A lot of writers wish to be recluses. They avoid crowds. They enjoy being introverts.

I am not that writer.

I will talk writing, books, and publishing with anyone. The art of placing words is an endless world of creativity for me. Encouraging others to up their game and work on their craft is part of why I love what I do.

I write for a living. It’s not a bad gig. I don’t want to do anything else. (Well, not professionally as a career. I mean I love hiking, swimming, pretending I can draw, jumping on the bed and so on but not as my job.)

So when my husband mentioned that I should check out a call to work for Lit Reactor I jumped on the chance. I doubted anything would come of it. I mean, it’s not like I’m a big name author. Who wants to listen to me?

Sure, I’ve had a couple of lucky breaks that placed my work beside some well-seasoned players, but I’m still searching for an agent and my opportunity to take on the Big 5…or is it 6 now? I forget.

Either way I had an idea, I cultivated it, and sent it in.

The editor loved it and now I have a regular gig again. I still have to pitch my ideas each month, but that makes it more fun.

My debut last month got a lot of love. One of my fav authors even shared it on his facebook page, which felt better than a million dollar book deal . I mean, I’ve never had a million dollars and I’m sure it’s nice, but knowing that my work is not only being read, but potentially getting seen by the people whose books I read and respect is insane. It doesn’t change my life at all on the surface, but digging deeper, it reminds me that no matter how harsh this industry is it rewards those willing to put in the work.

I started out in the pro writing world with a column and I forgot how good it feels to be able to lay out your thoughts regularly. I really missed it. It feels good to be back in that kind of role.

I’ve got a couple of pieces approved for next month already. I’m stoked.

On August 2^nd I’m tearing into stereotypes with: Stop Being Lazy and Write Different Types of Characters

Then I get to pay tribute to one of the most influential authors and his role in the importance of short story writing with: The Power of Ray

That goes live on Ray Bradbury’s birthday, August 22^nd

If any of you have writing related questions or topics you think I should tackle, write them in the comments and I’ll see about pitching them in the future. Also definitely check out https://litreactor.com/

They know what they’re doing over there.