When I first started writing, I had a terrible time figuring out how to write “to show” instead of “to tell.” I’ve learned a few things on the way and also see this error in my slush reading. First of all, watch for filter words like “felt” and “started to.” If you tell us a…
Things I’ve learned as a slush reader
Hey everyone. I thought I would write a blog on some of the key pitfalls I see as a slush reader. If you can avoid these things, it will make your submission stand out. Follow the guidelines. I know everyone says this but you would be shocked at how many people submit not double-spaced, not in…
Nice Guys Bite: A new novella from Jennifer Estep
Jennifer Estep has a new novella out today. I haven’t read it, but I love that it is from Silvio’s perspective. Enjoy! NICE GUYS BITE takes place after the events of UNRAVELED (#15). It is told from the point of view of Silvio Sanchez, Gin’s personal assistant. Working for Gin Blanco (aka the Spider, the…
What if Harry Dresden, The Three Stooges and John Wayne Had a Baby? That’s Nate Temple
I like a guy who can meet up with Death, an alpha werewolf, the Minotaur and an Angel for a drink at a bar owned by Achilles. Yes, the Achilles. Nate Temple is…or was…a wizard. Now, he’s something more but doesn’t know how to use his powers and everything is going to hell in a…
My short story is out!
In case anyone missed it on Facebook (and why aren’t you following me on Facebook?) an anthology came out which includes my story “My Vengeful Heart.” In it, one teenage boy watches his best friend die and is stunned by the complicit acceptance shown by his parents and neighbors of the slaughter happening right in…
Lucienne Diver takes on Teen Female Empowerment in Faultlines
This is a different kind of book for those who read Diver’s novels. This is a book that comes from the heart, from the headlines and with the hope that girls learn to speak up for themselves, be heard, be seen, and be proud. Usually my novels start with a character talking in my head…
Faith Hunter’s Curse on the Land
Happy Book Birthday to Faith Hunter! Enjoy this Q&A, excerpt and enter Rafflecopter giveaway…all here on Slippery Words. Faith answers questions from the Beast Claws, her Street Team. Q – How did you design the Unit? Did you start with what the story arc needed, a love interest, a surrogate child, supportive female characters, or did…
Fairies in the Glade: J.D. Blackrose short story
Fairies in the Glade By J.D. Blackrose The child ran through the woods, slightly ahead of her father. She had long, rich chocolate hair that glinted slightly red in the sunshine. Her little legs churned with excitement and she let out a glorious tinkle of laughter as she ran. She brimmed with innocence and joy,…
Shayne Silvers’ Guest Post: Author of the Nate Temple Series
I asked Shayne Silvers, author of the Nate Temple series, to talk to us about how he created his character. If Batman and Harry Dresden had a baby, it would be Nate. I recently discovered the series and have loved all three books. Shayne also is generous to his readers with free books available. Go…
New Story, Witch Blossoms, in Romance Magazine
My short romance story as J.D. Blackrose is out now. Three local witches conspire to set their friend up with returning hometown football hero, Nick Turner.