Hello, World!
I should have created a post like this a while ago (like, almost two years ago, when I first got my book deal in February 2022), but I didn't, so here we are.
(By the way, which platform was it that had "Hello, World" as your default original post on a blog? WordPress, mebbe? Does anyone do that anymore? I do, at least.)
I won't kick this off by navel-gazing over the reasons, legitimate and ill, that it took me ages to start this; nor will I get into how everyone seems to think TikTok and Instagram are the one-and-only way to appeal to an audience, doubting that readers even subscribe blogs anymore. (Readers not reading. Imagine that!) At least, I won't talk about them now, though I may hop on my soapbox from time to time. (Cave emptor.)
This blog will have the standard bells and whistles: some thoughts from yours truly on a semiregular basis; links to other cool things I think you might enjoy; and notifications of my upcoming events, deals, and so on.
I'm starting it purposely before 2024 begins so that I will stick with it; I'm rubbish at New Year's resolutions, I think because I know I'm statistically likely to fall off of them, so there's less pressure to stick to a production schedule. Any other time I have generally good levels of stick-with-it.
So... welcome. I always thought "Hello, world!" was like standing on a stage and blaring that to the back row, but as I type this, it strikes me that it's also welcoming the world in. Have a seat; put your feet up. I'm still unpacking, but please let me know if I can get you anything. I'm glad you're here.
Cool Things You Might Like:
My thoughts on having one art form, in addition to your writing, that is entirely for creative play (ironically, given the soapbox I toed out onto Speakers' Corner above, they come to you in the form of an Instagram reel) >> Watch here
“O mistress mine” — This piece, written for the lute and voice, is festive in feel and from one of Shakespeare's plays. It's perfect if you want to get in a seasonal mood but don't feel Christmassy.
I'm currently in the running for Best Local Author of 2023 in Jacksonville, Florida. Would you do me the kindness of voting? (It runs through New Year's Eve, and you don't have to be local to do so.)
“Last Love: A Romance” — This article about a couple who met in a care home and seemed to be one of each other's great loves brought a tear to my eye. I hope it moves you too.
Subscribe below to get emailed versions of these blog posts, and I'll send you a PDF of holiday movie bingo cards to watch with your friends or all by your onesies.
Upcoming Events
I'll be attending AWP 2024 in Kansas City, Missouri! Let me know if I'll see you there so we can grab some barbecue and complain about the midwestern coldness.
I'm interviewing the Emily Rath for Jacksonville Public Library's Lit Chat series on Galentine's Day 2024. You can register here, though be advised priority is given to library card holders.
The following Saturday, February 17, I'm hosting a Writer’s Lab event (also with the library system) called Not Your Mama's Romance Novel, about how the romance genre has evolved, especially in the last few years.
