Story Types: The Novel

Middle Grade, Storytelling, The Vanishing Kidnapper, Thoughts on Writing, Writing Resources, Writing Spot, Young Adult

Two weeks ago, we began a discussion on story lengths. This came from a question I have been asked of late: what types of story types are there?

This is a more complex answer than it may appear. On the surface, we have two types of stories: the novel and the short story. We began with short story lengths. Last week, we explored novellas. And today, we will talk about the novel. That will lead into a discussion about National Novel Writing Month.

Conversations with Wisconsin Artists Interview

The Vanishing Kidnapper, Thoughts on Writing, Updates, Writing Spot

Last week, I was interviewed by Rex Owens during Conversations with Wisconsin Artists on Sun Prairie’s KSUN 103.5 The hour long program airs twice a month and features people with a variety of artistic expertise.

During my interview, I spoke about what inspired me to write my fist novel, The Vanishing Kidnapper, as well as my experience with Intercultural Communication. I also shared about my work coaching students and teens on how to improve their writing.

It was a great experience and a fun conversation. If you missed it, you can find the recording here.

Thank you, again, to Rex and the KSUN studio for having me.

Choices Amid the Trees

Family, Novels, Short Stories, Writing Spot

Ali Montgomery is on vacation in Tennessee. She loves the woodsy setting of her aunt and uncle’s home, but isn’t allowed to explore outside alone. So when Colton – the boy living with her aunt and uncle – sneaks out of the house and invites Ali to tag along, Ali must make the choice whether to stay with her annoying little cousins or take advantage of the opportunity to explore the trees.

Choices Amid the Trees Cover

For purchasing information, please visit Amazon.com. E-book available August 2, 2016.

A Gathering of Authors this Saturday!

Novels, Storytelling, The Vanishing Kidnapper, Updates, Writing Spot

As promised, here are the finer details for the Gathering of Authors this Saturday. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. come to the Wisconsin Downtown Open House. In Plymouth, there will be a variety of events, including a gathering of several local authors who will share their books with visitors.

The Vanishing Kidnapper – now an e-book!

Personal Thoughts, The Vanishing Kidnapper, Thoughts on Writing

The world of e-books has created strong supporters and staunch resistance, especially among writers. Fiction writers tend to be fiction readers and it seems many of us avid fiction readers agree that no matter the cost to our checkbook, getting to hold a book in our hands is worth it. However, being able to pack up ones library by pressing the power button has its allurement, especially when books are overflowing our bookshelves.

Where does that leave the writer who wants to see her book published?

New Book!

Novels, The Vanishing Kidnapper

Publishing my first novel is a great reason to restart my blog. After years of writing, editing, and searching for a publisher, The Vanishing Kidnapper is finally in published form.

Teenagers John and Kaitlyn Rivers have a simple life in their 1870s outpost, running their family’s general store for the surrounding communities and operating the stagecoach stop. But one stormy night, the stage’s visit is anything but ordinary. Kidnappings, attacks, and shady characters change a usually boring existence into a fight for life.

Confronted with their past, John and Kaitlyn begin to unravel a mystery that left them survivors of not one, but two kidnapping attempts. Their questions uncover facts different than the truth they had always believed. Now they have to decide whom to trust – and the lives of those they care about depend on it.

The Vanishing Kidnapper follows John and Kaitlyn’s harrowing adventures in the Wild West and their discovery that people are not always what they appear to be.

Visit here for more information and ordering details.