Interview with Emily Freeborn: Spring 2026 Flash Fiction Contest Runner Up

 

Emily’s Bio: Emily Freeborn is an author currently on submission with her debut NA heist novel (Sinners or Saints) and an entertainment law student at Chapman University in Southern California. She loves writing stories that explore the minds of complicated, morally grey women. When she's not busy plotting fictional crimes and racking up a search history that would probably get her put on an FBI watchlist, she enjoys hanging out with her chaotic husky and hunting down rare books. You can find her on social media at @authoremilywrites and contact her agent, Lauren Galit of LKG Agency, for inquiries. 

Take a moment to read "Unclean" (CLICK HERE) and then come back to learn about how Emily shaped this story.

----interview with Sue Bradford Edwards----

WOW:  What was the inspiration for “Unclean”? 

Emily:  I was drawn to the specific aspect of coming of age in which you start to see the distance between your expectations and reality. One area I've noticed that this often appears in for young women is sex. You spend your teenage years growing attached to a theoretical version of the act, informed by romance books filled with orgasmic, idealized lovemaking. However, for many, early explorations of intimacy can be deeply unsatisfying. You not only find yourself coming down from a flood of hormones, but also from the intoxicating rush of that failed fantasy. I wanted to write a story about a young woman's first time that was less about a loss of "innocence" and more about this concept of the death of a dream. 

WOW:   I think you've written something that will definitely resonate with female readers. Revision is such an important part of the writing process. How did this story change during revision? 

Emily: Since "Unclean" is about a young woman grappling with complicated feelings about her first sexual experience, I wanted to make sure I communicated her emotional state in a way the reader could easily connect with. While editing, I tried to be precise with the imagery that I used so that even while the character jumps between her memories and the present, readers can feel immersed in her perspective and hopefully connect with the underlying emotions tying these moments together. 

WOW: Your bio says that you like working with morally grey characters. How is this character morally grey? What is it that makes these characters interesting to you? 

Emily: I've always been drawn to morally grey characters because I feel like they are often the most honest. Dig around long enough in any person's psyche and you are certain to uncover something ugly. For the young woman in "Unclean," this is her naïve and flawed belief that because there are boundaries that should keep her from the man she sleeps with -- those being the fact that he is married and her teacher -- her attraction and attempts to pursue him are safe and acceptable. I wanted her perspective to represent how overindulging in fantasy can limit your perception of reality and lead to a self-indulgent and ultimately damaging way of viewing the world. 

WOW: You definitely showed how her beliefs led to this situation. In addition to writing flash, you have a novel on submission. How does working on one form of literature inform the other? 

Emily: I actually have always found flash fiction much harder to write than novels. It challenges you to do everything that a good book should do -- immerse you in a new perspective, foster a connection with a character, and draw readers into the world you've created -- in a fraction of a fraction of the time a novel gets to accomplish that. 

But if you are a writer looking to work on your craft, I think writing short fiction is one of the best ways you can accomplish that. After my debut went out on submission, I challenged myself to write a piece of short fiction every morning while I tried to figure out what project I want to work on next. I've noticed that since getting into that habit, my writing has gotten much tighter, so I would especially recommend any writers who struggle to cut down their word count try it out. 

WOW: That's an excellent recommendation! What advice do you have for our readers who may be trying to decide if they should focus on one type of writing (novels) or write multiple forms (novels, nonfiction, flash, etc.)? 

Emily: Whether you are a new writer or someone who's made a career of it, I highly recommend trying out as many types of writing as you can. Play around with poetry, write a narrative non-fiction essay, try out flash fiction if you've been primarily writing long-form or vice versa. Regardless of whether you stick with any of those forms or not, you will probably be able to implement something from that experience into the form you do want to stick with long term. The more you experiment and explore, the better your understanding of the kind of work you want to create will be.

WOW:  Thank you for sharing with our readers not only how you create your own work but also how our readers can explore various forms and shape their own writing!  

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Leave a Comment interview, runner up , Spring Flash Fiction contest, Sue Bradford Edwards

Journaling Power: 10th Anniversary Edition by Mari L. McCarthy: Blog Tour & Giveaway

 

We're excited to announce the upcoming blog tour for Journaling Power: How To Create the Happy, Healthy Life YOU Want to Live, 10th Anniversary Edition. Mari L. McCarthy, author and long-time friend of WOW! Women on Writing joins us to celebrate her book's launch and special anniversary. We interview her about her book and give you a chance to win a copy for yourself.

Before we get to that, here's more about the book:

Are you ready to take control of your health and happiness, and healing - from the inside out?

In this powerful 10th anniversary edition of her international bestselling book, Mari L. McCarthy reveals how a simple pen-and-paper journaling power practice can unlock your inner healer, restore your connection to self, and help you create a life that finally feels like it fits.

Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and facing mounting health challenges, Mari turned to journaling - not as a hobby, but as a lifeline. 

What she discovered wasn’t just helpful. It was transformational.  Less pain. More clarity. Emotional freedom… and personal power reclaimed!

Heal. Grow. Transform.

 

Through Mari’s Journaling For The Health Of It™ method, thousands of people around the world have discovered how to:

• Manage chronic illness and heal emotional trauma 
• Rewire negative thought patterns and reduce anxiety
• Cultivate self-compassion and body trust
• Awaken their intuition and inner wisdom
• Navigate their healthcare journey with confidence
• Live authentically, joyfully, and on their own terms

All you need to join them is a pen, a notebook, and a quiet space.

With inspiring writing prompts, Morning Pages exercises, and step-by-step guidance, Journaling Power gives you the tools to turn inward - where healing, clarity, and self-love reside.

Publisher: BookBaby

AISN: B0H6S6ZM55

ISBN-13: 979-8317840433

Print Length: 204 pages

Purchase a copy of Journaling Power: How To Create the Happy, Healthy Life YOU Want to Live, 10th Anniversary Edition on Bookbaby and Amazon. Be sure to add it to your GoodReads reading list.

Praise About Journaling Power: 10th Anniversary Edition

"This autobiographical book is a good option for people who are looking for a reason or method to start a journaling practice. It shares a lot from the author's own perspective, and honestly felt like the book was probably also therapeutic for the author to write (in addition to being helpful to those who may be facing similar issues, such as struggles through chronic health conditions).

 

"The book really focuses on the idea of making journaling work for you. It's not about showing your writing to anyone else (or honestly even about reading it later). It's about the helpful effects of getting thoughts down on paper. There are specific journaling prompts as well as guidelines for how to journal. There are also a lot of stories of the author's health journey and how journaling fit into it. The author includes ways to reframe your inner critic and deal with common pitfalls, and also incorporates data and research that supports the benefits of regular writing, including narrative and expressive journaling. The end of the book has a bonus section, with prompts that didn't necessarily fit anywhere else in the book but also are worth exploring.

 

"One of my favorite little sections of the book was talking about being on a journey as opposed to reaching a destination. I do like that idea, because a lot of what we want to do with our lives doesn't necessarily have an end point. For example, I deal with my own chronic health issues, so I'm not likely to ever reach a destination of 'recovered' but I can continue on a journey towards greater mobility and small improvements.

 

"If you're curious about journaling, or feel like journaling will help you but don't know exactly where to start, read through this book to get you moving in the right direction." ~ Reedsy Discovery

 

"Mari L. McCarthy shines as a trailblazer in the world of journaling, and this updated edition of Journaling Power is a testament to her passion, wisdom, and lived experience. Drawing from her own transformative journey—overcoming the challenges of multiple sclerosis through daily pen-to-paper writing—Mari offers readers not just inspiration, but practical tools and heartfelt encouragement for writers who want to embark on their own paths of healing and self-discovery. This revised version is more than a guide; it’s an empowering companion that demonstrates how journaling can unlock creativity, foster resilience, and help anyone create a happier, healthier life. With its blend of personal stories, scientific evidence, and actionable exercises, Journaling Power stands out as an invaluable resource for writers looking to deepen their stories and anyone seeking to harness the life-changing benefits of journaling. This is a gift for the writer's soul. Thank you, Mari!" ~ Angela Mackintosh, Editor, WOW! Women on Writing

About the Author, Mari L. McCarthy

Mari L. McCarthy is the Founder and CEO-Chief Empowerment Officer of CreateWriteNow. She teaches health-conscious people how to use Journaling For The Health Of It™ for self-discovery,  personal growth and mental wellness.

Mari discovered therapeutic journaling 28 years ago while navigating the challenges of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Teaching herself to write with her non-dominant left hand, which began as a simple physical therapy exercise, quickly became a powerful tool for emotional, mental, and spiritual transformation.

She is the multi-award-winning author of Journaling Power, Heal Your Self With Journaling Power, and Mindset Medicine. Her work also includes more than 20 Journaling For The Health Of It™ workbooks, such as Who Am I?, Declutter Your Life and Writer’s Magic Journaling Challenge.

Learn more about her work and get your free Journaling Power workbook at CreateWriteNow.com. 

--- Interview by Nicole Pyles

WOW: Congrats on your 10 year anniversary of Journaling Power! I can't believe it's been 10 years since your first book came out. What has changed for you since the first release of this book?

Mari: Professionally, a lot has changed. Since my first book was released, I’ve self-published two more paperback/eBooks: Heal Your Self With Journaling Power and Mindset Medicine: A Journaling Power Self-Love Book. I’ve also expanded the CreateWriteNow Store to 23 workbooks, including a very popular addition to our Writer’s Collection, Writer’s Magic: 21-Day Journaling Challenge. The Writer’s Collection now also includes 53 Weekly Writing Retreats, 12-Day Guide to Morning Pages, and Overcome Page Fright in 7 Days.

Personally. I’ve made many lifestyle changes, and my health is at an all-time high. I’ve been off prescription medications for almost 24 years, I follow a Paleo diet, and since giving up dairy, my vocal range has been approaching four octaves.  I sleep consistently 7–9 hours a night, I feel more energized, and I enjoy ever growing inner peace and harmony.

I’ve added meditation and deep-breathing exercises to my daily Journaling Power practice…and oh, the places I go!

WOW: I love it! So many good things have happened. What was your process of revising and updating the book to prepare for the 10 year anniversary? 

Mari: I was starting on a new book, “Heal The Issues In Your Tissues” and wasn’t getting anywhere so I had some discussions with my journal and discovered that 2026 was the 10th anniversary of Journaling Power. I already had the cover image, so then I created the Amazon description and back cover copy. I reordered the chapters a bit, renamed a couple chapters and added a Bonus Section of Advanced Journaling Techniques (thank you for the bonus section suggestion, Melanie Faith). Then it was on to the fun part: rewriting, rewriting, rewriting.

WOW: That's amazing how it all came together. You must have changed so many lives by sharing your journaling method. What kind of experiences have you heard from people about how journaling has helped them? 

Mari: I’ve heard so many wonderful stories over the years, and what strikes me most is that journaling meets people wherever they are in their lives. By putting their thoughts and feelings on paper, they were able to make sense of what they were experiencing instead of carrying it all around in their mind and body.

Others have used journaling to gain clarity about what they really want. They start by writing about what’s bothering them or what they’re struggling with, and somewhere along the way, they discover an answer, a goal, or a solution they hadn’t been able to see before.

And then there are the stories about action. Someone told me, “I knew what I needed to do, but I just couldn’t do it.” Journaling gave them a safe place to explore the fear, uncover what was holding them back (issues in their tissues), and take that exciting first step. 

WOW: I agree that journaling can be so life-changing. What led you to turn to journaling in the first place? 

Mari: It really started with what I call a physical therapy emergency.

I had an MS episode that caused me to lose the function of my right arm, so I had to teach myself how to write with my left hand. Am

I went into a Borders bookstore looking for something that might help, and one of the booksellers recommended Julia Cameron’s The Artist’s Way. That book introduced me to Morning Pages—the practice of writing three pages of stream-of-consciousness thoughts first thing in the morning.

I started doing it, and something unexpected happened. Writing with my left hand quickly became easier. In those first few weeks, I realized that I had actually been left-handed as a child. The nuns at St. Bernard’s Grade School had made me switch to my right hand!

WOW: That's an incredible discovery! What advice would you share with those who don't really know how to get started with journaling?

Mari: The question I’m asked most often is, “How do I get started with journaling?”That’s why I created my 14-day introductory eWorkbook, Start Your Healing Journaling Power Practice Today!  available at CreateWriteNow.com.

My recommendation is to read through the workbook and choose the chapter or exercise that speaks to them.

Once they complete an exercise, I invite them to schedule a complimentary Journaling Power Session with me. During this session, we focus on whatever they’re currently navigating—whether that’s self-sabotage, an inner critic, procrastination, feeling overwhelmed or cluttered, or wanting to create healthier habits. Together, we identify what they need and co-create a Journaling Power Practice that fits them.

WOW: You have truly helped so many people. Thank you for choosing WOW to join you across your journey. 

--- Blog Tour Calendar

October 12 @ The Muffin

Stop by WOW's blog The Muffin to celebrate the launch of Mari L. McCarthy's blog tour of her 10th Anniversary Edition of Journaling Power. Read an interview with the author and enter to win a copy of her book.

https://muffin.wow-womenonwriting.com

October 13 @ Boys' Mom Reads!

Stop by Karen's blog for a spotlight of Journaling Power: 10th Anniversary Edition by Mari L. McCarthy.

https://karensiddall.wordpress.com/

October 13 @ Sandy Kirby Quandt

Sandy shares her review of Journaling Power: 10th Anniversary Edition by Mari L. McCarthy.

https://sandykirbyquandt.com/

October 15 @ Knotty Needle

Stop by Judy's blog for a review of Journaling Power: 10th Anniversary Edition. 

https://knottyneedle.blogspot.com/

October 20 @ All Things Writing

Stop by Caitrin's blog for an excerpt from Journaling Power: 10th Anniversary Edition. 

https://www.caitrincking.com/blog

October 21 @ Thoughts of Maddness

Maddie shares her review of Journaling Power: 10th Anniversary Edition. She also responds to our tour-themed prompt about keeping a journal and her experiences writing in one over the years.

https://maddness22.substack.com/

October 22 @ Knotty Needle

Return to Judy's blog for her response to our tour-themed prompt about keeping a journal and her experiences writing in one over the years.

https://knottyneedle.blogspot.com/

October 23 @ Melanie Faith's blog

Stop by Melanie's blog for a spotlight of Journaling Power: 10th Anniversary Edition. Melanie also responds to our tour-themed prompt on her writing routines around her journal.

https://www.melaniedfaith.com/blog

October 25 @ Lisa's Reading

Stop by Lisa's blog for a spotlight of Journaling Power: 10th Anniversary Edition.

https://lisasreading.com/

October 26 @ World of My Imagination

Stop by Nicole's blog for her review of Journaling Power: 10th Anniversary Edition.

https://worldofmyimagination.com/my-blog/

October 27 @ Discover The Magick Within

Stop by Isabella's blog for her review of Journaling Power: 10th Anniversary Edition. She also interviews Mari L. McCarthy about her book.

https://discoverthemagickwithin.com/

October 28 @ Book Reviews From an Avid Reader

Stop by Joan's blog for her review of Journaling Power: 10th Anniversary Edition. 

https://bookwomanjoan.blogspot.com/

    

October 29 @ The Memoir Revolution Blog

Stop by Jerry's blog for his review of Journaling Power: 10th Anniversary Edition. He also interviews Mari L. McCarthy about her book.

https://memorywritersnetwork.com/blog/

November 1 @ A Storybook World

Stop by Deirdra's blog for a spotlight of Journaling Power: 10th Anniversary Edition. 

https://www.astorybookworld.com/

November 1 @ Just Katherine

Stop by Katherine's blog for a spotlight on Journaling Power: 10th Anniversary Edition. She also responds to our tour-themed prompt on keeping a journal and her experience writing in one over the years.

https://justkatherineblog.wordpress.com/

November 3 @ Something Thoughts Everything Creativity

Stop by Kaecey's blog for her review of Journaling Power: 10th Anniversary Edition. 

https://www.kaeceymccormick.com/blog

November 5 @ A Wonderful World of Words

Stop by Joy's blog for an excerpt from Journaling Power: 10th Anniversary Edition. 

https://awonderfulworldofwordsa.blogspot.com/

November 5 @ Hook of a Book

Stop by Erin's blog for her review of Journaling Power: 10th Anniversary Edition. 

https://hookofabook.wordpress.com/

November 6 @ Sarandipity's Blog

Stop by Sara's blog for a spotlight of Journaling Power: 10th Anniversary Edition. 

https://sarandipitys.com/blog/

November 8 @ Shoe's Seeds and Stories

Visit Linda's blog for her review of Journaling Power: 10th Anniversary Edition. 

https://lschuelerca.wordpress.com/

***** BOOK GIVEAWAY *****

Enter to win Journaling Power: 10th Anniversary Edition by Mari L McCarthy. Fill out the form below for a chance to win. The giveaway ends October 25th at 11:59 pm CT. We will randomly draw a winner the next day and follow up via email. Good luck! 

Journaling Power Giveaway

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7 comments blog tour, giveaway, journaling power, Mari L. McCarthy, Nicole Pyles

Interview with Halie Marbet, Runner Up in the Q3 Creative Nonfiction Essay Contest with “Look Both Ways"

Congratulations to Halie Marbet from Bracciano, Italy 

 for her moving nonfiction essay titled: 

 Look Both Ways 

 Check out Halie’s submission, Look Both Ways as well as all the other winning entries and then stop back here to read Halie Marbet’s intriguing and insightful interview with Crystal J. Casavant-Otto from WOW! Women on Writing. 

Halie’s Bio: Hallie Marbet has been writing voraciously for over five years. Her story, Anna, the Island and Me, placed second in a WOW essay contest recently. In addition to her shorter pieces, she has written three children’s books: The Catch, Changing Charlie and Chalk Doors, along with three novels: Final Dawn, Fog and Divergent. She’s presently working on her next novel, Bad Progeny. She draws inspiration through reflection and meaningful observation. Her birthplace, Plum Island, Massachusetts, has always held her heart, but has never stopped her from living in a myriad of different places. Currently, she resides with her family in Bracciano, Italy, teaching ESL. When she’s not writing or working, she can be found swimming, spending time with family or somewhere lost in translation. 

 Today's interview was penned by Crystal J. Casavant-Otto 

WOW!: Thank you for being here with me today Halie and thank you for writing such an insightful essay (as someone who is often too much, I loved it!). Let’s get right down to it! Thank you for writing such an insightful and personal essay – what is the take-away you’d like readers to gain from reading Look Both Ways? 

 Halie: We shouldn’t let other people influence how we feel about what we say or do. In a society becoming increasingly dependent on the virtual world of ‘likes’, we should just like ourselves. There is no need to gain approval from others. Unfortunately, we are taught from infancy that we should appease people through our language and behavior and within this psychological game, we lose ourselves. 

Be true to you. Listen to your gut, your heart, and your mind. 
They are unique, like you. If they tell you to laugh, laugh. 
If they tell you to scream, scream. 

 WOW!: That’s great advice - and speaking of which, what advice would you give to others (specifically female authors) when it comes to self care? 

 Halie: Take time for yourself. No one will give it to you. 

Eat the ice cream; drink the wine. Go for a long swim, walk, or run. Clear your head of the mess that accrues each day. 

If you can’t get up early to write, stay up late to write. Find the time. 

Be alone. Sometimes we listen too much to other people and not enough to ourselves. Our voices speak up when we’re listening, giving us ideas for writing. 

Remember, no one writes like you. Your thoughts, ideas and words are like snowflakes, utterly unique.

 And never stop putting words on paper. 

 WOW!: Well that’s frame-worthy advice! Or maybe you should call me every morning with that fabulous pep-talk! That would get me motivated - which brings me to my next question: You’re obviously not lacking motivation, so tell us, what’s next for you? What are your writing goals for the rest of 2026 and beyond? 

 Halie: We are in the process of moving. I’ve been chipping away at short stories when I can find the time. After we get settled, I’ll choose my new place for writing. The new apartment has lots of glorious light and I plan on rising early to continue writing ‘Bad Progeny’. I prefer mornings before the weight of the day bears down on me. 

I will also be working endlessly on short stories and essays for submission to contests. That wheel never stops turning. 

 WOW!: As someone who just moved - I hope you get settled faster than we have! I know readers have noticed your impressive bio, could you tell us one more about your travels or passion for Plum Island, Massachusetts? 

 Halie: My passion for Plum Island, Massachusetts, runs deep. Imagine a childhood where you could
step outside of your house right into a salt marsh that stretched for miles, a place where you could roam, investigate, swim, and have your imagination run wild, a place where the colors of the sunset would take you to profound spaces in your mind, a place where the salty breeze lulled you to sleep each night.

 I learned to swim in the frosty waters of the Atlantic Ocean where the undertow always threatened to take me under. I became a very strong swimmer, so much so that later in life I would swim around a Belizan island by myself. 

Plum Island inspired my children’s story, ‘The Catch’ which I wrote with my best friend, who is also from Plum Island. 

 WOW!: Thank you for that beautiful insight and the lovely photograph you also provided! You have a bit of a history with writing contests according to your bio. - tell us what prompted you to submit to this particular contest? What would you like to tell other authors concerning contests and submitting their work? 

 Halie: WOW! was my first and is my favorite writing contest. I think I was initially drawn to it since it’s only for women writers. I submitted an essay about losing my mom five years ago and it was long listed. That recognition started a fire in my chest, and it’s still burning. 

 I cannot emphasize enough just how important it is to submit your work to writing contests. Even if you don’t place, you are giving yourself deadlines and a standard. Read winning entries, format properly and get that exciting feeling in your stomach before you hit ‘send’. Maybe you’ll place, if not today, maybe tomorrow. Let it push you into the great unknown. Your writing will inspire others and who knows, maybe someday you could even make a living as a writer. 

Lastly, pay extra for critiques. This might be the most important thing you can do to improve your writing. I have grown as a writer because of the priceless feedback I have received from experienced writers and editors. 

 WOW!: Halie - my heart is full and I’m sorry that our time has come to an end (although I have a feeling we will be hearing from you again soon). Thank you for all the great insight and advice; I know readers will enjoy our interview as much as I did! This isn’t “goodbye”, it’s “see you soon”! 

 Xoxo ~Crystal

Crystal Casavant-Otto writes. 

Everything. 

If you follow her blog: Bring On Lemons you have likely laid eyes on every thought she has ever had. The world may never know her name, but she prays that because of her, someone may smile a little brighter. She prides herself on doing nice things - yes, even for strangers. She is always up for a challenge whether it’s living in the basement, living on a boat, or buying a dairy farm!

You never know where she’ll turn up next or what she’ll be doing, but it’s guaranteed she’ll be having fun! 

 Check out the latest Contests: www.wow-womenonwriting.com/contest.php

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Leave a Comment author interview, crystal casavant, crystal otto, halie marbet, look both ways, nonfiction essay contest, runner up , writing contest

Why I Attend Webinars that Aren’t for Writers

Yesterday, I took time out of my afternoon to attend the Booklist webinar “Fall in Love with Series Nonfiction.” I write nonfiction, much of which is published in series, so this may seem like a no-brainer until you focus on the fact that this event was hosted by Booklist. 

Booklist is the book review magazine of the American Library Association. This wasn’t a webinar for nonfiction writers. It was for librarians and other staff who make buying decisions at libraries. 

Why did I attend? Maybe I was putting off writing. You wouldn’t be completely wrong, but there is more to it than that. 

Among the speakers were editors, publishers, and marketing staff.  Each of them showed off the upcoming titles they are most proud of, and they also discussed what it is that makes these books popular with young readers. Some of the things they mentioned are design specific. These included bright colors and bold sidebars. There are also small compact sidebars that are tempting for reluctant readers. Bold photos and graphic panels were also emphasized. 

If I’m going to submit something to one of these publishers, I know what they use as selling points. Now I can include these features in my manuscript. 

But I also benefited from seeing what topics are being published in series. As Matt Warner, Marketing Director for the Cherry Lake Publishing Group, discussed their titles, I realized that I had a nonfiction proposal that would complement what they are already publishing. And when I researched Cherry Lake, I discovered that they accept submissions. I’m going to have to tweak what I already have, but with minimal effort it will be ready to go. 

Not every publisher represented in the webinar is accepting submissions. Nomad Press doesn’t accept submission or applications for work-for-hire. But Andi Diehn, Editor and Marketer, pointed out that their STEM titles don’t focus only on the scientific method but also emphasize the engineering design process. I’ve listened to enough conversations between engineers about troubleshooting a design to get what she was saying, but this phrase was new to me. I’ll be trotting it out when I pitch one of my new ideas. These webinars are goldmines of industry specific terminology. 

Dear Amazing Editor, 

My manuscript not only explains the work that engineers do in building bridges, it also walks young readers through the engineering design process. Terminology is grade appropriate and easy for readers to grasp. 

Check out the archive of Booklist webinars HERE and maybe you’ll find something that will help you in your publishing journey.  

--SueBE

Sue Bradford Edwards' is the author of over 80 books for young readers. To find out more about her writing, visit her site and blog.

She is also the instructor for 3 WOW classes which begin on the first Monday of every month. She teaches:

• Pitching, Querying and Submitting Your Work 

• Research: Prepping to Write Nonfiction for Children and Young Adults 

• Writing Nonfiction for Children and Young Adults 

To get a free copy of Sue’s book, What to Do When Your Book Is Banned, subscribe to her newsletter, One Writer’s Journey, here.

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Leave a Comment learning from marketing, marketing nonfiction, series nonfiction, Sue Bradford Edwards, Webinars, writing nonfiction

Interview With Jennie Bricker: Spring 2026 Flash Fiction Contest Runner-Up

 

I'm honored to interview Jennie Bricker, one of our Spring 2026 Flash Fiction Runner-Up winners. We'll be chatting about what inspired her flash fiction story, "The Sailboat," her revision process, and more.

Before you read our discussion, be sure to read her story, "The Sailboat," then come on back. First, here's more about Jennie:

Jennie Bricker practices natural resources law in Portland, Oregon, with a side gig as a freelance editor and writer. She has previously worked as a bookstore clerk, a college writing instructor, a magazine editor, a comic book editor, a pizza delivery driver, and the brown furry mascot for a southern Oregon pizza joint formerly known as Grizzly Bear Pizza.

Jennie has published around 40 nonfiction articles, both magazine features and academic pieces, one of which received an award. Her short stories and microfiction have appeared in 100 Word Story, Third Wednesday Magazine, and a Writer’s Digest prizewinners anthology. Her first novel, Thirsty Creek (Unsolicited Press, 2025), is an ecological murder mystery set in the Wallowa Mountains of eastern Oregon. Her second novel, The Metabolic Adventures of Two-Bit Gilkey, comes out in spring 2028 from Type Eighteen Books.

--- Interview by Nicole Pyles

WOW: Congrats on winning runner-up for your story, "The Sailboat." What inspired this story? 

Jennie: This story began as a poem, during a period about 15 years ago when I wrote a lot of poetry, mostly bad. This poem was based on an actual relationship that ended, and an actual sailboat. I’ve taken several poems from that period and converted them into microfiction. I think it’s the imagery that makes the conversion effective. Very little of the poem remains, but some of the images are still there.

WOW: I love that you turned poetry into microfiction. That's something I want to remember! What was your revision process like?

Jennie: First, I converted the poem into prose, which required a narrative arc. Then, usually, a story is obese — too long, with pointless scenes and characters. So my main process is to winnow it down to something I consider its essence. With “The Sailboat,” I also fiddled endlessly with the language. I wanted the syntax to reflect the sound and the mood of the ocean, which in the story becomes the symbol  of emotion, memory, and nostalgia. So, for example, I wrote “salty sad lapping and murmur” because to me it sounded like the sea against the shore, or against the hull of a boat.

WOW: Great insights on the weight of a story. Does your career practicing natural resources law help or influence your writing in any way? 

Jennie: My law job gives me ideas for stories. My novel, Thirsty Creek, is based on an actual ecological disaster that I learned about as I was helping organize a conference for the Oregon Lakes Association. Usually my work is more of an impediment to writing. I write in the early morning, when it’s quiet, my favorite time. I start work when the hubbub of the day takes hold.

WOW: I love how your work inspires you. You have some incredible publications you’ve achieved! What advice can you share about creating publishable writing that you can share with our readers?

Jennie: Thirsty Creek took me 14 years to get into publishable shape and then find a publisher. I hope that’s not typical. So my advice is that persistence is at least as important as talent. Be patient. Laugh at rejection and never take it personally. Read constantly. And unless someone else is paying the mortgage, don’t quit your day job.

WOW: Great advice! What are you working on that you can tell us about?

Jennie: My second novel — The Metabolic Adventures of Two-Bit Gilkey — is a YA novel that comes out in 2028. It only took 2 years!! Apparently I have learned something. I’m also getting better at short stories, especially microfiction, which I adore. I’m writing short stories but haven’t settled in on my next big project. It’s between three ideas for novels. All of them, like Two-Bit Gilkey, have time travel, because I love time travel.

WOW: Time travel is really a great theme. Thank you so much for your time. We look forward to seeing more from you!

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Leave a Comment interview, Jennie Bricker, Nicole Pyles, Spring 2026 Flash Fiction Contest

When Women Talk Volume 3, Notes From The Future: Blog Tour & Giveaway

 

We're excited to announce the blog tour for When Women Talk Volume 3, Notes From The Future. Elle Mott, one of the co-authors and a friend of WOW, is joining us again to celebrate the book's launch and share more details about her contribution. We interview her about her journey to share her story. You'll also have a chance to win a print copy of the book, a full-sized writing journal, and three pens, each engraved with an inspirational quote.

But first, here is more about the book:

Ever wish you could call your younger self and say, “It’s going to be okay”? 

In When Women Talk: Notes From the Future, ten incredibly diverse women look back and do just that. 

This isn’t an “I told you so” lecture; this book gathers honest, heartfelt stories from women across generations, reaching back to tell their younger selves what truly matters. From messy breakups to career wins, these stories offer a roadmap for your own journey. It’s not about quick fixes; it’s about the timeless wisdom of resilience, self-worth, and trust. You need to read this because it feels like a long coffee date with your future, much wiser best friend.

"While a single voice can make an impact, many voices can make change. We all have a purpose and a story to tell; there is someone who needs to hear it, and by showing up we can make a difference in someone’s life, career, or business." — Cathy Kuzel, curator.

"We don’t have to bring ill-emotions from an unsettling childhood event into our adulthood. And yet if we do, there is hope for renewal. After all, it takes what it takes to get us to where we are today in life. Sometimes the journey from nightfall to sunrise is not an overnight matter." — Elle Mott, co-author.

Purchase a copy of When Women Talk Volume 3, Notes From The Future from the When Women Talk Bookstore or on Amazon.

About the Co-Author, Elle Mott

Elle Mott writes creative nonfiction focused on resiliency, empowerment, and advocacy. She is a featured co-author in the new book, When Women Talk Volume 3 (The Connected Woman, 2026). Elle toured with WOW! earlier this year for the historical biography, "Marie Conner, A Leading Lady" (Luminare Press, 2026). She is also the author of "Out of Chaos, A Memoir" (Boyle & Dalton, 2018), and "People Helping People" (2020). Her shorter pieces are widely featured in ezines, literary journals, national news magazines, and regional collections. Elle works at the public library in downtown Cincinnati and dedicates her free time to her passion for writing. She lives in nearby northern Kentucky with two cats and several pet birds. 

Website: https://ellemottauthor.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elle-mott-author

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ellemott.author

AllAuthor: https://allauthor.com/author/ellemott

Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/ellemott

--- Interview by Nicole Pyles

WOW: Congrats on being included in this incredible collection. What inspired you to submit your writing to this collection?

Elle: Thank you! It is a "wow" feeling to have my contribution, “My Journey From Nightfall to Sunrise,” included in this volume for When Women Talk. I had already read Volumes 1 and 2, and knowing that proceeds from book sales invest in the livelihoods of women worldwide is incredibly important to me. All of my published works focus on resiliency, empowerment, and giving back to improve my life and the lives of others.

When a friend nudged me to apply, it felt like the next natural move. My application included a writing sample, followed by a virtual meeting with the curator. The next exciting part was meeting my co-authors, also virtually. Together, we are so excited to launch this book!

WOW: That sounds incredible! I can only imagine how much I'd have to say to my younger self. How did you know what you wanted to say?

Elle: There are so many things I would like to say to my younger self. If only I could have, I would have avoided some of the hardships I encountered. Yet, it takes what it takes to get where we are in life today, which is the underlying message of my piece.

To narrow down exactly what to say, I relied on reader feedback from an earlier published essay of mine. In that story, I shared a childhood experience. A reader told me it gave her insight to ponder, but left her with a lingering question of what happened next. To answer her, I revisited that fateful night in my girlhood to bring the story full circle.

WOW: Love that you sought feedback to figure out exactly what you wanted to say. What was your writing process like?

Elle: From the first messy, unpolished draft I shared with our curator to the final edits, I kept my writing journal and pen with me everywhere I went. On breaks at work, I’d write and rewrite. During my commute, my brain muscles worked overtime as I planned what to change and why. On weekends, I pieced together those scrambled notes to share with our editor.

Throughout it all, I experienced an incredible sense of community. At times, I felt like I was exposing a deeply hidden part of myself, but I wasn't alone. Hearing that a couple of my co-authors shared that same vulnerability made all the difference. Our curator often reminded us: you have a story to tell, and someone out there needs to hear it.

WOW: That sense of community makes such a difference. How did your contribution change from the first draft to the final draft?

Elle: Once I was selected, our editor helped me polish the draft. As I answered her questions, I fleshed out the details. I was open to suggestions regarding flow, but I was a stickler for pacing based on what I’ve learned from my prior publications.

What was a brand-new experience for me was working with a Canadian editor and publisher. Who knew there were so many spelling variations depending on which side of the border you sit on to read?

WOW: Interesting! Why do you think it's so inspiring or powerful to think of what we'd want to say to our younger selves?

Elle: Life has a sometimes funny, sometimes tragic way of turning out. I used to place blame on myself for my life’s trajectory. However, as I opened up to write this story, I realized that self-blame is hurtful, not helpful. The key is to accept accountability while simultaneously embracing where life puts us.

By thinking of what we’d say to our younger selves, we open ourselves up to laugh, cry, or both. More importantly, it helps us understand what happened so we can focus on today.

WOW: Great point. How was this type of writing different from any other writing you've done?

Elle: In the early days of my writing journey, which was more than ten years ago, I primarily contributed to local publications. I suppose that was a safety net and a way to test the waters. In contrast, my contribution to When Women Talk takes my writing to an international level. It took real bravery to share my words literally with the whole world.

WOW: It does! What advice would you share to writers just starting out?

Elle: Write. If you don’t write, nothing will get written! Beyond that, get to know other authors. Share what you learn along the way, and listen to what they have to say. One great place to befriend other writers is right here, hanging out with WOW! Women on Writing. As you write, be brave. There is someone who needs to hear your story, but they won’t get the chance if you don’t write it first.

WOW: Great advice. What are you working on now that you can tell us about?

Elle: I don’t know yet what my next book will be, but I invite you to follow my writing journey to discover alongside me as to just what that will be.

WOW: Yes! I hope people do. Can you share more about your writing routine?

Elle: Each day is an opportunity to write. During the week, my writing hours are stretched thin. Like many people, I’m committed to a day job all week long. Come the weekend, though, I put that daily drafting to work with a dedicated morning session. Waking up early on my days off to do that feels incredibly exciting and empowering.

WOW: Love that you prioritize that way. Where do you like to write? 

Elle: My favorite place to write is at my desk at home. I always have my cats nearby. My older cat usually sits on the perch right next to my desk by the window. My other cat likes to hang out in front of us, looking up at our pet birds in their aviary, who cheer me on with their tweets! 

WOW: Thank you so much for joining us, Elle! Best of luck on what comes next!

--- Blog Tour Calendar

October 5 @ The Muffin

Join us at our blog, The Muffin, as we celebrate the launch of When Women Talk Volume 3, Notes From The Future. We interview co-author Elle Mott and give away a copy of the book.

https://muffin.wow-womenonwriting.com

October 5 @ Just Katherine

Stop by Katherine's blog for an excerpt from When Women Talk Volume 3, Notes From The Future. She also shares her response to our tour-themed prompt.

https://justkatherineblog.wordpress.com/

October 7 @ A Storybook World

Stop by Deirdre's blog for a spotlight from When Women Talk Volume 3, Notes From The Future.

https://www.astorybookworld.com/

October 10 @ Chapter Break

Stop by Julie's blog for an interview with Elle Mott about her writing in When Women Talk Volume 3, Notes From The Future.

https://chapterbreak.net/

October 12 @ Lisa's Reading

Stop by Lisa's blog for an excerpt from When Women Talk Volume 3, Notes From The Future.

https://lisasreading.com/

October 14 @ Hook of a Book

Visit Erin's blog for an excerpt from When Women Talk Volume 3, Notes From The Future.

https://hookofabook.wordpress.com/

October 15 @ Words by Webb

Visit Jodi's blog for a review of When Women Talk Volume 3, Notes From The Future.

https://www.jodiwebbwriter.com/blog

October 18 @ World of My Imagination

Stop Nicole's blog for her review of When Women Talk Volume 3, Notes From The Future.

https://worldofmyimagination.com/my-blog/

October 20 @ Author Anthony Avina's Blog

Visit Anthony's blog for his review of When Women Talk Volume 3, Notes From The Future.

https://authoranthonyavina.com/category/blog-tours/

October 23 @ A Wonderful World of Books

Stop by Joy's blog for a spotlight of When Women Talk Volume 3, Notes From The Future.

https://awonderfulworldofwordsa.blogspot.com/

October 25 @ Bring on Lemons

Stop by Crystal's blog for a spotlight and review of When Women Talk Volume 3, Notes From The Future.

https://bringonlemons.blogspot.com/

October 27 @ What Is That Book About

Michelle spotlights When Women Talk Volume 3, Notes From The Future.

https://www.whatisthatbookabout.com/

October 30 @ All Things Writing

Stop by Caitrin's blog for an excerpt from When Women Talk Volume 3, Notes From The Future.

https://www.caitrincking.com/blog

November 2 @ Jessica's Reading Room.

Stop by Jessica's blog for an excerpt from When Women Talk Volume 3, Notes From The Future.

https://jessicasreadingroom.com/

November 4 @ Author Anthony Avina's Blog

Stop by Anthony's blog for an excerpt from When Women Talk Volume 3, Notes From The Future.

https://authoranthonyavina.com/category/blog-tours/

***** BOOK GIVEAWAY *****

One winner will receive a print copy of When Women Talk Volume 3, Notes From the Future, a full-sized writing journal, and three pens, each engraved with an inspirational quote. Fill out the form below for a chance to win! The giveaway ends on October 18 at 11:59 pm CT. We will randomly draw a winner the next day and follow up via email. Good luck!

When Women Talk Volume 3, Notes From the Future, Journal and Pens Giveaway

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11 comments author interview, blog tour launch, book giveaway, Elle Mott, When Women Talk

Interview with Kendra Ryan, Runner Up in the WOW! Q3 2026 Creative Nonfiction Contest

Kendra Ryan writes fiction, nonfiction, and screenplays, striving to blend humor with emotional honesty. She earned a Certificate in Screenwriting from UCLA Extension in 2025, where she completed two feature-length screenplays. She is currently at work on her first novel, and one of her poems has been published. Her writing explores memory, family, attachment, and the sometimes absurd ways we try to make sense of our emotional lives. She lives outside Philadelphia with her husband, daughter, and cavapoo, Nico. 

 ----------Interview by Renee Roberson 

WOW: Congratulations, Kendra, and welcome! I know "Feelings Feeler Job Description" and its structure within a hermit crab essay will resonate with so many people, particularly women! How did you first get the idea to structure this as a job opening/description? 

Kendra: I started writing hermit crab essays in a workshop with Chelsey Clammer that I found through WOW. It was my first time playing with the form, and I had so much fun seeing what could happen when you put something very personal inside a structure that was never meant to hold it. For this one, the idea was pretty simple: I didn’t want to feel my feelings. There was (and still is) so much going on in my life, so much "doing" that needed to be done, that I wished I could just outsource the "being" or feeling part of life. I thought it would be funny to create a job posting looking for someone willing to do that for me. 

WOW: I love it. It's such a unique idea that nails the everyday internal conflicts within us all. How did the piece evolve from start to finish? What was the revision process like for you? 

Kendra: I love Anne Lamott's idea of the "shitty first draft," and I often start with a pretty shitty rough draft. I brain-dump everything I’ve been thinking about the idea, see what I’ve got, and then keep taking notes as more things occur to me over the next few days. With this essay, having the form helped enormously. Once I started looking at the actual elements of a job posting—qualifications, responsibilities, compensation—I could explore the comedic possibilities within each one. Then revision was mostly cutting, tightening, and trusting the form to do more of the work. 

WOW: You've studied writing screenplays and completed two of your own. How is writing for the screen different from other creative writing you’ve worked on? What is the process like for you? 

Kendra: Screenwriting may be the ultimate box to work within, which I love. It has very specific rules for clear communication because you’re essentially trying to make a visual art form make sense on paper. You can’t simply tell us what someone is thinking; you have to give us something we can see or hear. I love dialogue, and I studied improv at the Groundlings when I lived in Los Angeles, so that part comes naturally to me. Plot is usually where the characters start making unreasonable demands. 

WOW: How fun! Studying improv must have been very helpful to your overall writing process. What advice would you give other aspiring writers who are hesitant about submitting their work to writing contests? 

Kendra: Done is better than perfect. Especially at first, I’m a big believer in paying for feedback from reputable places like WOW when it’s available. Submit, get the feedback, make the edits that ring true, and do it again. Lately I’ve tried to redefine failure for myself: failure isn’t submitting and not winning. Failure is letting something sit on my computer because I was too afraid to submit it at all. 

WOW: That is such truth. Sometimes the toughest hurdle to get over is simply putting a piece out in the world. We can tell by your essay that your life is jam packed. How do you prioritize the time to work on your own writing projects, including your current novel? 

Kendra: It comes and goes in waves. I got very little writing done during the second half of this summer, and eventually I had to accept that that was simply what that season of my life looked like. Now that my daughter is back in school, I can carve out more time again. I’m a mom and a real estate agent, so I’ve mostly given up waiting for the perfect writing routine. I try to protect the time when it’s available, stay connected to whatever I’m working on when it isn’t, and trust that I’ll find my way back to it.

WOW: That's all we can do! Thank you again for joining us today, Kendra. We look forward to reading more from you!

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Leave a Comment Contestant interview, Kendra Ryan, Renee Roberson, runner up , WOW! Q3 2026 CNF Contest, writing advice

Friday Speak Out!: Using POV Variance to Build Suspense

By Wendy M. Barnhart

Oh, mystery and suspense, how I love thee, both to read and to write.

As a reader, I’m working hard to discover whodunnit. As a writer, I’m working hard to prevent the reader from figuring out whodunnit (at least not too early).

In my experience, one tool that works well from both sides of that equation is point of view. Using different POVs, if done well, can be an efficient and fun way to build suspense. After all, suspense isn’t always what’s happening on the page. The gaps between what a character – or characters – knows, and what the reader knows can create tension, uncertainty, alarm, and other juicy emotions.

When the reader knows more than a character, the reader may see the killer hiding in the next room, but the unsuspecting character does not. And when the character walks toward that room, we beg them to stop! But in they go…are they the next victim?

If a character knows more than a reader, the reader knows that one character is a killer, they are hiding in the next room, and when another character walks into that room the reader expects the killer to strike them down, but they don’t. Why not?

What we thought we knew doesn’t match what we read. Hmm…we have some intriguing gaps.

For this discussion, and using POV, we can take those two scenarios and further build on the suspense, the story, the what-just-happened that makes the reader keep reading. Maybe we even sprinkle in some clues.

Perhaps our character is unexpectedly able to defend themselves against the killer. How? We have new information to explore.

Or maybe the killer sees the potential victim and chooses to spare them. Why? Also new information.

The new information is something to chew on, but it isn’t all-revealing. We’ve created uncertainty, curiosity, maybe a little shock, maybe an unreliable perspective. And clues which will make sense later in the story.

Can you put multiple POVs in the same story? Sure. I’m not talking about head-hopping, which is a solid rule breaker. You’ll want separate scenes or chapters for each POV. Will it hurt your brain to write a novel with multiple POVs? Maybe. You do have to be diligent about who said and did what, when, where, and how. But the same is true for your story overall.

In my thriller, “Scaled Vengeance,” I intersperse my protagonist’s POV with chapters from the serial killer(s) and their victims. My objective was to give the reader some insight, clues, and ideas that my protagonist doesn’t have. It’s intense, and sometimes gruesome, but also feeds the moral dilemma running through the novel: if the justice system fails and abusive people are left free to continue hurting others in brutal ways, is it okay if someone else stops them? Every murder, in contrast to all that is happening in my protagonist’s life, further builds suspense in a way that focusing on the protagonists POV alone could not do, so it worked for my process.

Your mileage may vary, but don’t be afraid to work with different POVs in your craft. Experiment. Have fun with it. Just no head-hopping.

* * *

International bestselling author Wendy M. Barnhart (formerly Terrien) makes her thriller debut with Scaled Vengeance. Her YA fantasy debut, The Rampart Guards, earned a Kirkus starred review and was named a Kirkus Reviews Best Book of 2016. The series' fourth installment, The Forge of Bonds, received the Colorado Authors League Award of Excellence. Wendy serves on the Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers board and is a member of Sisters in Crime. Find out more about her at her website WendyMBarnhart.com.

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Would you like to participate in Friday "Speak Out!"? Email your short posts (under 500 words) about women and writing to: marcia[at]wow-womenonwriting[dot]com for consideration. We look forward to hearing from you!

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Webb Writing Challenge - Part 2

 

This weekend I volunteered at my church bingo - five hours of running around handing out bingo cards, prizes and remembering to never wish them good luck (apparently this is taboo in the bingo world). I got started as a volunteer because I would rather work than actually play bingo. So, when I sat down to write this month's post I had all things bingo on my mind. Naturally, with the wild way my brain works bingo cards reminded me of reading challenges on bingo-like cards which reminded me of a writing challenge I gave everyone about a year ago.

Are you done yet?

I hope so since I have a new challenge. Since that challenge focused on fiction writing, I thought I'd give you a nonfiction writing challenge this time around. Use the card above to write your way to a bingo (four corners counts), a picture frame or pull out all the stops and write your way to a cover all. It's a great excuse to stretch those writing muscles and try new things. Don't forget to tell me how you're doing with the challenge!

1. Flash pieces - Can you express yourself in 1000 words or less? WOW's Creative Nonfiction Essay Contest is accepting entries right now but there are quite a few markets accepting flash writing.

2. Hit the Road - Write something based on travel -- anything from a description of your favorite place to travel tips to an essay on your dream journey.

3. Pleased to Meet You - Chat with someone you find interesting (your favorite author, your partner, the woman who owns your local coffee shop) and create a piece based on that interview. You never know what you'll learn or what other ideas will spring from that interaction.

4. Let's Laugh - Can you make your readers laugh? It's harder than you think! Craft an essay, article or even a how-to that will give everyone the giggles.

5. Outside Your Window - Focus on nature for your next piece. Maybe a description of the beauty you see in the autumn colors, an article about gardening, or even something about surviving a hurricane.

6. Hometown Happenings - What about your hometown could be interesting to the big wide world? Maybe a quirky local event, a famous resident, a vacation destination, a local food. I've written articles for national publications about local artists, local charities, the origin of nearby town names, a high school history class that build a Viking ship.

7. Be the Expert - I've written advice based articles about saving money at Disney World, shopping at consignment shops, encouraging a reluctant reader and book marketing. Where are you an expert? 

8. Listicles - They're everywhere: the ten best chocolate chip cookies in the grocery store, five towns every Civil War enthusiast has to visit, four holiday traditions to skip and four holiday traditions you can't miss. These are quick, fun pieces to write and can often find a home with online magazines.

9. Your Mission Should You Choose to Accept It - It's a challenge to write something that will stand out when everyone else is writing about the same topic. Check out Readers Write for The Sun Magazine and call outs from places like Business Insider and All Recipes. When creating a piece based on an assigned topic, strive to find a unique twist.

10. Review - Yes, you could review a book but that's not the only review gig in town. Review music, toys, power tools, events.

11. Pick a Side - Find a controversial topic (no, you don't have to go straight to politics) and pick a side. Right now the big online discussion is "Should You Take an Iced Coffee to a Job Interview?" Maybe your writing will start the next big discussion.

12. History - Turn back the clock and find something interesting in the past to write about. It could be your personal history or something about a company, town, celebrity, sports team, even your favorite food.

13. Hermit Crab - Write a personal essay disguised as something else: a recipe, a police report, a letter to your congressman.

14. Delicious - Why are cooking reality shows so popular? We all love food! So write about it. You can teach readers how to cook, share memories of a significant food in your family, discuss the latest trend (please, can something take the place of pumpkin spice), even a humorous piece about your epic fail in the kitchen.

15. For the Kids - Turn to a younger audience and craft an article, quiz, activity, or interview just for them on your favorite topic. There are plenty of kids magazines focuses on everything from history to science to cooking to world cultures.

16. That's New - Can't think of any ideas? Learn something new! Take a class in pottery. Read a book about fly fishing. Volunteer at your poll place. Maybe you won't write about that specific topic but it may give your brain a boost to another idea.

 

Jodi M. Webb writes from her home in the Pennsylvania mountains about everything from apple pie to consignment shops to travel. She's also a blog tour manager for WOW-Women on Writing. Follow her writing (and reading) life at Words by Webb. 

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Interview with Lydia Blundell-Patel: Spring 2026 Flash Fiction Contest 3rd Place Winner

Lydia’s Bio: Lydia Blundell-Patel recently decided to take her love for reading and writing full time, retraining as a secondary school English teacher after a career in marketing. She writes a blog on Substack about these twin passions, as well as how to live a more creative life more broadly and making sense of life in her late twenties. Lydia has had a personal piece published in The Independent and a short story in Confluence magazine. She is in the trenches of drafting her first novel. She lives in Cheltenham in the UK with her husband and beloved black cats. You can find her on Instagram at @Lit_with_Lyds and on Substack here: Lydia Rose Substack. 

If you haven't done so already, check out Lydia's award-winning story "Salon Madonna" and then return here for a chat with the author. 

WOW: Congratulations on placing third in the Spring 2026 Flash Fiction Contest! What excited you most about writing this story? 

Lydia: Visual art is not something I usually write about or even think much about, so it was stimulating to explore something different while sticking to my greatly preferred medium of words! I didn't know that was the direction the piece was going to take; I was trying to pinpoint what felt so special about this seemingly ordinary mother and found myself thinking about paintings and frescoes. It was a good lesson in writing outside my comfort zone and not sticking to what I know. 

WOW: Such amazing things can happen outside of our comfort zones. What did you learn about yourself or your writing while crafting this piece? 

Lydia: Realising that inspiration really is in the everyday. You don't need to be having crazy life experiences to write interesting stories! Salon Madonna came from my daydreaming in the nail salon, surrounded by perfectly ordinary (at first glance...) fellow customers. It taught me to look again and dig deeper with my observations, which is a valuable skill for getting started on a piece, but it was also a great feeling to see something special come to life over many rounds of revisions – a lot like chipping away at a piece of rock to create a fresco! 

WOW: What a great analogy! Please tell us more about your novel. What is it about? What has the writing process been like? 

Lydia: The novel is very embryonic at the moment. I'm training to be a teacher and regularly take breaks to work on shorter fiction and my Substack so it's a deliberately slow process and I'm trying not to put too much pressure on it. Originally, I set out to write a short story but realised it was something bigger, so started mapping out how that might look. I'm moving between plotting and sporadic drafting and taking it as it comes. I'm really interested in how different generations perceive the world and interact with each other, so my main characters are a teenage girl and a woman in her sixties. I'm not either of those ages, so it's another example of not writing what I know! In a twist of circumstance, they need to come together to find a missing person, but more secrets are unveiled along the way. 

WOW: It sounds like a fun process to explore all of those elements. What are you reading right now, and why did you choose to read it? 

Lydia: I've been reading a lot of Graham Greene this summer, who is a new author to me (crazy, I know). I can't believe I waited this long... Brighton Rock has been my favourite so far. His examination of morality and Catholic guilt is about as heavy as subject matter gets, but he somehow manages to achieve the pace of a thriller with the scorching prose of a genius literary fiction writer. I've copied out lots of passages from his novels as I find this really useful for picking up skills for my own writing. 

WOW: What a great method for learning and studying prose that you love. If you could give your younger self one piece of writing advice, what would it be and why? 

Lydia: I'm young as it is but I still wish I'd started sooner. Something happens in the teenage years where so many of us reject the hobbies we loved as children only to pick them up in adulthood again and wonder why we ever left them; this happened to me with reading and making up stories. Building a writing habit is key and controversially I think quantity over quality has a greater pay off in the long term; if you show up, the rest will sort itself out. 

WOW: Thank you for your thoughtful responses. Happy writing! 

Interviewed by Anne Greenawalt, founder and editor-in-chief of Sport Stories Press, which publishes sports books by, for, and about sportswomen and amateur athletes. Connect @greenmachine459.

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Leave a Comment Anne Greenawalt, Lydia Blundell-Patel, Spring 2026 Flash Fiction Contest, Third Place Winner