Miscellaneous

2025: The Year of Dangerous Magic

It's time to review 2025

Publishing Advice · Writing Tips

Writing Lessons from LitUP

LitUP is one of my favorite book festivals of the year. It’s all about bringing young adult authors and aspiring teen writers together.

Publishing Advice

The Rise of Fanfiction in Traditional Publishing

Fanfiction is a hot topic right now. Not only on fanfic websites like A03, but all across publishing and media. So let’s talk about why fanfic is booming: the pros, the controversies, the what ifs. Maybe by the end of this you’ll know how much you want to get involved in fanfic writing. 

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.

Miscellaneous

The Difference Between Dystopian and Post-Apocalyptic (And How to Make Your Book Stand Out in the Resurgence)

If you’ve noticed survival stories, crumbling societies, and bleak futures returning to bookshelves, you’re not imagining it. Dystopian and post-apocalyptic fiction is making a comeback (and we love to see it). These genres speak to our fears and our resilience. They show us we can overcome difficult times.  But—despite their overlapping vibes—dystopian and post-apocalyptic fiction… Continue reading The Difference Between Dystopian and Post-Apocalyptic (And How to Make Your Book Stand Out in the Resurgence)

Writing Tips

Friends to Lovers vs. Second Chance Romance: Why Readers Love (or Hate) These Tropes

Break down what sets friends to lovers apart from second chance romance.

Miscellaneous

From Book Booth to Ball: A Day in the Life of an Author at a Fantasy Event

After eight years away, I returned to the indie author scene with a booth at a Fantasy Book Market and a night of dancing at the Fantasy Ball. From selling out of candle book bundles to reconnecting with readers, it was a day of pure magic — and a few hilarious lessons along the way!

Writing Tips

How to Turn Pinterest Boards Into Novels

Helping aesthetic-loving writers translate their visual world into strong prose and story structure.

Author Announcements

Upcoming April Events: A Fantasy Book Market & Free Query Letter Webinar

April is going to be amazing! I just sent my agent my latest manuscript (fingers crossed), and now, I am gearing up for two fabulous bookish events.  On April 26, I’m a featured author at the Flame of Fantasy Ball in Kansas City. This is my first in-person book-selling event since 2018. (Mind blown!) I'm… Continue reading Upcoming April Events: A Fantasy Book Market & Free Query Letter Webinar

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