Black Cat Walks in the Moonlight
Set in the mountains overlooking Lake Tahoe, a black cat finds a full moon and an open door. The Barrett's adopted cat has been a mystery to them, but when she leaves, they are each reminded of old losses while looking for her in the threatening, mountainous terrain.
Within a full moon cycle, the Barrett family
is no longer where she left them and none of them can ever go home again.
But it's not really about the cat.
Novel Status: first draft complete Jan 2023, second draft complete February 2024, in beta, workshopped with Tahoe Writers Works
Words: 96,000
Genre: Upmarket fiction with crossover to young adult.
- Download: Download Draft 2 for Beta Readers (Google Doc)
- Synopsis [[SPOILERS! Read with caution!]]: Download synopsis (PDF)
- Excerpt published in The ACES Anthology 2023: Stories and Poems from Northern Nevada (Amazon)
Infinity Necklace
Short story about how we give the advice we most need to hear, but sometimes in the wrong order.
A mother befriends her daughter's classmate, only to recognize she has a deeper connection with the girl.
Short story Status:In submissions
Words: 4,000
A Christmas Guest
With a touch of Christmas whimsy, this story warms the hearts of kids and adults.
Written as a Christmas gift to the members of the Tahoe Writers Works in 2020.
Short story Status: In submissions
Words: 1,800
Words: 1,800
Genre: literary fiction, children's fiction
Download: Download A Christmas Guest (PDF)
No Room at the Table
Stylish and image-conscious magazine journalist Andrea married the
easy-going programmer Michael while they were working overseas. It was
lovely until she met his large, brash family in the suburbs. They
are the kind of people who take selfies at a funeral.
But
what they lack in moderation and political correctness, they make up
for in their challenging version of unconditional support for each other, which she ultimately realizes even includes her.
Andrea's awkward relationship with Michael's family is told over ten years of
family visits.
Novel Status: outlining, to be released as episodic posts on this blog.
Words: expected 85,000
Genre: contemporary fiction
Reluctant Salesperson
Non-fiction sales resource focused on why sellers feel reluctance and how that costs us as sellers. How to overcome reluctance and embrace the opportunities of selling anything. Includes discussion of the shifting role of sales in our business environment and the death of pushy salespeople in favor of being a partner to clients. Focuses on tackling the emotional baggage that sellers often face, particularly women as sellers.Journalistic style with research, first person narration and interviews from working sellers. Templates and worksheets.
Non-fiction
Status: Outlined, 50% drafted
Words: Currently 45,000, expected final 65,000 - 70,000
Genre: business