I’m Back From My Hiatus

Hello friends!

I’ve been away from my site as life gets in the way. I’ve left work due to my diagnosis of breast cancer stage IV with mets to the bone. Not all is lost! The upside is I’ve responded very well to treatment with the best care possible her in NYC. I have more energy than I’ve had in years.
Another upside is I’m able to dedicate my time to writing my cozy Edwardian mysteries and reviewing books full time.
I’ve missed interacting with you, writing and reviewing books. I’m open for book reviews (please see my preferred book preferences) again.

If you’ve made it this far, thanks for reading and I look forward to talking with you again! Hugs, MJ ❤️

Review: The Write Crowd

The Write Crowd: Literary Citizenship & the Writing Life by Lori A. May

Published December 18th 2014 by Bloomsbury Academic

RATING: 5 STARS

The Write Crowd is a useful resource for those looking for a place in the writing community, whether at the local or national level. May suggests many tips on how to contribute and connect to the writing community locally, as well as building an online presence. The appendix is especially helpful as it offers a list of literary organizations. I highly recommend this book for writers as a resource to connect to their work to their community.

 A copy of this book was provided by the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review.

Book Review: Gonzo Girl

GONZO GIRL By Cheryl Della Pietra

Rating: 3 Stars 

Inspired by her time as Hunter S. Thompson’s assistant, Gonzo Girl is a fast paced fictional story about Alley, a recent Ivy League graduate with no publishing connections, who jumps at the opportunity to work as the assistant to the famous Walker Reade. After applying for the job, she received a 3 A.M. call from Reade, who asked her to fly out to Colorado for a three-day trial period.

Her unpredictable trial period, includes a .44 magnum, purple-pyramid acid, massive cocaine use and violent outbursts.  Reade invites her to stay for several months at his compound. Month after month, Alley tries to coax another novel out of Walker Reade, but becomes emotionally exhausted and realizes the danger of staying alone in the Colorado Rockies, at the mercy of a drug-addicted writer who may never produce another novel.

Gonzo Girl is a fast paced, soft-hearted fictional portrait of the literary icon. I’d recommend it for anyone interested in Hunter S. Thompson, gonzo journalism or crazy lifestyles.

**The publisher provided me with an ARC in exchange for an unbiased review. **

Book Review: Wonderbook by Jeff VanderMeer

Wonderbook: The Illustrated Guide to Creating Imaginative Fiction by Jeff VanderMeer

RATING: 5 STARS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wonderbook by writer Jeff VanderMeer is an illustrated guide to creating speculative fiction. Aimed towards right-sided brain thinkers, the craft of writing is explained and illustrated using whimsical, colorful drawings. VanderMeer doesn’t suggest a single writing style, but describes the pros and cons of various strategies. The book doesn’t have to be read chronologically. VanderMeer’s freestyle approach to writing and creativity encourages the reader to flip through the book and read the book out of order. There are writing tips from VanderMeer and other spec fiction authors, such as Ursula LeGuin, Lev Grossman, Neil Gaiman, George R.R. Martin and more. Although Wonderbook is geared towards beginner spec fiction writers, experienced writers from all genres will be inspired by this  book.

Why Do I Write?

Writing is my emotional release. Since my mind is always churning with ideas, it helps to organize my thoughts. After a writing session, an enormous amount of  pressure is relieved. A feeling of lightness and clarity comes over me. Until the heaviness returns, I’m compelled to write again.

Why do you write? I’d love to hear your comments..

Is Your Novel’s Backstory Big Enough?

Helpful video by K.M. Weiland @ http://www.helpingwritersbecomeauthors.com

E is for EXITING gracefully…

I’m dropping out of the A to Z challenge. I’m too far behind and I want to put my energy towards the essence of this blog.

I hate the expression “That being said”  I’ve registered for the Book Expo America Conference that’s being held on June 1st in Manhattan. (If you’re going, let me know. It’s always fun meeting online friends.) This is a huge treat for me. I have 2 sons with special needs and I need this time to re-charge. I’ve learned my lesson after being a RN/Nurse Practitioner for 20+ years, and placing other people’s needs before mine.
Anyway, I’m psyched – good excuse to buy a new purse and shoes.