AUTHOR MEET & GREET | BOOK SIGNING | & AUTHOR DISCUSSIONS
calling all writers… Join me for ‘Plot it, plan it, crush it’ where I talk about how to get organized, stay on track, and finally finish your novel!
Saturday, June 21st from 2:00 – 4:00 PM
Blue Apple Books (14 Main Street, Suite B, Madison, AL)
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Nicolette Briggs doesn’t do humans.
Three Dogs, Two Murders, and a Cat
Nicolette Briggs Mystery Book 1
by Rodney Strong
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Nicolette Briggs doesn’t do humans.
As Wellington’s premier, and possibly only, animal detective, Nicolette mostly investigates missing pets and cases of animal cruelty. So when her latest client asks her to investigate a case of a poisoned cat, it seems right up her alley. Until a body shows up, then another, and suddenly despite her resolve to not get involved, Nicolette is right in the middle two murder investigations. Or is it just one killer?
When someone breaks into her house and one of her dogs is injured, Nicolette’s reluctance turns to determination to not only solve this thing before the police, but show up her stubborn police detective brother in the process.
Along the way she has to navigate a daughter about to turn 15, a dwindling bank account, and a dysfunctional family that seems determined to fix her. Not to mention a killer who’s turned their sights her way.
No wonder she doesn’t do humans.
Three Dogs, Two Murders, and a Cat is the first book in the clean, cozy mystery series. Gilmore Girls meets Nancy Drew, with a touch of dysfunctional families, a touch of humour, and a touch of caring.
Rodney Strong quit a 9-5 job in 2016 to finally pursue his life long dream of becoming a writer (he still has the very first play he wrote at age 6). He lives in Porirua, New Zealand, with his wife, two children, and two cats. When he’s not writing he attempts to stay away from chocolate, runs (sometimes), reads, and enjoys spending time with his young children (who contribute a lot to the running and craving for chocolate).
He always has a couple of projects on the go, but for now is focusing on his series of cozy mysteries.
One of his cats likes to help with the process by sitting on the laptop, while the other likes nesting on his shoulders (which was cute when he was a kitten, but now the cat is 11 years old, is less so).
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Can you, for those who don’t know you already, tell something about yourself and how you became an author?
I think I was destined to become an author from the moment I learned to write. When I first started school I would write short plays for my classmates to put on, and the ideas kept coming from then onwards.
Over the years life got in the way and I drifted away from the dream, but the ideas were still there. One day when my kids were young I was telling them the could be anything they wanted to be when they grew up, and it struck me that I wasn’t being truthful to myself, because if that was true for them then it should be true for me. So I quit my job and dedicated myself to writing entertaining stories.
Do the characters all come to you at the same time or do some of them come to you as you write?
I’m not a plotter, so I tend to write and see what happens. Although I know who the main characters are going to be, writing this way means there are sometimes surprises when characters pop up from nowhere as the story develops.
What kind of research do you do before you begin writing a book?
As I said above I tend to write as I go rather than plotting, which means limited research before the story begins. Once I know what route the book is taking, that’s when research kicks in, usually around poisons, etc.
Which of your novels can you imagine made into a movie?
Can I cheat and say all of them? Because I’ve written stage plays before, and naturally include a lot of dialogue in my books, I can imagine all of them becoming movies, or TV series. However if I had to pick one in particular, it would be Three Dogs, Two Murders, and a Cat. The main character and her daughter were inspired by the Gilmore Girls television show, and features a lot of snappy, witty dialogue between them, and I think that, coupled with the mystery, would make for a great TV movie.
Can you tell us a little bit about the characters in Three Dogs, Two Murders, and a Cat?
The main character is Nicolette Briggs, and in her own words, she doesn’t do humans. She’s a private investigator specializing in cases involving animals. She also has a very complicated family situation. She’s a solo mother to a teenage daughter. Her step brother is a police detective who is constantly telling her to butt out of investigations, and her mother has been disappointed in her for most of her life. The inspiration for Nicolette came from a friend, but the family dynamics came from watching Gilmore Girls when I was younger.
Nicolette has three rescue dogs at home, Teddy, Nero, and Fig, the titular Three Dogs.
How did you come up with the title of your first novel?
Believe it or not, the title was very tricky. I brain stormed and threw out many different ideas before finally deciding to keep it simple and use three main plot points to title the book.
Do your characters seem to hijack the story or do you feel like you have the reigns of the story?
My characters definitely hijack the story, or at the very least are constantly trying to. Especially Nicolette. Because she’s not a police officer she can get away with more things, but it’s important she doesn’t cross too many lines while trying to act on behalf of animals that are abused, or stolen. I sometimes have to remember she has a teenage daughter at home and while she would never do anything intentionally to put herself in harms way, Nicolette is quite good at getting there unintentionally.
What did you edit out of this book?
Spoilers! No, but seriously, there is a minor mystery in the book that I edited out the ending too. It doesn’t impact the overall story, but is just a teaser for an ongoing mystery that will bubble away under surface in the next book.
Fun Facts/Behind the Scenes/Did You Know?’-type tidbits about the author, the book or the writing process of the book.
I have an office set up at home, but I find I’m more productive in café’s. I mostly write at the one around the corner from where I live, and even though it can get quite noisy sometimes, I can actually get more done. I can sometimes knock off 1,000 words in an hour.
Home has too many distractions, like housework, and cats.
Do you believe in writer’s block?
Absolutely. There are days that I have to struggle and curse and shake my fist at the screen just to get a hundred words out. Luckily I haven’t had too many days in a row like that. I usually try and have a couple of writing projects on the go at a time, so if I’m really struggling on one, I switch to the other to see if that will shake anything loose. Sometimes it works, and other days I just have to accept that no writing is going to be done, and go and cuddle a cat.
Tell us something really interesting that’s happened to you!
I’ve always had a love for animals. When I was nineteen I left New Zealand and travelled to the other side of the world to work in the Regent’s Park Zoo in London, England. It was amazing getting to work with a whole range of animals, in particular three baby chimpanzees who would surprise me by hiding when I walked into the room, and jumping on me. And seeing a baby giraffe only an hour after it was born.
The following year I traveled to Kenya and did a safari, sleeping in tents amongst the animals. That was incredible, although also a little nervewracking, when we camped by a lakeside and they said sometimes hippos would wander through and because they have poor eyesight they would trample tents. I’m almost convinced they were joking.
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:
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:
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?
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:
Send updates, exclusive content, and book announcements directly to your readers’ inboxes.
Cross-promotion is one of the smartest (and free) ways to expand your reach. Team up with authors in your genre for:
Not only does it widen your audience, but it also fosters a sense of community in a sometimes-lonely indie world.
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:
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.
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:
Post them on Instagram Reels, TikTok, or YouTube Shorts.
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.
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:
(They often have free or low-cost options.)
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:
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!
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.
Becket Weston meets his match when he tries his bad boy skills on the wrong woman.
The Westons of Montana Book 2
by Elsa Winckler
Genre: Contemporary Small-Town Romance
Cowboy Becket Weston likes women, plural, and has a reputation for breaking hearts. His bad-boy behavior masks a deeper need to atone for past mistakes. His side-hustle—using a pseudonym and posting comic drawings of ranch life on social media—lets him explore life, love, and grief without being exposed. He even has a following! But no amount of introspection can explain his fascination with Eleanor Campbell—Main Street, Marietta’s newest shopkeeper. She’s definitely not his type, so why does she keep turning up in his drawings?
Ellie Campbell isn’t one for staying long in any one place, but when she inherits money from her grandmother and decides to open a yarn store in small-town Marietta, it feels like she’s putting down roots. She’s not looking for a relationship after one too many hard knocks, literally, but Becket Weston gets under her skin like no other, igniting passion that’s impossible to ignore.
He’s a bad boy playboy and everyone knows it, but there’s something about him that just doesn’t add up. Does Ellie have the courage to stick around and find a way into his heart?
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The Westons of Montana Book 1
Widowed rancher Hayden Weston knows what it means to be responsible for his siblings, his eight-year-old son, and the running of the huge family cattle ranch. Some even call him a stern and grumpy taskmaster and they’re not exactly wrong. So when Hayden discovers his son reading a storybook instead of doing chores, he calls on Luke’s teacher to talk about priorities.
School teacher Laura Anderson is new to Marietta, Montana, and has never—until now—been reprimanded for encouraging a child to read. It doesn’t help that sweet Luke’s father is the handsome cowboy with the amber eyes that she met in Grey’s Saloon, or that she’s wildly attracted to him.
Sparks keep flying as their paths keep crossing, but Hayden is determined not to give in to his incomprehensible need to have, hold, and protect Laura from any type of harm. He’s the one who’ll hurt her if he lets her stray too close. He’s not ready to admit his feelings or commit to sharing his life with her.
Even if love comes tumbling in.
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I have been reading love stories for as long as I can remember and when I ‘met’ the classic authors like Jane Austen, Elizabeth Gaskell, Henry James The Brontë sisters, etc. during my Honours studies, I was hooked for life. I married my college boyfriend and soul mate and after 47 years, 3 interesting and wonderful children and 4 beautiful grandchildren, he still makes me weak in the knees. We are fortunate to live in the picturesque little seaside village of Betty’s Bay, South Africa with the ocean a block away and a beautiful mountain right behind us. And although life so far has not always been an easy ride, it has always been an exciting and interesting one! I like the heroines in my stories to be beautiful, feisty, independent and headstrong. And the heroes must be strong but possess a generous amount of sensitivity. They are of course, also gorgeous! My stories typically incorporate the family background of the characters to better understand where they come from and who they are when we meet them in the story.
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Can you, for those who don’t know you already, tell something about yourself and how you became an author?
I did a teaching diploma after school, stayed at home for ten years while our kids were small before going back to work. While I was working as an administrator in the English Department of a nearby university, I was inspired to study again. I was forty. I got an Honors degree in English and also did a MPhil in Document Analyses and Design, thinking that it was something I could do when I retire. But then I entered a magazine competition looking for romance authors way back in 2008 and was fortunate enough to be the winner. The prize was the publication of my first book – I was hooked. Growing up, my mother was an avid romance reader and there were always stacks of love stories in the house, particularly stacks of Mills & Boons. I literally read thousands of them.
I met Jane Porter from Tule Publishing when she visited ROSA (The Romance Writers Organization of South Africa) in 2016. Afterwards I sent her a manuscript, she liked it and since then I’ve published seven books with Tule – an extraordinary team of women. I count myself extremely fortunate to be able work with them.
I’m married to my college boyfriend who is also my best friend and my soulmate. We have three grown-up kids who have long since left the house and are each doing their bit to make this world a better place. We are so proud of them and are blessed with four grandkids who are just growing up way too fast.
I mostly write in Afrikaans and have around seventy books published by various publishers in South Africa. I have also written two children’s stories.
What is something unique/quirky about you?
I’m an introvert, something I’ve only discovered when I was much older. I like people and I’m blessed with a a circle of close friends, but I need to be alone to re-charge. I can’t do late nights, for instance, by ten my battery is flat!
I’m no chef but I love to cook for the people I love and nothing gives me more pleasure than to have our whole family around a table.
Where were you born/grew up at?
I was born in a small town called Upington in South Africa. As kids we swam in the Orange River and went camping in the Kalahari Desert.
If you knew you’d die tomorrow, how would you spend your last day?
With my husband, our children and grandchildren, of course. Around a table, eating and telling stories.
What kind of world ruler would you be?
I’ll put women in charge of education, hospitals and the police. Start from the ground up, teach children respect before anything else and let kids play. A lot.
What do you do to unwind and relax?
I read, go for long walks, knit or crochet. I’m fortunate enough to have a very special group of women I can call friends. Visiting them always makes my heart sing. We’ve known each other for such a long time. We have a Whatsapp group and during tough times, we rely on each other to help us carry whatever burden we have. During Covid, especially, it was a kind of lifeline. We shared recipes for bread, for food, books we’ve read and sometimes just something silly that has happened. It was a wonderful way to keep our spirits up,
Describe yourself in 5 words or less!
Disciplined, dedicated, passionate, impatient, a sucker for a story or movie with a happy ending.
When did you first consider yourself a writer?
After about twenty books J
Do you have a favorite movie?
Pretty woman
Which of your novels can you imagine made into a movie?
A family with the cowboy! Liam Hemsworth would make a very sexy Hayden Weston and Brie Larson would make a lovely Laura.
As a writer, what would you choose as your mascot/avatar/spirit animal?
A leopard. They are solitary animals and like to walk alone. As hopeless introvert, I can relate.
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 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.
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?
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.
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:
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.
As an aspiring author, the dream of seeing your name on a published book is both exciting and daunting. But for many, the challenge isn’t coming up with ideas or having the passion to write—it’s finding the time. Between work commitments and family responsibilities, carving out space for writing often feels like an impossible task. The reality is, you don’t have to quit your job or put your family on hold to become a writer. It’s all about creating a balance that allows you to nurture your creative side without neglecting your professional and personal life.
Here are some practical tips on how to find time to write, even when you’re juggling a busy career and a family.
Whether you have a full office or a small corner in your home, creating a designated space for writing can mentally prepare you to be productive. This space doesn’t need to be elaborate—just a spot where you can set aside distractions and immerse yourself in your writing.
Why it helps: A dedicated writing space helps you mentally switch gears and signals to your brain that it’s time to focus on your writing. It also creates a physical separation between work and writing, which can be particularly helpful when you have multiple responsibilities at home.
Tip: If you’re short on space, try using noise-cancelling headphones or setting up a small, portable desk. Even a corner of your kitchen table can become a creative zone when you treat it as such.
If you’re struggling to find time to write, start scheduling it into your day just like any other important task. This may mean setting aside 15 to 30 minutes in the morning before your family wakes up or during your lunch break at work. The key is to carve out regular blocks of time that are non-negotiable.
Why it helps: When you treat your writing time with the same level of importance as a work meeting or family obligation, you are more likely to honor that time and make it a priority.
Tip: Use a planner or digital calendar to block out writing time. Make it a recurring event in your schedule, so it becomes a regular part of your day, not just something that happens “when you have time.”
Trying to write an entire novel in a month while working full-time and caring for a family is an unrealistic expectation for most people. Instead, set achievable, incremental goals that align with your schedule. Writing 500 words a day may not sound like much, but over time, it adds up.
Why it helps: Realistic goals help reduce feelings of overwhelm. By breaking down your larger writing project into manageable chunks, you create a sense of progress and momentum, which keeps you motivated.
Tip: Focus on small, tangible milestones, such as writing a chapter a week or completing a set number of pages each day. If you’re working on a longer project, consider setting deadlines for key events or scenes within the book to keep you on track.
Not every writing session needs to be a lengthy, focused marathon. In fact, writing in small, concentrated bursts may actually help you be more productive. Whether it’s 10 minutes between meetings or 30 minutes before bed, seize the time you do have.
Why it helps: Writing in shorter sessions may feel more doable, especially on days when your schedule is packed. You might be surprised by how much you can accomplish in a short period, and those small moments can add up over time.
Tip: Keep a notebook or your phone’s notes app handy for those quick bursts of inspiration. Write during your lunch break, while waiting for the kids to finish soccer practice, or even while commuting (if you’re not driving). Every little bit counts!
Having a conversation with your family about your writing goals is crucial for gaining their support. Let them know that writing is something important to you and that you need time to work on your craft. Most families will appreciate your passion and be willing to help you find time for it.
Why it helps: Support from your family can make a world of difference. Whether it’s helping with household chores, watching the kids for a few hours, or simply being understanding when you need to dedicate time to writing, their encouragement can alleviate stress and allow you to focus.
Tip: If you have young children, consider swapping childcare with a partner or friend for a few hours each week to create uninterrupted writing time. For older kids, ask them to respect your writing time in exchange for quality time together later.
Life happens, and sometimes even the best-laid plans will fall apart. Kids get sick, work deadlines shift, or family emergencies arise. The key is to remain flexible and adjust your expectations accordingly. However, it’s also important to set clear boundaries when it comes to your writing time.
Why it helps: Setting boundaries allows you to safeguard your writing time. It’s easy to fall into the trap of constantly pushing your writing aside for other people’s needs. But setting boundaries ensures that your writing time is respected, just like any other part of your life.
Tip: Learn to say “no” when necessary. If a friend invites you to an impromptu event during your writing time, it’s okay to decline to prioritize your writing. Also, be prepared to reschedule your writing if things don’t go as planned. Flexibility is essential, but consistency is key.
Writing, like any creative endeavor, requires mental and emotional energy. Trying to do everything without taking care of yourself will lead to burnout. To maintain balance, make sure to schedule time for rest, relaxation, and activities that recharge you.
Why it helps: When you neglect self-care, your creativity and energy will diminish, making it harder to write. By maintaining a healthy work/life balance, you ensure that you have the stamina to juggle both your writing and other responsibilities.
Tip: Prioritize sleep, exercise, and downtime. Taking care of your body and mind will help you stay focused when it’s time to write. Also, don’t be afraid to take breaks when you need them. Writing isn’t a sprint—it’s a marathon.
Leverage technology to help you stay organized and productive. Whether it’s dictating your ideas into a voice recorder while commuting, using writing apps like Scrivener or Google Docs for easy access to your manuscript, or using productivity apps to stay on track, technology can make your writing process more efficient.
Why it helps: Technology can save time and reduce the effort needed to write. It also allows you to work on your project during those in-between moments, making the most of your day.
Tip: Experiment with productivity tools like time trackers or focus apps (e.g., Pomodoro technique) to help you maximize the short bursts of time you have available for writing.
Balancing work, family, and writing is not easy, but it is possible with the right mindset and strategies. The key is to find a balance that works for you, whether it’s writing early in the morning, during lunch breaks, or late at night. By setting realistic goals, creating a supportive environment, and respecting your boundaries, you can carve out time for your writing ambitions while still being present for your family and work.
Remember, the journey to becoming a published author is a marathon, not a sprint. Every word written is progress, and every moment spent writing is a step closer to your goal.
In urban fantasy, the protagonist often takes center stage, navigating a world full of supernatural dangers, moral dilemmas, and personal struggles. But while the hero’s journey is undeniably essential, the sidekick—the secondary character who stands by their side—also plays a critical role in the narrative. Sidekicks are not just comic relief or tools for exposition; they are multi-dimensional characters in their own right, with their own strengths, weaknesses, and distinct personalities. When crafted well, a compelling sidekick can elevate the plot, deepen the emotional stakes, and help ground the hero in a complex, magical world.
So, how do you create sidekick characters that are more than just “supporting players”? In this article, we’ll explore the key elements that make sidekicks stand out in urban fantasy, and how they can enhance both the hero’s journey and the overall narrative.
It’s easy to fall into the trap of making sidekicks the comedic foil to the serious hero. While humor is an essential tool for lightening the tone of an otherwise dark and gritty urban fantasy, a sidekick should not exist solely to provide punchlines. In fact, making your sidekick a multi-dimensional character—one who brings more to the table than just jokes—will help them feel real, relatable, and essential to the plot.
The Sidekick’s Role in the Story: The sidekick should have their own personal motivations, desires, and struggles that influence the main storyline. They might have an entirely different set of skills, knowledge, or talents than the hero, making them a crucial partner in the hero’s journey. Whether it’s their unique magical ability, street smarts, or deep understanding of supernatural politics, a well-developed sidekick brings valuable perspectives to the table. Their presence should not just reflect the hero’s actions, but also challenge them, creating opportunities for growth and evolution in both characters.
Consider Butch O’Neal from The Dresden Files by Jim Butcher. Butch isn’t just Harry Dresden’s comic relief or sidekick; he’s a fully realized character with his own motivations, fears, and backstory. He is a former police officer turned vampire, and his presence in the story challenges Dresden in meaningful ways, both emotionally and narratively.
Just like your protagonist, a sidekick should undergo character development throughout the story. While they may not have the same level of narrative focus as the hero, their growth is essential for adding depth to the plot. A sidekick who is static or unchanging risks feeling flat or underdeveloped.
A Sidekick’s Personal Journey: The sidekick doesn’t have to be on the same journey as the hero, but they should have their own goals and challenges that reflect their arc. Maybe they begin the story unsure of their place in the world, but by the end, they’ve developed new skills or come to terms with their past. Or perhaps they struggle with loyalty, torn between helping the hero and following their own moral code. Their arc should intersect with the hero’s journey, creating tension and moments of mutual growth.
In Patricia Briggs’ Mercy Thompson series, Mercy’s friend, Coyote (aka Adam’s pack), is more than just a helpful ally—his arc involves his struggle with leadership, morality, and love. Over time, his character deepens, contributing to the overall stakes of the plot and showing that sidekicks are often more than just passive participants.
The relationship between the hero and their sidekick is one of the most important aspects of the sidekick’s role in urban fantasy. The dynamic should be layered, with tension, loyalty, camaraderie, and mutual respect. A sidekick who exists purely to support the protagonist without any friction or complexity can feel unrealistic. Instead, consider how their relationship with the hero can evolve over the course of the story.
Conflict and Compromise: A well-crafted sidekick often challenges the hero in ways that prompt growth. The sidekick may have different values, methods, or ideas, which forces the hero to reevaluate their decisions or approach. Whether it’s moral dilemmas, differing opinions on how to handle a supernatural threat, or conflicting personal goals, the tension between the hero and sidekick should drive both character development and plot progression.
In Laurell K. Hamilton’s Anita Blake: Vampire Hunter series, Anita’s relationship with her sidekick and friend, Edward, is fraught with tension. Edward is an assassin who operates on a morally gray spectrum, and their relationship is a delicate balance of mutual respect and mistrust. This dynamic keeps the reader engaged and deepens the conflict within the plot.
A sidekick should never be a carbon copy of the protagonist; they should bring something different to the table. In urban fantasy, this is especially true. The supernatural world is often complex and layered, with many different creatures, powers, and knowledge systems at play. Sidekicks can provide vital expertise, access to unique skills, or an alternative perspective that complements the hero’s strengths.
The Sidekick’s Purpose in the World: Whether it’s a specific magical ability, an extensive knowledge of occult history, or street smarts in navigating dangerous urban environments, the sidekick should offer something the hero cannot easily replicate. This makes the sidekick indispensable to the hero’s journey. Their talents and abilities should feel natural in the context of the world you’ve built, and their knowledge should help them contribute to solving the story’s conflicts.
For example, in Jim Butcher’s The Dresden Files, Bob the Skull, a disembodied spirit of knowledge, serves as both comic relief and a valuable source of information. His deep well of knowledge is critical to Harry’s success in solving complex supernatural cases. While Bob isn’t physically imposing or particularly heroic, his unique abilities make him a vital member of Dresden’s team.
Great sidekick characters often have their own quirks, flaws, and strengths that go beyond their role as a support character. Giving them a rich personality adds realism and depth to the narrative. Sidekicks should be multi-dimensional, with hopes, fears, weaknesses, and virtues of their own. Avoid stereotypes like the “grizzled mentor” or “innocent child” and instead create a sidekick who feels like a fully realized person.
Complex Personalities: A sidekick’s quirks can make them stand out in the story and offer opportunities for emotional depth. Maybe the sidekick is fiercely independent, which sometimes creates friction in their relationship with the hero. Perhaps they struggle with their own insecurities, which may be exacerbated by the danger and supernatural elements surrounding them. These personal complexities not only make the sidekick more engaging but also provide emotional stakes that drive the plot forward.
In Charlaine Harris’s Sookie Stackhouse series, Tara Thornton is Sookie’s best friend and sidekick, but she’s much more than just a support character. Tara has her own emotional turmoil and backstory that influence her actions throughout the series. She has a complex personality, struggling with personal relationships and finding her place in a world full of supernatural creatures. Her emotional growth is just as important as Sookie’s own journey.
A sidekick should never feel like an afterthought. They should have a direct impact on the plot and help drive the story forward. Whether it’s providing essential information, aiding in a confrontation, or making a critical decision that changes the course of the action, the sidekick’s involvement should matter. They are there to help the hero in ways that feel authentic and integral to the narrative, not just to tag along for the ride.
Making Their Role Essential: A sidekick who is essential to the plot doesn’t just help the hero solve the mystery or defeat the antagonist—they add unique perspectives and contribute to the overall resolution of the story. Their choices, actions, and growth should directly impact the hero and the outcome of the adventure. This not only makes the sidekick feel vital to the story but also elevates the entire plot.
For example, in Patricia Briggs’ Mercy Thompson series, Mercy’s sidekick, Stefan, plays a critical role in the supernatural community’s politics and provides valuable insight into the dynamics of werewolves, vampires, and other creatures. He is more than just a secondary character—he is an essential piece in Mercy’s world and contributes significantly to the development of the plot.
In urban fantasy, sidekicks are far more than mere accessories to the hero. They are vital, multi-faceted characters whose presence elevates the story, deepens the conflict, and helps to ground the hero in the fantastical world they inhabit. By giving your sidekick their own arc, skills, and personality, and ensuring they are integral to the plot, you create a character who feels as essential to the story as the protagonist. The best sidekicks are those who grow alongside the hero, challenge their views, and add emotional weight to the narrative. With a well-crafted sidekick, your urban fantasy world becomes richer, more complex, and more engaging, inviting readers to dive deeper into both the supernatural and the very human relationships that drive the plot forward.
Writing a novel can feel like a monumental task. However, one of the key steps to making the process smoother is creating a clear and detailed outline. The beauty of outlining is that it allows you to visualize your story from start to finish, saving you from writer’s block and disorganization along the way. While outlining typically takes weeks or months, it’s entirely possible to map out an entire novel in a single day. Here’s how you can do it.
Before diving into the actual outline, take a few moments to prepare yourself. This stage sets the tone for a productive day of writing.
The foundation of your novel rests on its core. Spend some time deciding what your story is truly about.
Now that you know your story’s foundation, let’s start constructing the main plot.
A great plot relies on compelling characters. Spend time outlining their motivations, arcs, and key traits.
To make your outline more specific, break the plot down into key scenes. These will be the building blocks of your novel.
Once you have your key scenes mapped out, organize them into chapters.
As you map out the rest of the novel, make sure every plot thread has a purpose and will be resolved by the end. Avoid overly complex subplots that don’t serve the main story. After all, this outline is a map, and you don’t want to get lost.
Once you’ve completed your outline, step away for a bit. Take a break to clear your head. After that, return with fresh eyes and read over your outline. Does everything make sense? Are there any scenes that feel redundant or unnecessary? Refine your outline until you’re satisfied.
At the end of the day, your novel is outlined, the plot is mapped, and your characters are set. You now have a clear roadmap to follow as you write the novel. The beauty of outlining in one day is that you’ve broken down a massive undertaking into manageable chunks. You’ve structured the bones of the story, and now it’s time to breathe life into it with your words.
Final Thoughts
Outlining your novel in one day is not only possible but incredibly efficient. By focusing on the core elements of plot, character, and structure, you can create a detailed map that will guide you through the process of writing. It’s all about having a clear vision before you start typing. So, grab your materials, follow these steps, and in just one day, you’ll have the blueprint for your novel—ready to be written.
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.
CHRIS UNDERWOOD lives in central Ohio with his wonderful wife and three children who are one by one being pushed out the door for college. His passions have included woodworking and the completion of a 10 year historical home restoration, in addition to his Computer Consulting career. More recently his passions for sailing and writing have been given more attention in his life. Chris openly pines for the day that writing and sailing completely consumes it. Creative Writing was always an interest, even decades ago when in college at Ohio State. Business Writing courses were pushed to the side in favor of Short Story and Sci-Fi. In the end, a Computer Science and Accounting degree seemed more promising in today’s world and writing was put on the back burner. Until a few years ago. A subject matter and storyline were generated that created enough passion to put pen to paper. Now writing is a daily event, with two more stories in process!
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The Niagara Falls Power Grid is down and a snowstorm is coming.
The Cold Winter
The Cold Winter Series Book 1
by Chris Underwood
Genre: Disaster, Survival Fiction
The Niagara Falls grid is down.
A snowstorm traps the unprepared.
A cold winter lies ahead.
The Northeast corner of the US goes dark. The rest of the country has power, and desperate travelers jam the roads to get there. They can’t make it. Millions of people are displaced as a massive snowstorm descends.
The Vesper family lives in a small town in central Ohio. They’ve prepped, but not enough. They vow to do the right thing for any person in need. The radio promises that everything will be back to normal soon. Instead, it’s a cold, brutal winter.
Call To Arms
The Cold Winter Series Book 2
The power is still out.
Help isn’t coming.
The fight for America begins.
As central Ohio families struggle to survive through a snowy blackout, an organized effort to take over the country unfolds around them. A coup plays out against a backdrop of systemic failure, and village residents must band together to stay true to their values while strengthening borders against attackers.
An in-the-know ham radio operator aids the villagers in their defense preparations, and in doing so, uncovers a secret advantage—one that gives them a chance to stop loving in reaction mode. As a call to arms goes out, Ohioans fight back against the attempted takedown of everything they love.
Battle on the Ohio River
The Cold Winter Series Book 3
The Grid is Down.
A VIP upriver needs to be rescued.
Modern Engines can’t be trusted.
To win, the battle must turn unconventional….
And a little Historical.
A modern minuteman militia is operating out of Steubenville Ohio with a VIP to deliver. Their Huey helicopter is grounded so travel is the old-fashioned way on the Ohio River. Then it gets even more old-fashioned. Another militia in Evansville Indiana has the World War 2 LST-325 in their command. Seven hundred miles of river is between them, but the historic battleship is pushing upstream to help. The battles along the Ohio River come to a conclusion in an epic battle on Wheeling Island!
The Official Release date of this book was June 6, 2024, the 80th Anniversary of D-Day. Chris Underwood was on the actual LST-325, docked on the Ohio River, signing books for this official opening date. He has volunteered on this historical ship and proud to include it in this book.
Would you like a chance to win a $30 Amazon gift card? Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!
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.
In the absence of doubt, only faith is found.
Stone of Doubt
Stones of Iona Book 5
by Margaret Izard
Genre: Time Travel, Paranormal Romance
A human with Fae powers living like an oddball has its ups and downs until Evie MacDougall’s dream Fae boy pops back into her life after she thought another was “the one.” One dark and devilish, the other her long-lost love. Evil forces trap her for a magic Fae stone, but which man can she trust?
As a teen prophesied to be Fae king, Aodhán viewed the girl of his dreams through an Eye of Ra. Once, he risked all to help Evie MacDougall find a magic Fae stone, only to end up imprisoned. Kept from his true love for years, he finds her at risk from an evil Fae hunting a magic stone.
Is a single vow strong enough to save true love, to save the human and Fae realms?
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Don’t miss the other books in the series!
Previous books in the series, Stone of Love, book 1, Brielle and Colin’s 18th century Scottish story. Stone of Fear, Book 2, Marie and John’s 13th century Scottish story. Stone of Lust, Book 3, Ainslie and Rannick’s Viking tale. Thistle in the Mistletoe featuring a couple in the past from Stone of Love.
Next in the series: Holly and Ivy, a Christmas companion book. Stone of Faith, book 6. Stone of Destiny, book 7. Evergreen Evermore, a Christmas companion book.
This series leads into another connected series, Dragons of Tantallon, a dragon-shapeshifter series revolving around the magic Iona Stones.
Find them HERE!
https://linktr.ee/mizardauthor
Margaret Izard is a multi-award-winning author of historical fantasy and paranormal romance novels. She spent her early years through college to adulthood dedicated to dance, theater, and performing. Over the years, she developed a love for great storytelling in different mediums. She does not waste a good story, be it movement, the spoken, or the written word. She discovered historical romance novels in middle school, which combined her passion for romance, drama, and fantasy. She writes exciting plot lines, steamy love scenes and always falls for a strong male with a soft heart. She lives in Houston, Texas, with her husband and adult triplets and loves to hear from readers.
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Would you like a chance to win a Stone of Doubt Swag Pack (US only), or a $30 Amazon gift card (WW) ~ 1 winner each!
Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!
Nina Soden 