Author Heather McCorkle

National Novel Writing Month  is coming, and those of us crazy enough to participate during such a hectic time of year have a few secrets for getting that novel done. Want in on my big secret? Here you go: Anyone can push out words, vomiting them onto the page in often a non-sequential mess that is  far  more painful to edit than it ever was to write. But there is a way around that, a way that will not make you dread editing that mass of words you pushed out in only one month. This tip will help you so much that you may find yourself able to write more than the 50,000 most NaNo writers strive for. It is simple and will make many cringe, but for those serious about winning NaNo, it will work. Want to know what that big secret is? You'll have to read the rest on my editorial blog: Enigmatic Editor . ;)

You know those moments when inspiration strikes you so hard you expect to be bathed in the white glowing hallow of a spotlight from the light-bulb over your head? Yep, one of those struck me. I can't say too much as one involves a novel out on submission, but I can say that I discovered a perfect way to tie it in with another series of mine. I'll only say, those wanting another channeler novel may get their wish in a round about way. I'm also thrilled to share that my writing hiatus is over! I started writing a new book today, in a genre that is new to me. I've written historical, and I've written paranormal, but I've never combined the two, until now. I'm excited about this one. It centers around a true historical mystery that was only recently brought under new light. And a paranormal touch seemed to be just what the story needed to start flowing. Want to keep up with what is inspiring my work? Come see me on Pinterest !

From pumpkin spice mochas (yep, I said mocha. You latte peeps can keep your milk, show me the chocolate!) to the changing colors of the leaves, everything about October inspires me. While I miss summer terribly, I am embracing the crisp air and fresh ideas that come with fall. I started my October off with a hike to the top of Black Butte (one of the many great hikes out where I live). It was an incredibly foggy day so I didn't get to see the 360 views of all the other mountains, but I did get an eerily beautiful experience instead. So it was a win in my book! Speaking of fresh new ideas, here comes one now. Time to go write!

For those who lost their lives on that fateful day, and all who have lost them since in the fight against terrorism, we appreciate you, we love you, and we will not forget. 

Hosted by the fabulous Brenda Drake , #PitMad is a Twitter pitch party where writers can pitch their completed, polished manuscripts to agents and editors who will be perusing the feed. It is a great opportunity that has landed many an author an agent, and even contracts with publishers based off an editor's interest from #PitMad. So how do you join in? First, you must have a completed and polished (this means no first drafts!) manuscript that you feel is ready for submission. Next, come up with several great 140 character pitches to post on Twitter throughout the day. Then, watch for agents and editors to favorite your pitch. If they do, check their profile for a way to submit to them (they will likely have tweeted details on how to that day, if not, click on their website link). A favorite means you are invited to submit. That means, if you aren't an agent or a publishing house editor, do NOT favorite writer's tweets. You can retweet them, but don't favorite the...

Everywhere I find writers I find them talking about how to break through writers block. At first I thought, I'm a freak, I don't get writers block. I thought maybe it was like some sneaky ailment that was hiding in the shadows waiting for the right moment to pounce. I figured I would get it someday, I just didn't think I had. Well I had, I just didn't know it. I was stuck on a point in my book the other day that needed something more, I just didn't know what. So I went and brainstormed with a friend of mine who is interested in the story. Presto, we came up with that something that was missing. One friend or another always helps me talk it out and figure out what the story needs. When I don't have access to a friend, I take a walk, go ride my horse, or contemplate the story while in the shower (which oddly works wonders). These methods relax me and get the creative side of my mind working. One of the best suggestions I can give to those who get writers block...

© McCorkle Creations For all of my American friends out there enjoying a barbecue, apple pie, or fireworks today, I invite you to raise a glass of whatever you are drinking to the true reason for the celebration.  239 years ago, the Declaration of Independence (prepared by a committee of five men~sorry ladies, no equality back then~and drafted by Thomas Jefferson) was adopted on this day, granting us the freedoms we now enjoy, chief among them was our independence from the British Empire (two days prior, the Second Continental Congress voted to approve a resolution of independence that had been proposed in June by Richard Henry Lee). Ever a work in progress, it is not perfect, but it's ours, and it keeps us free.  Have a safe and happy celebration!