How I Write

An inside look into the chaotic mind...

I probably have what has been described as a "Plantser" mentality when it comes to writing. I start with a blank document, and let my brain just create what it has in its mind for 3-4 chapters.

After that I send it to my friends and my husband, and we brainstorm, what works, what isn't working, and where do we think it could go from there. That's when I create the outline of the key plot points and generate world specific information like magic usage, government structure, etc., and begin to write!

My Must Haves

The items I need with me while writing
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  • Diet Coke

    Diet Coke is a must have item when I am writing. I am so hopelessly addicted it isn't even funny...

  • Music in the background

    When I am writing I usually have Spotify or YouTube on in the background so I have some music to write to. Although I will be honest, most of the time it is just Disturbed's cover of "Sound of Silence" on repeat for hours...

    Fluff? Sound of Silence. Serious? Sound of Silence. Adult fun times? Yup, Sound of Silence...

  • My Blanket

    I write with a blanket over my legs. I have tried to write without it, it just doesn't happen. I have tried writing outside in the NJ Warmth, and nope, can't do it until I have a blanket in my lap.

    Although a cat in my lap works just as well...

My Tools

My Most Important Tools

Computer

For Writing and Editing

I sometimes write on my iPad, but for general writing I definitely prefer my PC with its mouse and keyboard. I do a lot of editing as I write, and will constantly go back, highlight and remove sections with the mouse.

Books

Writing Needs Some Reading

I read more than I write to be honest. It inspires me, gives me new ideas, and shows me new ways of portraying scenes. I read very quickly, and have probably read around 230 books this year as of October 13, 2025.

Pen and Paper

Always Useful

When I am doing my physical edits, having a notebook and pen near me helps with rewriting and adding sections. Also, I find its great for jotting down notes so I can check it off when I incorporate it into my current story.

Creativity is putting your imagination to work, and it's produced the most extraordinary results in human culture.

Ken Robinson

Main Working Principles

What I find are the Important Steps To Follow

Write more than you think you need to

No seriously. Write everything. It is better to take a 120,000 word story and edit it down to a 95,000 word story than to write a 40,000 word one and wonder what to add. That is what I do with my legal briefs, I throw everything in during the first draft, and then edit and hone it down.

Read A Lot

Reading helps you grow and expand as an author, showing you new ways to write, new worlds to be inspired by. It helps you grow because it lets you find new authors to enjoy and learn from.

Have a group of friends to brainstorm with

I cannot tell you how many times my friends have helped me save a plot that had gone off the rails, or how many times they gave me side eye and went "yeah... no" to an idea I had. Find your ride or die group that will be honest with you and hold on to them for as long as you can.