I turned to writing after a long corporate career, and I encourage writers at all stages to learn about their craft and the publishing industry. Some of my posts relate to my journey as a writer.

I think it is critical for writers to have a community of other writers. I have been very fortunate to be a part of the Kansas City Writers Group and two excellent critique groups. The best advice I can give beginning writers is to seek out other writers through local chapters of your state writing guild or through libraries and colleges in your area. 

Another good way to learn about writing is to attend a writing conference. There are good annual conferences in most states.

I am available to speak to writing groups about my novels or about researching historical fiction, about becoming a writer and learning to write novels, and specifically about the Oregon Trail and the California Gold Rush.

I am also a founding member of Write Brain Trust, a group of writers who defined their mission as “Writers helping writers with creativity, publishing, and marketing in a digital world.” We have taught each other, and we offer a Facebook Page and Twitter feed for other writers who are interested in developing these skills. We curate the best we read on the writing craft, on digital publishing, and on marketing through social media and other means. If you are interested, you can follow us through the links in this paragraph.

Best wishes to all on your writing journey.