Category Archives: Behind Locked Doors

Where in the World Are You Reading From? Share Your Location!

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One of the most magical things about writing is knowing that words travel farther than I ever could on my own. A story written in the quiet of my office in North Alabama can end up being read in a coffee shop in Oregon, a library in New York, or maybe even on a balcony somewhere in Paris. That thought makes me smile every single time.

And it also makes me curious.

Today, I want to turn the spotlight around and ask you a question:
👉 Where in the world are you reading from?

Whether you’re in the United States or across the globe, I’d love to see how far this little community of readers and writers stretches. Drop your city and state (or country if you’re outside the U.S.) in the comments below. It’s a simple way for us to connect, and I think it’ll be fun to see the map of our community unfold together.

Why I’m Asking

Part of being a writer — and honestly, part of being human — is being fascinated by stories. And to me, places carry stories just as much as people do. Your hometown, your current city, the little café or park where you like to read — these are all threads of the bigger story we’re building here as a community.

It also helps me shape the kind of content I share. If many of you are local, maybe I’ll start highlighting more North Alabama literary events or indie bookstore happenings. If a lot of you are scattered far and wide, I might focus more on universal themes — the writing process, character creation, and the joy (and chaos) of storytelling.

A Little About Me

If you’re new here, welcome! My name is Nina Soden, and I wear a couple of hats:

  • ✍️ Author — I write urban fantasy and dystopian fiction, and I share behind-the-scenes peeks into my writing journey here on the blog.
  • 🏡 Realtor — When I’m not building fictional worlds, I’m helping families buy and sell homes in North Alabama. (It’s another kind of storytelling, really — every home holds a history, and every move begins a new chapter.)
  • 🎭 Theatre Enthusiast — The stage has always been a second home for me. Whether I’m performing in a local production or lending my voice to a reading, theatre keeps my creativity alive in a way that fuels everything else I do. If you haven’t seen my weekly Theatre newsletter… check out the September 9, 2025 issue HERE and make sure to let me know if you want to subscribe!
  • ❤️ Family Gal — At the heart of it all, I’m a wife, a mom, and someone who believes that family is the foundation of every life worth living. My family keeps me grounded, inspires me, drives me to keep going, and cheers me on through every new adventure.

I love that my life blends all these worlds together. My readers get a peek into my real estate life, my clients discover my books, and sometimes my theatre friends end up in both! It’s all connected by one simple truth: I love people, and I love stories.

Your Turn!

So now it’s time for you to chime in.

  • Where are you reading from?
  • Do you prefer curling up with a book in your favorite chair, or are you a café reader?
  • And just for fun — what’s the last book you finished?

Drop your answers in the comments below. I’ll be reading every single one, and who knows — I might even feature a few responses in a future post.

Thanks for being here, for reading, and for sharing this journey with me. I can’t wait to see where in the world you’re reading from!

✨ If you’re enjoying the blog, don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss future posts. And if you ever find yourself curious about North Alabama real estate — whether you’re moving here, away from here, or just like to browse beautiful homes — let me know. I’d be happy to share that side of my world with you, too. ✨

💖 How to Support Your Favorite Indie Author Beyond Buying Books

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As an indie author, I can tell you firsthand — seeing someone pick up one of my books is the best feeling in the world. But here’s a little secret: you don’t have to spend a dime to make a huge difference in an indie author’s life and career.

We indie authors wear a lot of hats: writer, editor (hopefully not), cover designer, marketer, publicist, and sometimes even our own cheerleader. Which means every little bit of support matters, and it goes so much farther than most readers realize. So, if you’ve ever wanted to help your favorite indie authors thrive, here are a few easy, free (or almost free) ways you can make a major impact.

📚 1️⃣ Leave a Review

If you only do one thing, let it be this. Reviews help indie books get noticed by algorithms on Amazon, Goodreads, BookBub, and other platforms. Even a simple “I really enjoyed this book!” means the world and helps other readers discover it.

Where to leave a review:

  • Amazon
  • Goodreads
  • BookBub
  • Your personal blog or social media

📱 2️⃣ Follow and Engage on Social Media

A like, comment, or share on an author’s post increases visibility and keeps their work in front of readers. Social platforms love engagement, and the more interaction a post gets, the more it’s shown to others.

Bonus: Share your favorite quotes, book covers, or reading selfies — authors love seeing their books in the wild!

Here is my social media links if you’d like to follow:

📧 3️⃣ Join Their Email List

Most indie authors have newsletters packed with exclusive content, freebies, giveaways, and behind-the-scenes updates. Signing up not only shows support but helps authors build a direct connection with readers outside of social media algorithms.

💬 4️⃣ Recommend Their Books to Friends

Word-of-mouth is still one of the most powerful marketing tools. Tell a friend, suggest it in your book club, or drop it in a reader group. Personal recommendations carry a lot of weight.

🎧 5️⃣ Request Their Book at Your Local Library

Most libraries have systems where patrons can request new titles for their shelves. Requesting an indie author’s book is a wonderful way to help them reach new readers — plus, it supports public libraries too!

🖥️ 6️⃣ Feature Them on Your Blog or Bookstagram

If you run a blog, BookTok, Bookstagram, or BookTube channel, consider featuring an indie author in a review, author interview, or reading list. These shoutouts can introduce them to a whole new audience.

🎁 7️⃣ Give Their Books as Gifts

While this one technically involves a purchase, gifting indie books for birthdays, holidays, or just-because moments spreads the word and supports the author at the same time.

📣 8️⃣ Nominate Them for Awards & Lists

Many online book communities, local bookstores, and libraries have “best of” lists or indie book awards you can nominate authors for. These recognitions help boost their credibility and exposure.

🎙️ 9️⃣ Invite Them for Interviews or Events

If you’re involved in a book club, podcast, writing group, or school program, invite an indie author to chat about their work. Most are thrilled for the opportunity to connect with readers and fellow writers.

✨Supporting indie authors is about community, encouragement, and celebrating storytelling in all its forms. The next time you fall in love with a book by an indie author, remember — even the smallest gesture of support can mean everything to the person behind the page.

Do you have a favorite indie author you adore? Share their name (or a link to their book) in the comments so we can all discover someone new to read! ✨

📣 Marketing on a Budget: Free and Low-Cost Strategies for Indie Authors

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Let’s be honest — writing a book is hard enough, but getting it into readers’ hands can feel like an entirely different mountain to climb, especially when you don’t have a big marketing budget. The good news? Some of the best book marketing strategies don’t require breaking the bank. Whether you’re launching your debut or trying to breathe new life into your backlist, there are plenty of creative, affordable ways to promote your work.

Here are some free (or nearly free) strategies every indie author should have in their toolkit:

📱 1. Leverage Social Media Authentically

You don’t need to be everywhere, but you do need to be somewhere. Pick one or two platforms where your readers hang out and show up consistently. Whether it’s Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or Twitter (or X… we’re all still figuring that out), focus on sharing a mix of:

  • Behind-the-scenes writing moments
  • Bookish quotes or excerpts
  • Cover reveals
  • Reader reviews
  • Personal tidbits that show your personality

Pro Tip: Use free tools like Canva to create eye-catching graphics, teaser images, and quote cards.

Austin discovered, at the young age of ten, that fairies aren’t exactly what the fairytales made them out to be and that blood tastes a lot like honey. Now, as an adult, he struggles to balance his public life with the one he’s so desperate to keep hidden. After a deadly camping trip and an unexpected connection, Austin tries to change his ways. Will he be able to keep his secret or will his world come undone? In this exciting interactive adventure, the body count is up to you. Are you ready?

BUY A COPY HERE

📧 2. Build an Email List Early

Your email list is gold. These are readers who want to hear from you. Start building your list by offering a free short story, novella, or sneak peek of your work in exchange for an email address.

Free tools to get started:

  • Mailerlite (free for up to 1,000 subscribers)
  • Substack (if you love a newsletter vibe)
  • MailChimp (another newsletter platform)

Send updates, exclusive content, and book announcements directly to your readers’ inboxes.

🌟 3. Collaborate with Other Indie Authors

Cross-promotion is one of the smartest (and free) ways to expand your reach. Team up with authors in your genre for:

  • Joint giveaways
  • Newsletter swaps
  • Social media shoutouts
  • Anthology projects

Not only does it widen your audience, but it also fosters a sense of community in a sometimes-lonely indie world.

📝 4. Guest Post on Book Blogs & Author Websites

Reach new readers by offering to write guest posts or author interviews for book bloggers and indie author sites. Most are happy to feature fellow writers, especially if you pitch a fun or informative topic.

Ideas for guest posts:

  • “The Inspiration Behind My Book”
  • “5 Paranormal Books That Inspired My Series”
  • “What I Wish I Knew Before Self-Publishing”

Bonus: It usually comes with a link back to your book! IF YOU’RE INTERESTED IN GUEST POSTING ON MY BLOG, CLICK HERE!

Celeste epitomizes high school success: top grades, head cheerleader, even dating the star quarterback. Life couldn’t be better with a picture-perfect family and college on the horizon. But as she drifts off to sleep on the eve of her 17th birthday, Celeste never fathoms waking up over 1,000 years in the future.

Transported to a world both unfamiliar and strangely linked to her own, Celeste discovers she’s the heir to a royal lineage and her mother is a long-lost princess. Yet as secrets unravel and familial rifts emerge, the once harmonious facade of her family begins to splinter.

Navigating impossible choices, Celeste’s journey becomes a quest for self-discovery and strength. In the chaos, she discovers the power within her identity, the importance of family, and the treasures of genuine friendships. Embark on Celeste’s journey as she boldly faces the mysteries ahead, shaping her fate with courage and unwavering determination.

BUY A COPY HERE

🎥 5. Start a Simple Video Series

You don’t need a fancy setup — just your phone and good lighting. Readers love getting to know the person behind the book. Record short videos about:

  • What you’re currently working on
  • Writing tips
  • Book recommendations
  • Fun facts about your characters

Post them on Instagram Reels, TikTok, or YouTube Shorts.

📖 6. Join (and Engage in) Reader Communities

Get involved in Goodreads groups, Facebook book clubs, or Discord communities related to your genre. Important: Don’t just drop your links — be a genuine part of the conversation, offer recommendations, and talk about books you love.

When people get to know you, they’ll naturally want to check out your work.

🎁 7. Run Free or Discounted Promotions

Temporarily dropping your eBook price or offering it for free for a limited time can boost downloads and reviews. Pair it with a social media push or email newsletter blast.

Free promo sites to submit your deals to:

  • Freebooksy
  • Book Doggy
  • Fussy Librarian
  • Book Rebel

(They often have free or low-cost options.)

🎨 8. Design Promo Graphics with Free Tools

Make your marketing materials pop with free graphic design tools. Canva is my go-to for everything from social media posts to book mockups and promotional banners.

Other free tools worth trying:

  • Book Brush (limited free plan for book-specific graphics)
  • Pixabay and Unsplash (for royalty-free images)

📌 Final Thoughts

Marketing as an indie author doesn’t have to drain your wallet. It’s about consistency, creativity, and finding authentic ways to connect with your readers. Start small, test what works, and have fun experimenting along the way. The indie author community is one of the most supportive out there — so lean into it and lift each other up.

Got a favorite free or budget-friendly marketing trick? I’d love to hear about it in the comments!

Sometimes I Want to Give Up

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By a Wife, Mom, Fiction Writer, and Real Estate Agent Who’s Just Trying to Breathe

There are days when I look at my to-do list and feel the tears sting before I even get out of bed. I’m a wife. I’m a mom. I’m a fiction writer. And I’m a real estate agent who hustles 24/7 in a business that rarely sleeps. Somewhere in the mix, I’m also a woman who keeps forgetting to take care of herself. And some days—maybe today—I just want to give up.

Not because I don’t love my family. Not because I’m not grateful for my clients or the opportunity to tell stories. But because the sheer volume of it all feels like a tidal wave crashing over me. Over and over again.

The Weight of Mom Guilt

The mom guilt is real. Over the years I have missed the school assemblies, or I’m answering a client call during dinner. I’m thinking about an upcoming showing while my child just needs to talk. And don’t even get me started on the guilt of screen time when I just need a moment to breathe or send a contract.

And then there’s the emotional math I do constantly—“If I work a little more tonight, maybe I can take Saturday off…” But Saturday comes and someone wants to see a house. Or something falls apart in escrow. Or I just can’t ignore the buzzing of my phone. Again.

The Loss of Me

Somewhere between the showings, the open houses, the packing lunches, the editing/writing deadlines I never meet, I stopped taking care of myself. I skip meals. I run on caffeine and adrenaline. My writing? It waits in the shadows, a dusty notebook or half-open document that aches for attention but never quite gets it. That hurts the most. Because writing is the piece of me that feels like me. And she’s the one I abandon first when life gets busy.

I’ll be honest: sometimes it feels like everything I do is for everyone else. Clients. Kids. My spouse. I show up, smile, problem-solve, negotiate, fix, drive, cook, clean—and then collapse. But rarely do I pause and ask myself: Am I okay?

The Illusion of Control

Real estate doesn’t come with predictability. You can do everything right, and the deal still falls through. A client can change their mind. A buyer can ghost. A seller can panic. And in the meantime, your child spikes a fever, your spouse is working late, and your characters are still sitting in chapter six, waiting for you to bring them to life.

It’s chaos. And it’s hard to admit you’re drowning when your job requires you to be the calm in everyone else’s storm.

When It’s Too Much

So what do I do when it’s all too much? When the plates I’m spinning start crashing to the floor?

Here’s what I’m learning—sometimes painfully slowly:

  1. It’s okay to say no. You don’t have to be everything to everyone all the time. Boundaries aren’t selfish—they’re survival.
  2. Ask for help. Whether it’s your partner, a friend, a colleague, or a therapist—reach out. You don’t earn extra points for suffering in silence.
  3. Find micro-moments for yourself. Maybe it’s a five-minute journal entry. A short walk. A hot coffee sipped in actual peace. It matters. You matter.
  4. Put writing back on the calendar. Even if it’s just 10 minutes a day. Writing isn’t a luxury—it’s your breath, your voice, your therapy. Don’t let it die in the name of “busy.”
  5. Rest is not lazy. You are not a machine. Rest. Sleep. Unplug. You’ll come back stronger, clearer, and more present.
  6. Forgive yourself. For the forgotten lunch. For the client you lost. For the book you haven’t finished. You’re human. You’re trying. That’s enough.

One Breath at a Time

Some days, the only thing I accomplish is keeping everyone alive. Some days, I close a deal, make dinner, and write a paragraph I actually like. But every day, I’m learning to show myself more grace. To stop chasing perfection and instead chase peace.

If you’re in the thick of it too—if you’re a mom, a partner, a worker, a dreamer—just know this: you are not alone. You’re not failing. You’re carrying a lot. And it’s okay to feel like it’s too much.

Just don’t give up. Pause. Rest. Refill. Cry if you need to. Then take the next small step. Not for the world. Not even for your family. But for you.

Because you’re worth saving, too.

A Critique is Not an Insult: The Power of Constructive Feedback in Writing

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Writing is an intimate act. Authors pour their thoughts, emotions, and creativity into every word, each sentence carefully crafted to convey a piece of themselves to the world. When we put our work out there, we risk exposing our vulnerabilities to others, opening ourselves up to both praise and criticism. It’s natural to feel protective over our creations—after all, they are an extension of who we are. But here’s the truth that all writers must come to understand: a critique is not an insult. It is a powerful tool for growth and improvement. Trust me, learning or believing this lesson isn’t always easy.

The Purpose of Critique

At its core, a critique is about evaluating and offering feedback in a way that encourages development. It’s a way for writers to see their work from another perspective, to recognize both strengths and weaknesses they might not have noticed on their own. Critiques—whether given by a trusted friend, editor, or fellow writer—serve to refine the piece and help authors evolve. Constructive feedback isn’t about tearing someone down. It’s about lifting them up and guiding them toward better writing.

Think of it this way: no one is born knowing how to write perfectly. Every author, from the most seasoned to the newest, needs feedback to hone their craft. Even the greatest writers, like Hemingway and Orwell, relied on others to point out areas for improvement. Critique helps us grow, just as a sculptor chisels away at a block of stone to reveal the masterpiece within. It is a necessary step in the process of becoming better at our craft.

Critique Is About the Work, Not the Writer

One of the most important (and maybe hardest) distinctions to make is that a critique is about the work, not the person behind it. It is an evaluation of a specific story, essay, or novel, not a reflection of the author’s worth as an individual. When a critique points out flaws or areas for improvement, it is never meant to undermine the writer’s self-esteem or creative potential.

Unfortunately, the emotional connection between an author and their writing can sometimes blur this line. A negative critique can feel like a personal attack, but that is rarely the intention. Instead, it’s a sign that the work, as it stands, could benefit from revisions—just as any piece of art requires revisions before it can be truly considered finished. Even the best works in history have been revised multiple times before reaching their final form. Criticism, then, is a necessary step in this journey, a part of the art’s evolution.

Constructive Criticism: The Heart of Growth

Constructive criticism is the gold standard for feedback. It focuses on improvement, offering actionable suggestions while acknowledging what works well. The best critiques never simply say “This is bad” or “This doesn’t work.” Instead, they offer insight into why something doesn’t work and, more importantly, how to make it better. A good critique provides clarity on plot holes, character inconsistencies, pacing issues, or weak dialogue. It helps the writer see their work from different angles, offering solutions rather than just identifying problems.

As a writer, it’s essential to remain open to such feedback. Embrace the idea that all feedback—no matter how critical—comes with the potential for growth. Take a step back, detach emotionally, and view the critique objectively. Is there a kernel of truth in what’s being said? Can the suggested changes improve the overall quality of your work? Often, the answer will be yes.

The Personal Connection: Don’t Take It Personally

It’s easy to feel vulnerable when your work is critiqued. It can sting, especially if the feedback points out flaws you’ve worked hard to overlook or aspects of your writing you were especially proud of. But remember, a critique is not a judgment on you as a person. It does not diminish your talent, your creativity, or your ability as a writer. It’s simply a tool to make your writing the best it can be.

A critique can only hurt if you let it. Instead of viewing feedback as a negative judgment, try to see it as an opportunity to learn. Even harsh criticisms often contain valuable lessons. After all, no one becomes a master at something without making mistakes along the way—and writing is no exception.

A Final Thought: Embrace the Challenge

To be a writer is to be forever evolving, learning, and adapting. The work will always get better with each revision, with each thoughtful critique. It’s important to remember that a critique is a gift, not a condemnation. It’s a chance to refine your skills, to deepen your understanding of your craft, and to produce the best version of your work.

So, the next time you receive feedback—whether positive or critical—take a deep breath and embrace it. Understand that it’s not a reflection of you as a person but a reflection of your work in its current form. A critique is not an insult. It’s a steppingstone on the path to becoming the writer you’re destined to be.

Magic Makes it Possible… #WritingWednesday

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WELCOME TO #WRITINGWEDNESDAY

My #WritingWednesday series is all about using #WritingPrompts to spark creativity. I’m hoping you’ll decide to join me on this journey and participate in the weekly #WritingWednesday challenge!

Did you participate in the last #WritingWednesday challenge? If you haven’t posted your response, click HERE so you can do that now. Then, make sure you check in here ~ every Wednesday ~ for the latest #WritingWednesday #WritingPrompt! Now, back to today’s regularly scheduled post…

Remember, #WritingWednesday is an EASY, STRESS-FREE, weekly writing challenge.

  • Read the writing prompt below,
  • Spend 5 minutes writing (in your own voice or the voice of a character you’re writing) whatever comes to mind,
  • DON’T EDIT what you write! IT DOES NOT HAVE TO BE PERFECT! (I know this one is hard for a lot of writers, but when we edit as we go, we can reduce creativity.)

The goal is 5 minutes of creativity.

Today, I’m writing in the voice of Celeste, the character in my current WIP!

Today’s writing prompt:

What if magic was real and you could make the impossible possible… What would you do?

If you had asked me this a year ago, I would have said, I would make it so I never gained weight or I never aged. Maybe I would have wished for a new car… or an old one, seeing as my parents told me I had to wait until graduation.

Today, life is a little different. Things have changed. I know magic is real. I’ve seen it. Although, it isn’t what you think. You can’t bring back the dead, which is the only thing I’d wish for if I had a chance now. You can’t change the past. You can’t stop a war. You can’t end all evil, not with magic.

Those things, the big things… the ones that really matter, they take so much more than magic. They take time and a willingness that humanity just doesn’t seem to have right now.

© 2021 Nina Soden

Alright, now it’s your turn. I’d love to see what today’s #WritingPrompt inspires in you. So, if you are willing, go to the comment section below and start typing. Take 5 minutes and let’s see what you come up with! 

Looking for daily writing inspiration? Check out my author tool: #WRITINGPROMPTS

Who Can Benefit from Using #WritingPrompts? Everyone! Whether you’re an avid writer or just someone who is interested in the creative and/or therapeutic art of writing, #WritingPrompts is for you. Studies show that maintaining a daily handwritten journal, or creative writing notebook, can: 1. improve memory, 2. enhance creative expression, 3. lower stress, 4. build self-discipline, 5. eliminate writer’s block, and so much more! Writer’s Block Got You Down? Eliminate It, One Day at a Time! When it comes to writer’s block, the struggle is real! If you’ve ever sat at your computer, typewriter, or with pen in hand, but couldn’t get a single word on paper, then you know what writer’s block feels like. #WritingPrompts is the solution you’ve been looking for! Within the pages of #WritingPrompts, you will find over 700 writing prompts that you can use in order or at random, the choice is yours. Jump-Start Your Creativity with over 700 Unique Writing Prompts! Good writing takes time, practice, and unique ideas. Why not jump-start your imagination with these unique writing prompts and watch as you find your voice and become a more confident writer in just one year.

Oh I Wish… #WritingWednesday

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WELCOME TO #WRITINGWEDNESDAY

#WritingWednesday is all about using #WRITINGPROMPTS to spark creativity. Did you participate in the last #WritingWednesday challenge? If you haven’t posted your response, click HERE so you can do that now. Then, make sure you check in here ~ every Wednesday ~ for the latest #WritingWednesday #WritingPrompt! Now, back to today’s regularly scheduled post…

Remember, #WritingWednesday is an EASY, STRESS-FREE, weekly writing challenge.

  • Read the writing prompt below,
  • Spend 5 minutes writing (in your own voice or the voice of a character you’re writing) whatever comes to mind,
  • DON’T EDIT what you write! IT DOES NOT HAVE TO BE PERFECT! (I know this one is hard for a lot of writers, but when we edit as we go, we can reduce creativity.)

The goal is 5 minutes of creativity.

Today, I’m writing in my own voice!

Today’s writing prompt:

What talent or skill do you wish you had?

I used to draw, a lot. We’re talking as a kid and even into college. For some reason, I stopped drawing. Its been years since I put pencil to paper for that purpose. I’m not even sure I could do it any more. Maybe that’s why I don’t do it… fear. Fear that I won’t be any good. Fear that it will be a disappointment, to myself. Fear that I’ve lost that skill I used to be so proud of.

I guess, I wish I had the talent or skill… or ability… to just just believe in myself. Believe 100% in myself and not to be afraid to fail.

© 2021 Nina Soden

Alright, now it’s your turn. I’d love to see what today’s #WritingPrompt inspires in you. So, if you are willing, go to the comment section below and start typing. Take 5 minutes and let’s see what you come up with! 

Looking for daily writing inspiration? Check out my author tool: #WRITINGPROMPTS

Who Can Benefit from Using #WritingPrompts? Everyone! Whether you’re an avid writer or just someone who is interested in the creative and/or therapeutic art of writing, #WritingPrompts is for you. Studies show that maintaining a daily handwritten journal, or creative writing notebook, can: 1. improve memory, 2. enhance creative expression, 3. lower stress, 4. build self-discipline, 5. eliminate writer’s block, and so much more! Writer’s Block Got You Down? Eliminate It, One Day at a Time! When it comes to writer’s block, the struggle is real! If you’ve ever sat at your computer, typewriter, or with pen in hand, but couldn’t get a single word on paper, then you know what writer’s block feels like. #WritingPrompts is the solution you’ve been looking for! Within the pages of #WritingPrompts, you will find over 700 writing prompts that you can use in order or at random, the choice is yours. Jump-Start Your Creativity with over 700 Unique Writing Prompts! Good writing takes time, practice, and unique ideas. Why not jump-start your imagination with these unique writing prompts and watch as you find your voice and become a more confident writer in just one year.

What Would You Ask? #WritingWednesday

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It has been a long time since I posted a #WritingWednesday post, but I’m hoping to get this series started back up and I hope you’ll decide to join me!

#WritingWednesday is all about using #WRITINGPROMPTS to spark creativity. Did you participate in the last #WritingWednesday challenge? It was about ‘Happiness or Success’. If you haven’t posted your response, click HERE so you can do that now. Then, make sure you check in here ~ every Wednesday ~ for the latest #WritingWednesday #WritingPrompt! Now, back to today’s regularly scheduled post…

Remember, #WritingWednesday is an EASY, STRESS-FREE, weekly writing challenge.

  • Read the writing prompt below,
  • Spend 5 minutes writing (in your own voice or the voice of a character you’re writing) whatever comes to mind,
  • DON’T EDIT what you write! IT DOES NOT HAVE TO BE PERFECT! (I know this one is hard for a lot of writers, but when we edit as we go, we can reduce creativity.)

The goal is 5 minutes of creativity.

Today, I’m writing in my own voice!

Today’s writing prompt:

If you could sit down and talk with someone from your past, alive or dead, who would it be and WHAT WOULD YOU ASK?

I don’t have a lot of regrets in life. I tend to live life one day at a time and recognize that some people are only in our lives for a short time while others are there for the long haul. However, the one regret I do have is not spending more time with my grandpa, in the years after my grandmother passed away. I was in college when she died and told myself that I didn’t live close enough to just pop in to see him. Nor did I have much time to do things other than work, school, theatre, etc. etc. etc.

I regret not making the time.

With that said, I would love to sit down and have a conversation with my grandpa. I’d ask him about the afterlife. I know, just before he passed, he had visions of my grandmother. I’m sure she was coming to take him with her to the other side and I’d love to find out how they’ve been spending their time together since their reunion.

Then, I’d tell him I love him and I miss him, because I don’t feel like I tell the people in my life that I love them often enough. I make sure my kids and my husband hear it every day, but I want to make sure all of my family and friends know they are in my heart every day.

© 2021 Nina Soden

Alright, now it’s your turn. I’d love to see what today’s #WritingPrompt [What Would You Ask?] inspires in you. So, if you are willing, go to the comment section below and start typing. Take 5 minutes and let’s see what you come up with! 

Looking for daily writing inspiration? Check out my author tool: #WRITINGPROMPTS

Who Can Benefit from Using #WritingPrompts? Everyone! Whether you’re an avid writer or just someone who is interested in the creative and/or therapeutic art of writing, #WritingPrompts is for you. Studies show that maintaining a daily handwritten journal, or creative writing notebook, can: 1. improve memory, 2. enhance creative expression, 3. lower stress, 4. build self-discipline, 5. eliminate writer’s block, and so much more! Writer’s Block Got You Down? Eliminate It, One Day at a Time! When it comes to writer’s block, the struggle is real! If you’ve ever sat at your computer, typewriter, or with pen in hand, but couldn’t get a single word on paper, then you know what writer’s block feels like. #WritingPrompts is the solution you’ve been looking for! Within the pages of #WritingPrompts, you will find over 700 writing prompts that you can use in order or at random, the choice is yours. Jump-Start Your Creativity with over 700 Unique Writing Prompts! Good writing takes time, practice, and unique ideas. Why not jump-start your imagination with these unique writing prompts and watch as you find your voice and become a more confident writer in just one year.

Everdal Update #9…

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Update #8 June 3, 2021

WORKING TITLE: Everdal
GENRE: YA/NA Fantasy
Status: First Draft Complete
Days in current Status: To Many
Days of actual writing: 25
Current Word Count: 64,223
Current Chapter Count Complete: 19
NEXT STEPS: Re-writes - Estimated completion date: unknown

The 1st draft is FINALLY done!

Well, its done.

I’m not going to lie, its an ugly first draft, but its done.

I think the story has great bones and the characters are fun… relatable… and likeable, for the most part. wink-wink…

I can’t wait to dig in and get started on the re-writes.

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I’ve Started A Podcast…

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NINA SODEN – #TheRedheadedAuthor Speaks… I’ll be sharing readings of some of my micro-stories; talking about my experiences as an indie author; the writing process, self-publishing, marketing ins and outs, and my latest work(s) in progress. I’ll also be interviewing other guest authors to bring in a different perspective.

BREAKER * PocketCasts * Google Podcasts * radiopublic.com
COMING 4/30/2021
COMING 5/7/2021

Be sure to subscribe to the Podcast, so you never miss an episode!