle Stories Get Me Every Time

This poignant story reminds me that we’re all connected. Kindness is free and makes a huge impact.

Austin Butler Teaches Jimmy Fallon a Dance Move and I’m Here For It

Between the Elvis impersonations and the smooth dance moves, watching this clip will be the best thing about your Friday. Maybe even your whole week.

How Playing Catch With Hundreds Helped One Dad Grieve Son’s Death

This is a beautiful story about how one man uses the simple act of throwing a baseball with another person as a way to process grief. Even if baseball isn’t your thing, this article is relatable because grief recovery is a universal experience.

A Feel Good Friday Promo Code

Shop at Harlequin.com and save 30% when you use code AUG30SAVE

Happy Feel Good Friday! I hope you all have a wonderful weekend.

10 Dorm Room Essentials for Freshmen in 2022

Are you sending a student to college for the first time? Baffled and overwhelmed about how to pack those dorm room essentials? I’ve got you. After conducting an informal survey among seasoned professionals (aka parents who’ve done this already) here are 10 most recommended essentials for freshmen in 2022.

Highly Recommended Dorm Room EssentialsOversized Heavy-Duty Tote Bags: the most recommended dorm room essentials for college move-in day. The intense pace of the moving process, crowded and overworked elevators, plus the convenience of packing in flexible bags make these moving bags a must-have. There are several options available. I’m pleased with the quality and capacity of these.First-Aid Kit with Instructions: several moms told me they wished they’d sent their kids to college with commonly used first aid supplies, over-the-counter medications, and instructions for how to use the medications. Not that there’s anything wrong with calling or texting parents to ask for empathy or advice, but perhaps including instructions will make unexpected cuts, scrapes, and illnesses more palatable for everyone. Damage-Free Picture Hanging Strips: once the bags and totes are moved into the dorm, transforming a bland room into a comfortable living space is the next crucial step. Check with student housing staff for guidelines first, but usually, temporary hanging strips are acceptable. Flags, posters, framed inspirational quotes, whiteboards, and cork boards are a few popular suggestions for making a dorm room feel more like home. Portable Lap Desk: a modern twist on a classic favorite, the portable lap desk with the pillow cushion is another highly recommended dorm room essential. There are countless options available so this is an item you’ll want to ask your student about. They’ll likely have strong opinions regarding fabric and color selections.Shoe Organizer: In our house, it’s customary to take our shoes off as soon as we walk in the door. We end up with lots of shoes tucked away in nooks and crannies, the mud room, and on the floor in the middle of bedrooms. That’s not going to work in a 12 x 10 shared space. Several recent dorm room dwellers told me they had to find ways to store their shoes in a manner that controlled odor, conserved space, and didn’t annoy their roommates.Bedside Shelf: in a traditional dorm room, there’s often no room for a nightstand. If the beds are bunked, there’s no place for the person in the upper bunk to store a phone, alarm clock, or e-Reader. And let’s be real–who wants to get out of bed and cross the room to stash stuff on a desk or dresser? Enter the bed caddy and the BedShelfie. How cool is this?! I see why such a clever accessory ranks high on the list of highly recommended dorm room essentials. Backpack-Style Laundry Bag: standard laundry baskets are great for hauling clothes and plenty of other possessions, but they’re also bulky. The backpack style is ultra-portable and sports a convenient pocket for toting detergent and dryer sheets. College students will be thrilled to stuff this thing to the gills and toss it in the car when they come home on breaks. Extra Seating and Storage Ottomans: creating an inviting communal living arrangement means adding functional and comfortable furniture. Often the standard-issue desk chairs are the opposite of comfortable. Futons, trunks, ottomans, bean bags, cushioned folding chairs…the modern college student has so many fantastic options. Gathering with new friends, gaming, or enjoying a study break will be much more fun in a comfortable chair that protects the cozy vibe.Mattress topper and weighted blanket: beds are the cornerstone of a college student’s dorm room. There’s nothing worse than moving away from home and dealing with an uncomfortable, disappointing sleeping situation. In my opinion, this is one of the key components that influence how well the student thrives. That’s why it isn’t surprising that friends and family recommended mattress toppers and weighted blankets as dorm room essentials.Multi-outlet power strip with a surge protector: in today’s highly connected world, two or four measly outlets aren’t going to cut it. Extra power strips with built-in protection against power surges will be crucial for dorm rooms. Remember to double-check and follow student housing guidelines before adding microwaves, mini-fridges, and coffeemakers.Final Thoughts

Leaving home and moving into a college dorm is a major life change. Knowing how to prepare and what not to do will help ease the transition. Emotions are complicated during move-in day. The logistics of getting to the university, understanding how to unload, staying positive and making the room comfortable in a just a few hours is a huge task. Hopefully this list of dorm room essentials curated from folks who have gone before you will make this journey easier to navigate.

If you have any suggestions to add to the list, I’d love to hear them. Please share in the comments.

How to Find the Best Summer Books to Read

Ah, summer reading. That glorious season when book lovers obsess over the best summer books to read. New releases are plentiful. Our bookshelves and e-readers are likely well-stocked with books we haven’t read yet … but we fully intend to. There are only 3 months between Memorial Day and Labor Day, which means reading time competes with all the other activities on our summer must-do lists. There’s no time to waste on a mediocre book, right?

Here are 4 easy steps to find the best summer books.

Woman reading book in hammock in tropical gardenKnow What You Like

Naming the types of books you like to read and side-stepping the types you don’t helps narrow your focus. Sometimes people feel pressured to read the books everyone else claims they’re reading. To be honest, that’s a side effect of clever marketing. A skilled publicity team is capitalizing on FOMO to sell books. Please don’t misunderstand me, there’s nothing wrong with genuinely wanting to read the books everyone else is reading. If you walk into a bookstore or shop online and wonder, ‘What are the hot books right now?’

Congratulations. You are a booksellers’ ideal customer. There’s no shame in your game. (Cue the confetti!)

But if those books aren’t appealing, and you feel frustrated by the endless lists of titles that you don’t want to read, I’m here to tell you there’s a better way. You simply must know what you like. Are you a mood reader who needs several books available depending on how you’re feeling? Or are you a romance fan who craves a feel-good story with a guaranteed happy ending? Maybe you find certain genres trite and boring, so you’d prefer a memoir or a gripping historical fiction novel?

Do you read to escape? To be entertained? To learn and grow?

Know what you like and you’ll have a much more fulfilling summer reading experience.

Little Free Library at Ocean Isle Beach North CarolinaShop Your Shelves

Your toppling TBR pile plus your jampacked e-reader equals the best summer reads of all time. Maybe. Except you don’t know, because you’ve forgotten which books you own. Summer is a great time to shop your shelves.

Delve into your stacks. Peruse your digital library. If you’re a re-reader maybe you’ll come across an old favorite you can enjoy again. Remember that clever marketing I mentioned? Summer reading season is an opportunity to connect readers with books they enjoy. Past consumer behavior proves that readers often seek compulsively readable novels. As an author I want readers choosing books they literally can’t put down. That’s what makes our bookish world go around. Folks who boldly proclaim their love for the books they’ve devoured inspire others to read more. That’s a win for everyone!

Finding the best summer books to read does not mean spending money. Reading a book purchased in 2020, 2021 or even years ago is a wonderful thing. Sometimes a favorite author’s backlist is a treasure trove of delightful reading. Explore your hometown and find a Little Free Library. You can leave a book and take a book. If you have young readers in your life, visit the local library and help them enroll in a fun free program for kids. It’s a great opportunity for you to find summer books you’ll love, and encourage kids to embrace reading. Janssen Bradshaw of Everyday Reading is passionate about recommending books for young readers. I highly recommend visiting her website and subscribing to her newsletter.

Three attractive women sitting outside reading togetherFind Your Book People

I have found so many amazing books recommended by complete strangers. I know. That sounds like a ridiculous notion. Stick with me, please. Bookish people on the internet share similar reading sensibilities. We are part of the same groups on social media. We follow similar influencers, often listen to the same podcasts, and frequently gather at virtual author events. It takes effort and a bit of trial and error to find like-minded readers. But when you do, your reading life becomes much richer. Who knows where these connections might lead?

A few of my favorite online bookish communities include: Anne Bogel, who hosts the What Should I Read Next? podcast and is also a long-time blogger with an established online book club. Her Summer Reading Guide is a perennial favorite. Sarah’s Bookshelves, Friends & Fiction and Sorta Awesome are three more online communities featuring wonderful author interviews and fabulous book recommendations. If you’d prefer a Facebook Group, Bloom Where You’re Planted and The Girlfriend Book Club are two of my favorites for book recommendations, interesting discussion and ongoing reading challenges.

Blue sandals and white tote bag filled with notebooks and water bottleCreate Your Best Summer Books to Read List

Now that you’ve been given permission to skip the hottest beach reads of 2022 (or fully embrace those books if that’s your jam), and connected with fellow book nerds, I hope you feel empowered to find the best summer books.

One last step: it’s time to create your list. That’s right. Planning what you’ll read is super important. Otherwise, you might get distracted by a shiny new release. Ha! Whether you’re planning a vacation or a staycation, build reading time into your summer routine. Scribble the titles on the back of a receipt, keep a note in an app on your phone, or build a want-to-read shelf on Goodreads. No need to be overly concerned with the format. The point is to choose the books you think you’ll enjoy the most. Then be intentional about acquiring and reading them.

Thanks so much for visiting my website. I’ve written a few posts about reading and book recs over the years. Check out 10 great reads for the often vigilant mama. If you’re a fan of small-town romance novels, I’ve shared 10 favorites here.

I’d love to hear what you’re reading this summer. Leave a comment and let me know.

How To Create a Series Readers Will Enjoy

A behind-the-scenes look at how Heidi’s new Home to Hearts Bay series came to be, including a few lessons learned along the way as she shares her insights about how to create a series readers will enjoy.

It’s All About the Heart-Shaped Rocks

For as long as I’ve been writing novels, I’ve wanted to write a complete series set in Alaska. I started out independently publishing a series set in the fictional community of Emerald Cove, Alaska. Then I entered a contest with Love Inspired and loosely connected a character from my indie books to my first Love Inspired novel, The Firefighter’s Twins. Initially I envisioned this epic story world where all my characters in every book are connected by a common thread.

Well, as it turns out that’s extremely difficult to do when you’re just starting out.

I did not possess the skill or the vision to know what I didn’t know. So I had to rethink that plan. As my publishing opportunities increased with Love Inspired, my dream of writing a complete series became a reality. This time with a new setting and a new cast of characters. When I read a news story about heart-shaped rocks on a beach in southcentral Alaska, the idea for the series took flight. I took that real piece of information and created the fictional community of Hearts Bay. Each story is set on Orca island (also fictional but inspired by Kodiak Island). To me, when Alaska is a setting it also becomes a plot device. An island implies challenges because of the lack of roads/bridges. Alaska is known for its extreme weather as well as its captivating scenery, both of which can easily be used to move a story forward. Brainstorming a series idea with substantial conflict is crucial to your success.

Siblings Equals Drama

My relationship with my sister is amazing, most likely because she’s one of the most wonderful humans on the planet. To be honest, I’m the feisty one who is prone to be overly dramatic. Please don’t tell her I admitted that here, though. One of my key lessons that I’ve learned from reading compelling contemporary novels is that readers enjoy some drama.

Juicy secrets. Second chance romance. People who’ve left a trail of heartache in their wake suddenly coming back home to face the people they’ve hurt. Childhood sweethearts reunited to achieve a common goal (or thwart the other’s success to get what they think they want). These are all examples of hooks that readers enjoy.

Since I’m writing inspirational, uplifting romance novels, I have to draw from a slightly different well. Not that people of faith don’t have plenty of drama, because we certainly do. I’m simply saying that the expectations among Love Inspired readers skews conservative, so that influences my creative process. If you haven’t already figured this out, authors and editors at Love Inspired do our best to keep readers happy. We strive to keep readers coming back for more. Siblings as protagonists are often a huge hit. The main characters in my Home to Hearts Bay series are sisters. When the first book begins, it’s revealed that they lost their brother and the oldest sister’s fiance in a tragic commercial fishing accident. Their grief and recovery from those tragic losses is like a ribbon that winds throughout the series. The loss unites their family and helps them conquer the obstacles they face in each novel.

Deliver What You’ve Promised

Readers like series romance for a variety of reasons. It’s our job as authors to tap into their expectations and deliver what we’ve promised. Love Inspired readers like small-town settings, especially Alaska, featuring characters who live in close-knit communities. So far, the stories I’ve written featuring babies and young children, single dads and juicy secrets have sold well. Does that mean I’ll be writing novels with those hooks forever? Who knows. For now, it’s working. Those hooks appeal to my audience. Under the guidance of the Love Inspired team, I’ll continue to deliver on the brand’s promise.

Don’t Be Afraid to Put Your Whole Self On the Page

This is my family (I’m the cute blond on top of the rock) in the late 1970’s. My parents and grandparents bought a lodge on the side of the highway in southcentral Alaska. When the State of Alaska decided to upgrade the highway, two giant rocks were shoved into our parking lot. Based on stories I’ve heard, this created a situation for my family. Heated words were exchanged between people I’m related to and state employees. My grandfather turned the dilemma into a marketing opportunity. Hence, the clever signage. Another person’s questionable decision (shoving boulders into a small business’s parking lot) created an obstacle. Yet our family turned it into a unique opportunity. We took approximately a bazillion photos here. I’m not ashamed to admit I made money off of tourists who wanted to take a picture of a dorky Alaskan kid sitting on a rock.

My point is simply this: don’t be afraid to put your whole self on the page. Pour your heart into the stories you write. Do the deep work required to let your subconscious roam free. Explore the heartache you’ve endured until you find those relatable pieces of your experience that you can infuse into your novels. I promise, the characters will be more life-like and their journey through the story world more appealing. It’s risky. But it’s so worth it.

Thank you for taking the time to read more about how my new Home to Hearts Bay series came to be. The first book, An Alaskan Secret, is available now from your favorite bookseller. After you buy and read your copy, I’d love to hear your thoughts. I’m super easy to find on social media, so feel free to reach out. I love connecting with my readers. If you’d like more behind the scenes content and access to exclusive giveaways, subscribe to my monthly newsletter here.

Blessings!

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25 Epic Books That Carried Me Through 2021

I’ve heard it said that we read to know we’re not alone. In the months following my father’s death, grief heavily influenced my reading life. I looked for books featuring characters who were dealing with heartbreak and staggering loss. I read when I want/need to escape. I read for the reassurance that suffering is a universal human experience. I read to find hope. I read when I want to laugh. I read to be inspired, because when I read the work of phenomenal authors, I’m inspired to be a better writer.

Here’s the thing about “Best of” and “Favorite” book lists: reading is a subjective experience. There will always be superlatives attached to certain books that some readers will not agree with. And that’s okay. Voracious readers have strong opinions, myself included. I’ve read more than 80 books this year. The ones I’ve chosen to include here genuinely moved me and helped carry me through one of the most challenging seasons of my life. That doesn’t diminish the achievements of authors I didn’t include, nor is it a slight against the 55 books I finished that I didn’t specifically mention in this post. For a full list of what I’ve read recently, as well as the books I’ve publicly reviewed and recommended, please follow me on Goodreads or BookBub.

So here we go … 25 epic books that carried me through 2021.

Fantastic Books Featuring Characters Grappling with Grief and LossThe Invisible Husband of Frick Island by Colleen OakleyDear Edward by Ann NapolitanoThe Alice Network by Kate QuinnThe Guncle by Steven RowleyThe Ex Talk by Rachel Lynn Solomon

These books moved me with well-crafted prose, helped me acknowledge my own feelings of heartache and loss with unique descriptions of the universal experience of human suffering, and kept me engaged with outstanding narration. I read and listened to these titles many months ago, and the characters still come to mind sometimes.

The Ones That Gave Me All The FeelsUnder the Southern Sky by Kristy Woodson HarveyLife’s Too Short by Abby JimenezNext Year in Havana by Chanel CleetonMeet You in the Middle by Devon DanielsPeople We Meet on Vacation by Emily HenryEverything We Didn’t Say by Nicole BaartThe Layover by Lacie WaldonThe Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood

Clever inciting incidents, unique perspectives, intense romantic chemistry, profound descriptions that made me feel BIG feelings, witty banter, five-star reviews for days…all of these books landed on my epic books list because they possessed one (or many) of the characteristics I just mentioned. Several of these I read because other people couldn’t stop talking about them. Word of mouth works, people! Thanks to the many BookTok and Bookstagram friends who pointed me toward these amazing books.

Inspirational Romance from My Perennial FavoritesLet It Be Me by Becky WadeRiverbend Gap by Denise HunterThe Gathering Table by Kathryn SpringerAll That Really Matters by Nicole DeeseCome Back To Me by Jody HedlundChoosing His Family by Jill Lynn

I read and write inspirational romance novels. The uplifting stories, subtle reminders of God’s faithfulness, and the sweet wholesome romance have made me a life-long fan of the genre. It’s especially difficult to name favorites in a space where I spend a great deal of time, but I chose these particular titles because each and every book is incredibly well-written. The romance is super swoon-worthy and I adored the characters. These are authors whose books I read year after year. They all inspire me to be a better writer.

Christmas and Contemporary Romances I Couldn’t Put DownSleigh Bells Ring by RaeAnne ThayneThe Christmas Wedding Guest by Susan MalleryA Cross-Country Christmas by Courtney WalshTokyo Ever After by Emiko JeanThe Holiday Swap by Maggie KnoxIf the Shoe Fits by Julie Murphy

I devoured these books as quickly as possible. Simply delightful in every way!

Breaking news: I’m adding a 26th title to the post, because of course one discovers another fantastic book once the graphics are already designed. Today I heard a podcast interview with Mattie Jackson Selecman. She was sharing about her new book Lemons on Friday and I immediately downloaded and started reading. If you’ve lost a loved one and find yourself wrestling with grief and the hard questions that accompany the journey, I highly recommend Mattie’s book.

Your Turn: Which books are your favorites? Leave a comment and let me know. I’d love to hear more about what you read in 2021.

Please note: this post contains affiliate links, which means if you choose to make a purchase via one of the links I’ve included, I might earn a small commission.

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The Best Holiday Gifts for Readers and Grievers

You know ’em, you love ’em, and you probably have several waiting for you in your inbox. ‘Tis the season to peruse all the gift guides. I love a curated list of the “best this” or the “must have” that. To be honest, I’m starting to feel the pressure to get my shopping done AND gift the ideal treasure to each person on my list. Keep reading to see my personal recommendations tailored toward giving the best gifts for the readers and the grievers. Yes, you read that correctly. I’ve been a reader for as long as I can remember, but only recently became a griever.

Spoiler alert: our society is not the best at coming alongside the grieving and helping people cope. I’m not here to shame anyone, but I am here to try and make the world a better place. So, I’ve included several items that have helped me in my ongoing journey to take care of myself and process these complex emotions. Prepare yourself. It’s about to get all kinds of cozy…

Best Holiday Gifts for the ReadersBookshelves and bookshelf-adjacent gifts: bookshelves and accessories that make bookshelves look aesthetically pleasing are having a moment. (We can credit TikTok and the BookTok community for this). Floating book shelves, succulents, functional storage, pretty book ends and candles with bookish scents all make great gifts.Covers and sleeves: protective coverings for print books and e-Readers are super popular this year. I’m a huge fan of the book sleeve. There are a variety of creators, different sizes depending on reader preferences, and it’s such a cozy, bookish accessory to give AND receive. Also, if you’re making an effort to shop small, this is a wonderful option. I like Grace by Shan, but there are countless options on Etsy. Here’s a picture of mine:

3. Ember mug: my husband gave me the original version last year and I use it all the time. Such a brilliant innovation! It’s a temperature-controlled smart mug. No more reheating your coffee or tea a gazillion times in the microwave because it got cold before you had time to drink it.

4. Unique bookish artwork: In addition to enjoying wonderful books, we bookworms appreciate art that proclaims our love for the reading life. First edition book art, tote bags, pins to pin on our tote bags, vintage library card accessories, tea tins, socks, throw pillows with references about being unable to quit reading …. I could go on and on. Uncommon Goods and Etsy are great places to shop for these gifts.

5. Reading Journals and book box subscriptions: I’ve enjoyed tracking my reading experience in a journal this year. I like to see what I’ve read, why I loved the book, who provided the recommendation, my takeaway message from the reading experience. It’s a method that’s not for every bookworm, so you might want to conduct some discreet research to see if your favorite reader will appreciate this particular gift. Here are two that I recommend. To Read or Not to Read: A Literary Journal for the Book Lover’s Soul is the one I’ve used and enjoyed. I’m also a huge fan of Anne Bogel, so I purchased her new reading journal called My Reading Life: A Book Journal. If you’d like to shop small, Anne and her publisher have made a concerted effort to get this journal into independent bookstores. Perhaps your local indie store has a copy in stock. They might even gift wrap it for you.

There are several reputable companies providing book box subscriptions. I’ve received and thoroughly enjoyed my boxes from Page 1 Books. They have several bundles and also a subscription box gift card bundle, which is a fabulous option, and one I’ll be adding to my personal wish list. Cratejoy, Book of the Month, and The Bookshelf Thomasville are all wonderful vendors with book box options that will appeal to a variety of readers.

And Now for the Grievers

In my opinion, based on limited personal experience, the best holiday gifts for the grievers in your life are the gifts that encourage self-care. Grieving can be a lonely process and the holidays often exacerbate some of the heavier more challenging emotions that are a natural part of the healing journey. Here are a few items that helped me and perhaps will help you or someone that you love.

Cozy clothing: I have a personal guideline that I have to get out of my pajamas and into non-sleep wear every day. Since I work from home, if I stay in my pajamas all day, I don’t feel productive and it becomes too tempting to avoid my responsibilities. Having said that, pajama adjacent clothing is for sure the coziest and also my personal favorite. Barefoot Dreams brand is my go-to. Highly recommend. All the stars. You can’t go wrong, and they have product lines for people and pets. Spa Care: Uncommon Goods, Thistle Farms and Amazon all have unique self-care and at-home spa options. For those who enjoy taking a luxurious bath with all the must-haves nearby, how fun is this tray? I don’t like baths, but maybe I would if I had this in my life. Journal: not everyone who is grieving wants to make the effort to write about it. For me, getting some of what was inside my head out onto the page was cathartic. This Wellness Journal is so pretty and includes space to write down emotions, as well as track goals, wish lists, goals, habits, gratitude. Makes a great gift for the one who wants to live from a place of mindfulness.Essential oils diffuser: to be honest, essential oils tend to provoke allergic reactions for me, but that is not the case for many. Several of my friends have benefitted greatly from diffusing certain oils. If you feel comfortable gifting this, a diffuser and starter set of oils is a thoughtful way to help a grieving human feel seen.Cathartic novels: I was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed reading and listening to novels featuring protagonists who are grieving. After losing my father to Parkinson’s, I thought I would want to avoid these types of books. So glad I didn’t skip these, because some of the best books I’ve read in 2021 have featured characters wrestling with grief. Here are my four favorites: The Invisible Husband of Frick Island, The Ex Talk, The Guncle and Float Plan.

Thank you for taking the time to read my holiday gift guide for readers and grievers. I hope you find just the right gift for each person on your list.

Please note that this post contains affiliate links because I am an Amazon associate. If you click on these particular links and choose to purchase the item from Amazon, I may receive a small commission.

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5 Last-Minute Tips to Prep for NaNoWriMo

So You Want To Write 50,000 Words in 30 Days?

Here are 5 last-minute tips to prep for NaNoWriMo so you can start your new novel feeling confident and motivated.

November is National Novel Writing Month, where writers collectively attempt to write 50,000 words in thirty days or less. I’ve attempted many times, given up more than once, and declared victory once. However, most of what I’ve written during NaNoWriMo became a published novel eventually or is under contract currently and will be published in the future.

I certainly don’t have all the answers, and there’s more than one way to conquer this mountain, but I’ve learned a few tricks from other writers along the way and I’m more than happy to share my strategy with you.

My secret sauce: plot, prep, plan.

Five Last-Minute Tips:

First Tip: Get your non-writing life in order: any tasks you can outsource, make those arrangements now. Meal planning, early holiday shopping, travel arrangements, whatever you often devote your time to in November, you’re going to want to handle as much as you can now.

Second Tip: You’re going to need a plot. A good one. With hooks, goals, character motivations, a cast of characters, plenty of conflict to thwart their plans. I’d even suggest going so far as writing a plot summary and making a list of essential scenes.

Third Tip: Make your expectations clear: roommates, children, elderly adults, co-workers if necessary…it can be scary telling people that you plan to write 50,000 words in a month. However, if you don’t tell them what you’re up to, then you can’t get mad when they expect you to be showing up or actively participating in life and you’re squirreled away writing in secret. Ask for help with daily chores or carpool runs so that you can carve out time to write.

Fourth Tip: Map out your word count. You’ll need to write about 1700 words a day and a method for tracking your progress. I am easily bribed and I’m also a visual person, so I use a coloring sheet page, when I write a 1,000 words, I color in a block. Then I promise myself something significant (usually new boots) if I win. If I don’t win…no boots. It’s shallow, I know. But it worked the last time. I’d suggest small rewards along the way: a new book, trip to the coffee shop, your favorite sweet treat…whatever keeps you motivated to keep writing.

Fifth Tip: Find your writing people. There are folks from all over the world setting this same ambitious goal. You can connect with them via the NaNoWriMo website, on social media searching the hashtag nanowrimo, or within your local community. Whatever you do, don’t embark on this journey solo. You’ll need encouragement and accountability along the way, and it’s fun to share the experience with other creatives. If you’d like to follow my nanowrimo adventures, I’ll be posting most often on my Instagram feed and stories, sharing tips, encouragement and updating my progress. Follow along here.

Here are a few of my favorite NaNoWriMo resources:

Savannah Gilbo provides excellent resources and tons of free content regarding plotting/structuring a novel. Visit her website here.Romance writers, connect with Gwen Hayes via her website (hint there’s free stuff) and make sure you buy a copy of her book Romancing the Beat.Jane Friedman’s blog post about how to tackle NaNoWriMo with a “seat of your pants” mentality is packed with fantastic tips. Read more here.

Let me know if you have questions and if you’re participating in NaNoWriMo so we can cheer each other on. Let’s goooo!

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