When you read my debut novel, A Talent Within, you’ll see I’ve kept a lot of the details accurate to medieval Europe, but in my own world of Valmora. So why did I take the time to be certain my characters are eating spices appropriate to a specific time and region in European history, if I’m writing fantasy? When I decided to write a novel, I knew it was best to stick with something I love researching—the medieval period. I’ve spent my whole life reading books, taking classes, and watching … [Read more...] about Spices, water systems, fabrics, oh my!
Articles
Ruminations on the act of writing and the inspiration behind it.
Bold Strokes Books
I'm now an author in the stable of Bold Strokes Books, a leading publisher of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer fiction since 2004. I'd like to thank the owner, Len Barot, for providing opportunities for writers of sapphic fiction to be published. Also, a big thank you to all the editors, marketers, and other staff at Bold Strokes for their efforts to make BSB books the best they can be. I look forward to my debut release, A Talent Within, in June 2023! … [Read more...] about Bold Strokes Books
Randi and Zoey Save the World
Looking for a fun superhero story? Look no further. Authors Rita Potter and Lori G Matthews have teamed up to write a fun episodic story that is free to download. And they asked me to write the first guest villain! I'm introducing Medieval Man, a top European villain, who is trying his luck in the States. He's up against a retired, out-of-shape, lesbian superhero named Randi, and her sidekick, Zoey. You can find out more about the story at: Randiandzoeysavetheworld.com The free … [Read more...] about Randi and Zoey Save the World
A Little Bit About Me
I'm an aspiring writer of women loving women (wlw) fiction, sometimes referred to as lesfic or queer fiction. As a teenager, I dreamed of someday authoring a book. Not to make money, or to enjoy accolades of any kind, but to see what I wanted to read. Strong women doing the same things men did, and saving damsels in distress. When I was 13, I wrote James Bond fanfic with a female lead and a female sidekick - a la Xena only waaaaay earlier. Subtext was there, but the times called for … [Read more...] about A Little Bit About Me
Thank You, GCLS
A hearty thank you to the Golden Crown Literary Society (GCLS) and all you do for aspiring queer authors. I'd never been the author of anything other than a quantitative research paper when I decided to take the leap and apply to the GCLS Writing Academy program. Even if a publisher never takes my writing, I feel like I've accomplished so much in the past year. I've acquired confidence in my ability to write, understanding of what makes a story more than its bits and bobs, and a true … [Read more...] about Thank You, GCLS
Pinterest As Writing Tool
Even if I've been somewhere many times, I still wonder if my recollection is truly correct. Particularly, if the place is historical and halfway around the world, or if I haven't seen it in a decade, or if I've never seen it at all. When I started my manuscript, I collected images of period appropriate clothing, weaponry, etc., in a folder on my computer, but that quickly became useless. I'm one of those people who is cursed, needing things to be visible or I forget they exist. My … [Read more...] about Pinterest As Writing Tool
Medieval vs Modern Constructs
The middle ages weren't known for individuality or diversity of thought, so when they cancelled you, they meant business. You were bullied, shamed and potentially shunned. You might have to move from your home and try your luck elsewhere. Not an easy task circa 1400. Imagine moving away from everything and everyone you've ever known. Perhaps you'd land in a place you've never heard of, not knowing a soul, without means to support yourself. Remember, we're talking about a pre-internet, … [Read more...] about Medieval vs Modern Constructs