I’ve been searching and searching for recent comps to my novel, Hope. Vinegar Hill, by A. Manette Ansay, and Sentence of Marriage, by Shayne Parkinson are close. They are relatively contemporary (although outside of the recommended limit), and they both show how the surrounding culture can pressure a woman into accepting what should be unacceptable. … Continue reading How do you find “comps” for your novel?
Soldier, Scientist, Writer, Inspiration
My uncle, Dr. Allen H. Benton, was a man of many talents. He grew up on the family farm in the midst of the Great Depression, took an extra year of high school for something to do, and reluctantly resigned himself to a life of farming. It was far from what he wanted, but in … Continue reading Soldier, Scientist, Writer, Inspiration
Changing Times
It's difficult for anyone younger than a Baby Boomer to understand how ingrained young women were with their role in society before the age of "women's lib." Oh sure, you could go to college, get a job, have a career--but shame on you if you didn't marry, have children, and stay at home to raise … Continue reading Changing Times
#QueryKombat and other trials
Good News! I made it to the #QueryKombat finals! Only 64 out of over 400 were chosen. Bad News: I lost in the first round. It was a close vote: 4-3, but... Good News: I was "saved" by my team leader, @RavenousRushing I still don't get to Round Two, but what I do get is inclusion in … Continue reading #QueryKombat and other trials
Memorial Day
Even though we celebrated three days ago, today is the traditional celebration of what was once known as "Decoration Day." My grandfather used that term, and it aptly fit our task of decorating the graves of soldiers and family. The holiday originated in Waterloo, New York, a village near where I live and adjacent to the … Continue reading Memorial Day
Pantser in Plotter’s Clothing?
I have always identified myself as a "plotter." I'm an obsessive organizer; I need to know where I'm going. so outlines are my friends. Really? When I dig deeper I realize that for all of my planning, organizing, outlining, agonizing over how to start, eventually I simply write and let the words flow. So is … Continue reading Pantser in Plotter’s Clothing?
Montezuma redux
PUFFINS!
There Once Was a Puffin Oh, there once was a Puffin Just the shape of a muffin, And he lived on an island In the bright blue sea! He ate little fishes, That were most delicious, And he had them for supper And he had them for tea. But this poor little Puffin, He couldn't … Continue reading PUFFINS!
Someday I want to write….
...and a few years ago I started trying. They were mostly short stories, some poetry, an few attempts at longer works, mostly unfinished. I've been thinking about dusting off one of my more complete attempts and trying to make it into a polished novel. Can I do it?I think I've never wanted to commit to … Continue reading Someday I want to write….
Cape Cod Crusin’
The first of two planned summer trips: this one in Cape Cod. Charlie has been there many times but this was my first visit. Here's a recap:Provincetown - Whale WatchBesides the whale I saw a few new birds including shearwaters and eiders (see below). P-town is a very interesting place. Would have been fun to … Continue reading Cape Cod Crusin’
Susannah Willey Writes 