The Changing Nature of Courtship Etiquette

A few decades have passed since I asked a girl for a date. How things have changed. We didn’t own cell phones, use dating apps, or send text messages. The height of our communication technology was a pay phone hung on the wall in the middle of the dorm hallway. We’d dial the pay phone […]

I never thought I’d research 1850s cosmetics

When I began writing historical fiction, I knew I would need to research settings, events and people related to a time period. Hair styles, clothing, furniture, and other items needed accurate description. However, I never thought I’d research women’s cosmetics. My current story drove me in this direction. I needed to understand the cosmetics available

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Thrilled to be a Finalist in the ACFW Genesis Contest

I received notice last night that I am a finalist in the ACFW Genesis contest for unpublished writers. Last year, I finished as a semi-finalist. The winners will be announced Saturday evening at the ACFW convention in New Orleans. (I chose not to attend this year, so will not experience the excitement and anticipation of

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Fascinating history of women’s property rights

I have been researching the 1850s for new stories. I wanted a character who was an unmarried woman, interested in the early women’s right movement, living in Boston and independently wealthy. In our current time period, such a character is very plausible and could gain wealth in different ways. She could inherit, of course, make

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March newsletter to feature a story by Mary Kay Moody

I’m excited to announce my March newsletter will feature a short story by a fellow American Christian Fiction Writers member, Mary Kay Moody. Mary was a 2023 Finalist in the ACFW Genesis Contest for unpublished writers. I think you will enjoy her story “The Night Visitors.” Offering her story is part of my goal to

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