Posts

Book Review of The Mystery of Lady Sedgewick's Butler

Image
  Hartwell Mystery Series Book Review: The Mystery of Lady Sedgewick’s Butler by Ann Sutton Ann Sutton’s The Mystery of Lady Sedgewick’s Butler is a classic-feeling historical cozy mystery that blends post–World War I melancholy with the intrigue of an aristocratic murder. Set in the aftermath of the Great War, the novel introduces Gwendoline Hartwell—a widowed photographer navigating grief, independence, and an unexpected brush with crime. At its core, this is a story about observation—both literal and emotional. Gwen’s profession as a photographer becomes more than a narrative device; it shapes the mystery itself. Her trained eye allows her to notice what others miss, making her a compelling and believable amateur sleuth. This angle adds a fresh twist to the genre, elevating the investigation beyond standard deduction into something more visual and intuitive. The plot is comfortably rooted in cozy mystery traditions: a wealthy family, a shocking murder (the butler, no less), an...
Post a Comment
Read more

So You've Written a Book, Now What?

  So You’ve Written a Book, Now What? New authors mistakenly think the hardest part of writing a book is the creation and completion of the manuscript.   The manuscript is only the first step of a long journey.   Here are 10 additional steps to consider when getting ready to publish your book.   Start a Critique Group – Many authors fail to get feedback from their family, friends or peers on their advanced copy.   Plot holes, character development, typos, punctuation, flow of the manuscript and other suggestions are all key pieces of feedback to consider as you finish your book.   Even getting feedback on the cover is vital.   Sadly, many people judge a book by its cover. Hire an Editor – Your critique group may not be able to tell you exactly what they feel about your book because they do not want to hurt your feelings and they are not your editors per se.   Hiring a professional editor is critical.   I read a self-help book written b...
Post a Comment
Read more

10 Mistakes to Avoid as an Author

  1.      Self-Doubt:   Have you ever had a great idea that got you really excited but as soon as you start this new endeavor your excitement turns to doubt or negativity and you say to yourself that this is too much work or too difficult which then has you giving up?   Always remember that Rome was not built in a day.   Achieving greatness is a lifelong pursuit.   Hard work and consistency are the anecdote to self-doubt.   Your first obstacle should be viewed as a learning opportunity and a foundation upon which to build your skills.   Reach out to friends to get their perspectives or ideas.   Do your homework.   Find out how others may have solved a similar problem.   Invest in yourself to learn this new skill.   Pace yourself so that you do not get burned out.   For some people writing comes very easy and for others they must work really hard at it.   Remember that those things which are difficult at...
Post a Comment
Read more