It's been a while since I had new headshots done, so I decided to take the plunge! I love helping out local artists, so I got Kelly Krauter's name from a friend. When I arrived at her studio, I loved the ambience there. She had a candle lit and was playing soft, relaxing music. Her picture-taking space consisted of different backdrops, a few chairs, and a shiny reflector. Throughout the session, she gave me great tips on how to best post (I'm quite awkward at being in front of the camera). And I … [Read more...]
Finding Creativity in Sweden
September 11, 2024 Leave a Comment
Sometimes I get in a creative slump. This is larger than the "How do I finish this manuscript?" question. It's more of a "Why am I writing?" dilemma. When my mind gets stuck on a plot, I usually take a walk. The change of scenery and brisk breeze will often get my thoughts flowing. My most recent creative slump found me jetting off to...Sweden. That's right. It was a last-minute trip for me, but being in a different country reminded me that there is so much inspiration all around. A … [Read more...]
A Heartwarming Homecoming
July 29, 2024 Leave a Comment
I grew up in the Central Valley, specifically Fresno, so I jumped at the opportunity to do some hometown events. I'm extremely grateful for Lorie Lewis Ham who coordinated not one but two opportunities to connect with residents! Before our arrival, we were also featured in local newspapers: … [Read more...]
Book Review: Molten Death
April 18, 2024 Leave a Comment
5 stars Genre: Cozy mystery Molten Death A delightful mystery that transported me to the Big Island. I loved following Valerie, when her relaxing vacation with Kristen, goes sideways after spotting a dead body in the lava. Not only did this novel feature an unguessable whodunnit and whydunnit, but I appreciated the detailed insights about Hawaiian culture and history. Don’t forget to have snacks handy while you’re reading because this definitely made me hungry—for delicious eats … [Read more...]
Writing Community & Ill-Fated Fortune
February 19, 2024 2 Comments
Writing is a solitary activity, but being a writer, or an author, requires community. Without regular support, writing goals can go on hiatus or disappear. I’m happy to say that there are many fellow authors and readers who are excited to cheer a writer on! I’m compiling an incomplete list of people who are boosting me as my newest book, Ill-Fated Fortune, comes out tomorrow! Please check out these bloggers/BookTubers who are providing encouragement and bookish love: 1) A Bookish … [Read more...]
News Flash: Awards Update
January 22, 2024 Leave a Comment
Popping into my blog to give you a quick update. I'm beyond thrilled to have Hot Pot Murder be nominated for 2 awards! My book has been shortlisted for: Lilian Jackson Braun Memorial Award: https://mysterywriters.org/mwa-announces-2024-edgar-award-nominations/ Lefty Award (in the Best Humorous category): https://leftcoastcrime.org/2024/Awards.html All very exciting! … [Read more...]
The Holidays Are Here
December 18, 2023 Leave a Comment
My friend Leslie Karst is blogging about holiday traditions in Hilo, Hawaii, which reminded me to share about the traditions I enjoy here in SoCal. One thing I appreciate is the sparkling of twinkly lights. A lot of them are wrapped around palm trees, and some of those trees get decorated (in a fun way) as candy canes. Then we have other twinkling sculptures like this whale with a Santa hat in Dana Point: I also like a nicely decorated Christmas tree, but I love the different creative … [Read more...]
Off to Ashland!
October 17, 2023 Leave a Comment
Hey, all! I'm excited to go to the inaugural Ashland Mystery Fest, organized by Ellie Alexander, this weekend! Find me here: Ashland Mystery FestivalOctober 20-22; Ashland, ORFriday, October 20, 5pm-7pm Kickoff Reception; Ashland Springs HotelFriday, October 20, 7:30pm-9:30pm Mystery Dinner; Ashland Springs HotelSaturday, October 21, 11:20am-12:10pm “How To Tail A Suspect”; Ashland Public LibrarySaturday, October 21, 12:40pm-1:30pm “Lock Picking, Secret Codes, and Poisons”; Ashland Public … [Read more...]
Uncorrected Manuscripts
September 27, 2023 Leave a Comment
Jubilant about receiving my uncorrected bound manuscripts, I posted the "unboxing" or "unenveloping" video on social media. Then I had a friend ask: "Why would you want an uncorrected copy?" Good question. Guess I'm so entrenched in the publishing world I forgot I had to explain the process. First off, bound manuscripts aren't pretty. They're not like true advance reader copies with the cover art and a marketing plan on the back. Exhibit A: Yep, they're plain. Simple. But they have all … [Read more...]
Off to Bouchercon 2023
August 30, 2023 Leave a Comment
Hey all, I'm off to sunny San Diego for the Bouchercon convention! Here's my rough schedule of events: ~Thursday, August 31, 2:00pm PacificAnthony Best Humorous panel~Thursday, August 31, 9:00pm PacificOnce Upon A Crime~Friday, September 1, 11:00am PacificCozy Author Spotlight~Friday, September 1, 7:00pm PacificUnderrepresented Voices reception~Saturday, September 2, 2:20pm PacificCozy is not a Four-Letter Word panel I'll also be at events for Sisters in Crime (SinC) and … [Read more...]
