Category Archives: The process

The Evolution of Urban Fantasy: From Classic to Contemporary

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Urban fantasy is a genre that has captivated readers for decades, blending the magic and mystery of fantastical realms with the grit and realism of modern-day settings. With its unique mix of supernatural elements and everyday life, urban fantasy has evolved over the years, shifting in themes, character archetypes, and world-building. From the early works of beloved authors like Jim Butcher and Laurell K. Hamilton to the newer voices emerging today, the genre has undergone a significant transformation.

In this article, we’ll explore the evolution of urban fantasy, from its classic roots to contemporary works that continue to shape the genre.

The Classic Foundations of Urban Fantasy

Urban fantasy as a genre began to take shape in the 1980s and 1990s, with early works like Laurell K. Hamilton’s Anita Blake: Vampire Hunter and Jim Butcher’s The Dresden Files. These early pioneers established many of the tropes and conventions that would later become synonymous with the genre.

At its core, classic urban fantasy is defined by the juxtaposition of the ordinary and the extraordinary. The protagonist is often a lone wolf, a tough, morally gray character with a special set of skills who faces dark and supernatural forces lurking beneath the surface of everyday life. This version of urban fantasy was steeped in noir influences, where the main character’s inner struggle mirrored the chaos and danger in the world around them.

Jim Butcher’s The Dresden Files, which began in 2000, is one of the definitive examples of early urban fantasy. The series follows Harry Dresden, a private investigator and wizard in modern-day Chicago. Butcher’s blend of hard-boiled detective tropes with magical elements created a blueprint for many urban fantasy works that followed. His world is gritty, often dangerous, and filled with powerful supernatural beings, from fae to vampires. The detective noir influence is evident in Dresden’s constant struggle between good and evil, with every book pushing him deeper into morally ambiguous situations.

Meanwhile, Laurell K. Hamilton’s Anita Blake series, which began in 1993, took the genre in a more erotic and dark direction. Anita Blake, a necromancer and vampire executioner, finds herself caught in a web of supernatural politics, power struggles, and dangerous romantic entanglements. Hamilton’s work often explored themes of power, sexuality, and identity, pushing the boundaries of what urban fantasy could tackle in terms of personal relationships and societal issues. As the series progressed, the focus shifted more toward the complexities of Anita’s supernatural world and her growing powers, with heavy emphasis on eroticism and romantic relationships.

The Shift in Themes and Character Archetypes

As the genre grew in popularity, urban fantasy began to evolve in response to changing reader expectations and cultural shifts. The early emphasis on gritty, morally complex protagonists began to make room for more diverse voices and a broader range of themes.

One significant shift was the increasing focus on female protagonists. While classic urban fantasy had often centered around male characters like Harry Dresden, more recent works have seen a shift toward strong, empowered women at the forefront of the story. Authors began to explore themes of empowerment, self-discovery, and the intersection of personal and supernatural challenges in deeper, more nuanced ways. This shift not only made the genre more inclusive but also allowed for a broader exploration of issues like gender, identity, and family.

In these contemporary works, the protagonist often faces both external supernatural threats and internal personal struggles. Their journeys are no longer just about surviving dangerous magical forces but also about grappling with personal growth, moral dilemmas, and relationships. These themes provide a more holistic and relatable narrative, where magic is just one element of a much larger and more complex human experience.

This focus on personal growth and inner conflict has become a hallmark of contemporary urban fantasy, with protagonists often battling not only external supernatural forces but also their own personal demons. This allows for more diverse and relatable characters, which has resonated with modern readers.

World-Building: From Classic Tropes to Contemporary Complexity

In the earlier days of urban fantasy, world-building often focused on introducing the magical or supernatural elements and the tension between them and the human world. The worlds were often gritty and dark, with a heavy emphasis on danger and mystery. In many cases, the rules governing magic were somewhat vague, allowing for flexibility in storytelling.

However, contemporary urban fantasy has become more complex in its approach to world-building. Authors now often create elaborate systems of magic, politics, and supernatural races, with intricate rules and histories that mirror our own world’s political, cultural, and societal dynamics. The supernatural is no longer just a hidden world; it’s intricately woven into the fabric of society, often influencing everything from politics to economics.

This expansion of world-building has led to stories where the supernatural is no longer just a secret lurking behind the curtain, but an active part of everyday life. Different supernatural races and cultures, often with their own set of rules, ethics, and political systems, interact within the world’s broader society. As a result, urban fantasy worlds now feel as fleshed out and intricate as our own, with supernatural powers having real-world consequences.

The Rise of New Voices and Diverse Narratives

One of the most exciting developments in contemporary urban fantasy is the influx of new voices and diverse perspectives. While earlier works were often centered around Western tropes and characters, modern urban fantasy is increasingly global in scope, with stories drawing on mythology and folklore from a wide range of cultures. Authors from different backgrounds are infusing the genre with fresh perspectives, creating rich, diverse worlds that reflect a broader range of human experiences.

Urban fantasy now explores a wider array of characters, from diverse cultural backgrounds to varying sexual orientations, challenging the genre’s traditional boundaries. These stories go beyond the typical white male or female protagonists and bring new perspectives on power, identity, and the supernatural. By incorporating diverse characters, authors have enriched the genre, allowing it to better reflect the world we live in today.

This expansion of the genre’s boundaries has opened up new possibilities for storytelling, allowing authors to explore themes of identity, belonging, and societal change in ways that resonate with modern readers. Urban fantasy has become a vehicle for cultural exchange, blending the traditional elements of magic and mystery with deeper explorations of societal issues, relationships, and personal struggles.

Conclusion: The Ongoing Evolution of Urban Fantasy

From its gritty, noir-inspired roots to the vibrant, diverse world-building of today, urban fantasy has undergone a profound transformation. While early works like The Dresden Files and Anita Blake established the genre’s foundation, contemporary voices have helped to push the genre in exciting new directions, embracing complex characters, intricate world-building, and diverse narratives.

As urban fantasy continues to evolve, one thing is certain: it will remain a genre that blends the magic of the fantastical with the reality of everyday life, creating worlds that are as engaging as they are magical. Whether you’re drawn to classic tales of supernatural sleuths or the bold, new voices redefining the genre, urban fantasy offers something for every reader. The genre is far from static—it’s alive and ever-changing, just as the world it mirrors.

Tales From Planet Sanos

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The future is grim. Seven human women, trained in survival and negotiation are being permitted to land on Planet Sanos with one goal: secure a future for the humans of Earth… at any cost.

Tales From Planet Sanos

A Multi-Author Science Fiction Romance Omnibus

with stories by

Celia Kyle, Chloe Graves, Elin Wyn, Holly Hanzo,

Lara Roth, Mary Ashe, Robin O’Connor

The future is grim. The Earth’s oceans are poison to humans, and pure water, untainted by the generations of pollution, is scarce and coveted. Our only hope—Earth’s only hope—rests in the landing capsule gradually descending from the generational spaceship, the USS Legacy. Seven human women, trained in survival and negotiation are being permitted to land on Planet Sanos with one goal: secure a future for the humans of Earth… at any cost.

This SPECIAL EDITION print omnibus has a glossy cover, printed edges, digital signatures, and custom artwork throughout. It contains the following Planet Sanos shared world novellas:

Taken by the Alien Merking by Celia Kyle
Taken by the Siren King by Chloe Graves
Taken by the Storm King by Elin Wyn
Taken by the Alien Kraken King by Holly Hanzo
Taken by the Leviathan King by Lara Roth
Taken by the Merrow King by Mary Ashe
Taken by the Alien Triton King by Robin O’Connor

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Ex-dance teacher, former accountant and erstwhile collectible doll salesperson, Celia Kyle now writes paranormal and science fiction romances as well as urban fantasy. It goes without saying that there’s always a happily-ever-after for her characters, even if there are a few road bumps along the way. Today she lives in central Florida and writes full-time with the support of her loving husband and two finicky cats.

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Enter to win a $50 Amazon gift card or a print copy of the Special Edition – open WW (anywhere that Amazon will ship) – 1 winner each! Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!

Scare Thee Well by ReGina Welling

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Meet Tansy Shackleton. She’s just the witch to finish what her ancestors started.

Scare Thee Well

Laurel Haven Witches Book 2

by ReGina Welling

Genre: Paranormal Women’s Fiction

Three hundred years ago, one witch had to live with her mistakes. Today, another might have to die for them.

Tansy Shackleton has spent her entire life carrying the guilt of her family’s legacy. If not for her ancestor’s mistake, good witches might not be trapped in the coastal town of Laurel Haven, Maine. But no matter how hard she tries to make amends, she can’t stop seeing the stain on her soul. Not even at the cost of her marriage.

Connor Shackleton has tried everything he can think of to get his wife to see that she’s not to blame for the unwitting actions of a long-dead witch. At his wit’s end and unable to watch Tansy work herself into the ground for something that wasn’t even her fault, he proposes they take a break for a few days, just to get some perspective.

He should have known Tansy would martyr both their happiness on the alter of guilt, but he didn’t. He wanted her back almost from the minute he walked away, but she’s shut him out of her life as firmly as the door she closed behind him.

The problem is, life and death in Laurel Haven go hand in hand for witches of the blood, and just like Tansy, Connor’s one of them. The only way to move forward is to turn and face the past head-on. Together with her new coven, Tansy will have to put all of Laurel Haven’s ghosts to rest or die trying.

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ReGina Welling prefers not to talk about herself in the third person so…

I live in Maine with my husband, a silly flufferpup named Dash, and a crazy cat named Cricket. I write full time and also create mixed media artwork when I get the chance.

When I was three, my mom brought home a new book and when she went to read it to me, I read it to her instead. That was when she realized I’d learned to read. Since then I couldn’t even estimate the number of books I’ve read. It’s a lot!

I love talking to other readers so please visit me in any one of these various places and don’t forget to let me know you stopped by!

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Would you like a chance to win a $10 Amazon gift card? Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!

Building Believable Magic Systems in Urban Fantasy

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One of the key elements that defines urban fantasy is the integration of magical elements into the modern world. Whether it’s a hidden society of magical beings, a world where spells and supernatural creatures roam the streets, or the exploration of a character’s newfound magical powers, the magic system in an urban fantasy setting must feel both extraordinary and plausible. Readers need to believe that magic can exist within the framework of their everyday lives without shattering the suspension of disbelief. But how do you create a magical system that feels authentic while staying grounded in the real world?

In this post, I’ll take you through an in-depth guide to building unique and believable magic systems in urban fantasy. We’ll discuss the importance of internal consistency, the balance between magic and real-world rules, and how to keep your readers hooked without losing their trust in the world you’ve created.

1. Establishing Rules for Magic

The first step in crafting a believable magic system is setting clear rules for how magic works in your world. While magic allows for immense creativity and wonder, it also requires structure. Without established rules, magic becomes too arbitrary and unpredictable, making it difficult for readers to connect with the world you’ve built.

Why Rules Matter:

  • Internal Consistency: A magic system must adhere to its own logic. If magic behaves differently without explanation, it risks confusing or frustrating readers. The moment magic becomes a convenient plot device that appears without proper foreshadowing, you lose the trust of your audience.
  • Limits and Costs: Every magic system should have limitations. Power without limitations feels contrived. Magic should come with costs, whether it’s physical tolls on the user, restrictions on its use, or even social consequences. For instance, maybe casting a spell drains a person’s energy, risks the safety of a loved one, or only works at a certain time of day. These limitations make magic feel earned and give characters something to struggle with.

Think about Jim Butcher’s The Dresden Files, where Harry Dresden’s magic is often limited by the amount of energy he can draw from the world, the danger it poses to him personally, and the rules of the White Council. Dresden’s magic is consistent but not unlimited, and he is always mindful of the cost of each spell.

2. Make Magic a Part of the World’s Framework

In urban fantasy, magic doesn’t just exist in isolation—it interacts with the real world. For your magic system to feel believable, it should be integrated into society, politics, culture, and even economy, as though it’s always been a part of the world. That is, unless the magic of your world is held in secret among only those in the know… say an underground world of witches like in my Blood Angel Series, for example.

Creating a Magical Ecosystem:

  • Hidden vs. Known Magic: Is magic something that society is aware of, or is it hidden from the public? In many urban fantasy stories, magic is concealed from the general public, adding a layer of mystery and intrigue. However, even in these worlds, magic should still have an impact on the economy, government, or society. Maybe magical beings run secretive industries, or powerful witches control the black market of enchanted items.
  • Magical Institutions and Regulations: Think about how magic would be regulated, if at all. Are there organizations that oversee magical activities? Is magic illegal for certain people or in certain areas? How does the magical community interact with the mundane world—do they cooperate, conflict, or hide from each other? Exploring these societal dynamics can help ground your magic system in reality and avoid making it seem like an arbitrary addition to the plot.

For example, Laurell K. Hamilton’s Anita Blake: Vampire Hunter series presents a world where vampires, werewolves, and other supernatural creatures are not only known but have legal rights and recognition, with the government regulating these creatures’ activities. The existence of supernatural beings is integral to society’s politics, and the magic in the world reflects that integration.

3. Determine the Source of Magic

One of the most important decisions when creating a magic system is determining where the magic comes from. Magic can be drawn from a variety of sources—nature, gods, emotions, the mind, or even technology. The source of magic will significantly shape how it functions and is understood in your world.

Common Sources of Magic:

  • Elemental Forces: Magic that taps into the natural world, such as fire, water, or earth, is a common source of power. This can create a connection between magic and the environment, adding depth to the system. For instance, a fire mage might have to be near a flame or rely on natural heat sources to use their powers, making the system more tangible and grounded.
  • Bloodlines or Heritage: Magic might be passed down through generations or tied to specific bloodlines. This can create tension within societies, with some families hoarding power, others struggling to access their abilities, or even forbidden forms of magic associated with certain ancestries.
  • Energy or Willpower: Magic could be powered by an individual’s physical, mental, or emotional energy. A magic user might have to tap into their own life force, willpower, or emotions like anger, sadness, or love to fuel their spells. This can create complex inner conflict, as characters may hesitate to use magic for fear of personal loss.
  • Technology and Science: Some urban fantasy systems blend technology and magic, where magic is not a mystical force but a scientific one, often with technological advancements enabling magical phenomena. Think of how techno-magic systems like those in the Shadowrun series blend cybernetics with spellcasting or enchanted machines.

By establishing where your magic originates, you not only create more specific rules for your system but also provide readers with a clearer understanding of its limitations and potential.

4. Incorporate Magic into Character Development

The use of magic in urban fantasy often plays a central role in character development. A character’s relationship with magic can reveal a lot about their personality, values, and struggles. This is where character-driven conflict can shine—especially if magic isn’t simply a tool, but something that challenges or alters the character’s life.

Examples of Magic and Character Development:

  • Moral Dilemmas: A character might have access to immense magical power but must choose whether to use it for good, evil, or for personal gain. This inner conflict can shape their journey. In The Dresden Files, Harry Dresden’s magic comes with deep moral consequences. His choices, especially when using darker forms of magic, define who he is as a person and affect his relationships.
  • Physical or Emotional Limitations: Magic could come with a physical toll, such as the deterioration of the user’s health or mind. Alternatively, magic might amplify a character’s emotional state. This can add depth to characters, making their struggles more relatable and the magic itself a more integral part of the narrative. For instance, a character might be too emotionally unstable to control their magic, creating tension and stakes.
  • Identity and Belonging: If magic is tied to heritage or bloodlines, a character may feel the weight of their ancestry, the pressure of expectation, or even a sense of loss if they cannot access their magical heritage. How they grapple with their magical identity can be central to their character arc.

5. Use Magic to Enhance the Story, Not Dominate It

While magic is an essential component of urban fantasy, it should never overpower the story. The best urban fantasy integrates magic in ways that enhance the plot, drive character development, and add intrigue to the world—without allowing magic to solve all the problems instantly.

Balance Between Magic and the Mundane:

  • The magical and mundane worlds should interact, not just coexist. Often, the challenges in urban fantasy arise from the friction between these two realms. Magic might make life more complicated rather than easier. This keeps the stakes high and forces characters to think creatively and make tough choices.
  • Magic should be a tool, not a crutch. It can help drive the plot forward, but it shouldn’t remove all challenges. There needs to be an element of danger, uncertainty, and complexity even in magical situations. For example, perhaps magic is unreliable in certain circumstances, or the protagonist’s power might not be enough to overcome an adversary without sacrifice.

Crafting a believable magic system in urban fantasy is an exciting challenge, but it requires careful thought and structure. The magic must be consistent, integrated into the world, and tied to real-world consequences to maintain the suspension of disbelief. By establishing rules, creating a system that fits the world, and using magic as a tool for character development, you can create a magical system that feels grounded, logical, and, most importantly, immersive. When done well, magic becomes more than just a fantastical element; it becomes an integral part of the world, deepening both the stakes of the story and the richness of the characters within it.

Evie Able Author Spotlight and Giveaway

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Have fun adventures with Evie Able’s multicultural children’s fantasy books!

The Bad Little Fairy
by Evie Able
Genre: Multicultural Children’s Fantasy

Jenny is a bad little fairy. She knows how to play and have fun. She’s far too busy to learn the joy of being
considerate. Thankfully, curiosity is the fairy of invention. With numerous full page color illustrations and
rhyming text, The Bad Little Fairy will engage pre-readers of all cultures to imagine the magic of kindness.

Author’s Site * Amazon * B&N * ThriftBooks * Bookbub * Goodreads

The Bad Fairy Baker
by Evie Able
Genre: Multicultural Children’s Fantasy

Jenny wants to bake muffins. Baking isn’t easy, but patience wins the day. Take a kitchen journey with the
bad little fairy and bake grain-free muffins with your kids with the recipe at the back!

Author’s Site

Hiding Dragons
by Evie Able
Genre: Multicultural Children’s Fantasy

There is a boy, a curious boy, who just moved to the hood. If you watch close, and books aren’t near,
he will be misunderstood.
Some friendships begin with discovering hidden treasures. Learn the magic of making new friends in Hiding
Dragons.

Author’s Site * Amazon * ThriftBooks * Goodreads

A Story
by Evie Able
Genre: Multicultural Children’s Fantasy

Winner of the 2025 Golden Wizard Book Prize Award!

Stories are for everyone. Follow this story through the African rain forest and out to the Sahara as animals of
all kinds discover the power one story has. For 6 months and older.

Author’s Site * Amazon * B&N * ThriftBooks * Goodreads

Evie Able is the author of the Bad Little Fairy, Hiding Dragons and Phoenix Ashe books series and winner of
the Kroger Award for Excellence in Creative Writing. Able Focuses on interweaving paranormal elements into
multicultural children’s and young adult stories, creating unique worlds which re-conceptualize how we learn
to be good people. She is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators and the
Authors Guild.

Website * Facebook * Instagram * Bluesky * YouTube * Bookbub * Goodreads

Would you like a chance to win a $30 Amazon gift card? Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!

CHECK OUT ALL FOUR BOOKS!

Understanding and Overcoming Writer’s Block: A Fiction Author’s Perspective

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As a fiction author, one of the most frustrating, and at times, debilitating experiences you can face is writer’s block. Whether you’re staring at a blank page, endlessly revising the same sentence, or feeling the crushing weight of doubt, writer’s block can halt your creative flow and make even the most seasoned writers question their abilities. But the good news is, it’s a normal part of the writing process. In this post, I will explore what writer’s block is, why it happens, and most importantly, how to push through it.

1. What is Writer’s Block?

Writer’s block is the inability to write or produce new content, often characterized by a sense of being “stuck.” It can manifest in many ways, from a total absence of ideas to a paralyzing fear of not being able to write well enough. While the term “writer’s block” is often associated with a lack of inspiration, it’s actually more complex. It can stem from internal pressure, perfectionism, burnout, or external stressors that interfere with the creative process.

For me, writer’s block has often been an all-encompassing feeling of frustration—a mix of work-life balance stress and lack of time, coupled with the paralyzing fear that what I’m writing isn’t good enough. And while it can be discouraging, it’s important to remember that it’s a temporary setback, not a permanent condition.

2. Why Does Writer’s Block Happen?

Understanding the root causes of writer’s block can help demystify the experience and take away some of its power. Here are some common reasons writer’s block happens:

1. Perfectionism and Self-Doubt

One of the most common culprits is perfectionism. As writers, we often want every sentence to be brilliant, every plot twist to be surprising, and every character to be perfectly realized. But this pressure can paralyze us, preventing us from moving forward.

2. Fear of Failure

We’ve all had moments where the fear of failure takes over. Will anyone even care about this story? What if my characters aren’t compelling enough? This fear can be crippling and make it difficult to write anything at all.

3. Lack of Inspiration

Sometimes the creative spark simply isn’t there. You’ve exhausted all your ideas, and the well feels dry. Maybe the voices in your head have just stopped talking. This type of block is especially frustrating when you have deadlines or a manuscript to finish, self-imposed or by a publisher. The absence of inspiration can leave you staring at a page, unable to fill it with the words you know are there—but just can’t seem to find.

4. Overwhelm or Burnout

Writing a novel or long-form piece of fiction is an enormous task. The sheer scope of the project can lead to burnout, especially if you’re pushing yourself too hard. The sense of overwhelm that comes with large projects can cause you to shut down entirely.

5. External Stressors

Personal issues, work-related stress, or family matters can all affect your ability to focus and create. If your mind is occupied with external distractions, it can be hard to summon the mental space needed for storytelling. In truth, this is the one that gets me more often than not. I am a creative, but I am also a teacher… I love to help others. Therefore, in many aspects of my life, I say ‘yes’ way too often. I overcommit myself and cause undue stress. That stress becomes overwhelming, and my creativity ends up suffering because of it.

3. How to Overcome Writer’s Block

While there’s no one-size-fits-all solution to overcoming writer’s block, there are strategies that have worked for me and many others. Here are some techniques that may help you break free of the block and get back to writing.

1. Embrace Imperfection

The most important thing to realize is that writing doesn’t have to be perfect on the first draft. In fact, it often isn’t. Perfectionism is a silent killer of creativity. Give yourself permission to write badly. Write the worst possible version of a scene. You can always revise it later. But if you don’t get the words down at all, you’ll never have the chance to improve them.

One of my favorite pieces of advice for dealing with writer’s block is simply to “write through it.” Even if you’re unsure of where the plot is going or how a scene should unfold, writing something—anything—will help break the blockage. Sometimes, just putting words on the page will unlock the next step in the story. I used to have a friend who, whenever she experienced writers’ block, would simply start typing numbers: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12. and so on. She would do that until the next idea came to her. Sometimes she would type into the hundreds, and sometimes beyond, but it helped her to break the writer’s block cycle.

2. Set Small, Manageable Goals

If the task of finishing a novel feels overwhelming, break it down into smaller, more achievable steps. Rather than focusing on the daunting idea of finishing an entire manuscript, set daily or weekly word-count goals. Some days it might only be a few hundred words. But consistent, small goals can build momentum and help you feel a sense of accomplishment.

3. Change Your Environment

Sometimes the problem isn’t with the writing, but with the environment you’re trying to write in. If you’re feeling stuck, try changing your location. Go to a coffee shop, write in a park, or even move to a different room in your house. A new setting can spark creativity and help you see your work in a new light. For me… sometimes I just need to clean or reorganize the workspace I’m already in.

4. Let Your Mind Wander

If you’ve hit a wall, step away from your project for a while. This doesn’t mean giving up on writing, but allowing your subconscious to work on the problem. Go for a walk, take a shower, or read something unrelated to your story. Sometimes, the best ideas come when you least expect them.

5. Use Writing Prompts or Exercises

Another way to combat writer’s block is through creative exercises or writing prompts, like in #WritingPrompts. These can help break up the monotony and get your creative juices flowing again. Even if the prompt doesn’t directly relate to your story, it might inspire new ideas or help you work through a specific scene.

You could try prompts like:

  • Write a scene from the perspective of a side character.
  • Describe your protagonist’s home in detail, including things they would never show to others.
  • Write a letter from your antagonist to the protagonist, explaining why they’re doing what they’re doing.

6. Work on a Different Project

If your current project feels impossible, it might help to switch gears. Start working on a different story or creative endeavor. This doesn’t mean abandoning your main project—just give yourself a mental break. A change of focus can help reset your brain and bring back your creative energy.

7. Talk It Out

Sometimes, verbalizing your thoughts can help untangle a complex plot or character dilemma. Talk to a fellow writer or a trusted friend about what you’re struggling with. Don’t be afraid to admit that you’re blocked—chances are, they’ve been there too. Having a sounding board can give you fresh perspectives and ideas you hadn’t considered.

4. Writer’s Block Isn’t Permanent

It’s crucial to remember that writer’s block doesn’t last forever. It’s a temporary phase that all writers go through. Even the most successful authors face it. When I’m struggling with writer’s block, I remind myself that it’s just part of the creative process. Some days will be harder than others, but that doesn’t mean I’m not still moving forward.

Also, be kind to yourself. The more you pressure yourself to “overcome” writer’s block, the worse it can feel. Give yourself permission to write badly or to take breaks. The most important thing is to keep writing, even if it’s just a little bit at a time.

Writer’s block is an inevitable part of the creative process, but it doesn’t have to be the end of your story. Use it as a signal to change up your routine, experiment with new ideas, and embrace the imperfections that come with writing. Every writer faces this challenge at some point, but the key is persistence. Keep writing, keep experimenting, and above all, be patient with yourself. Your words are waiting—sometimes, all you need is a little time and space to find them again.

Will There Be Wine & Love by Whitney Cubbison

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If you love European settings, wine, romance, female friendships, laughter, heartbreak, redemption, and a bit of spice, these are the books for you!

Will There Be Wine?

by Whitney Cubbison

Genre: Romantic Comedy

Austen Keller was living her dream. She landed a career-defining job which moved her and her husband to Paris. Swoon! Shortly thereafter, she was divorced. Thud. This wasn’t the plan. Yet there she was—pushing 40 and starting over.

A decade after she’d last been single, Austen enters the dating scene playing by a new set of rules in a different language, culture, and lingerie standards. She experiences every type of miserable first date imaginable and lives to tell the tales of Pierre the Mansplainer, Simon the Snoozer, Emile the Over-Sharer, Guillaume of the Gym Shorts, and many more. On most dates, she struggles to get past one glass of Bordeaux without wanting to bolt. Even worse, no one chases after her when she runs. It doesn’t take long for her to realize that whoever said French men were romantic deserves a swift kick in the pants.

A rewarding and high-powered career. Check!
Fabulous female friendships. Nailed it!
True love. Umm?

Austen continues to ask herself: Is “having it all” too much to ask?

A genuine and tragically hilarious novel about an ex-pat woman’s journey of self-discovery through a string of disastrous dates, relationships forged in a deep cultural divide, world travels, and wine. A lot of wine.

Amazon * Bookbub * Goodreads

Will There Be Love?

by Whitney Cubbison

Genre: Romantic Drama

A propulsive exploration of romantic and platonic love, commitment, shared history, betrayal and personal reckoning.

To celebrate her fortieth birthday, Ophelia and her husband Gianluca gather an unlikely group of eight friends and lovers – some old, some new, some false, some true – for a long weekend in Ibiza. However, the idyllic villa setting may be the only thing holding together a complicated tangle of friendship, love, and betrayal.

Among the guests is Ophelia’s old university flame, Matt, and his new girlfriend, Austen. While Matt finds himself falling in love, Austen is holding back, carefully protecting her heart.

Ophelia knows she loves her husband, but “love” is a word she never learned to say, a silence rooted in a childhood tragedy. What she doesn’t know is that Gianluca has been whispering it to someone else. And when his mistress crashes the party along with her own boyfriend, she brings a revelation that could unravel everything.

Across Rome, Paris and Ibiza, the party guests navigate the tangled paths that bring people together and push them apart, exploring where love begins, where it falters, and the courage it takes to hold on—or to let go.

Will There Be Love? is the sequel to Whitney Cubbison’s debut novel, Will There Be Wine?, however it can be read as a stand-alone.

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Whitney Cubbison is a dual American & French citizen living in Paris since 2009. She grew up in Texas and California and graduated from UCLA with a degree in French. She started her career in Communications working for high-tech PR agencies in San Francisco and eventually joined Microsoft where she worked for sixteen years, thirteen of which from the Paris office. During that time, she held various international roles that encompassed public relations, employee communications, executive speechwriting, and social media.

She earned her French citizenship in early 2022 and left Microsoft that summer to focus on completing her first novel, Will There Be Wine?, which came out in January 2023. The story, while fiction, was deeply inspired by Whitney’s own experiences as an ex-pat divorcée living in Paris and trying to navigate the cultural minefield of dating in a foreign country. A sequel called Will There Be Love? will be out on April 29, 2025.

When she’s not writing, Whitney can be found sitting in Parisian cafés and restaurants with her friends, drinking wine.

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Would you like a chance to win a $25 Amazon gift card? Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!

A Holiday for Homicide by Devon Delaney

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A televised cooking competition puts Sherry, a successful cooking competitor, in the spotlight, especially when the final challenge calls for catching a killer.

A Holiday For Homicide

A Cook-Off Mystery #9

by Devon Delaney

Genre: Cozy Murder Mystery

 A televised cooking competition puts Sherry in the spotlight, especially when the final challenge calls for catching a killer . . .

Despite being a seasoned competitor, nothing could have prepared Sherry Oliveri for the thrill of being chosen for a three-day cooking challenge on national television. She’s dying to tell her friends, but she and everyone else involved in the contest has been sworn to secrecy until it airs. Still, that’s not stopping someone from penning cryptic notes about the show for the whole town to read, which has the production crew on edge—right up until one of them is found dead.

Determined to root out the killer, Sherry suspects the truth lies with whoever’s behind the mysterious notes—which have now turned dark with menacing comments on the murder and suggestions of buried secrets. Trying to unravel it all while focusing on her recipes, Sherry’s stopped dead in her tracks when the cook-off host drops a bombshell. With no time to spare, she’ll have to unearth the one missing ingredient that will ensure the killer’s cooked . . .

Includes recipes from Sherry’s kitchen!

Praise for the Cook-Off Mysteries:

“The Cook-Off Mystery series by Devon Delaney is a very tasty treat!” —Cozy Mystery Book Reviews

“This is a very fun and rollicking mystery that stays light-hearted even as the case gets more complicated . . . Cooking, holiday celebrations, and moving family drama all make for the perfect escape.” —Kings River Life

“This book was gripping and hard to put down. It didn’t feel like everything else you see out there, it felt very fresh. I really enjoyed this book!” – Netgalley Reviewer.

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**Don’t miss the rest of the Cook-Off Mysteries! **

Find them on Amazon!

Devon Delaney is life-long resident of the Northeast and currently resides in coastal Connecticut. She is a wife, mother of three, grandmother of two and accomplished cooking contester. She taught computer education and Lego Robotics for over ten years prior to pursuing writing. Along the way Devon has been handsomely rewarded for her recipe innovation over the last twenty-plus years. Combining Devon’s beloved hobby of cooking contesting with her enthusiasm for writing was inevitable.

When Devon is not preparing for her next cook-off, she may be found pursuing her other hobbies, including playing competitive USTA league tennis, gardening, needlepointing, painting, jarring her produce, and hooking rugs. Her standard poodle, Rocket, is her pride and joy and keeps her on the path of sanity.

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Would you like a chance to win a $10 Amazon gift card? Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!

What is your writing process? For ex: do you outline first?

I have yet to develop a consistent writing process. A lot has to do with my life’s happenings at the time of writing. If I’m in a time crunch I outline with as much rigor as I can, but I have yet to adhere to the outline as I reach the halfway point of the book I’m working on. Outlines are very helpful to put one foot in front of the other without a misstep. Mapping out an outline I have every intention of sticking to is the best launching point for me. I plow ahead for at least two hours at a sitting most every day, putting words down to move the plot forward. As I move along in the process I predictably take a left turn from the outline. When I’m confident the outline has served its purpose I go rogue and transition over to notes I’ve taken from manuscript day one. One of my favorite steps in the writing process is re-write time. I begin my first re-write when I’m halfway done the manuscript. I recognize I’ve reached that point by the number of words I’ve written. By the end of my first re-write I have exercised my most powerful word-whacker tool repeatedly, cutting out multiple paragraphs of text. I have a tendency toward wordiness and a tap of the Delete key is my best defense against reader vertigo, a not-so-rare condition brought on by a dizzying  excess of words on the page. I read and reread my words not for grammatical errors, which abound, but for inconsistencies, both in the character’s development and the storyline. I search for confusing passages and unnecessary detail of any variety. Clarity is king and not easy to achieve. After midway re-writes I move ahead to finish the story, before starting the re-write over again from word one. I’m confident at this point I am headed in the right direction. I know how I want the book to end, how I want to tie up loose ends and which characters I want to let remain standing by the last word. I’m pretty sure I re-read my books between twenty to thirty times. I think about the characters and plot day and night until I finally send the manuscript off to my publisher.

Do you see writing as a career?

I would love that.

Fun facts/tidbits/did you know? – type tidbits about the author, the book or the writing process-

Fun facts:

I am the oldest person on my USTA tennis team.

I have tried out for Chopped three times and gotten to the final interview stage each time before not being chosen. I will keep trying.

I began watercolor painting this year.

I won the very first recipe contest I entered.

I got a publishing contract in one month after my agent began the search.

Writing process tidbit: Writing a winning recipe is a lot like writing a good mystery. Begin with a catchy title. Cozy mystery readers love puns in their titles. For a recipe contest you must know your audience. Some research on past winning recipes can offer a clue as to the naming convention the contest leans toward, the contest may lean toward a long descriptive name or , on the flip side, a short direct attention grabber. Draw the reader into the book or recipe from word one. If the ingredient list is too long the home cook turns the page to an easier version of a similar recipe. Along the same vein, if there are too many characters in the plot the story is diluted, and the reader closes the book. The meat of the recipe, which is the recipe preparation, must contain a unique twist that makes both appealing and outstanding. A twist or two within a mystery is mandatory for the book to be successful. The recipe must wrap up with a wonderful outcome that draws the diner in, to the point he or she can’t wait for the first bite. Likewise, the book’s plot must wrap up loose ends and leave the reader satiated and yearning for more from the author.

Project Threshold Series I: Wading Into Darkness by Craig Crawford

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As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. That means, when you purchase a book using an Amazon link on this site, I earn an affiliate commission. All commission earnings go back into funding my books; editing, cover design, etc.

Our world is a multiverse where monsters and entities cross over to threaten us.

Project Threshold protects humanity from darkness.

Project Threshold Series 1: Wading Into Darkness

by Craig Crawford

Genre: Horror, Science Fiction

Most people don’t believe in monsters, assuming people are hallucinating or crazy. A secret organization knows we live in a multiverse. Sometimes the barriers between worlds opens and things slip into ours. Nasty things that prey on us.


This group is Project Threshold and it stands between us and the monsters. Direct Contact Teams wade in to contain or kill any threats to humanity. There’s a price, however, and unless these agents are smart and savvy enough, dying comes quick and without warning. And, sometimes dying is in the line of duty is the better option.


Project Threshold wades in where others can’t or won’t. They have one objective: Protect humanity from darkness.


Wading into Darkness contains all stories from series one of the Project Threshold books.

Project Threshold: Team Berger: Division 1

In a multiverse where the walls are thin between our world and others, Project Threshold stands between humanity and monsters crossing over to threaten us. Harris Berger and his team intervenes on our behalf. Death waits around every corner but dying isn’t the worst thing they have to endure. Berger wades in with his team: Sam, Billy, Jacks, Jessie, and their new recruit, Pendelhaven. Team Berger faces an unknown advanced civilization, mimics loose on the streets of Chicago killing homeless people, dealing with the aftermath of witnessing awful things, mermaids in the Midwest and an apartment where people start committing suicide for no apparent reason.

Project Threshold: Team Talise: Division 2

Talise Randall leads Division-2, dropping in to protect us while trying to keep her own team safe. With minor psychic powers and learning from Kali who’s even more powerful, Bodi and Milla complete their ranks. Team Talise goes head to head with an unstoppable entity, an otherworldly jealous boyfriend, a haunted museum, a Victorian home with much more than a ghost, and her team discovers what happens to all those lost socks from people’s dryers.

Project Threshold: Team Riker: Division A

In Alaska, all manner of entities and monsters cross into our world from other dimensions and Hannah Riker and her team are the gatekeepers. Riker has a personal score to settle, hunting the monster that slaughtered her parents when she was a girl. Neville, Toddy and Melissa McCoy have her back as they follow in the wake of beings dispensing justice and marking their victims. They intervene on a resort where people disappear even during daylight, fend off a tribe of furry humanoids claiming ownership of a valley, and they stumble upon an ancient, unkillable entity bent on the destruction of humanity.

Project Threshold: Finale

Greed releases something without compassion or care. Its sole purpose is to cleanse the Earth of humans. Starting in Canada, it destroys everyone it crosses paths with, making its way to bigger settlements. Weapons won’t kill it and the only group who might be able to save humanity is Project Threshold.

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Book Trailers:

Craig Crawford grew up reading all the time but it’s when he discovered fantasy and science fiction he got to wondering whether he could create his own stories.  He spent the next decades writing and improving his skills. He published two non-fiction indexes with Palladium Books in 1994 and 1997. In 2008 he happened into an internship working with an editor on a novel and a novella. In 2019 he got interested in writing horror and got his first fiction story published. Since then he’s published thirty short stories with twenty-two different presses including a humorous novella.  In 2023 he published a novel length, dark sci-fi/horror serial in four parts thanks to RedCape Publishing. The next installment is releasing now.

He writes in fantasy, sci-fi, YA, horror, humor—whatever his imagination gives him.  You can learn more about his writing and what makes him tick at   https://craiglcrawfordbooks.com. For his novel length serial you can find our more at https://projectthreshold.com. His twitter account is:  @CraigLCrawford

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Would you like a chance to win a $40 Amazon gift card (WW), a signed copy of Wading Into Darkness (US only) 1 winner each! Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!

The Synchrotron by Rain Hunter

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As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. That means, when you purchase a book using an Amazon link on this site, I earn an affiliate commission. All commission earnings go back into funding my books; editing, cover design, etc.

The End of the World has Never Been This Incompetent!

The Synchrotron

by Rain Hunter

Genre: Science Fiction Comedy

✔️A deadly virus.
✔️A world overrun by monsters.
✔️ Six scientists on a dangerous mission to cure the world.
We are screwed…

They only wanted a Nobel Prize. Instead, they will have to save the world.


It was going to be the experiment of the year. Preparing to blast x-rays through a piece of palladium at the most dazzling European synchrotron, Anna and five of her fellow scientists expected a few hiccups.

Not a horde of hungry spleen-eating zombies.

The world has succumbed to the virus, leaving only scattered survivors.


When Anna and her friends realise that the infected can be cured back into humans, they pledge to find a cure no matter the cost. Equipped with a lab wrench and questionable lab ethics, Team ID26 are humanity’s last hope.

But what is the price of saving the world?

Running out of time, Anna and her friends will face the impossible choices between life and death, morality and cure. When the future of the world is at stake, what will they have to sacrifice?

**Only .99cents!!**

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What is similar between science and postapocalyptic survival?

Everything that can, will go wrong.”

Rain Hunter is a writer of post-apocalyptic science fiction. Having spent years as a materials researcher, Rain intricately weaves scientific precision into the stories. “I’ve had a fun lab run over the years and might have picked some degrees on the way,” laughs Rain. “But the most important thing for my books is that the science has to be real. No more can-and-know-it-all characters! If I know how to cook meth from baking soda and cough syrup, I won’t be able to start a rocket engine, full stop. Even in fiction!”

Rain is a huge fan of the zombie genre, both in movies and books. “I’d kill to be a zombie extra in a film. Even if they smash my brains out in the first two seconds. Sign me up anytime.”

Dark humour and irony are the main ingredients in Rain’s novels. “I am sure the world will die laughing. That’s what I would do.”

Rain lives in Birmingham (England), which serves as a main inspiration for the goriest post-apocalyptic scenes. In their spare time, Rain plays a harp in the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

Nah, not really. 

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Would you like a chance to win a $25 Amazon gift card? Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!

Did you learn anything during the writing of your recent book?

How about we speak about all the things that you learn that are NOT writing? Are you an indie author? You will know all about the daily grind of DEY – do everything yourself. From creating your own website to your own ads. Here are some of the professions I’m mastering so that more people could see my books (I didn’t even say buy):

  • Editor. Here is an example: one of my editors (US-based) offered on her website a separate service for converting British English into American English (all those ises into izes). Reasonable – as a British author I would like to be understood by my American fans. (Hello? Any American fans around?) I specified with her that I was writing in British English (just to make sure). Guess what came back? All my en-dashes brutally converted into a bunch of em dashes. My novel started to look like written by a rabid AI. Well, if she doesn’t know the differences in bloody dashes, how could I trust her as an editor?
  • Cover designer. It’s okay if your novel is a mainstream romantasy (no disrespect, just not my genre) and you can photoshop some stock images into an epically looking fae/princess/warrior. It’s a completely different piece of guts when you need to explain to people what a synchrotron is. I attached photos. Photos didn’t help.

Also, explaining what is post-apocalyptic comedy turned out difficult. Or I’m just shit in explaining.

  • Instagram influencer. Yes, it’s a bloody job. Some people are good at it and are paid for it. Not me, sorry. I have 107 followers. They seem to be reading all types of books but not MINE.
  • Book formatter. Throwing together a printable pdf doesn’t work anymore.
  • Ads. Holy Odin, if there is Hell, it’s surely populated with ads and people creating ads that nobody ever clicks.
  • SEO whisperer. Backlinks, keywords, optimisation. When was the last time you searched for anything on Google? What did you find? Did you read past the AI bot at the top of the page? It’s high time we do AIO (AI optimisation).

Join my mailing list for more self-publishing stories. I’m honest and don’t pretend self-publishing is not shit. It is, until maybe book forty-two. Why do I do it? Because some books are too niche for trad pub and I do hope to be able – one day – to pay for a family dinner with the money I make from my books.