by Cynthia Ogren
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November Blog: The Audacity of Singular “They”

         I’m surprised at the number of people—and writers—who are unaware of singular “they.” I’m equally surprised at the number of copy editors who disparage as distastefully ungrammatical the use of singular “they” (and it’s related forms) as a singular pronoun—and want to blue pencil it out of existence. And I suspect…
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August Blog: 6 Reasons NOT to Use a Pen Name!

   Do you know who these authors are: Douglas Spalding, Erika Leonard, Mary Westmacott, Robert Galbraith, Victoria Lucas? I’ll explain later in the article. It’s a brave new world in publishing. Just ask any author. The old paradigm has fallen, and more than ever, success in the field is up for grabs. But in order…
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July Blog: Interview of Author Chris Sheerin

              Welcome to the July issue of Midnight Missives! For Americans, July is a month of celebration: family gatherings, barbecues, vacations, fireworks, and the spectacle of our 4th of July. I can’t think of a better way for Midnight Missives to celebrate this Independence Day than to introduce you to Author Chris Sheerin, who has just released his…
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June Blog: Interview of Thriller Author Mathew Peters

             One of the goals of Midnight Missives is to introduce you to some of the wonderfully interesting people I’ve had the privilege to meet along my journey in life. In my current incarnation as an author, I’ve become friends with many talented and creative authors, poets, and publishing industry insiders. One…
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May Blog: The Science of Creativity: Are Creatives Born or Taught?

             I ran across an article the other day that surprised me, yet confirmed what many of us artistic types have always suspected: that there’s a link between highly creative people and mental illness. But the further implications of the cited studies prove even more profound! “Secrets of the Creative…
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Comments

Bob Hearns —

I’ve got the oddball down pat. The rest—-not so much. So you don’t just put a pen to paper and the words flow; which I knew. You have given me a greater appreciation of what it takes to write fiction, though. Also, I don’t think I drink enough coffee either.

adminBM
adminBM —

hahaha! Thanks for your comments, Bob. But let me tell you something: if you want to be a writer, you’re going to have to get your coffee addiction up to par. It goes hand-in-hand with the job. You see, we turn coffee into words.

Trina Vieau —

Hi Cynthia! I haven’t had a chance to read your book yet, been quite chaotic in my life for awhile now. I am going to read it, but have to go on vacay for quiet. Lol! I am so glad you take the time to answer my questions about writing, I have always loved reading, English, those were the only things that kept me on the right track in school. Now, I am thinking about writing life experiences, kinda fictitious, ( privacy for my friends and family). But mostly real. I feel I have a lot to teach people by my experiences, and I think they could learn some things. So, I am starting to write things down, and hopefully I can put everything together and have an interesting book! I sure had an interesting, fun, crazy life! And no regrets about it!! Made me who I am today.. Any way, thanks again for your time and advice! Good luck on your next book!!

adminBM
adminBM —

I’m always happy to help aspiring authors, Trina. Many kind individuals helped me on my path to publication, and I fully realize how overwhelming it feels to be traveling that path in the dark. Most writers I know are pretty open to answering questions and pointing fledgling writers in the right direction because we’ve all been in that exact position. I’m delighted that you’ve started to write things down. Journaling is a great way to get your feet wet writing. The accumulation of all these experiences will make your writing passionate and meaningful to readers. When readers identify with what you write, it makes them think about how this applies to their own life. It also makes them feel less alone in the world. In this way, you’re giving of your talents to make someone else’s life better. You’re very welcome for the advice! I wish you the very best on your journey to write.

Jonathan Taylor —

Hi Cynthia,
Fantastic news on your new blog page, well done you. You have helped me no end since I released my debut novel back in September and I’d like to thank you so much for that my friend. Loads of love Jonathan Taylor.

adminBM
adminBM —

Thank you so much for your support, Jonathan! I’m always glad to help other deserving authors. I’m so glad we’re friends, and I look forward to the sequel to your book.

Mark Orr —

Duly bookmarked. I’d be delighted to have you review my book (Smarter Than the Average Werewolf), or do a guest blog, or simply hang out and see what happens.

adminBM
adminBM —

Thanks for stopping by, Mark! I appreciate it. Yes, I love to hang out with other authors and creatives. 🙂

Matthew Peters —

Hi Cynthia,

I am so proud of you that you started your own blog!

It promises to be great, and I know it will be, especially given your talent with words. I look forward to learning more about the literary world here.

All the best,
Matt

adminBM
adminBM —

Thanks so much for checking out my inaugural blog, Matthew! I appreciate your support so much! And just know that I plan to tap your expertise in writing a guest blog down the road. lol

Smithb292 —

I just like the helpful info you supply on your articles. I will bookmark your blog and take a look at once more here regularly. I’m somewhat sure Ill learn a lot of new stuff right right here! Best of luck for the following! dggeaddccbbgceag

adminBM
adminBM —

Thanks for your kind comment, Smith292! I look forward to sharing what I know about the writing and publishing process—as well as introducing you to some of my favorite author friends. This business can feel overwhelming at times with so many voices, companies, and services. Perhaps, I can shed some light on this. At the very least, I hope to make new friends through the magic of words. Thanks for your comment. Stay tuned!

Johnk915 —

Really enjoyed reading ur blog.

adminBM
adminBM —

Thanks so much, John! I hope to inform and entertain my readers. Many people have helped me in my journey through writing professionally. I’d like to share what I’ve learned with anyone interested in this process. I also want to introduce you to some interesting authors and publishing professionals I’ve met along the way. Thanks for your comment!