Creative Writing with the Crimson League

December 31, 2023

Sunday Reflection: The humble recognize Jesus

Think of the hundreds of people who were probably in the temple in Jerusalem when Mary and Joseph brought in the infant Jesus to “redeem” Him as the Firstborn with the poor man’s sacrifice of two doves or pigeons, according to the Mosaic Law. Think of the opportunity . . . to see their salvation…

December 22, 2023

What makes a good subplot?

Today I thought I’d break down some of the things that a good subplot will contribute to your plot. Every subplot does NOT need to do every one of these. But it should do some of them. What do you think? What are some of your favorite subplots in famous books or movies?

December 20, 2023

Creative Writing: Don’t force a theme

Theme is so important. Along with character, if you write an impactful story, theme is one of the two main things readers will remember long after they forget most of the intricacies of your plot. The thing about theme, though: you can’t force it. Some major themes of The Crimson League: The Fight for Hope…

December 18, 2023

Big blog update! Changing my schedule

I just wanted to announce that I am updating/changing my blog schedule. I’ve been toying with this for a bit and have decided it’s very necessary and will get me excited about the blog again. I’ll be going to a 4x weekly schedule. Monday, Wednesday, and Friday I will blog about my fiction or about…

December 17, 2023

Sunday Reflection: The Bride of Christ

Today’s first reading at Mass is all about Israel as the Bride of God (and the Church, as the New Israel, as the Bride of Christ). One of my favorite quotes from Chesterton is “Let your religion be less of a theory and more of a love affair.” And he’s absolutely right. Orthodoxy matters, of…

December 16, 2023

It’s my six month bookiversary! A reflection on going indie

Dec 14th was the six-month bookiversary of my little novel that could, “The Crimson League: The Fight for Hope.” It’s hard to believe it’s only been six months, and in other respects, it kind of feels like it’s been six years. I’ve experienced and learned so much. I wouldn’t trade this journey for anything. I’m…

December 15, 2023

I can’t wait to get book two out!

In a lot of ways, the hardest part of the journey of “The Magic Council: The Fight for Home” awaits me next January when the manuscript returns from my editor. But I’m excited for next year and to get this book out there. Will have to intentionally enjoy the journey and live the journey each…

December 14, 2023

Thankful Thursday: Thankful for the new home goods store that opened near me

Today, I’m thankful for the home goods store that just opened around the corner from me. It’s super close, super convenient, and I’ve already gotten some much needed items from there, including a small silverware set that I really like. Things are quite cheap there, as well. It’s been a real win-win scenario for me,…

December 13, 2023

For a month “off” it’s been very busy

I don’t know what I was thinking, hoping to consider December my month “off” because I have a break from a couple of Church programs this month until one starts up again in January. (I’m not continuing with the second one). December is DECEMBER. I have been busy with festivities all month so far, and…

December 12, 2023

As a writer, you’ve got to take constructive criticism

Real criticism–not vitriol, not an attack, but an honest assessment of good will from reviewers and readers–is golden to a writer, or it should be. It helps us grow, and it’s important to approach it from that angle. It’s also important to remember: Every one is entitled to their opinion of a work of art.…