Hi Reader, I recently took part in a character arc workshop, where I was able to evaluate a character arc worksheet and give feedback to the writer. It reminded me on a common challenge many writers face, myself included: how to tie the plot to the arc of change. We may know what our character's misbelief is and why they need to change, but how do we actually show that change as it's happening? It's not enough to tell the reader that the character has changed, they have to witness it....
15 days ago • 5 min read
Hi Reader, In my experience critiquing manuscripts, I see many writers failing to set up their stories properly. A novel's opening pages need to do a lot of heaving lifting: introduce the characters, the setting, and the plot without overwhelming the reader with too much information. Knowing what to reveal and what to withhold is a challenge that many writers face. So in this issue, I want to discuss the most important information you need to reveal in your opening pages. Who is your...
about 1 month ago • 6 min read
Hi Reader, I'm so excited to announce that my second book, Project Husband, will be published by Lake Union, with a tentative realease date of December 2027! Technically, it's not official yet. I've accepted the offer but haven't signed a contract. Still, I wanted to share the news with you first, my core readers. Thank you for subscribing to this newsletter and following me on this journey. I skipped August's newsletter because I wasn't sure when to share this, but I can't keep it in any...
about 2 months ago • 6 min read
Hi Reader, On July 18, it'll be three years since I became a published author with my debut novel, One Tough Cookie. In a way, not much has changed. I'm still trying to publish a book and establish myself as an author. But the experience taught me so much--about the publishing industry, what it takes to market a book, and about myself as a writer. I hope to keep growing and learning, and help other writers avoid the same mistakes I made. Yesterday, I received a message from someone who'd read...
4 months ago • 6 min read
Hi Reader, In this issue, I want to discuss one of my favorite writing resources, Story Genius by Lisa Cron, why I love it, and how I use it in my own writing. Note: I have no affiliations to this book or its author. I just love using it and think it's a wonderful resource for writers at any level. My copy of Story Genius Story Genius is designed to help writers develop a story idea. It offers exercises to get clear on your why (why are you writing this story, why do you care?) and the point...
4 months ago • 4 min read
Hi Reader, The most common problem I see in the manuscripts I evaluate is an unclear point or a story that lacks meaning. Sometimes writers have no idea what the point of their novels is. But I've found that most of the time, writers know their point, but they don't know how to showcase it in the finished product. What is the point? In her book, Blueprint for a Book, Jennie Nash defines the point as "what the entire story drives to. It's the thing your reader will come away from your book...
5 months ago • 4 min read
Hi Reader, My life has gotten back on track and I'm ready to get back to work. I'm happy to announce that I'll be hosting a virtual book club meeting for One Tough Cookie! When: Tuesday, May 19 at 1-2 pm EST This is an event exclusive for my subscribers, where we'll discuss all aspects of One Tough Cookie - what you liked, didn't like, and everything in between! I'll also be sharing some insights about the inspiration, writing process, and publication of the book. I hope to have an open and...
6 months ago • 3 min read
Hi Reader, Thank you so much for voting and helping me choose a name for my newsletter. At the Heart of the Story perfectly captures the content I share with you every month - where I come from, my writing journey, and the inspiration at the heart of my books. I want this newsletter to reflect who I am as a person and as a writer to give you a better insight into my stories. In the spirit of sharing more of myself, I plan to host a virtual book club meeting for One Tough Cookie, exclusive for...
9 months ago • 5 min read
Hi Reader, Happy New Year! I hope you had a wonderful holiday season and a great start to 2026. As I looked back at 2025 and my 10 years of being a writer, I realized that 2026 will mark 10 years since I started my author platform. While I wrote my first novel in 2015, it wasn't until 2016 that I went public with my new author persona. I launched my website and this newsletter, telling friends and family members to subscribe. I also joined my first social media platform as an author, Twitter,...
10 months ago • 5 min read