Susan Foster, Author

(An image from the author's photo album, taken years ago by a bystander.) The purpose of including this photo here will be obvious in a few paragraphs. The privilege of writing and speaking freely. I spend considerable time writing, mostly on a novel I am trying to finish. Of late, however, I have agonized over whether I should share certain thoughts–on social media, within the pages of my novel's manuscript, and even with some of my friends. There is never a justification for hateful rhetoric or harmful statements, but everyone is entitled to an opinion. However, I'm usually hesitant to voice what I think and, the reason why frightens me. The United States election looms less than a week from now and tensions are high. People are passionate about their views and anxious about what will happen, as am I. This post is not intended to pick a fight, but to air something that has been bothering me. To write an excellent story, the author must raise the stakes. This election has ...

(Image by Susan Foster) If, like me, you are immersed in the process of writing a novel, I have a few suggestions that may help you as much as they've helped me. Don't Do This Alone When I first began writing a novel, it was a solitary process.  Just me, some craft books to study,  a jumble of online courses, podcasts, and author newsletters. (More on those in a bit.) Fortunately, in the time since I began, my support system has grown immensely, largely as a result of my joining the Women's Fiction Writer's Association .  Tip #1. Join a Writing Association I've praised the Women's Fiction Writer's Association in the past, and now I'm going to do it again. The membership fee is very reasonable and has been the most worthwhile investment I've made on my path towards becoming a novelist. Here are just a few of the benefits I've enjoyed since joining: Zoom Write-In Dates (Accountability and I've made good friends here)   A huge number of webinar...