Ann Patchett fans have probably already read this amazing book. It was Ms. Patchett’s first novel. I can’t believe that because it is so polished and well-done. I am not a full-fledged Ann Patchett fan because I found Commonwealth tedious at best and I only modestly enjoyed State of Wonder. But I loved Bel Canto […]
The Painting that Inspired A Painting to Die For
When I began thinking about Jenna’s newest escapades, my father’s painting came to mind. It was always one of my favorites that he painted. The story took root in the discovery of that painting and lots of shanangins surrounding it. I thought my readers might be interested in learning more about the real painting and […]
When a New Book Comes Out, There’s So Much to Do!
My newest book will be released on December 12. To many of you that seems like a long time into the future, right? But, it’s not! I got the advanced copies in digital form two days ago and now the work begins. My tips when that new book is released #bookmarketing Click To Tweet Shout […]
First Reviews of A Painting to Die For–5 Stars!
Liz Konkel at Reader’s Favorite gave this review of A Painting to Die For. You can Preorder your copy here! A Painting to Die For by Joan C. Curtis is the third book in the Jenna Scali Mystery series. Jenna Scali has always loved a painting of her father’s that was supposed to be hers […]
How to Come up with Fresh Blog Topics
I publish new blog posts twice a week. I’ve done that now for four years. Looking back, I see I often write about similar things. My audience is both writers and readers. Some of my posts are directed specifically to writers and others to readers. Some to both. As I examine what I write week […]
Tips for Turning Your Manuscript Upside Down #AuthorToolBoxBlogHop
This month I’m joining the #AuthorToolBoxBlogHop with a look how to stomach a major rework of your manuscript. It’s not something any of us want to do or look forward to doing, but there are instances where we must give it a go. I’ve had some experience with this and thought I’d share some tips. […]
How Do Bad Books Get Great Reviews?
Okay so what’s the deal? I depend on reviews and word-of-mouth before I shell out money for a book. And, yet, no matter how hard I try, some bad books get great reviews. Either I’m all off-base about what’s good or people don’t realize they’re reading bad stuff. I’m beginning to think that the latter […]
What Are Your Characters Eating?
Do authors need to spend lots of time describing the hamburger their main character is eating? The juicy delight of a succulent tomato sandwich? The cool refreshment of lemonade? How much is too much? In my opinion the food must have a purpose in your story #amwriting Click To Tweet In other words, if it […]
What She Ate #MyBookReview 5 Stars for this Winner
What She Ate: Six Remarkable Women. The Food Tells Their Stories by Laura Sapiro is a biographical account of six woman and what they did or did not eat. The author contends that most biography is more interested in what a woman does in the bedroom versus what she does in the kitchen. Yet, most […]
What’s with Google and Facebook in your Books?
My editor recently told me that Google didn’t allow me to talk about people “googling” something. Apparently writers can’t refer to Google in that way–even in conversation. When was the last time you said, “I’m going to do an online search of X or Y?” Probably years! Instead don’t you say, “I’m gonna Google that.” […]
