Personal symbols in fiction can be a powerful tool. I rate them up with theme, because, in fact, they’re utilized to convey your theme. Symbols in fiction are more effective than words. That sounds crazy, right? I mean, as a writer, I’m writing a novel with words. How can I convey a theme with symbols…
Author: M.N. Stroh
WIP 2: Lord of Vengeance
Awhile ago it came to my attention that if I’m to convince others that I’m a fiction writer, then it would be best to give samples of my…well fiction. Yes, one might presume this to be common sense. But honestly, I’ve spent so many years learning about and honing my craft, that it never occurred…
The 2015 Historical Fiction Reader’s Survey
A couple years ago I had the privilege of making M.K. Tod’s acquaintance through a LinkedIn Historical Fiction group, of which we were both members. She and many others offered me wonderful advice and encouragement in my writing pursuits. Through gradual discourse I came to discover that M.K. put together an annual historical fiction survey….
By His Scourging We are Healed
But He was pierced through for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities: The chastening for our well-being fell upon Him, and by His scourging we are healed. Isaiah 53:5 (NASB) This was the verse impressed upon my heart this week as I pondered what memory verse the kids and I should learn for…
Spancels: Cuffing the Chicken
Cuffing the chicken? If you’re like me, that mental image is too amusing for words. I mean, we own chickens. They’re not the most graceful animals. So picturing one trying to get around in some sort of cuffs is downright hilarious! Seriously, though, why on earth would you want to cuff a chicken? First off,…
Over at Her View from Home: Homeschooling Ideas for the Conventionally Schooled Child
Have you ever wondered if homeschooling ideas could work for conventionally schooled children? Maybe you’re a parent whose children attend public school, but you feel they need something more. Could there be benefits to homeschool that kids in public school are missing out on? Well, it turns out your not alone in your musings. Other…
What to Do When it’s Frigid Out? Renovate!
If December brings forth a winter wonderland then January gives birth to frostbite. Can I get an amen from all you Wyomingites out there? Frigid! That’s the word that best describes January in Wyoming. The rest of the states in the northern hemisphere can probably relate. As you can see from these pics, we’ve had…
Merry Christmas!
As we approach the Christmas season, I pray that each of you find the opportunity to spend special time with those nearest and dearest to you. Christmas time is a time of giving. We give out of love and gratitude, not just because we feel compelled to. No! We give because we were given the…
Authenticating Irish Characters: Irish Surnames in the Middle Ages
One of the first tasks any fiction author sets out to do is to name characters. Creating memorable names helps readers connect to your characters. But believable characters are a challenge all around, and no less so in Historical Fiction. In this genre we’re faced with the added weight of… Historical Authenticity If you’re going…
November Hiatus
I know what you’re thinking. This is November. The infamous month where all writers disappear from the face of the web except for brief stints to post word count updates on their NaNoWriMo projects. So it’s only natural that you haven’t heard from me in a while, right? Well, as much as it pains me…
