Miscellaneous

My Favorite Books of 2025

I am sharing my favorite reads of 2025. 

Author Announcements

New Romantasy Now Available on Kindle Unlimited

Both of my YA romantic fantasy series—Timely Death and Bad Bloods—are now available to read on Kindle Unlimited! That means you can dive into all the magic, danger, and star-crossed love you want this season for free with your KU subscription.

Writing Tips

The Chosen One or Secret Heir? Why It Matters More Than You Think

So what’s the difference between the Chosen One and the Secret Heir? Spoiler alert: they are not the same.

Writing Tips

The Power of Storm Symbolism in Gothic Fantasy

Let’s explore how storms in gothic fantasy can be powerful symbolic tools for tension, transformation, and terror. 

Writing Tips

How to Use Luck in Your Novel 

Is your story feeling a little too lucky? From chance encounters to miraculous escapes, luck can be a powerful tool, but only if you use it right! Here's the dos and don’ts of luck in storytelling.

Writing Tips

How to Create Fantasy Characters Readers Will Obsess Over

Whether you’re writing a brooding warrior, a mischievous fae lord, or a reluctant heroine, building a dynamic character is key to making your fantasy novel unforgettable. I’ve written a lot of fantasy books—seven of which are published (two are free right now!). It’s why I teach writing classes and why I always recommend creating a… Continue reading How to Create Fantasy Characters Readers Will Obsess Over

Writing Tips

Exploring Hidden World Building in BAD BLOODS

If you’ve been following me for a while, then you already know my young adult series BAD BLOODS is a dark fantasy that hinges on the outcome of a polarizing and violent election–an election primarily focused on the rights of others.  I actually err on the side of caution when promoting this series because so… Continue reading Exploring Hidden World Building in BAD BLOODS

Writing Tips

Unpopular Opinion: Healthy Relationships Shouldn’t be Required in Fiction

I was recently on Twitter when someone asked for unpopular opinions, and one that's been grating on me came out in the form of this tweet: https://twitter.com/AuthorSAT/status/1628759550051471362 Full disclosure: I actually wrote a blog post about this that was supposed to go up earlier this year, but I chickened out. Why? Well, because I know… Continue reading Unpopular Opinion: Healthy Relationships Shouldn’t be Required in Fiction

Miscellaneous

My Favorite Books of 2022

As per tradition, I am back to share my favorite reads of 2022. Before I jump into it, though, I wanted to mention a few caveats.  My original website template retired. (RIP, Bueno. You served me well–and for ten years!) I’m now using Button 2. I might be changing it intermittently as I try to… Continue reading My Favorite Books of 2022

Writing Tips

Every Detail in Science Fiction and Fantasy Doesn’t Need to Make Sense

This is probably an unpopular opinion–and perhaps a less-than-stellar writing tip–but every detail in science fiction and fantasy doesn’t need to make sense. I’m talking about characters, world building, traditions, landscapes, magic systems, etc. Granted, of course most of your story needs to. Like 95% of it and certainly the most essential parts. But every… Continue reading Every Detail in Science Fiction and Fantasy Doesn’t Need to Make Sense