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COMING SOON My Favorite Things Blogs Pen Names STAY TUNED FOR MORE! MJ's NEW SITE is a work-in-progress (Aren't we all?) Meet MJWarner313@authormjwarner.com What's New, Writers? CHECK IT OUT! Featured Blog Books Events Get Social Mailing List Hello Beautiful Readers, Writers, and Curious Visitors! ABOUT MJ WARNER MJ unites her passion for writing contemporary love stories with the transformative power of healing fiction featuring empowering female protagonists. Her goal is to motivate others to face the impossible and believe in the possible by taking their first step on their healing journey. Currently, she is finishing her debut novel, Midnight Visits & Feather Kisses , while working towards a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing at SNHU, specializing in contemporary fiction, and expects to graduate in May 2026. She earned her Professional Writing certificate in March 2025. MJ's SUPERPOWER Striving to be the best mom for her three kids Breaking unhealthy & toxic generational cycles Addressing her psychological & mental wounds Healing her inner child Being her authentic self Trusting the process Mindful of progress over perfection And empowering others to learn alongside her because we're all in this together. Read More

AI benefit or concern for authors AI Video AI AI AI AI AI: IS IT A BENEFIT OR CONCERN FOR AUTHORS? Is AI -- ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE -- a benefit or concern for authors? As a fiction author, it can be used for portions of the writing process or a freelance position, such as ghostwriting. Non-fiction writers can use it for research and the writing process also. AI Example School Assignment Only 🙃 Artificial intelligence. Can excitement and curiosity to explore its potential replace authors' fear of a hostile career takeover? AI is here to stay. Many already use spell and grammar checks on our word processing programs or apps, such as Grammarly. As authors, we can find ways to use AI responsibly, appropriately, and ethically and use the time saved to write our best-selling stories. Isn't that the relief many of us seek? AI is not flawless and cannot stand alone—yet. At this point, a human element is necessary to ensure that data goes in and the information coming out is accurate. So, as curiosity struck, I researched and found valid biases on both sides of the argument. I began this study with an anti-AI mindset and an unhealthy fear of this "new" technology and needed convincing even to try it out. Before experimenting, I wanted to make an informed decision and hear the benefits and concerns. Jane Friedman, well-known in the writing community, had her name and brand fraudulently used by someone abusing AI (2023). In a separate article, Jane discusses AI complicating self-published authors by inundating the industry (2023). Katherine Elkins has a healthy balance of disappointment for the flaws and respect for the possibilities (2024). The Publish and Prosper podcast hosts Matt Briel and Lauren Vassallo spoke AIs praises and use it daily at Lulu Publishing, as do all employees there, because it improves their writing craft (2023-present). I explored those magical buttons. My novice-created AI images may not look realistic, but the challenge was fun. Then, I added the bio I wrote for my webpage into Grammarly's and Wix's AI tools to compare the two and realized that this embellished reproduction was neither perfect nor accurate. I tweaked it and used a few listed thesaurus-type words. Overall, the proposed AI images and rewrites look and feel more advanced. There is a learning curve to create beautiful and eloquent images and passages, which I have not mastered. AG (Author's Guild) meets AI via https://www.createdbyhumans.ai/ The Author’s Guild (AG) is the first to stand up for an author’s rights, but it is also willing to build the bridge between authors and AI by giving AI developers, such as createdbyhumans.ai, authority by licensing on an individual basis and receiving monies for this agreement (2024). AI companies may compete for your business but share similar pro-AI arguments (check out AIContentfy.com for an extensive list, 2023). * free image through Wix Figure 2: Pros and Cons of AI for Authors created on Canva Whiteboard by MJ Warner. While this list is not inclusive, nor does it mention the assistance with author webpages, correspondence with fans, social media sharing, or marketing efforts, it does show many ways it can help the writing process. The most significant factor I see here is that we don’t know how AI will fully impact anyone, business, or career. We can speculate. We can argue the facts seen thus far. In the end, we will see how AI benefits or concerns authors, but in the meantime, have flexibility, an open mind, and use caution above all else. If you’re willing to use it, do so responsibly and ethically to those who did the “manual labor” work before AI came around. IBM’s AI definition: “Artificial intelligence (AI) is technology that enables computers and machines to simulate human learning, comprehension, problem solving, decision making, creativity and autonomy.” (2024) ~IBM~ AI: The Not-So-New Concept Figure 1. Timeline diagram showing the history of artificial intelligence. * free image through Wix Machines & Man & AI, Oh My! Machines & Man & AI, Oh My! Machines & Man & AI, Oh My! Machines & Man & AI, Oh My! The Industrial Revolution showed us how “machines” can replace the work of humans, provide precision and consistency in products, and save time and money. In the age of technology, before “machines” such as computers, grammar and spell check, smartphones, and Alexa can process, humans must supply the data for artificial intelligence to work. These advances were created and provided a more expedited and efficient outcome than even the most talented or intellectual human could handle. This is where Alan Turing shined. Depending on the author, the history varies from the Press listing AI’s inception in 1308 (2022) to an article on Tableau giving credit to the BC years for laying the groundwork in the early 1900s (2025). Most articles, including a blog from Maryville University, credit Alan Turing for the work on his Turing Test and John McCarthy for coining the term “artificial intelligence” in his research (2023). Oh, Alan... Oh, Alan... Oh, Alan... Oh, Alan... The Imitation Game (Tyldum 2014) is a loosely based movie on Alan Turing's creation of a machine during WWII to break the enigma code. Despite fictional storylines and characters altering some historical value, it shows the benefits of humans working to create technology for expedited efficiency and the need to collaborate, as deciphering the crucial code and inputting this information requires a human element. Crème de la Crème Crème de la Crème Crème de la Crème Crème de la Crème One indisputable fact is that AI is not as new as some think. Instead, it has improved in accuracy and capability. It continues to grow stronger as technology often does with time-consuming man hours, brilliant minds and expertise, and substantial revenue backing projects and tests—but it is far from perfect. Just as any person needs training to improve, AI requires the same. In my research of AI, I experimented with it for use on my new author webpage to add excerpts from my novels. After putting my fears aside and exploring AI as a tool (not a replacement), it proved helpful while reminding me of its current flaws and imperfections. AI... Why, yes, I am impressed! Heading back to Canva to create a new book cover for a book I have yet to write! References 10 AI Writing Tools Everyone Should Know About. (n.d.). Mailchimp. Retrieved February 8, 2025, from https://mailchimp.com/resources/ai-writing-tools/ Authors Guild Partners with Created by Humans to Empower Authors in the AI Era. (2024, October 9). The Authors Guild. https://authorsguild.org/news/ag-partners-with-created-by-humans-to-empower-authors-in-ai-era/ Baron, N. S. (2023). Who Wrote This? How AI and the Lure of Efficiency Threaten Human Writing. United States: Stanford University Press. https://www.google.com/books/edition/_/u5rMEAAAQBAJ?hl=en&gbpv=0 Deed - Attribution 4.0 International. (n.d.). Creative Commons. Retrieved February 7, 2025, from https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Elkins, K. (2024). AI Comes for the Author. Poetics Today, 45(2), 267–274. https://doi.org/10.1215/03335372-11092884 https://read.dukeupress.edu/poetics-today/article-abstract/45/2/267/387698/AI-Comes-for-the-Author?redirectedFrom=fulltext Hobsbawm, J. (2023). Generative AI Is Replacing Remote Work in the Future of Work Debate. Bloomberg.Com, N.PAG. Friedman, J. (2023, August 7). I Would Rather See My Books Get Pirated Than This (Or: Why Goodreads and Amazon Are Becoming Dumpster Fires). Jane Friedman. https://janefriedman.com/i-would-rather-see-my-books-pirated/ IBM. (2024, August 9). Artificial Intelligence. IBM. https://www.ibm.com/think/topics/artificial-intelligence Lentz, Paula. (2024). Ethical Authorship and Moral Motivation: The Key to Ethical AI Use. Business and Professional Communication Quarterly, 87(4), 592–609. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/23294906241259153 Lulu Publishing. (2024). Social Media Marketing for Authors & Creators [Video]. In YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rCTKgT8HQxA https://www.publishprosperpodcast.com/2247307/episodes Moore, G., & Hodges, A. (2014). The Imitation Game [Video]. In IMDb. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2084970/ Prompt crafting: AI writing prompts for any marketing task. (2023, March 17). Writer. https://writer.com/guides/prompt-crafting/ Rote, M. (2024, April 9). AI And The Author: How AI Is Transforming Book Writing. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbesbusinessdevelopmentcouncil/2024/04/09/ai-and-the-author-how-ai-is-transforming-book-writing/ Saddhono, K., Saputra, N., Herman, Saragih, B., Sumbayak, D. M., & Sipayung, R. W. (2024). A New way to Create Virtual Authors/Writers using AI Based Technology with Optimized Voice and Style. 2024 4th International Conference on Advance Computing and Innovative Technologies in Engineering (ICACITE), Advance Computing and Innovative Technologies in Engineering (ICACITE), 2024 4th International Conference On, 1509–1514. https://doi.org/10.1109/ICACITE60783.2024.10616853 Svenungsson, Jan. (2024). Art Intelligence : How Generative AI Relates to Human Art-Making (Vol. 00073). transcript Verlag. Team, AIC. (2023, July 5). The Unseen Benefits of Using AI Writing Tools. AIContentfy. https://aicontentfy.com/en/blog/unseen-benefits-of-using-ai-writing-tools The AI Rights licensing platform for creators. (n.d.). Created by Humans. Retrieved February 8, 2025, from https://www.createdbyhumans.ai/ Understanding basic principles of Artificial Intelligence: a practical guide for intensivists - Scientific Figure on ResearchGate. Accessed February 7, 2025, from https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Timeline-diagram-showing-the-history-of-artificial-intelligence_fig1_364826401 Warner, M. (2025, February 16). AI vs Author. Canva. https://www.canva.com/design/DAGfy6vw0Qg/Bkxbf-z5arrML2t6rNW0qA/edit?ui=eyJEIjp7IlAiOnsiQiI6ZmFsc2V9fX0 Warner, M. (2025, February 21). Feather Kisses. Canva. https://www.canva.com/design/DAGftL6vfGg/rLDtqZs5b8PecwS6ErVWoQ/view?utm_content=DAGftL6vfGg&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=h183557896f Warner, M. (n.d.). Pros and Cons of AI for Authors. Canva. Retrieved February 22, 2025, from https://www.canva.com/design/DAGfvDpl9Us/6osYikqVgsM5jfWWCWlAlg/edit What is the history of artificial intelligence (AI)? (n.d.). Tableau. Retrieved February 4, 2025, from https://www.tableau.com/data-insights/ai/history Wordpress, 2U. (2023, May 19). History of AI: Timeline and the Future. Maryville University Online. https://online.maryville.edu/blog/history-of-ai/ BACK TO TOP

When one personality just isn't enough ~ Different Genres ~ ~ Different Name ~ I'm not just stepping outside the box; I'm shoving that dang box off a cliff! It's all about pen names and changes of scenery (or genres) - so buckle up and enjoy the wild ride! Emmy J Perry Author of lesbian, gay, and bisexual characters and storylines. Kathryn Rose (or Rosa Moore) and Karin King's romance novels. Toni Avalon Cozy mystery series from Detective Avalon's desk. Sammy Belden Children's Book Series & Choose Your Adventure The Hard Stuff & Strong Emotions Alphabet Books, Abby the Pink Pig & Pablo Porque series, Green-Eyed Tiger Cat Harry Hall Jax, Denver, & Chex Horsing Around.

Proposed Event Dates Book Launch: August 2026 Author Talks: July 2026 Book Signings: September-December 2026 Stay Informed From the Desk of author, MJ Warner Would you like to host an event in your town, such as your local library, school, or bookstore? Let me know! EVENTS & Save the Dates (coming soon) Coming Soon Media Page & Press Kit mjwarner313@authormjwarner.com Bios & Book Jacket for Press Kit (for debut novel) Author Short Bio MJ Warner writes authentically raw, empathetically healing, and hopeful women’s fiction. She draws her stories from her life experiences and healing journey, which is filled with storms and rainbows, with a touch of inspiration through magical realism and spiritual intervention. With two prior short story anthology publications under her belt (2007, 2017 respectfully) and a 1st place win in 2024 for a short story, Whiskey Nightmares , she hopes to inspire others with her upcoming first novel, Midnight Visits & Feather Kisses , while attending SNHU for a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing with an emphasis on Contemporary Fiction (May 2026 graduation anticipated). She obtained her Professional Writing certificate in May 2025. Author Long Bio “The wounded me – and my inner child’s narrative – would say and believe, 'I’ve had a hard life—I don’t know if I can go on.' The wounded, yet healing me, would say and trust, 'Each day I’m given a new opportunity to grow through this challenge, expressing gratitude for this lesson and welcoming the next.' I hold space for the healed me, wishing to hear words of wisdom, but for today, I choose to live for the present, in the presence, waiting patiently for that day.” ~MJ Warner~ MJ Warner identifies her short fictional works and novels in the same way she describes her path in life—authentically raw, empathetically healing, and empoweringly hopeful. Healing themes dominate her contemporary women's fiction, and magical realism and spiritual intervention peek through the characters' lives. She draws on life experiences and her healing journey — a healthy balance of storms and rainbows. She accepts each life lesson with gratitude and welcomes the opportunity for growth while healing generational cycles. MJ aims to be a better version of herself each day to support her goal and motherhood superpower: being the best mom she can be, drawing on the lessons of yesterday, the knowledge of today, and the challenges of tomorrow. When asked to describe herself, she says, "I am a healer and empath. I am a dreamer and believer. I am sensitive and strong. I strive to be authentic and persevere despite obstacles. I am a work-in-progress, and that’s okay." She and her family make their home in New England, with plans to spend the golden years in the south. Following medical retirement from law enforcement, MJ prioritized self-care, her passions for writing and natural healing modalities, and began slowing down to experience life through her children’s eyes. When she’s not writing, reading, or running off to her kids’ activities, she is savoring the family time, knowing that it passes by all too quickly. Book Jacket for Midnight Visits & Feather Kisses “When I looked in the mirror today, I told myself, ‘It’s going to be okay—even if today is not that day.’ In that perspective, I found courage and peace within myself, which I was seeking.” ~ Lilah Waverly ~ For twenty-six-year-old Lilah Waverly, a devastating month of unexpected loss – first, her parents, then her fiancé, Daniel Higgs – triggers her unraveling mental health. She abandons herself and her parental responsibilities, resulting in a court battle with the Higgs family for guardianship of their only grandchild, Danny. Lilah further risks losing her mother-son bond when she discredits her toddler’s belief that his deceased father is communicating with him. She ventures from the comforts of her coastal New Hampshire home to the once lively summer home in Pawleys Island, where in a span of twenty years she had found friendship and love, deceit and heartbreak, renewed love and a new life—she now seeks truth, forgiveness, and a healed relationship with her son, the Higgs, and herself. For fans of Nicholas Sparks’ contemporary love stories and Mitch Albom’s inspiring hope of the afterlife, Midnight Visits & Feather Kisses captures the realistic journey of self-discovery and healing, offering courage through empowering resilience and perseverance. Let’s chat Let’s chat Let’s chat Let’s chat Book your next event Book your next event Book your next event Book your next event Email mjwarner313@authormjwarner.com Let’s chat Let’s chat Let’s chat Let’s chat Social Media First Name Last Name Email Message Questions? Just ask! Send Thanks for submitting!

My Favorite Things How do we compare? Books & Authors Head this way! Music & Movies Coming Soon Serious is Overrated Life is short. Have fun & enjoy it. And ALWAYS find something positive about the moment, experience, day, week, month, year, & life. My Favorite Things Books, Authors, Music, Podcasts, Movies The list goes on! Define fun. Fun or immature decision-making? Adventurous or careless? Ready to live for today or barely escaping with your life? This or That? Not really the scales of justice, but certainly weighing the preferences! And then I had kids... Okay, well not that many! My kids didn't know me when I was fun, energetic, and full of life (and poor decision-making) I'm the fun one, she's the funny one. I was the YOLO sister before it was a thing. Fun, redefined. Kids bring a different idea of fun. Insert the kid parties (disguised as an adult get together!) - COVER CONTEST - Midnight Visits & Feather Kisses: Which cover is your favorite? Book Cover 1 Book Cover 2 Book Cover 3 Book Cover 4 Book Cover 5 Lighthouse Murder: Which cover is your favorite? Book Cover 1 Book Cover 2 Book Cover 3 Book Cover 4 Book Cover 5 Whiskey Nightmares: Which cover is your favorite? Book Cover 1 Book Cover 2 Book Cover 3 Book Cover 4 Book Cover 5 (COMING SOON) Choose your favorite cover and title! Midnight Healing LHTHS MRDR Whiskey Nightmares

Turn impossible dreams into reality. ~MJ Warner~ contemporary women's fiction author Reflection Every one of us carries a unique story, and mine is no exception. My journey has been filled with twists and turns, leading me to question if there was an easier path, perhaps one that sparkled with gold. Yet, as I reflect on my experiences, I realize that this chaos has shaped me into the person I am today, and maybe, just maybe, I'm exactly where I need to be. ~MJ Warner~ Be the Resilient Calm, Amidst the Inevitable Chaos Healing doesn't happen by dancing and skipping through sunshine and rainbows. Healing happens by crawling through the storm, finding yourself through the lessons, building resilience, and breaking generational cycles. ~MJ Warner~ My Writing Journey Calls My Writing Journey Calls My Writing Journey Calls My Writing Journey Calls '92-'93 '06-'07 '16-'17 2018 '18-'22 '23-present Learn More Gratitude & Kudos Begin writing my first novel: Lighthouse Murder (no, it's not finished, and yes the title is temporary) Re-inspired & Reignited Learn More My 2nd publication is unavailable :-( https://kittylitterpress.wordpress.com/2017/07/27/print-copy-of-joey-2-is-now-available-and-its-beautiful/ Sadly, they closed: https://kittylitterpress.wordpress.com/submissions/ Grief Sucks. Lessons suck. But then again, it's all a part of life. Learn More Sometimes you must say goodbye to something you lost and welcome the new. Thanks to a flash fiction contest (https://www.wow-womenonwriting.com/) and a few online classes and workshops (https://www.wow-womenonwriting.com/WOWclasses.html & https://www.erindionne.com/), I found my voice (and just a few super old files). And so I submitted the first of many versions: The Feather ~ Feather Kisses I'm back! And it feels so good. Learn More Disguised Opportunities https://www.goldencrownliterarysociety.org/ https://www.bellabooks.com/product/9781594931017/ Learn More Learn More What. In. The. Everloving. F#©K? MOTHERF- board... rule #1: ALWAYS save your work You may not know what lies ahead, but sometimes you just have to trust the process.

Since even the smallest decisions can change the trajectory of my life, I reflect on the wisdom and courage of those who came before me. I seek their strength and guidance to make the best choices for everyone involved. I choose with intention and then take a leap of faith, trusting the process. It may be messy and sure won't be perfect, but it will be my bravery - the first step - which sets it all in motion, forcing me to look forward with excitement, never backwards with regrets... only gratitude for the lessons. MJ's writing journey has been a source of healing and inspiration, expressed through journaling, poetry, short stories, and novels. With a heart full of wisdom from her life experiences, she emphasizes the importance of the first step. A retired police officer and dedicated mother of three, MJ appreciates her quiet writing moments during the school week but cherishes the cozy bedtime stories with her children. While she currently lives in New England, she dreams of relocating to the Carolinas when her fiction writing becomes her main source of income. MeetMJ Family Healing Journey Writing Goals Writing Journey My Family, My Love, My Heart Motherhood is a blessing, a gift, and not for the faint of heart. I always wanted to be a mother alongside a partner with the same desire. Growing up with a sister meant I had a playmate, so I knew I wanted more than one child. While I never expected the path my journey to motherhood took, I’m grateful for the experience not all are given and for a love greater than I imagined. Insta-Mom (as in INSTANT-mom) overnight or, as I prefer, a Bonus Mom. Raising a non-biological child is heart-wrenching. I love him as my own and call him my son. Others lessen my role, referring to me as “stepmother” as though I were “less than” a person who supplied the egg. As a non-biological parent, I cannot legally ask for, make, or participate in important medical or educational decisions in their best interest. It means potentially arguing with his biological family for his best interest, trying to get everyone on the same page (or at least the same book), and hoping he finds his way despite two homes, different sets of rules or expectations, and all of us learning to parent and co-parent for the first time. Raising a non-biological child is also rewarding. I am his bonus mom. At bedtime, my magical breath blew away the monsters under the bed; then we prayed to angels to keep loved ones safe. I support and cheer from the sidelines, but my love and pride do not. He is my first kiddo—my Little Man. He got the best (and youngest) version of me. As this child (now, an adult) calls with exciting news or for advice, I know I must have done something right—that he knows my love is unconditional, that I am a soft and loving place to land, and that we have both grown into better people because our journeys united—as I promised in the ‘Sands of Time’ ceremony when I married his father. Count your blessings, not your pregnancies. I wanted him to have a sibling (and he wanted one too), but sometimes life presents a different plan. After losing two pregnancies, going through inconclusive fertility testing, and having a surgical procedure to (potentially) help, I had a third miscarriage. It's disheartening. I wondered, ‘What's wrong with me?’ Each pregnancy came with hope, while miscarriages crushed my spirit. Stifling panic kicks in when the pregnancy sticks test positive, and my thoughts nag, ‘Am I going to lose this one too?’ I wouldn’t allow myself to enjoy a pregnancy, and that leaves immense guilt when a miracle rainbow baby (a baby born following a pregnancy loss) enters the world. Throughout this fourth pregnancy, I told my unborn daughter she is a warrior, with the spirits of three lost siblings, and that she can do this — we can do this... and, alas, we did. That two-week-late, stubborn little girl continues to hold me to those words in her teenage years. Her attitude is a force I often battle, which two little birds—my parents—remind me of how she is my Mini. Yes, she is, I agree—only she is a better version, I say. In my heart, I am grateful that she stands stronger than I ever did at that age, and I pray that nothing, and no one, breaks that--even, and especially, me. She holds me accountable and calls me out on my bull$h!t when no one else will. She also reminds me to breathe, hugs me when I’m dysregulated, and shows me grace when I apologize for my outburst. And then I realize she is parenting me as I do for her, but that’s NOT her role—and she raises the ante in this awareness because I don’t want to create a mother wound. I step up my growth and healing. I do better for her, me, our ancestors, and future generations. She is undoubtedly a better, stronger, and spicier version of the women who came before her. I’m grateful this Little Lady chose me, and for the continuous lessons she brings. We’re not raising two “only children.” An eight-year age gap is significant. Having a child after losing three pregnancies gives false hope that the worst is behind you. It’s a big part of why the fourth miscarriage (fifth pregnancy, if you’re keeping track) was the most difficult for me, along with many reasons that I won't go into here. If the saying, "I'm not okay," was around then... it would have been my mantra. My sixth pregnancy was deemed my last, if not for how miserable I felt throughout, for the traumatic delivery that left my body shaking uncontrollably. I feared I would drop him, was afraid I would somehow transfer my high emotions and physical responses, and ultimately, refused to hold this precious boy who entered the world two weeks early. I can’t undo the deep-seated mom guilt from that day, and I still struggle to forgive myself. My broken body felt irreparable, and I felt old AF at forty with a newborn. This was not the plan I had envisioned for motherhood. ‘I must be a failure.’ Perhaps someone should have considered postpartum depression. But let me tell you, the light this little boy brings with his smile and humorous personality, it’s easy to forget the challenges and think, maybe I would have another… if I were MUCH younger. He is the Littlest Man, but mighty. He is wild and busy and keeps us on our toes. He is also sweet and sensitive—and I’m reminded to hold his feelings and emotions with love and tenderness because that is what needs healing in me and our generational cycle—allowing this little version of me to have big feelings, acknowledge that it’s okay, and that it’s safe to express them… even the ones that don’t feel good, so we work together to handle them properly. Whose plan is it really? This is part of a plan greater than me or what I could hope for or imagine. I wanted children, and I have three amazing kids, all of whom are unique. They aren't just adding gray hair to my head; they're filling my heart with so much love and pride for who they are and strive to be. They don't just drive me crazy or keep me running the mom-taxi; they also make me laugh until my stomach hurts and my eyes tear. I am in awe of them. They are my oxygen. They are my light in the darkness. They are the reason I choose to heal. I think sometimes we're tested. How bad do you want this? And in that moment, when you're about to lose your $h!t for the umpteenth time that day because they're not listening, can you pause and remember the begging and pleading you did for a viable pregnancy? It’s challenging to pull back and consider this perspective when I am overwhelmed, stressed, and dysregulated, but I must take that step back. I must take a deep breath, pause, and think of the times when I cried myself to sleep, and be grateful that I was one of the lucky ones who delivered two rainbow babies--a privilege some are not given. I am blessed. My heart is whole. Our family is complete. It’s 2025 at the time of this writing. I just turned 50; our kids are 21, 13, and 10. Our lives may not be perfect, nor is my parenting, but I try like hell to be the best mom I can be for these kids. No one said motherhood would be easy, but it's the most rewarding. My family… My love... My heart. And So Begins My Writing Journey Writing Ambitions To heal the world, one reader at a time. Immerse yourself in a captivating and relatable story. Join characters who resonate with your heart. Are they a reflection of yourself? Or maybe your bestie? Discover, explore, and experience the power of healing through storytelling. It's about finding the light, despite the darkness. Join me as we explore the transformative power of stories together. Explore More

Feather Kisses, Lighthouse Murder, LHTHS MRDR, Whiskey Nightmares, Three Rings, Revealed, ~ WIPS ~ shorts ~ COMING SOON the works-in-progress Anticipating a Summer 2026 publication for these WIPs (work-in-progress). Midnight Visits & Feather Kisses In the delicate space between an unspoken goodbye and the weight of grief, we seek a gentle embrace from the afterlife, filling us with hope for a better tomorrow and resilience today. This contemporary women's healing fiction novel unfolds the journey of love, forgiveness, and self-discovery, guiding us toward acceptance and inner peace. Lighthouse Murders In pursuing the clues, she uncovers a truth that raises more questions about her fiancé. Is he the killer, or just the accused? By ignoring the past, would she preserve their future? This contemporary fiction novel weaves in a thrilling mystery, inviting readers to empathize with the characters and their dilemmas. Whiskey Nightmares Trauma blurs the lines of reality, and graphic memories resurface without warning. Battling invisible wounds means facing what the mind tries hardest to bury. This contemporary short fiction comes with trigger warnings and packs an emotional punch, especially for first responders navigating the traumas of their job. The highest compliment of my work came from “Jack Torrance,” the Southeastern Writer's Association contest judge’s feedback on my 1st-place win in 2024: “Okay, you're a jerk. This is the only entry that squeezed tears from my eyes. Your story hit close to home for me.” Jack, I’ve never been prouder to be labeled a jerk. That’s what I want my words to do… make you feel the pain so you can heal the pain. Thank you. It May Not Be Much, But It's A Start! I was published in 2007 and again in 2017. Q uite the span, I know. I don't want to wait another ten years to publish, so expect my debut novel, Midnight Visits & Feather Kisses, in 2026! If you skipped the timeline, here’s a quick look! Next Just the Beginning... 2026 MFA Creative Writing, ( 2025: Professional Writing Certificate ) Southern New Hampshire University It's time to bring my writing to a new level and publish regularly... let's do this! First up, my thesis novel: Midnight Visits & Feather Kisses 2016-2017 BS (ENG credit from a Creative Writing class--game changer!) Post University Part of the class involved submitting one piece of work for possible publication. I submitted three pieces to different publishers, and one was accepted! Oh, My Life – A Cat’s World A short [fun piece based on my cranky cat’s perceived reverie], in another anthology, but by golly – to me it was another published work. Unfortunately, the publishing company shut its doors, and this is no longer available for purchase. Location 2006-2007 Gold Crown Literary Society Writer's Conference Sometimes it pays to step out of your cocoon. Sometimes it pays to sit next to another butterfly. Tease Me, Please! This short [lesbian erotica] snuck into an anthology after attending a writer’s conference—the right place at the right time! You'll find the story under "MJ Perry." Star My Portfolio Welcome to my portfolio. Here you’ll find a selection of my work. Explore my projects to learn more about what I do. (COMING SOON)

Naturally Healing Modalities Whether you are ready to heal, questioning your need to heal, or curious, this is for you. Join this journey to wellness and self-discovery. Discover a world of possibilities by healing on your terms. WRITE IT OUT Journaling, Prompts, & Shadow Work Exercises MOVE IT OUT Yoga, Breathing Exercises, Dance, Somatic Exercises, Thai Massage ENERGY CLEARING Smudging, Candles, Reiki, Zero Balance Massage, Chakra Work, Tapping, Meditating, ESSENTIAL OILS: PHYSICAL PAIN Describe the item and include any relevant details. Click to edit the text. ESSENTIAL OILS: EMOTIONAL PAIN Describe the item and include any relevant details. Click to edit the text. ESSENTIAL OILS: EVERYTHING ELSE Describe the item and include any relevant details. Click to edit the text.

Book Medicine Book Medicine Book Medicine Book Medicine Write to Heal Write to Heal Write to Heal Write to Heal Read, Listen, & Watch Read, Listen, & Watch Read, Listen, & Watch Read, Listen, & Watch Healing Your Way Healing Your Way Healing Your Way Healing Your Way Healing Laughs Healing Laughs Healing Laughs Healing Laughs Your Turn Your Turn Your Turn Your Turn Book Medicine Sometimes you read it in a book, see it in a movie, hear in on a podcast, or sometimes you write your own story. Never underestimate the power of storytelling. Write to Heal Quickies, 5-Minute Journal Prompts Sometimes a quickie is all you need to set your mind back on track. QuickiesX2, 10-Minute Journal Prompts A freewriting lesson to learn focus: emphasis on completion, not perfection. Smell the Roses Journal Prompts for the Senses Need time to think? Looking for imagery or to use your senses? Read, Listen, & Watch Game-Changing Books Recommended reading for growth, life lessons, & healing. Podcasts for the Win! Love me some audio & video podcasts. Bring the Tissues for These Movies Sometimes a movie resembles our lives or a moment in it. Take the lesson. Healing Laughs Laughter helps. QUOTES & MEMES Sometimes a quote or meme is a quick fix. FUNNIES Influencer, podcast, video clip, & movie LIFE EXPERIENCES Sometimes life throws you curveballs, or maybe it's realigning your purpose. Your Turn... BOOKS Favorite reads about healing, self-care, & life lessons. PODCASTS Which audio or video podcast is your go-to for pick-me-ups or inspiration? MOVIES Weigh in! Which movie hit home? Which movie helped?

F a q s Curious about a choice of character persona, genre-blending, or Point-of-View? Wondering what I do in my spare time? Do you have questions for my characters? Send in your questions! Click Here Interview (3/26) Check out the latest questions! How Would You Define Yourself in Relation to Your Writing? "I am a healer and empath. I am a dreamer and believer. I am sensitive and strong. I strive to be authentic and persevere despite obstacles. Most importantly, I am a work-in-progress, and that’s okay." What is Your Superpower? “Motherhood . Not because I'm perfect or crushing it. Ask my kids... I'm not. Quite the opposite, really; but I aim to be a better person than I was the day before, so I can be the best mom for my children using the lessons of yesterday, knowledge of today, and challenges of tomorrow.” Best Writer Advice Received? Perseverance is the name of the game. The perseverance necessary to routinely write without excuses, accept the horribly penned with the eloquently composed, while revising and editing both if it doesn’t serve the story. The perseverance to thoroughly investigate and weigh your publishing options, based on your story’s needs and audience choice. When all else fails, use a writing prompt and get those creative juices flowing! How Should I Balance My Personal & Professional Life? Oh, if I had the answer to that, I would be a trillionaire! The first thing that comes to mind is to create and experiment with a routine or a schedule —and with that said, know when to say "no " or at least "not right now " to unnecessary add-ons to the schedule. Once the schedule or routine is set, maintain boundaries—add it to the calendar as though it were a doctor's appointment (most of us refuse to cancel this!) and ensure it happens. It's not selfish to add "write 300 words," "game-night with the kids," or "go for a 30-minute walk" in your calendar—and follow through.

Headaches & EOs As a society, we mask feelings because it's easier than peeling back the layers, so fear may present as anger. . . We also mask physical symptoms (we all have our beliefs on the "why") because fixing the superficial problem is easier than figuring out how you got there. The solution: identify the root cause, and deep healing can begin . Seems simple, but it requires some work. With essential oils, this idea becomes more evident. Headaches are a perfect example of this (when it's not based on dehydration): pain: a soothing blend, peppermint mental stress: a tension blend physical/muscular tension: a massage blend hormone: a monthly blend for women illness - cold/flu: a protective blend/frankincense/lemon/oregano/tea tree illness - sinus: digestive blend or the kid's version of the digestive blend illness - allergies: lemon/lavender/peppermint OR a respiratory blend sleep (lack of): a restful blend, lavender There are other essential oil options for each of these ailments, but the point to remember is this: ROOT CAUSE = HEALING *For purposes of this article, I am not advertising for a specific essential oil company; therefore, I am not mentioning the specific name of the blends Click Here Listen Up & Attune to Your Body! This is a Paragraph. Click on "Edit Text" or double click on the text box to start editing the content and make sure to add any relevant details or information that you want to share with your visitors. List Title This is a Paragraph. Click on "Edit Text" or double click on the text box to start editing the content and make sure to add any relevant details or information that you want to share with your visitors. List Title This is a Paragraph. Click on "Edit Text" or double click on the text box to start editing the content and make sure to add any relevant details or information that you want to share with your visitors. List Title This is a Paragraph. Click on "Edit Text" or double click on the text box to start editing the content and make sure to add any relevant details or information that you want to share with your visitors. List Title This is a Paragraph. Click on "Edit Text" or double click on the text box to start editing the content and make sure to add any relevant details or information that you want to share with your visitors. List Title This is a Paragraph. Click on "Edit Text" or double click on the text box to start editing the content and make sure to add any relevant details or information that you want to share with your visitors. List Title This is a Paragraph. Click on "Edit Text" or double click on the text box to start editing the content and make sure to add any relevant details or information that you want to share with your visitors. List Title This is a Paragraph. Click on "Edit Text" or double click on the text box to start editing the content and make sure to add any relevant details or information that you want to share with your visitors. List Title This is a Paragraph. Click on "Edit Text" or double click on the text box to start editing the content and make sure to add any relevant details or information that you want to share with your visitors.

Welcome Writers & Curious Visitors The Full Story The written word connects storytellers across generations. Some writers document our historical truths in hopes of preventing the recurrence of past mistakes—write with integrity . Others aim to heal from their past while making positive changes in the present to create a better future—write with intention . All writers share a piece of themselves—write with your heart . Micro, Flash, Short, Novel, Series, AHHHH! Genres, Sub-Genres, Cross-Genres Where Do I Begin? Ideas & Themes, Setting, POV, Voice, Tone, Style, Dialogue Exposition/Rising Action, Inciting incidents, Conflict, Climax/Falling Action, & Resolution, Protagonists & Antagonists, Plots, Narrative Arc, Character Arc OH, MY! Use an outline, converse with characters, write your jacket copy... just start writing! Writer's Block? Yes, it happens. Plotters plan (think outline). Pantsers fly by the seat of their pants (think sit & write... whatever happens, happens), or the combo of the two (balance is good). Daily writing, even if it's garbage. Prompt writing, to get the juices flowing. Exercise, shower, read, watch a movie, or find a routine that your brain accepts. My routine: listening to Sarah McLachlan's music, an herb and citrus candle or my focus essential oil blend, Beginnings, Middles, & Endings Begin in Media Res, Inciting Incidents early on, and Hook the reader! We're all waiting! No pressure... don't skip the important middle, but keep that reader intrigued... get them to the climax! An ending is really just a new beginning. So... wrap it up! You're not done! You're not done! You're not done! You're not done! Now, Revise & Edit Nope, you're not done. But a breather may be the key to your success. It's been a lot. Set it & forget it. Come back with a fresh set of eyes & get to work! Know that letting go saves your story, so if it doesn't serve it, set it free. Make editing the last thing you do! LINKS TO RESOURCES OR ARTICLES ACCESSED THROUGHOUT MY WRITING PROCESS. Just a few to begin: Jane Friedman (https://janefriedman.com/resources/), Reedsy (https://reedsy.com/learning/courses), On Writing by Stephen King Troubleshooting Your Novel by Steven James New Pages (https://www.newpages.com/guide-submission-opportunities/big-list-of-writing-contests/) Resources Gone are the days of endless searching for the best "how-to" book in you local bookstore. Writing resources are everywhere now! This is a list of some of my favorites. They will change, so keep an eye out! Knock, Knock! Believe that the right opportunities will come your way at the right time. Don't be unprepared or underprepared—start writing now! Head to a writer's conference! Submit work for a contest! Have your pitch and synopsis ready!