What I’m reading
While I’m writing!
Reading something similar to what you’re writing, while you’re writing it, is not generally recommended. It can be a distraction. Or another excuse to procrastinate. I’m doing research!
When you’re also a writer it’s hard not to be a critical reader, analyzing every word choice, every paragraph break, and following the plot threads looking for teasers and red herrings. It’s worse if the author you’re reading is really good! It can be discouraging when you look back at your own crappy draft manuscript. But I’m working on it! I can do better.
Or it can lead you to try too hard to apply the techniques and tactics of a popular best-selling author. Imitation may be the sincerest form of flattery, but readers and critics may see it as flagrant plagiarism and you’ll never succeed or be satisfied with what you accomplish if it’s by slavish imitation.
You can, however, learn how to do it better. And if the writing is terrible it can be encouraging. I know can do better than that!
So that’s my explanation (not confession) of why I’m reading so closely the latest 
and greatest from Louise Penny – The Grey Wolf and The Black Wolf. It’s a spy thriller series more than a cozy mystery, but it retains the complex plot twists and challenging relationships between a wide range of weird and wonderful personalities that have made her stories of Armand Gamache and Three Pines such a global success. It’s a high achievement to aspire to, but there is lots to be learned from her on what appeals to readers and keeps them reading for over 300 pages.
For a change of genre and more examples of good writing, I also read a lot of biographies, history, short story collections, and new magazines, commentary and analysis.
So what are you reading or writing?
Are you a fan of more than one genre? Crime fiction, true crime, or non-fiction? Science fiction, historical fiction, fantasy or romance. Or a blend of futuristic-fantasy-romance?
Do you have a favourite writer on your reading list? Do my novels fit anywhere among your preferences? Do you have any feedback or commentary on the Dale Hunter Series that would help me match my books to the most likely readers, fans and followers?
That’s the real mystery in the writing and publishing business – how to help readers and writers find each other and then build a lasting loyal relationship.
Meanwhile, … here’s a SUMMER SALE for you! An opportunity to solve the mystery and find your next favourite author.
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Enjoy your reading and writing.
Take care,
Del
