As the director of a League of Writers, I’m constantly searching for activities that bring genuine value to our members. Over time, I’ve realized that writers’ groups exist everywhere—each one filled with passionate individuals striving to improve their craft and find community. With that in mind, I’ve compiled a list of activities that have worked well for us and might benefit your group too.Whether you’re leading a small local circle or a larger organization, these ideas can transform your meetings into dynamic spaces for creativity, learning, and mutual support.
1. Guest Speakers and Workshops
Inviting guest speakers breathes fresh energy into any group. Consider reaching out to published authors, editors, literary agents, or experts in fields relevant to your members’ interests.For example:
A sci-fi author could discuss world-building techniques
A psychologist could share insights into crafting realistic characters with complex psychological profiles
A comedian or humorist could explore how to weave humor into prose
These sessions expose members to new perspectives and provide invaluable insider knowledge.
2. Critique and Feedback Sessions
Constructive feedback is the lifeblood of improvement. Establish a structured critique process that feels safe and productive:
Writers read their work aloud or distribute it beforehand
Listeners provide constructive feedback while the author listens quietly—no defending or explaining during the critique
End with a Q&A where the author can ask clarifying questions
This approach helps writers truly absorb feedback rather than react defensively, allowing them to refine their craft with fresh eyes.
3. Creative Writing Prompts and Challenges
Prompts spark imagination and push writers outside their comfort zones. Try these approaches:
Write a short story based on a single evocative word or phrase
Use provocative music or artwork as inspiration for a scene
Challenge members to write in a genre they’ve never attempted—sci-fi, psychological thriller, romance, or horror
The element of surprise and constraint often produces surprisingly powerful work.
4. Themed Writing Exercises
Align exercises with your group’s collective interests:
Humor Writing: Craft a comedic piece inspired by a favorite comedian’s style
World-Building: Collaboratively create a fictional universe, with each member contributing a unique element—technology, culture, history, or geography
Character Deep Dives: Develop a character harboring a dark secret and brainstorm how it could drive an entire plot
Themed exercises create cohesion and allow members to learn from each other’s interpretations.
5. Book and Style Analysis
Studying the masters sharpens our own skills. Dedicate sessions to analyzing published work:
Compare the opening lines of two novels to discuss style, tone, and hooks
Have members share a favorite book and explain why the author’s voice resonates with them
Dissect humor writing techniques by examining essays or routines from beloved comedians
Understanding why something works teaches us how to replicate that magic.
6. Writing Retreats
There’s something transformative about stepping away from daily life to focus entirely on writing. Organize a retreat where members can immerse themselves in their projects:
A weekend getaway at a cabin, hotel, or retreat center
A virtual retreat with scheduled writing blocks and group check-ins
The camaraderie, shared goals, and uninterrupted focus can be profoundly motivating—and often produce breakthrough progress.
7. “Brags” and Celebrations
Writing can be isolating, and achievements often go unnoticed. Dedicate time at each meeting for members to share their wins:
Completing a chapter or draft
Submitting a manuscript to agents or publishers
Publishing a piece, receiving positive feedback, or hitting a word count goal
Celebrate these milestones with applause, small rewards, or simple acknowledgment. This fosters a sense of accomplishment and reminds everyone that progress—however small—matters.
8. Collaborative Projects
Working together builds community and teaches valuable lessons about the writing process:
Anthology: Each member contributes a short story around a shared theme
Collaborative Novel: Use the Snowflake Method or another plotting technique to outline a novel together, then divide chapters among members
Round-Robin Stories: One member writes the opening paragraph, then passes it to the next person to continue
These projects create tangible results the group can be proud of—and potentially publish.
9. Skill-Building Sessions
Target specific craft elements that challenge your members:
Writing natural, compelling dialogue
Crafting openings that hook readers immediately
Editing and revision techniques
Show versus tell
Pacing and structure
Use writing craft books, online resources, or invite a writing instructor to guide the session. Focused skill-building creates measurable improvement.
10. Fun and Interactive Activities
Not every meeting needs to be serious. Inject playfulness into your group:
Storytelling Games: Use random prompts or words to create a story collaboratively in real-time
Writing Roulette: Each member writes a paragraph, then passes their paper to the next person to continue—chaos and creativity ensue
Genre Swap: Rewrite a scene from your current project in a completely different genre (turn a thriller into a comedy, or literary fiction into sci-fi)
Laughter and play unlock creativity in unexpected ways.
11. Unconventional Inspiration Exercises
Draw writing prompts from unexpected sources:
Craft a story based on overheard conversations, mysterious radio transmissions, or strange signals
Use historical photographs or news headlines as story seeds
Write from the perspective of an inanimate object or an unusual narrator
Unusual starting points lead to original stories.
12. Psychological Exploration for Character Development
Write a scene from the perspective of a character with a specific psychological trait, fear, or condition
Explore how a character’s past trauma influences their present decisions and relationships
Develop detailed backstories that never appear on the page but inform every action
Understanding the human mind—its quirks, defenses, and desires—makes characters leap off the page.
Final Thoughts
A writers’ group should be more than a meeting—it should be a space where creativity flourishes, skills sharpen, and writers find the support they need to keep going. By incorporating a variety of activities, you can keep your group fresh, engaged, and continuously growing.I hope this list proves useful to writers’ groups everywhere. After all, when we lift each other up, we elevate the entire craft.What activities have worked well for your writers’ group? I’d love to hear your ideas.
“Oh Dad, you fell. Listen, you can’t live by yourself anymore. You need someone taking care of you.”It sounds like concern. It looks like love. But far too often, it’s neither.What is disguised as an act of compassion is, in reality, a calculated move to get Dad out of the way—so that his assets can be quietly liquidated, his autonomy erased, and his life reduced to a transaction.
The Question No One Wants to Ask
Instead of bringing Dad into their home—cooking for him, checking on him, being present—what do you think this generation is all too eager to do?They put him in a facility. Out of sight. Out of mind. Out of the way.I’ve seen it far too many times. In fact, I wrote a short story based on a true account of this very thing: “Just As I Am”—because some truths are too painful to ignore and too important to stay silent about.
A Prison Disguised as “Care”
Once the parent is removed from their home, their freedom is absconded. They become a prisoner of their children’s making.The “rules” are set—not by doctors, not by the parent—but by the kids:
Dad is not to leave the facility under any circumstances unless they decide to take him out for a doctor’s appointment.
His world shrinks to a small room, a bed, a small TV, and a communal bathroom shared with strangers.
His identity dissolves. The man who built a life, raised a family, and earned everything he had is now reduced to a room number.
And then what happens?Dad becomes depressed. Bitter. Isolated. He tries to hold on through the few friends who still come to visit—but the light fades faster than it ever would have at home.He dies earlier than he should have. Not from illness, but from heartbreak.
Follow the Money
While Dad withers in his small room, here’s what’s happening on the outside:
His pension becomes their income.
His savings become their spending money.
His Social Security gets redirected.
His home and belongings are sold off or trashed.
The kids figure out exactly what it costs to keep Dad “housed”—and spend the rest on their own debt, a vacation, maybe a new car. After all, they’ve convinced themselves they deserve it.
The Lie They Tell Themselves
Once the adult children convince themselves that the Boomers owe them something—that they’re entitled to what their parents built—it becomes disturbingly easy to justify taking it.“They had it easier.”“They ruined the economy.”“They owe us.”But do they? They absolutely do not.
The Truth
Let me be blunt: This is a disgraceful way to treat your parents.Your parents deserve dignity—while they’re living and even after they stop breathing. No generation—Gen X, Millennials, Gen Z—has any right to anything that was not freely given to them.Your parents’ home is not your inheritance to claim early. Their pension is not your piggy bank. Their freedom is not yours to revoke because it’s inconvenient for you to actually care for them.A fall does not mean a life sentence. A moment of vulnerability does not give you permission to strip someone of everything they are.
A Call to Do Better
If your parent falls, help them up. Move in with them. Check on them daily. Hire in-home help. Modify their house. Be present.Do not warehouse them so you can raid their life’s work.They raised you. They sacrificed for you. They gave you the foundation you’re standing on.The least you can do is let them live—and die—with dignity.
Have you witnessed this happen to someone you love? I’d like to hear your story. And if you haven’t yet, read “Just As I Am”—a story born from watching this tragedy unfold in real life.
Here are some truths worth knowing…
Generational Responsibility: Moving Beyond Blame and Toward Action
While Millennials and Gen X face real economic challenges, blaming Baby Boomers for their financial struggles overlooks deeper cultural shifts in mindset and personal responsibility. History shows Boomers overcame severe adversity through frugality, hard work, and self-reliance—values that remain relevant today. Millennials who reject the blame narrative and embrace actionable financial discipline, such as Dave Ramsey’s Baby Steps, are proving that personal accountability is still the most effective path to financial independence.
Blaming Baby Boomers for the financial difficulties faced by Millennials and Gen X is, in many cases, an oversimplification that ignores both historical context and the power of personal responsibility. While it’s true that the cost of living has risen and economic conditions have changed, Boomers also faced significant adversity—such as double-digit inflation and sky-high mortgage rates—yet responded with a mindset of frugality, delayed gratification, and self-reliance. Today, a cultural shift toward instant gratification, externalized blame, and increased reliance on government assistance has contributed to a victimhood narrative among some younger generations. However, many Millennials who reject this narrative and instead focus on actionable steps—like those outlined in Dave Ramsey’s financial philosophy—are successfully building wealth and achieving independence.
1. Generational Mindset Gap: Work Ethic, Frugality, and Responsibility
Baby Boomers:
Core Values: Hard work, perseverance, loyalty, and the belief that success is earned, not given.
1970s-80s Economic Turmoil: Boomers faced double-digit inflation and mortgage rates as high as 17%. Instead of relying on government aid, they responded by aggressively paying down debt, practicing minimalism, and prioritizing savings .
Debt Aversion: Consumer debt was avoided; Boomers aimed to be debt-free before retirement.
Steady Investing: Despite market downturns, Boomers invested consistently and lived below their means.
Cultural Frugality: Many Boomers repaired rather than replaced, bought in bulk, and delayed gratification to build long-term wealth .
Boomers’ financial discipline was forged in adversity, not ease. Their wealth-building habits were rooted in a culture of self-reliance and long-term planning.
3. Cultural Shift: From Self-Reliance to Victimhood
Boomers: Internalized setbacks, focused on what they could control, and saw government assistance as a last resort.
Millennials/Gen X: Greater focus on external barriers (e.g., student debt, housing costs), amplified by social media and cultural narratives that sometimes encourage blame and entitlement .
Result: While some economic challenges are real, the core difference is a shift in mindset—from “What can I do?” to “Who is to blame?” .
4. Millennials Succeeding Through Personal Responsibility
Despite the narrative, many Millennials are rejecting blame and building wealth through:
Budgeting and Saving: 59% prioritize saving, 41% stick to budgets, and 42% focus on debt payoff.
Side Hustles: 44% consider second jobs or side gigs to boost income.
Financial Literacy: Leveraging online resources and communities for education and support.
FIRE Movement: Many Millennials are pursuing Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) through aggressive saving and investing .
Millennials who embrace personal responsibility and disciplined financial habits are disproving the notion that generational circumstances are destiny.
5. Dave Ramsey’s 7 Baby Steps: A Roadmap for Financial Responsibility
Dave Ramsey’s program offers a practical, actionable path for Millennials (and anyone) to take control of their finances:
Step
Description
Key Principle
1
Save $1,000 for a starter emergency fund
Build a buffer against small emergencies
2
Pay off all debt (except mortgage) using the debt snowball
Motivation through quick wins
3
Save 3–6 months of expenses in a fully funded emergency fund
Safety net for major life events
4
Invest 15% of household income in retirement
Prioritize long-term wealth
5
Save for children’s college fund
Plan for future generations
6
Pay off your home early
Achieve financial freedom
7
Build wealth and give
Generosity and legacy
Core Ramsey Principles:
Live below your means and avoid lifestyle inflation.
Attack debt with intensity (debt snowball method).
Build an emergency fund before investing or increasing lifestyle spending.
Take personal responsibility: “Personal finance is 80% behavior and 20% head knowledge.”
Avoid blaming external factors; focus on what you can control.
Hard work and hustle are essential for breaking cycles of debt and dependency .
Dave Ramsey Quote: “You have to control the person in their mirror.” “There’s freedom on the other side of debt. You don’t have to live like everyone else.”
Blaming Boomers for today’s economic challenges is not only historically inaccurate but also disempowering. Boomers faced—and overcame—serious adversity through a culture of self-reliance, frugality, and hard work. Millennials who reject the blame narrative and instead embrace personal responsibility, disciplined money management, and actionable steps like Dave Ramsey’s Baby Steps are proving that financial independence is still achievable. The most effective path forward is not to point fingers, but to take ownership and act.
Read the story on Reedsy and tell me what you think in the comments below. Thanks
As a writer, I’m no stranger to research rabbit holes—especially the kind that start with a simple “why?”After completingNothing But Time—a literary fiction novel about redemption, second chances, and learning to live after a lifetime of existing—I found myself pulled into unexpected territory. The book follows a retired workaholic who inherits a Vermont farmhouse from a deceased friend, along with an urgent final message about what it means to be alive. Originally written in 1985 and restored in 2026, the story required me to understand something I’d only glimpsed as a child: farming.
A Memory Resurfaces
My uncle had a farm in Minnesota. When I was very young, he set me on a yellow tractor and pointed me toward a field. That memory has never faded.While researching modern agriculture online, I discovered Laura Wilson‘s story on Pioneer’s website—and that childhood memory came flooding back. Laura and her husband Grant are working farmers whose videos gave me the inspiration I needed. In Nothing But Time, my protagonist Jack Harper learns what I learned watching them: that farming is both simpler and far more complicated than most people imagine.
The Question That Stopped Me
One detail in Laura and Grant’s videos made me pause. They mentioned the cost of corn seed—roughly $110 per box, covering about two and a half acres—and then said something I didn’t expect:It’s illegal to replant your own seed.They didn’t elaborate. They stated it as fact and moved on. But I couldn’t.
Why Can’t Farmers Save Their Own Seed?
The answer leads to one name: Monsanto (now part of Bayer).The seed Laura and Grant purchase is genetically modified—what consumers know as “GMO.” Farmers are legally prohibited from saving and replanting patented seeds because seed companies hold intellectual property rights over modern crop varieties, particularly genetically engineered or hybrid strains. These protections give corporations exclusive control over how their products are used, including the right to ban replanting.The strictest restrictions apply to utility-patented seeds (most GMOs), where saving and replanting is prohibited outright. For some other protected varieties, limited saving for personal use may be allowed, but selling or sharing is not. Enforcement comes through a combination of patent law, licensing contracts, and active monitoring by seed companies.
What Genetic Modification Does to Corn
Here’s what modern GMO corn is engineered to do:1. Resist Pests Bt corn contains a gene from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis that produces a protein toxic to insects like the European corn borer but reportedly safe for humans and animals. This reduces the need for chemical pesticides. The open question: how confident can we be about long-term human ingestion of these proteins?2. Tolerate Herbicides GM corn is engineered to survive specific herbicides such as glyphosate, allowing farmers to kill weeds without harming their crop. This simplifies weed management and can reduce soil-eroding tilling.3. Increase Yields Researchers have altered genes like zmm28 to function as growth triggers, producing varieties that yield up to 10 percent more than conventional types.4. Reduce Chemical Use By decreasing reliance on pesticides and herbicides, GM corn can contribute to more sustainable practices—at least in theory.5. Improve Nutritional Content Some varieties are biofortified with higher levels of vitamin A, lysine, or tryptophan, targeting nutritional deficiencies in regions where corn is a dietary staple.6. Adapt to Climate Stress GMO corn can be engineered to withstand drought, temperature extremes, or poor soil—extending viable growing regions.
The Health Question No One Wants to Fund
Here’s what concerns me: while no long-term human health studies exist, laboratory rats fed GMO corn have shown evidence of prediabetic conditions and organ changes. That alone should warrant rigorous, independent research.Why doesn’t it exist? Consider the economics:
U.S. GMO corn gross sales (2025 est.): ~$14 billion annually, projected to reach $19.8 billion by 2035
Global GMO corn market (2023): $264 billion, expected to grow to $440 billion by 2033
U.S. adoption rate: More than 90 percent of American corn production uses genetically engineered varieties
With that much revenue at stake, the absence of funded long-term health research feels less like an oversight and more like a choice. Which government officials are looking the other way? What financial relationships exist between regulators and seed corporations? I suspect transparency there would be illuminating—and uncomfortable.
The Takeaway
Know what’s in your food. If it’s overprocessed and genetically modified, I’d recommend caution.And as for me—I’d love to go back to that Minnesota farm. To remember the quiet. The only sounds at night were wind through the trees or distant thunder rolling across the fields.
Did you find this post useful, informative, or entertaining? Drop a comment below.
Tonight I read a story for comments from my writers’ group. One person stopped listening and rolled their eyes when the word Dragon was spoken. The dragons are a metaphor for those who resist government overreach. The story was inspired from a prompt on the Reedsy website. There is a link below if you want to see the story for yourself. It is short and enjoyable if I say so myself…
What if the most valuable critique you ever give is on a book you’d never buy?
Writers are often told to find critique partners who “get” their genre. But the reality of writing groups, workshops, and beta swaps is messier. Sometimes you’re handed a cozy mystery when you live for grim dark fantasy. Sometimes you’re reviewing a picture book manuscript, and you haven’t interacted with a five-year-old in years.
Does that make your feedback worthless? Not even close—if you know how to give it.
The trick isn’t pretending to be something you’re not. It’s learning to separate what’s broken from what simply isn’t built for you. Here’s how to offer meaningful, respectful critiques—even when the story was never written for someone like you.
Acknowledge Your Position First
The most important step is transparency. Before diving into your feedback, tell the writer:
“I want to be upfront—I’m not typically a reader of [genre/age category]. I’ll do my best to evaluate the craft, but please weigh my feedback with that in mind.”
This simple disclaimer does two things:
It helps the writer contextualize your opinions
It keeps you accountable to critique fairly rather than based on personal taste
Separate Craft from Preference
Even if you’re not the target reader, you can still evaluate fundamental craft elements that apply universally:
What you CAN critique objectively:
Clarity – Is the prose easy to follow?
Consistency – Do characters behave consistently? Are there plot holes?
Pacing – Does the story drag or rush in places?
Dialogue – Does it sound natural and distinct for each character?
Structure – Is the narrative arc clear?
Grammar and mechanics – Are there technical errors?
What you should be cautious about:
Tropes common to the genre (they may be expected, not flaws)
Tone or content that feels “too much” for you but fits the audience
Subjective style choices that serve the intended readers
Ask Questions Instead of Making Declarations
When you’re uncertain whether something is a flaw or simply “not for you,” frame your feedback as questions:
Try: “Is this level of romantic tension typical for your target readers? It felt heavy to me, but I recognize I may not be calibrated for the genre.”
This invites dialogue rather than shutting down the writer’s choices.
Research the Target Audience
If you’re committed to giving useful feedback, do a little homework:
Read a few popular titles in the genre or age category
Look at reader reviews to understand what fans love and hate
Ask the writer who their ideal reader is and what comparable titles they’re targeting
This context helps you distinguish between “this doesn’t work” and “this doesn’t work for me.”
Focus on the Reader Experience You Can Assess
Even as an outsider, you’re still a reader. You can report your experience without declaring it universal:
“As someone unfamiliar with this genre, I found the magic system confusing at first. Intended readers might follow it more easily, but you may want to check if the explanation is clear enough.”
“I wasn’t sure if the pacing in chapter three is intentionally slow for atmosphere or if it might lose some readers.”
This approach provides data to the writer without presuming authority over their audience.
Know When to Step Back
Sometimes the most helpful thing you can say is:
“I don’t think I’m the right person to evaluate this aspect of your story.”
If you actively dislike a genre or feel unable to assess its conventions fairly, it’s okay to limit your feedback to craft basics—or to recommend the writer seek a critique partner who better matches their audience.
Final Thoughts
Critiquing outside your comfort zone can actually make you a better reader and writer. It forces you to examine why certain choices work for certain audiences and sharpens your understanding of craft versus taste.
The golden rule: Critique the story the writer is trying to tell, not the story you wish they had written.
When you approach feedback with humility, curiosity, and respect for the intended audience, your critiques become genuinely useful—even when the book was never meant for you.
I took a short story and turned it into a full fledged novel. If Dark Romance of the Vampire type is your thing, look no further.
How far would you go to save someone who’s already stolen your heart?
The painting had always hung in the east corridor, though no one could say precisely when it arrived. It existed the way certain old things do: quietly, with the certainty of having been there longer than the walls themselves. It was not supposed to matter. And then, one October evening, it did.
Peter Thomas had taken the night guard position for ordinary reasons. A young art student with empty pockets and a reverence for beauty, he believed that proximity to masterpieces might teach him what textbooks could not. He did not anticipate the portrait of the woman in the guilded frame, nor the warmth that radiated from her canvas on cold nights, nor the way hunger could live inside oil and pigment.
The painting breathed. This was not metaphor.
As Peter wandered deeper into the museum’s shadowed galleries, he uncovered the story of Vanessa, a king’s daughter folded into gold leaf and varnish by an ancient curse, and the vampire who had spent centuries whispering promises of liberation through the lacquer. But freedom required an exchange: one living soul for another. Under October’s blood moon, Peter understood what the portrait had been asking of him all along.
Caught between a love story older than memory and the quiet horror of Vanessa’s imprisonment, Peter faced an impossible choice: his life, or hers.
For readers who cherish Crimson Peak, The Picture of Dorian Gray, and stories where love and sacrifice blur into haunting beauty, The Girl in the Guilded Frame invites you through a door that cannot be closed.
How far would you go to save someone who has already stolen your heart?
Hi there! I’m the proud owner of Purple Pen Productions LLC, and one of the things I often find myself doing is helping others understand what they need to think about before diving into the world of self-publishing. Here’s the thing—writing isn’t just about crafting a great story. If you’re anything like me, writing is also a business. My creations are not only meant to entertain but also designed to build a passive income stream. So, how do you make that leap from writer to published author with a profitable book? It all starts with one simple step: getting your ducks in a row! Let me show you how. 😊
Punchlist for Publishing a Book on KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing)
Publishing a book on Amazon’s KDP platform requires a combination of preparation, organization, and adherence to specific guidelines. Below is a comprehensive punchlist to help you gather everything you need before hitting “Publish.”
1. Manuscript Preparation
Final Manuscript:
Ensure the manuscript is proofread and edited.
Save the file in one of the accepted formats: DOC, DOCX, RTF, TXT, or PDF. (KDP also accepts EPUB for reflowable eBooks.)
Formatting for Kindle:
Apply Kindle-specific formatting (e.g., use consistent headings, avoid excessive tabs or spaces).
Ensure the Table of Contents is properly linked (for eBooks).
Remove page numbers (for eBooks, as they vary by device).
Print-Ready PDF (for print books):
Ensure correct page trim size and margins based on the selected trim size.
Embed all fonts used in the document.
2. Cover Design
eBook Cover:
Dimensions: 2560 x 1600 pixels minimum (or a 1.6:1 aspect ratio).
Save the cover in JPEG or TIFF format at 300 DPI for high quality.
Print Book Cover:
Download KDP’s Cover Template for the specific trim size and page count.
Include a spine and back cover with space for the barcode.
Save the cover as a high-quality PDF (300 DPI).
Important Elements to Include on Cover:
Title and subtitle.
Author name.
Eye-catching design that reflects the genre of the book.
3. Metadata (Book Details)
Title and Subtitle:
Ensure your title and subtitle are finalized and optimized for keywords.
Author Name:
Use either your real name or a pen name consistently.
Book Description:
Write a captivating description (up to 4,000 characters).
Use HTML formatting (like bold and italics) for better readability on Amazon’s product page.
Keywords:
Brainstorm and research 7 keywords or phrases to help readers find your book.
Categories:
Choose 2 categories that best fit your book’s genre and content.
Age and Grade Range (for children’s books or specific audiences):
Specify if your book is for a particular age group or educational level.
4. ISBN and Publishing Rights
ISBN (International Standard Book Number):
KDP provides a free ISBN for print books, or you can use your own purchased ISBN.
Publishing Rights:
Confirm whether your content is public domain or original work.
Verify you hold the proper rights to publish the book.
5. Pricing and Royalty Options
Pricing:
Research competitive prices for books in your genre.
Set pricing for each marketplace (e.g., US, UK, EU).
Royalty Option:
Choose between 35% and 70% royalties (based on pricing and distribution preferences).
Kindle Unlimited/Kindle Select:
Decide if you want to enroll in Kindle Select for exclusivity and additional promotional options.
6. Marketing and Promotions
Author Page:
Set up or update your Amazon Author Page on Author Central.
Book Launch Plan:
Prepare announcements, social media posts, and newsletters.
Promotional Tools:
Consider running an Amazon Advertising campaign.
Plan free or discounted promotions (if enrolled in Kindle Select).
7. Test and Review
Preview Your Book:
Use KDP’s Previewer tool (both online and downloadable versions) to check formatting.
Proof Copies (for print books):
Order a print proof to verify layout, design, and content.
8. Post-Publication Essentials
Monitor Sales Reports:
Track sales and royalties in the KDP dashboard.
Gather Reviews:
Encourage readers to leave honest reviews on Amazon.
Update Metadata:
Periodically refine keywords, categories, or descriptions based on performance.
In nearly every profession, accountability is non-negotiable. Engineers who design faulty equipment face consequences. Pharmaceutical companies that release harmful drugs are held liable. Employees who perform negligently lose their jobs.Yet when decisions within our criminal justice system lead directly to preventable deaths, accountability remains elusive. The question we must ask: When dangerous individuals are released and kill again, who is responsible?
A Pattern of Preventable Tragedy
The year 2025 alone produced numerous cases that expose systemic failures:
Case
Background
Release Mechanism
Outcome
Eddie Duncan (Minneapolis, MN)
Arrested for police pursuit, illegal firearm possession
Posted $35,000 bail
Killed two cousins (ages 14 and 23) within three hours of release
Colorado Parolee
Prior violent convictions; assessed as “very high” risk
Released on parole
Accused of four murders across three counties
Roybal-Smith (Colorado)
On parole for violent offenses including murder; risk level downgraded from “very high” to “moderate”
Parole
Murdered three people
Virginia Case
30+ prior arrests; known violent offender
Prosecutor repeatedly declined or reduced charges
Killed a mother in violent attack
These are not isolated incidents. They represent a systemic pattern.
Case Study: Decarlos Dejuan Brown Jr.
Perhaps no case illustrates institutional failure more starkly than that of Decarlos Dejuan Brown Jr., who murdered Iryna Zarutska on a Charlotte light rail in August 2025.Brown’s criminal history spans nearly two decades:
2011–2014: Convicted of felony breaking and entering; received 30 days jail and probation
2013–2014: Convicted of robbery with a dangerous weapon and felon in possession of a firearm; sentenced to six years
2020: Released on parole after just over five years; subsequently arrested for assaulting his sister
2022–2024: Three additional arrests for assault and property crimes—no corresponding court records
January 2025: Arrested for repeated misuse of 911; released without bond on written promise to appear
July 2025: Court-ordered forensic evaluation never completed; remained free
August 2025: Murdered Iryna Zarutska
Critical questions remain unanswered:
Why were early charges repeatedly dismissed?
Who supervised his probation, and how was his progress evaluated?
Why did three arrests between 2022–2024 produce no court records?
Who was responsible for ensuring completion of his court-ordered mental health evaluation?
Brown had a documented schizophrenia diagnosis. His record shows clear escalation from misdemeanors to violent felonies. Yet at every juncture, the system failed to intervene meaningfully.
The Deeper Failure
Beyond the institutional breakdowns, the circumstances of Iryna Zarutska’s death reveal something equally troubling: bystanders on the train reportedly walked past her as she bled out. Audio captured Brown’s words as he exited: “I killed the white bitch.”This indifference compounds the tragedy.
A Call for Systemic Accountability
The path forward requires honest examination:
Mental health intervention must be prioritized and actually enforced—court-ordered evaluations cannot remain incomplete without consequence
Risk assessments must carry weight; downgrading a “very high” risk offender to “moderate” demands rigorous justification
Decision-makers must answer when their choices directly enable preventable violence
Transparency is essential—dismissed charges, incomplete evaluations, and missing court records must be explained
What You Can Do
Don’t let these stories disappear. Systemic change begins with sustained attention. These cases deserve public debate focused on identifying root causes—not political posturing, but genuine analysis of where and why interventions failed.The current status quo protects no one.
What are your thoughts? How should we balance rehabilitation with public safety? Who should be accountable when the system fails?
Imagine this: running a full-blown election campaign… to be a juror. Yes, I’m talking about knocking on doors, kissing babies, raising funds, and making promises you absolutely have no intention of keeping. “Vote for me, I swear to be impartial! I’ll fight for justice! Free snacks in the deliberation room!” All for the privilege of sitting on a jury destined to end in a hung verdict. Truly, the dream. And let’s not forget the “committees.” Oh, the committees! If elected, you’ll join a room full of people who prove that the phrase “common sense” is anything but common. It’s a front-row seat to humanity’s greatest hits of idiocy. If you’ve ever wondered where the dumbest people on Earth gather, I have your answer: jury duty.
My Time in the Hot Seat (A.K.A. Jury Duty)
Take this gem of an experience I had. We were deliberating a case where a man raped and murdered a young woman. Grim, I know. But the evidence? Rock solid. Open-and-shut case. Even with all the lawyer shenanigans—objections flying like confetti and attempts to suppress evidence because, get this, one of the investigators once knew someone who had once been raped (a friend of a friend of a friend situation)—we still managed to find the guy guilty. Victory for justice, right? But wait, there’s more! When it came time for sentencing, I thought, “Surely this is the easy part.” Nope. One juror decided the defendant reminded her of her grandson. And wouldn’t you know it, the lawyers played that angle like they were auditioning for the Oscars. Suddenly, we’re in a stalemate. I’m over here advocating for hanging the bastard (figuratively speaking, of course), while Grandma-of-the-Year is suggesting we let him off with a pat on the back and time served. Now, here’s the worst part: on a jury, you can’t just stand up and call someone a “stupid ass.” Oh, no. That’s “frowned upon.” Instead, you have to carefully craft arguments within the confines of what the judge deems “appropriate,” all while refraining from saying what you’re really thinking, which is, “Are you serious right now? Are we even on the same planet?”
Why Bother?
Act I: The Sacred Ritual of Jury Duty
So why would any sentient human voluntarily endure this exquisite form of psychological waterboarding? Picture it: you, a marginally functioning adult, trapped in a room with twelve strangers who were specifically selected because neither lawyer thought they were clever enough to be dangerous. These are the “peers” the Constitution promised you—people who list “breathing” as a hobby and whose critical thinking skills peaked when they successfully operated a revolving door on the third try. But I digress. You didn’t come here to read about the jury box. You came because of the title. So let’s pivot, shall we?
Act II: The $19 Million Question
Ask yourself this delightful riddle: Why would a grown adult spend $19 million of their own money to secure a position that pays $174,000 a year? At that rate of return, they’d make their money back in roughly… checks notes …109 years. Clearly, these are not people motivated by the paycheck printed on paper. No, no. They’re motivated by the paycheck printed on offshore account statements. If you’ve ever had the distinct displeasure of watching Congress “work”—and I use that word with the same enthusiasm one uses to describe a sloth “sprinting”—you’ll notice something remarkable. Half of them speak to the press with the intellectual firepower of a wet match in a dark cave. Three neurons? That’s generous. Some of these folks would lose a debate to an automated customer service line. And yet, somehow, they retire with more money than a dragon sitting on a pile of gold in a fantasy novel. Curious, isn’t it?
Act III: The Alchemy of Public Service
Follow the money, dear reader, and you’ll find it leads to a magical kingdom where laws are written by the people they conveniently don’t apply to. Take, for example, the estimated $278 million net worth of one Nancy Pelosi—a woman whose stock portfolio performs with the uncanny precision of someone who definitely doesn’t have access to classified briefings before making trades. If you traded stocks on insider information, you’d get a lovely pair of matching bracelets and a rent-free room with bars on the windows. But when they do it? It’s called “savvy investing” and featured admiringly in financial magazines. And when Hillary Clinton solemnly declares that “no one is above the law,” one can only assume she’s performing avant-garde comedy at this point. A truly bold artistic choice. Because obviously, when they say “no one,” they mean “no one who matters less than us.” You see, in the fine print of American democracy—written in ink visible only to those earning above a certain tax bracket—there’s a small but important clause: “Laws apply to citizens. Congress members, however, have ascended to a higher plane of existence where laws are merely suggestions, ethics are optional, and accountability is a word that only appears in dictionaries owned by peasants.”
Act IV: Gods Among Us
Perhaps this is the real revelation. Our elected officials don’t consider themselves people in the traditional, law-abiding sense. They are demigods—mortal enough to need campaign donations but divine enough to be exempt from the rules they impose on the rest of us. Laws are for the little people. Insider trading restrictions are for the little people. Consequences are for the little people. And the little people? Well, they’re too busy sitting in jury duty, debating with flat-earthers about reasonable doubt, to notice.
Behold, the magnificent spectrum of “public service” in America—a system so beautifully designed that it makes feudalism look like a fair-trade agreement. On one end, we have Jury Duty: the sacred civic obligation where you, the humble taxpayer, are graciously compensated six whole American dollars for a full day of your rapidly depleting lifespan. Six dollars. Not per hour. Per day. That’s less than a footlong sandwich. That’s less than two gallons of gas. That is the republic looking you dead in the eye and saying, “We value your service the way we value a vending machine coffee—barely, and only because nothing better was available. “You will sit. You will deliberate. You will miss work. And for this noble sacrifice, the government will hand you a check so small that your bank will laugh when you try to deposit it. The Founding Fathers wept tears of pride. On the other end, we have Congress: the other sacred civic obligation where elected officials are compensated in a currency far more sophisticated than mere dollars. They deal in favors—a shadow economy so elaborate it makes cryptocurrency look transparent. A favor here, a favor there, a mysterious consulting gig for a spouse, a book deal nobody asked for, a speaking fee that costs more than your house, a stock tip whispered in a hallway that technically wasn’t a hallway so it technically doesn’t count.
The Unforgivable Crime of Curing Cancer: A Media Response Simulation
Breaking News: Orange Man Does Thing. Nation in Crisis.
Let us engage in a thought experiment so absurd it might actually happen. Imagine—just imagine—that Donald J. Trump walked up to a podium tomorrow, slapped a glowing vial on the lectern, and announced: “I have cured cancer. All of it. Every kind. You’re welcome. “Now, a rational species might respond with cautious optimism. Perhaps even gratitude. Maybe a polite golf clap. Not us. Not this timeline.
The Headlines Write Themselves
Within approximately 0.003 seconds, every major news network would erupt like a volcano of righteous indignation:
CNN:“Trump’s Reckless Cancer Cure Threatens Millions of Healthcare Jobs—Here’s Why That’s Dangerous”
MSNBC:“Oncologists React With Horror as Trump Dismantles an Entire Medical Field Without Congressional Approval”
The Washington Post:“Democracy Dies in Darkness, and Apparently So Does Chemotherapy: How Trump’s Cure Undermines Institutional Norms”
The New York Times:“Opinion: I’m a Tumor, and I Deserve to Live—How Trump’s Cure Is an Attack on Biodiversity”
A somber Anderson Cooper would turn to the camera with the gravity of a man announcing an asteroid impact: “Tonight, we ask the hard questions. Yes, cancer is gone. But at what COST?”
Cut to a panel of four experts, three of whom are openly weeping: Expert 1 (Pharmaceutical Lobbyist):“Do you have ANY idea how much revenue chemotherapy generates? We’re talking about a $200 billion industry. Trump didn’t cure a disease—he committed an act of ECONOMIC TERRORISM against hardworking pharmaceutical shareholders. “Expert 2 (Hospital Administrator):“Our oncology wings are the crown jewels of our revenue model. Without cancer patients hooked up to IV drips filled with chemicals that cost $47,000 per session and make you feel like you’ve been run over by a freight train hauling more chemicals—how are we supposed to afford our fourth administrative building? “Expert 3 (Unnamed Source Familiar With the Matter):“This cure was developed without peer review, without FDA approval, and most importantly, without consulting the people who were making an EXCELLENT living off the disease. This is a direct attack on the established order of profiting from human suffering. “Expert 4 (Political Analyst):“The real question isn’t whether the cure works. The real question is: what are Trump’s MOTIVATIONS? Nobody just cures cancer out of the goodness of their heart. This is clearly a distraction from [gestures vaguely] …something.”
Big Pharma Issues a Statement
“We at MegaChem Therapeutics™ are deeply concerned by this so-called ‘cure.’ For decades, we have been committed to providing patients with a carefully calibrated treatment experience—one that manages symptoms just enough to keep you alive, but not so much that you stop needing us. This is called SUSTAINABLE HEALTHCARE. Trump’s ‘cure’ is reckless, untested, and worst of all—it’s FREE. How are we supposed to monetize FREE? This man is a menace to quarterly earnings.”
The Inevitable Fact-Check
PolitiFact Rating: MOSTLY FALSE
“While Trump claims to have ‘cured cancer,’ our analysis shows that cancer was already declining at a rate of 0.003% per decade, meaning it would have eventually cured itself in approximately 47,000 years. Trump is taking credit for something that was already happening. We rate this claim: Pants on Fire.”
The Moral of the Story
In the grand theater of modern media, the disease was never the villain. The disease was the business model. And anyone who threatens the business model—be they saint, scientist, or spray-tanned former president—must be destroyed with the full fury of a 24-hour news cycle that hasn’t had a good ratings week since the last time something was on fire. Because in America, we don’t cure diseases. We subscribe to them. And canceling your subscription is an act of insurrection.
“First, do no harm—unless harm is billable, in which case, do a LOT of it and file it under ‘treatment.'” — The Hippocratic Suggestion, Revised Edition, Sponsored by Pfizer™
The Great Meme Wars: Where Civics Goes to Die
A Final Dispatch from the Frontlines of Electoral Stupidity
Ah, election season. That magical time of year when the air is thick with yard signs, attack ads, and the unmistakable aroma of people who haven’t cracked open a civics textbook since the Clinton administration—the first one. The ritual is simple: find the least politically corrupt candidate—which is a bit like shopping for the freshest item in a dumpster—vote them in, and then watch in slow-motion horror as they proceed to loot the treasury with the efficiency of a raccoon who found an unlocked Costco. You must act fast, of course, because the incumbent raccoons are already in there filling their tiny raccoon pockets, and if you don’t get YOUR raccoon in soon, there won’t be anything left to steal. Democracy. Beautiful, isn’t it?
Enter: The Meme
But tonight, dear reader, I must address a cultural artifact of staggering intellectual bankruptcy. A meme. Shared with the confidence of a man who brings a calculator to a spelling bee. This particular meme—posted, shared, liked, and reshared by an army of people whose understanding of government structure could fit comfortably inside a thimble with room left over for their attention span—targets Governor Greg Abbott of Texas. The accusation? Republicans want your vote to “fix” taxes! The evidence? A screenshot of a property tax bill. The problem? Oh, where to begin.
A Brief Civics Lesson for People Who Apparently Slept Through All of Them
Let us walk through this slowly, the way one explains object permanence to a toddler:
Level of Government
Who Runs It
What They Tax
Who to Yell At
Federal
Congress & the President
Income, capital gains, your will to live
Washington, D.C.
State
Governor & State Legislature
Sales tax, some fees, your patience
Austin, in this case
County/City
Local officials & city councils
PROPERTY TAXES, local fees, your sanity
Your local courthouse, Karen
You see that? That third row? The one labeled County/City? That’s where property taxes live. Not in the Governor’s mansion. Not in the state capitol. In your local government—which, in the case of most major Texas cities, is run by… drumroll …Democrats. That’s right. The meme-posting intellectual titan is screaming at the state Republican governor about a tax bill set by their local Democratic county officials. This is the governmental equivalent of calling your landlord to complain about the weather. It is the civic literacy equivalent of suing McDonald’s because Burger King gave you the wrong order.
The Anatomy of a Meme Scholar
Let’s profile this brave digital warrior, shall we?
Can they name their county commissioner? Absolutely not.
Do they know what a county commissioner does? They think it’s a type of kitchen appliance.
Can they distinguish between state and local taxes? About as well as they can distinguish between astronomy and astrology.
Did they Google anything before posting? Google is for the weak. Memes are peer-reviewed by vibes.
Are they registered to vote in local elections? LOL. They didn’t even know local elections existed. They thought government was just the President and “the other ones.”
This person saw a tax bill, felt an emotion, found a meme that confirmed the emotion, and launched it into the digital void with the righteous fury of someone who has never once attended a city council meeting but has VERY strong opinions about governance.
The Beautiful Irony
Here’s the chef’s kiss: these are the same people who will passionately argue about “holding politicians accountable” while being constitutionally incapable of identifying which politician is responsible for what. They want to drain the swamp but can’t tell you which level of government the swamp is in. Federal swamp? State swamp? County swamp? It’s all just… swamp.
“I don’t need to know how government works to know it’s broken!” — Every meme poster, confidently, while blaming the wrong person for the wrong thing at the wrong level of government
The Takeaway
So the next time someone shares a meme about taxes, please—please—ask them one simple question: “Which level of government sets that tax? “Then sit back and watch the loading screen behind their eyes buffer for eternity like a 2004 Dell laptop trying to run Crysis. Because in America, we don’t need to understand government to have loud opinions about it. Understanding is for nerds. We have memes. And memes don’t need citations, context, or a basic understanding of federalism. They just need a font that looks angry and a share button.
“Give a man a civics education and he’ll understand government for a lifetime. Give a man a meme and he’ll misunderstand government loudly, daily, and with absolute conviction.” — Benjamin Franklin, probably, if he’d had Wi-Fi and a migraine.
My last bit of advice as far as Texas goes. If you can look at New York and think it is just swell and Texas is terrible, well they need you in New York. Move…
For the rest of you, thanks for reading. I hope you enjoyed my thoughts on things. I really am practicing Satire for my book…The Big Beautiful Book of Stupid Shit… Coming soon.
Any author will tell you, writing a book is only half the journey. The other half? Sharing it with the world and inviting readers to embark on the adventure with you. I’ve poured my heart into this story, and now I’m thrilled to introduce you to what I believe is one of my favorite creations yet.
Let me ask you this: What happens when love pulls you off course and into uncharted waters?
That question is at the heart of my new novel, Tides of the Heart, a sweeping tale of love, self-discovery, and the courage to rewrite your story.
About the Story
Meet Lily Pemberton, a librarian who’s always lived a life of quiet predictability. Her days are carefully structured, her evenings buttoned-up, and her future shaped by her parents’ expectations. But everything changes when she crosses paths with Jack Rothwell, a roguish sailor with a thirst for adventure.
Jack pulls Lily into a world she’s only dared to dream of—filled with sun-drenched horizons, daring escapes, and the kind of love that shakes the foundation of everything she thought she wanted. As their worlds collide—his wild and free, hers measured and cautious—Lily finds herself at a crossroads. Will she stay anchored in the safe harbor of her past, or will she take a leap of faith and set sail toward an unknown but exhilarating future?
Set against the stunning backdrop of Hawaiian beaches and the open ocean, Tides of the Heart is about more than just romance. It’s a story for anyone who’s ever questioned their path, dreamed of a second chance, or longed for a life filled with adventure.
Why This Story Matters
This book holds a special place in my heart, and here’s why: even as the author, I couldn’t put it down during the editing process. It’s a story that reminded me of the importance of taking bold chances, of living fully, of choosing a life that’s wild, beautiful, and uniquely your own.
For anyone who loves magical realism, daring romance, and the kind of characters who feel like old friends, this is a story for you.
The e-book version is still publishing, but I promise it’ll be available soon. Keep an eye out!
Your Feedback Means the World
When you’ve had a chance to read Tides of the Heart, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Whether it’s a short review on Amazon, a comment on social media, or an email, your feedback helps me grow as a writer and reach more readers who might connect with Lily and Jack’s journey.
Let’s keep this conversation going—what did the story make you feel? Which moments resonated most with you? Your voice is as much a part of this journey as mine.
Thank You for Being Part of This Adventure
Writing a book is an adventure, but sharing it with readers like you is the most rewarding part of the process. Thank you for coming along on this journey with me. Whether you’re a longtime reader or new to my work, I’m so grateful to have you here.
So, what do you say? Are you ready to set sail with Tides of the Heart?
Grab your copy today, and don’t forget to share your thoughts—I can’t wait to hear from you!
As a writer and someone passionate about helping others find their voice, I often tell those in my circle that writing comes down to three simple words: Write, Edit, Market. These three steps are the foundation for every writer, whether you’re scribbling in a private journal or dreaming of becoming the next bestselling author.
Writing is a deeply personal act. It can be exhilarating, cathartic, and even terrifying. But no matter where you are in your writing journey, there’s one truth that underpins it all: writing has value—even if you never share it.
The Joy (and Fear) of Writing for Fun
Writing for fun is one of the most satisfying things you can do. It’s even better than painting (although I’m sure artists might argue with me on that one). Why? Because writing can exist in secret. Your words can live tucked away in a diary, scribbled in a notebook, hidden on your phone, or stored in the depths of your computer. For many, writing is a private act of self-expression—a way to process emotions, explore ideas, or escape from the chaos of daily life.
Yet, here’s the catch. While many people write for fun, they’re often unwilling to share it. In my role as a director of a writers’ league, I’ve encountered countless writers who confess that they write—but they keep their work hidden. Why is this?
Why Writing Feels So Personal
Writing is deeply personal because it comes from the core of who we are. It’s more than just putting words on a page; it’s a reflection of our thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Sharing that with others can feel like exposing your soul. Here are a few reasons why many writers hesitate to share their work:
1. A Window into the Soul
Writing often reveals our innermost thoughts—even when we don’t intend it to. Whether it’s fiction, poetry, journaling, or essays, writing tends to carry pieces of the writer. Our values, fears, dreams, and even vulnerabilities are woven into our words. For some, sharing that feels like standing naked in front of an audience.
2. Fear of Judgment
When we share our writing, we open ourselves up to critique. For many writers, it’s hard not to take feedback personally because our work feels like an extension of ourselves. The fear of rejection or misunderstanding can make it easier to keep our writing hidden.
3. Imposter Syndrome
A lot of writers struggle with self-doubt. Thoughts like, “What if my work isn’t good enough?” or “Who am I to call myself a writer?” creep in. This self-doubt can make sharing our words feel intimidating.
4. Writing as a Safe Space
For some, writing is a sanctuary—a place to process emotions or work through challenges. Sharing that space with others can feel like an intrusion or a loss of control. Once someone reads your work, it’s open to interpretation, and that can be uncomfortable.
5. The Intimacy of the Creative Process
Writing is often a solitary act. The process of crafting a story, poem, or essay is personal and raw. Sharing unfinished work, or even polished pieces, can feel like exposing something fragile.
Why Sharing Your Writing Matters
While it’s completely valid to keep your writing private, sharing your work can be transformative. It can lead to personal growth, connection, and even fulfillment. Here’s why:
Connection with Others
When you share your writing, you create an opportunity to connect with readers who understand your experiences or emotions. There’s something powerful about knowing your words have resonated with someone else. It reminds you that you’re not alone.
Feedback for Growth
Constructive criticism can be scary, but it’s also invaluable. It helps you refine your skills, discover your unique voice, and grow as a writer. No one becomes great without feedback and practice.
Empowerment
Sharing your writing is an act of courage. It’s a way of stepping into your creative identity, embracing vulnerability, and owning your story. That empowerment can translate into other areas of your life as well.
Inspiring Others
You never know how your words might impact someone else. Your story could inspire, comfort, or motivate a reader in ways you never imagined. Writing has the power to change lives—yours and others.
Building a Safe Space for Writers
In my writers’ league, one of my biggest goals is to create a safe space for sharing. It’s my job to push, nudge, and encourage writers to step out of their comfort zones and let their voices be heard. Many of us are here because we aspire to be the next [insert your favorite author], but even if you’re just writing for yourself, sharing your work can be incredibly rewarding.
One of my writer friends once joked, “Talking with my friends or family about my hobby is like talking to accountants.” That’s why groups like ours exist—to provide a supportive community of like-minded individuals who understand the highs and lows of writing.
In our group, we set standards to ensure everyone feels comfortable sharing. It could range from “family-friendly” to “anything goes,” depending on the group dynamic. For larger groups, subgroups can form for specific genres, so everyone gets feedback tailored to their work. The key is creating an environment where writers feel safe to take risks.
A Personal Example: Writing as a Window into the Soul
In yesterday’s blog, I talked about a memoir I released, Lessons Learned from the Wrong Side of a Badge. Writing it was an incredibly personal experience—a true window into the soul. Memoir writing, in particular, forces you to confront your past and share it with the world. It’s not easy, but it’s one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done.
I encourage everyone to write, whether it’s for mental health, literacy, or just for fun. And if you’re ready to take the next step, consider sharing your work. You never know who you might inspire.
What’s Next?
In my next blog, we’ll dive into the second step of the process: editing. Writing is only the beginning—editing is where the real magic happens. We’ll talk about tools, techniques, and how to approach editing without losing your mind.
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