Writers’ Police Academy #2 – Shoot, Don’t Shoot

The Set-up The room was large and dark with charcoal gray soundproofing on the walls and ceiling. Immediately to the left, twelve chairs sat in three rows of four. To the right stood a high media desk holding a computer and some other technical equipment. Jason, a cop stood beside it. A huge screen covered the far wall, and halfway down the room was a “tree” against the right wall and a “concrete block” wall against the left. We were told those were two things that could stop a bullet. Four of us were about to experience various simulations of Read More

5 Reasons Why Writers Need Support Groups

I’m basking in the glow of the Mid-Michigan Chapter of Romance Writers of America’s (MMRWA) annual Retreat from Harsh Reality. Our speaker this year was Katharine Ashe, author of historical romance novels. She was amazing! Once again, I realized the need for writers to spend time—quality time—with other writers. Here are only five reasons why:   Shared Excitement Over Writing Craft (or “The Writing-Geek Files”) I’ve been scratching my head over the term “high concept” since I first heard it a couple of years ago. Katharine’s presentation “What is High Concept (and How Do I Write It)” was the best Read More