Category Archives: Writing

Well, Really!

A Rant About Writing I have a real problem with the word “really,” in all its forms. You see, I have this tendency to really overuse that particular word, even when it’s not really needed. Now, you may think this … Continue reading

Posted in Rant, Writing | Tagged , , | 8 Comments

Packing It In — Writing a Book Is Like Packing a Suitcase

A Rave About Writing Recently, I fell asleep pondering my current work in progress, waking the next morning in the midst of a dream about packing a suitcase. Perhaps due to the suddenness with which I awoke,  I was able … Continue reading

Posted in Rave, Writing | Tagged , , , , , | 2 Comments

The Whole Kit and Caboodle: Sears Kit Homes, and My Unfortunate Tendency to Get Caught Up in Research

 A Rave About Writing I love learning new things. This characteristic has worked to my advantage throughout my career as a librarian by ensuring I remain fascinated with the day-to-day duties of the job.  The attribute has been equally helpful … Continue reading

Posted in Rave, Writing | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 6 Comments

What’s So Funny? A Rave About Humor

Recently, my writer’s group (the fabulous Northeast Ohio Romance Writers of America) featured author Marcia James, speaking about humor. I found the topic interesting because I write humorous romances. At least, I like to think my romances are humorous. Someday I’ll … Continue reading

Posted in Rave, Writing | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

The Trouble with Writing Is It Gets in the Way of My Reading — A Rant

Rant: The trouble with writing is it gets in the way of my reading. It’s a truth universally acknowledged — to write well, you must read widely. What is un-acknowledged is how difficult it is to do both. When I dedicate the … Continue reading

Posted in Rant, Reading, Writing | 4 Comments

Five Words and Two Numbers

“The difference between the almost right word & the right word is really a large matter–it’s the difference between the lightning bug and the lightning.” — Mark Twain In my college journalism classes, I learned the importance of saying what … Continue reading

Posted in Rave, Writing | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

Tell Me the Story

Rave Scene: A tall, neatly dressed man stands near the entry to security at Cleveland Hopkins Airport. In his hand, he holds a single, high-heeled woman’s shoe. What’s his story?

Posted in Rave, Writing | Tagged , , | 6 Comments

The Big Send-off

A Rave About Writing (and sending daughters to college) Today I finished editing a manuscript partial and sent it to an editor. In August, my husband and I will be sending our only child off to college. These events — … Continue reading

Posted in Rave, Uncategorized, Writing | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Pantser or Plotter?

A Rave About Writing Pantser or plotter? Ask a writer this question, and she’ll have an immediate response. “Oh, I’m a pantser,” she’ll say. “Can’t plot ahead to save my life.” Or “Definitely a plotter. I need to know where … Continue reading

Posted in Rave, Writing | Tagged , , , , , , | 8 Comments

A Matter of Taste

A rave about reading and writing I hate beets. It’s a shame really, because they’re such a lovely color. And yet that burgundy hue seems somehow inappropriate for food. Perfect for a dress, a lipstick or, better yet, a pair … Continue reading

Posted in Rave, Reading, Writing | Tagged , , , , , | 1 Comment