Guest Chick: Greg Rhyno + Giveaway

We’re thrilled to welcome guest Greg Rhyno to the coop, and not just because he’s pro-Chick in every sense of the word. Read on to see what Greg has to say about exploring a new genre, forays into unfamiliar territory, and guesting in his protagonist’s world–then comment for a chance to win his latest, Who by the Fire. Take it away, Greg! The Guest Chick … Continue reading Guest Chick: Greg Rhyno + Giveaway

Small Stuff

You know the expression “Go big or go home”? I’ve decided I’m more of a “Go small and stay home” kinda gal. I’m a big fan of embracing the little things. (Yes, I’m talking about my dog, Olive, but other little things, as well). Their compactness just seems more manageable—more doable—than the grand counterparts. There’s less hoopla, fewer spreadsheets, smaller decision points and downsides. Plus, … Continue reading Small Stuff

Movie Magic

Ah, Hawaii… land of gentle breezes, Aloha spirit, and irritable dinosaurs. The latter reserved for the big screen, of course. I just returned from a lovely Oahu getaway with Ian, during which we went to Kualoa Ranch, a full-time ranch and sometime film location known as the backlot of Hawaii. What surprised me–in addition to how many people love George of the Jungle–was how often … Continue reading Movie Magic

Guest Chick: Julie Mulhern

We’re thrilled to welcome Julie Mulhern back to the coop! Today the multi-talented, multi-series-writing author gives us the long and short of writing shorter form fiction–complete with a prequel preview. Take it away, Julie! Part of the Process It’s a truth universally acknowledged, at least at my house, that it’s harder for yours truly to write a short story than a novel. Novels allow space. … Continue reading Guest Chick: Julie Mulhern

Open to Interpretation

It probably comes as no surprise that I have nutty dreams. After all, I have a long and storied history of sleepwalking (and I mean “storied” literally since my sleepwalking inspired the plot of my second book), and vivid dreams and parasomnias like sleepwalking often go hand in hand.  Or foot after foot, if I’m sleepwalking. Dreams fascinate me. In addition to being an English … Continue reading Open to Interpretation

Guest Chick: John Gaspard

We’re giddy to welcome John Gaspard to the coop! John is a verbal magician and multi-series author who recently released two books in his Eli Marks mysteries, including the ninth(!!) book in the series. Today John examines what happens when we conjure our heroes for a confab. John is also giving away one eBook copy (of the winner’s choice!) from the Albert’s Bridge Books site. … Continue reading Guest Chick: John Gaspard

Funny Business

A funny thing happened to me on the way to writing this post. I went to a comedy show. As a writer—and reader—of mysteries that endeavor to tickle the funny bone while putting the spine on ice, I am a big fan of comedy. Sitcoms. Romcoms. Dramcoms. Basically if -com is involved in any way, I’m in. I saw the ever-funny, never-for-children’s-ears Taylor Tomlinson in … Continue reading Funny Business

Behind the book: Protocol

Welcome to “Behind the Book,” our fun new Chicks on the Case feature! Join us as we Chicks share the real stories behind our stories: Inspiration, motivation, frustration, jubilation– research, rewrites, tidbits– you’ll find them all right here…  Hiya! It’s Kathy, and I’m delighted to offer a peek into my first book, Protocol. A large portion of its plot revolves around odd messages my protagonist receives … Continue reading Behind the book: Protocol

Guest Chick: Wendy Tyson/Liv Andersson

Kathy here, and so excited to welcome Wendy Tyson (a.k.a. Liv Andersson, a.k.a. great writer and human person) to Chicks! Wendy is multitalented and multi-series’ed. Today, she talks about the paths we follow and the progress that can be made when following the Wright–or write–way on our journeys. Take it away, Wendy! The Wright Way Thank you for having me here today, Kathi! I’m thrilled … Continue reading Guest Chick: Wendy Tyson/Liv Andersson

It’s a tough job, but–well, you know.

As a writer, writing is job one—unless you’re writing about jobs. Then it’s job one, plus one. We’ve had a slew of recruitment-related clients at the ad agency where I work, and the projects have called to mind my own jobs and job searches. I began my career in writing as anyone would: by selling pantyhose. Back when hosiery was part of the dress code … Continue reading It’s a tough job, but–well, you know.

Back by (Un?)popular Demand

Last year, my  daughter sported clothes that looked as though they were pilfered from my high school closet. She rocked neon. She popped her collar. She Laupered (if that’s a verb) her hair. I suspected a 70s fashion homage wasn’t far behind. And I was right. We just went back-to-school shopping and the racks were rife with bell bottoms, earth tones, and take-me-to-Funkytown prints.  Honestly? … Continue reading Back by (Un?)popular Demand