Dipping my toes in

It's no secret cozies are my favorite genre, but as a writer, sometimes we have to explore new waters if we're to expand our craft. My latest WIP is a testament to that fact. The title is tentatively Blackwater Baby and it seems to be a cross literary fiction/thriller work. It's outlined in a journalism-like fashion, but who knows if that will last. Like I said, it's a work in progress.

So far the research has been eye-opening. I feel I could take this novel a million different ways and I want to make sure I choose the right one. You know, find a way to tell the best story.

It's definitely deep--full of the dark human desires and raw emotions I tend to avoid in my writing, but I'm going to hold my breath and dive in. If it doesn't work, I've always got another cozy waiting to be written :)

Once upon a time...

Stephanie started a new novel, and this novel, her third full-hearted attempt, finally granted her publishing dreams!!!

Okay, so that's what I'm hoping for anyway. It hasn't happened yet, but it will. I mean, something's gotta happen if you keep at it long enough, right? Life's not a fairytale (because if it was we'd all be published by now), but dreams do come true.

I'd like to believe it's the current state of industry that's making it so hard to break into the biz and not a sole reflection of my writing. At least that's what I'm telling myself. Focus on what you can control.

They say (philosophers and metaphysical folks) that life is about facing challenges and learning lessons. I'm not sure what lesson my trip down publishing lane is going to teach me, but I'm eager to find out.

Back to our regualarly scheduled program

Hey guys, how ya doin'?

Well, I'm finally starting to get settled in Pittsburgh after moving here last week. What a mess. Moving is no fun.

But that's behind me.

Now it's time to get back to writing. I'm working on a new novel, it's a thriller (I think) and I can't wait to get finished with this outline. More to come soon!