Writing Prompt: Neighbor War

Living among people isn’t always easy for us as writers. People do plenty of rude things that irritate those of us trying to think. Here’s your chance to imagine your revenge. 🙂 The Writing Exercise Your character has tried to tactfully let a neighbor know that they have been rude (think: barking dog, spilled garbage,…

All Over Twist

In writing horror, is a twist ending worth it? “Soylent Green is people!” “It’s in the water!” “I can see dead people…” You could easily site many examples were a big twist at the end makes a story memorable. But, on the other hand, how many times have you groaned over the “and they were…

Author Shorts: How do you define suspense?

Author shorts is back! And this time, I want to know, “How do YOU define suspense?” Of course, the Author Shorts twist is that there are no long-winded responses aloud. All answers had to be no more than two sentences. Brevity presents a greater challenge.   “Suspense is the moment you reach when you want to…

Author Shorts : What’s the one thing that makes you squeamish?

I’ve asked a variety of authors— from horror to romance to comedy to non-fiction—to answer a few questions that I pose. Of course, I love a twist. All answers had to be no more than two sentences. Brevity presents a greater challenge. For me the process was delightful as well as insightful. I love that…

#Otherworldly Words: Siren

All this month, I’m looking at less-than-flattering words for women. Next is that dread of all the seas, the siren. A siren is: Classical Mythology. one of several sea nymphs, part woman and part bird, who lure mariners to destruction by their seductive singing. a seductively beautiful or charming woman, especially one who beguiles men: a siren…

#Writing Prompt: The Big D

March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb. This month is all about scenes that could be filled with anger or sensible adults talking something out. You decide! This time, there’s no working it out. It’s time for the Big D. Some people divorce with such panache it gives you faith…

#Writing Prompt: The Big Flirt

March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb. This month is all about scenes that could be filled with anger or sensible adults talking something out. You decide! Up Next: Most relationships can handle a little flirting, but when your paramour gives all of his or her attention to someone for an…