By DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills I’m always looking for a solid TV show, one that entertains while I’m learning from the writers. This blog is totally from my perspective as a writer. Solid entertainment in a TV show must have the following: Three dimensional characters. Inner and outer landscape problems – even if it takes several weeks or the whole series …
Writers Who Deliver a Powerful Story
By DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills Reading excellent novels invites me into a story world where I lose track of time. I meet new characters who have a compelling story, dive into unique personalities, and share an adventure with them. I admire how they solve problems and face life. In short, I’m a picky reader. A book has to grab me in …
Tis the Season to Cook and Bake
By DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills Although the temperature highs here in Houston haven’t dipped below 85, I have my home decorated in colorful fall reminders. Perhaps the gold and orange will usher in cooler temps. I also have my list of favorite recipes and new ones to try out on my husband before presenting them to guests. Whether it’s a breakfast item, …
How to Home Roast Coffee Beans
By DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills Those of you who know me are aware of my fondness for coffee. My bio even states I’m a coffee snob. Actually, just like some of you have a favorite recipe for triple layer chocolate cake or yeast rolls or delicious soup, I’m particular about my coffee. This weekend, I roasted some of my favorite beans …
Adding Fun to Careers
By DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills Last week, the American Christian Fiction Writers National Conference hit the Nashville, Tennessee scene. Catching up with old friends and making new ones is always a plus. The speaking and teaching took writers to a deeper level of understanding the craft and the God who gave who purposed us to write. Some of the presenters were: …
How Important are First Impressions?
By DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills We’ve all heard about the importance of first impressions. Last week, I was having a discussion with a writer friend about how so many times, those first impressions are lasting. What can we do when ours is tainted? I’ve fallen prey to being judged by a first impression and regret those times. We can apologize, even …
National Happiness Happens Day
By DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills What a great way to start the work week with a national holiday that makes us smile. Even laugh! A key part of making today a success is all the fun things we can do. Life isn’t all about us but the joy we share with others. Choose today to be a blessing. Here are 10 …
5 Ways to Ensure a Memorable Summer
By DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills It’s July and the heat index is rising. Here in Houston, we’re looking at 100+ degrees and lots of humidity. Pool time and ocean beaches. I love it! Add a tall glass of cold lemonade or an iced tea, and I’m ready for some serious summer activities. But sometimes the heat drags us down, and that’s when …
What Makes a Woman a Heroine?
By DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills As a writer, I have a list of what I feel is vital for a woman to be a heroine in a romantic suspense novel. Determining who my female character is takes time and lots of thought. My criteria may not be what you expected. It’s not brains or beauty. It’s not an ivy-league education. It’s …
The Thrill of Writing Suspense
By DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills Many of you have asked me why I enjoy writing suspense. A recent interview answers that question for you along with why I view the process a rewarding challenge. Question: Suspense novels usually feature grittier scenes than other genres. In writing about crime scenes and killers, how do you write about them realistically without making your …