<![CDATA[Written Musings

<![CDATA[Written Musings - Blog]]>Fri, 06 Mar 2026 13:19:20 -0700Weebly<![CDATA[#1 Romantic Suspense Bestsellers!]]>Mon, 26 Jan 2026 07:00:00 GMThttps://www.writtenmusings.com/blog/012626

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When seasoned search-and-rescue expert Sam meets the determined woman he’s sworn to protect, he’s pulled into a dangerous wilderness—and an even more dangerous emotional battle. As threats close in, Sam faces his toughest challenge yet: trusting his heart. Sam’s Folly is a stand-alone story of survival, sacrifice, and the unexpected power of love. READ MORE

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Guilt ridden over his father’s death and his family’s failing business, pilot Alex Belgarde plans one final flight. Instead, he finds a wrecked plane and a stranded woman. Trapped in the frozen Gulf of Alaska with Irene Rose, Alex must face brutal weather, ruthless smugglers, and his own demons. Trust may be their only way home in this stand-alone story of love, redemption, and courage. READ MORE

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]]><![CDATA[It's always the right time of year for Christmas Magic!]]>Tue, 20 Jan 2026 07:00:00 GMThttps://www.writtenmusings.com/blog/012026

Decker needs help pulling off a remodeling job before Christmas. His daughter wants a mother. Will the new woman in their home bring joy, or tear their world apart? READ MORE

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Her Christmas wish could change the balance between darkness and light. Carey can sense emotion—and compel it—but refuses to become the weapon her powerful father intends. Instead, she seeks the light she finds each year in an unlikely Santa. When a boy from the other side appears, Carey must risk everything to choose who she will become. READ MORE

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When single mother Maura moves to Chicago with her eight-year-old son, she teams up with fellow employee Rick to fulfill the Christmas wishes of children across the city. Will the spirit of the season bring their hearts together, or will secrets tear them apart? READ MORE

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When two grieving hearts and one hopeful letter meet, Christmas magic just might bring a family together. READ MORE

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Single mother Cathy Roussos gave up on love long ago, and Alex Rallis, a guarded veterinarian, has no time—or trust—for it, but one unforgettable Christmas on a charming Santorini farm might just change their hearts forever. READ MORE

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In 1870s New Bedford, a curious boy’s forbidden trip to the attic uncovers family secrets, lost love, and a hidden legacy—just in time for a heartfelt Christmas wish that could heal generations. READ MORE

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Silas and Katie's holiday is disrupted when Silas's empathic sense reveals a sinister vision of a Santa shadowing a boy. Racing against time, they pursue clues through Atlanta, battling Silas's traumatic past and fears. Can they find the boy and prevent a Christmas tragedy? READ MORE

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]]><![CDATA[Holiday Reading Selection!]]>Wed, 03 Dec 2025 07:00:00 GMThttps://www.writtenmusings.com/blog/120325Six heartwarming stand-alone holiday stories from bestselling and award-winning authors—each featuring children writing letters to Santa, hoping for the one thing they want most: a happily ever after for their family.

Women's Fiction, Humor, Family

Decker needs help pulling off a remodeling job before Christmas. His daughter wants a mother. Will the new woman in their home bring joy, or tear their world apart? READ MORE

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Contemporary Romance, Single Mother

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Contemporary Romance, Single Mother, Greek Culture

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Mystery, Supernatural Suspense

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Historical Fiction, Family

When two grieving hearts and one hopeful letter meet, Christmas magic just might bring a family together. READ MORE

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Historical Fiction, Family

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Disclosure of Material Connection: This site is managed by www.WrittenMusings.com. Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, we will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, we only recommend products or services we believe will add value to our readers. We are disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

]]><![CDATA[New Release in the Midnight Sons Series! Plus, Start the Series Free!]]>Tue, 01 Jul 2025 06:00:00 GMThttps://www.writtenmusings.com/blog/070125

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The Newest Release in the series is a Prequel

Adam's Rising is a story of perseverance, love, and the birth of a legacy. Witness the genesis of a hero whose determination and courage light the path for future generations.

In this compelling prequel to the Midnight Sons series, discover the origins of a hero forged from love, loss, and resilience... READ MORE!

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]]><![CDATA[New Release Christmas Mystery from NYT and USA Today Bestselling Author Tina Wainscott, "Whispers in a Silent Night!"]]>Wed, 11 Dec 2024 07:00:00 GMThttps://www.writtenmusings.com/blog/121124

From NYT and USA Today bestselling author Tina Wainscott comes a gripping spin-off Christmas story that reunites fans with Silas and Katie, the unforgettable couple from Unforgivable. If you fell in love with their story of resilience, redemption, and love overcoming the darkest of pasts, you won’t want to miss this next chapter in their journey. Even if you haven't read Unforgivable rest assured that Whispers in a Silent Night is a stand-alone story.

In Whispers in a Silent Night, Silas and Katie are ready to celebrate their first Christmas together, cherishing the hard-won peace they’ve built after the trials of Unforgivable. But peace is fleeting when Silas’s extraordinary ability to sense emotions pulls them into the mystery of a young boy in peril. As they navigate Atlanta’s festive, snow-draped streets, the couple is drawn into a chilling threat that reminds them—and readers—that sometimes the holidays bring both miracles and dangers.

Tina Wainscott has a knack for creating characters that resonate long after the last page is turned. Unforgivable, first published years ago, became a fan favorite for its blend of heart-pounding suspense and raw emotional depth. Silas, the deeply flawed yet fiercely protective hero, captivated readers with his struggle for redemption. Katie, with her unwavering strength and compassionate spirit, stood as his equal and partner. Their chemistry and resilience turned them into one of Tina’s most beloved couples.

But every great story leaves questions, and fans have long wondered: What’s next for Silas and Katie? Tina answers with Whispers in a Silent Night, a story that not only brings back the couple we love but also deepens their bond as they face new challenges together.

What Readers Are Saying
Early reviewers are calling Whispers in a Silent Night:

💬 “An emotional rollercoaster, packed with suspense and the warmth of Christmas spirit.”
💬 “Silas and Katie feel like old friends—it’s such a joy to revisit their world.”
💬 “A perfect balance of heart-pounding action and holiday cheer.”

Join Silas and Katie on a thrilling holiday adventure, and experience a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat while warming your heart. READ MORE!

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]]><![CDATA[Breathing Life into Words: Crafting Compelling Characters that Endure by Nanine Case]]>Mon, 19 Aug 2024 15:54:05 GMThttps://www.writtenmusings.com/blog/081924

The characters in my books In Search of the Cannibal King and Cannibal King were not simply born from my pen—though it was my description that breathed life into them. Each character emerged from the story, shaped by their culture and society into the multi-dimensional and colorful people they became. I dressed them in words, but they introduced themselves.

Take, for example, Joyce Walton, the 78-year-old who, despite her reluctance to share her father’s diaries, uncovered a long-buried secret when she mentioned his missionary trunk in the basement of the family’s old home. Even before I heard the trembling voice on the other end of the line, pausing between sentences with a fearful “Oh, dear,” I began to envision the complex personality behind those words.

As the author of a story filled with diverse, multi-dimensional characters from various societies and walks of life, it was my responsibility to present them as authentically as possible. My goal was to connect with you, the reader, on a deep level, so that you might find yourself immersed in a scene, seeing the world through the eyes of either the villain or the heroine.

When you read a book and feel equal passion for the characters as you do for the story itself, the author has succeeded in giving those multi-dimensional personalities their due—adding just enough salt and pepper to spice them up!

As an unknown writer once said, “A book is knowledge shared.” Another said, “A story told is a story that's never forgotten, but a memory of what was past and what will be." Both are true…yet the rest is subjective, as every reader’s experience of a story is unique.

Here’s what one reviewer said after reading Cannibal King, “I miss its characters, and they stay with me now, alive in my mind, days after finishing the book. This is such a feat for this talented author! Her outstanding writing made every little detail of the tribes’ villages and customs come alive in my mind’s eye, as if I were on the Marquesas Islands, too.”

What that reader conveyed to me was that I had achieved what I set out to do—make the characters live on.

Until next time, happy adventuring!

Nanine

If you want to explore with me, start with In Search of the Cannibal King, which my publisher is offering FREE for a limited time.

If you want to dive right into the fast-action historical adventure of John Rumell, head right to the Cannibal King!

START YOUR ADVENTURE NOW!

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]]><![CDATA[Crafting Compelling Characters: The Evolution of a Prequel! Plus, a $0.99 Book and a New Release!]]>Mon, 08 Jul 2024 06:00:00 GMThttps://www.writtenmusings.com/blog/070824

Creating Multi-Dimensional Characters: The Story of Claire

One of the most rewarding aspects of writing is crafting characters that resonate deeply with readers. As a storyteller, it's essential to breathe life into your characters, making them as complex and multi-dimensional as the people we encounter in real life. In my Midnight Sons series, Claire, the mother of the five brothers, exemplifies this approach. She started as what seemed like a background character but evolved into someone readers demanded to know more about. Let's delve into how Claire's character was crafted and what you can learn from it.

Introducing a Character with Purpose

From the very beginning, I knew Claire wasn’t just going to be a passive presence. In the first book, we meet her sitting in a dive bar, celebrating the youngest Midnight Son’s 21st birthday. This introduction was intentional. It immediately paints a picture of a woman who is deeply involved in her sons’ lives, not just as a mother but as a friend and mentor. Sam mentions how she was a climber back in the day but now handles the business end of things. This tells the reader that Claire has had an adventurous past but is now the backbone of the family business.

Building a Multi-Layered Persona

Claire’s role in each book is pivotal. When Sam is upset, she’s there to encourage him. When a new woman enters the scene, Claire is the first to take her under her wing. She speaks truth into her adult sons’ lives, offering wisdom and guidance that only a mother can provide. This consistency in her character makes her a reliable and relatable figure for readers. However, what makes Claire truly compelling is the gradual revelation of her past.

Unveiling the Backstory

In every book, readers learn a little more about Claire’s previous life. This slow drip of information keeps readers intrigued and invested in her character. She even mentions to one of her son’s girlfriends that she shared a similar situation, hinting at a depth and complexity that isn’t immediately visible. This technique of revealing backstory bit by bit can be incredibly effective in maintaining interest and adding layers to your characters.

The Importance of Knowing Your Characters

When crafting a story, I make sure to know all my characters’ backgrounds intimately. Often, I find myself sharing a scene from a book with someone, going into more detail than what’s in the book. They often stop me with a, “Wait! I didn’t read that.” That’s because not all details make it into the final version, but they’re still a part of the character’s history—in my head. This comprehensive understanding of your characters’ pasts, motivations, and desires is crucial. It allows you to write them with authenticity and depth, even if all those details aren’t explicitly stated.

Readers’ Demand for More

The real test of a well-crafted character is how readers respond to them. Imagine my surprise when readers started demanding to see Adam and Claire’s story. I had included so much detail about what seemed like a background character that she became central to the narrative in readers’ minds. This demand led to the creation of Adam’s Rising, where I delve into the origins of the Midnight Sons and explore the rich backstory of Adam and Claire.

Until next time, Happy Reading and Writing!

Carmen

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If you've already finished the series, grab the new release for only $0.99!

After witnessing a murder, Nora goes missing in the Alaska wilderness. Expert tracker Sam and his search dogs are brought on to locate her. Stuck together during a storm, things start to heat up between Sam and Nora. . . until it’s clear someone wants them to stay lost—permanently. READ MORE!

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Before the Midnight Sons became a renowned search and rescue team, Adam's journey of love, loss, and resilience began. As a skilled horse wrangler, Adam's life changes when the woman he loves is kidnapped. His determination to rescue her sparks the origins of a hero, laying the foundation for the Midnight Sons. READ MORE!

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]]><![CDATA[Synchronicities in Setting: The Magic of Finding Your Story's Perfect Place by Tina Wainscott]]>Mon, 10 Jun 2024 06:00:00 GMThttps://www.writtenmusings.com/blog/061024

The idea of my story, Unforgivable, hit me like a tornado. I had watched a news story that upset me so much, I went directly into my office and wrote the first chapter of the book, which up until that moment hadn’t existed in the ether of my mind. The characters came alive, one little girl and the three guys who play a pivotal role in her life in the opening chapter and then sixteen years later when the book picks up. It was a kismet book. Everything came alive for me in one fell swoop.

The setting also came to me easily. Although I’m a Florida girl, I love Georgia and North Carolina. For many years, we’ve had a place in the NC mountains where I can escape the Florida humidity. I saw and felt the small southern town that the story would play out in, and I knew it was in Southern Georgia. I wanted to choose a place that I could pop off the interstate on the way up or back and easily explore the town and take pictures to inspire my story. But by then, I had mostly written the book, using my imagination and Google maps to guide me. Back then, Google Maps didn’t have all the user photographs, so I went by what I saw.

Imagine my surprise when we drove into Clinton, Georgia and it looked exactly how I had seen it. I mean, eerily similar. Even down to the cemetery that I had totally made up. It was so cool and validating that this was a book of my soul.

As a writer, it’s important for me to have a clear visual idea of my world so I can convey it to you, the reader. More importantly for me, I want to convey it with a few concise words and not paragraphs of description. Those classics and books of yesterday could go on and on about a settee and the drapes that framed it in the parlor, but not anymore. And thank goodness, right? I want to sink you into the town, the woods, the house, and pull you right along with the story.

When I decided to write a follow-up story featuring Katie and Silas from Unforgivable, I had to go back to the book and see where I left off. Ah, they were leaving that small town with so many unhappy memories for them both and moving to Atlanta, where Silas had lived ever since leaving Clinton. I really like Atlanta, so that’s easy. As of right now, I still need to do some more setting research for that story, but it will be easy and fun to fill in all the details.

Especially because it’s set at Christmas! Ahh, that most wonderful time of the year! Even when it’s actually May. Hot and muggy in Florida already, and I was playing my Christmas music and watching my favorite rom-coms to get in the mood. Not a hardship, let me tell ya. I love the holiday season. And it was fun to put in all those details (but not too many) that make that time of year so fun—the music, the tinsel, the Santas! Okay, I’m not actually into Santas, but since there’s a creepy and suspicious man in a Santa costume in my story, I had to put in a lot of Santas.

Settings are incredibly important for a story, and I think they should play a significant role for the characters—and the reader. What are some of your favorite settings?

I'd love to hear your thoughts as a writer and/or a reader!

Tina

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]]><![CDATA[Settings: The Power of using Images to bring Words to Life by Nanine Case, writer of Historical Action Adventure and Biographical Fiction!]]>Mon, 20 May 2024 06:00:00 GMThttps://www.writtenmusings.com/blog/052024

Writing my novels, In Search of the Cannibal King and Cannibal King, required more than just my knowledge of the stories; it also required the use of imagery to bring the stories boldly to life. My love for photography and the immense library of photographs I’ve created over six decades was the perfect tool to personalize the varied scenes and accurately describe the cast of characters.

A wonderful thing happened during my storytelling. In the process of describing the scenes, which I hoped would continuously draw the reader into the pages and cause them to feel as if they were living the experience, I actually found myself reliving all that I experienced during my search for the Cannibal King stories. Through the power of imagery, the unsurpassed beauty of the Marquesas Islands came alive, as did the faces of the people, who were as colorful in real life as they appeared in the pages of the stories.

One of the most compelling aspects of setting in storytelling is its ability to transport readers to another time and place. For me, the Marquesas Islands were not just a backdrop but a living, breathing character in the narrative. Each photograph I took was a fragment of a larger mosaic, capturing moments that would later become integral parts of my novels. Whether it was the rugged cliffs, the lush greenery, or the vibrant markets, each scene was meticulously crafted to evoke the essence of the islands.

The Marquesas Islands, with their raw and untouched beauty, became more than just a setting for my stories; they were a source of inspiration. Every corner of these islands told a story, every face I encountered had a tale to tell. The challenge was not just to describe these scenes but to make them resonate with the reader, to make them feel the heat of the sun, hear the rustle of the palm trees, and see the vivid colors of the landscape. This immersive experience is what I aimed to achieve, and my photographs were the bridge between reality and fiction.

In my writing process, I found that settings do more than just provide a backdrop for the action; they shape the narrative and influence the characters. The environment in which a story takes place can dictate the mood, pace, and direction of the plot. For instance, the isolation of the Marquesas Islands created a sense of mystery and adventure, a perfect setting for tales of exploration and discovery. The remote villages, the traditional tattoos, and the ancient customs all added layers of authenticity and depth to the story.

Reliving my experiences through writing was a deeply personal journey. Each description of a scene was a reflection of my memories and emotions. I could vividly recall the sensation of standing on a cliff, overlooking the vast ocean, feeling the wind on my face, and the thrill of the unknown ahead. This personal connection to the setting infused my writing with a sense of realism and intimacy that I hope resonates with my readers.

Moreover, the use of photographs in my storytelling served as a visual aid, helping me to capture and convey the intricate details that words alone might miss. A picture, as they say, is worth a thousand words. My photographs allowed me to paint a more vivid and accurate picture of the scenes, ensuring that the readers could see what I saw and feel what I felt. The power of visual storytelling cannot be overstated; it adds a layer of richness and texture to the narrative that enhances the reader's experience.

As you delve into the pages of In Search of the Cannibal King and Cannibal King, you will find descriptions of these photographs interwoven within the text. The stories are not just tales of adventure and exploration; they are a journey through the landscapes and cultures of the Marquesas Islands, brought to life through the lens of my camera.

In conclusion, the setting is a vital component of storytelling. It grounds the narrative in a specific time and place, provides context for the characters' actions, and enriches the overall reading experience. For me, the Marquesas Islands were more than just a setting; they were a source of inspiration, a character in their own right, and a gateway to a world of adventure. Through the power of imagery and personal experience, I endeavored to bring this world to life for my readers, inviting them to join me on a journey of discovery and wonder.

START YOUR ADVENTURE NOW!

If you want to explore with me, start with In Search of the Cannibal King, which my publisher is offering FREE for a limited time.

If you want to dive right into the fast-action historical adventure of John Rumell, head right to the Cannibal King!

Nanine's quest to uncover the truth behind a fantastical article led her to the Marquesas Islands, revealing her ancestor's life among cannibals and tribal warriors. READ MORE!

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Based on real events, Cannibal King follows John Rumell's survival and love in a cannibal tribe, blending adventure and historical events for a thrilling read.

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]]><![CDATA[From Dream to Reality: Crafting Settings in Your Stories by Award-Winning Author and Librarian M.J. Kane! Plus Read the Butterfly Memoirs series with Kindle Unlimited!]]>Mon, 29 Apr 2024 16:35:20 GMThttps://www.writtenmusings.com/blog/042924

"I’m going to write a book!" As a librarian, I hear that a lot. Hey, I was once that patron who said it! And a very knowledgeable librarian helped me.

I checked out books on writing, and after a few months, I thought I had a really good story and gave it to a few trusted readers and waited for feedback. My new friends told me the story was dry and needed work. Talk about a reality check!

After picking up my ego, I realized they were right and was determined to learn how to make it better. One of the things I learned was it takes more than likeable characters to tell a story. In order to grab a reader’s attention, your story has to reach their emotions in ways that make the story memorable. Part of that is done with a great setting.

What is a setting?

Dictonary.com defines setting as: the local or period in which the action of a novel, play, film, etc. takes place.

In my opinion, the setting is another character in your story. It’s the location of your novel, the background of a scene. It is the catalyst for what motivates your characters. You need to know as much about your setting as you know about your characters’ backstories. After all, most small towns, cities, states, and countries have histories—good and bad.

So, how do you use setting in a story? If you’re reading, does the setting stand out?

In the Butterfly Memoirs, the setting for the first three novels is Los Angeles, California. Books 4 and 5 are set in Atlanta, Georgia, and book 6 is set in Miami, Florida. Writing the setting for four of those books was a challenge! Why? Because I am from Atlanta and have never been to Los Angeles! I did visit Miami once, though.

For settings where I’ve never been, I trust Google a lot! I had a vision, of course, but then Google made it possible for me to research the locations. Searching for images helped me accurately describe a location such as the Santa Monica Pier and the Los Angeles Zoo in A Heart Not Easily Broken. Using places I was more familiar with in Nobody’s Business and Alone were easier because I live in Atlanta. That didn’t stop me from using Google to keep the details accurate even in Atlanta. The last thing you want is to write something that you see in your mind without fact-checking, and then have readers call you out on it. Beta readers help, too! Especially if you know someone from the area you set your story.

Happy Reading and Writing!

MJ

Multicultural Romance with Heart and Soul!

Trevon Campbell reconsiders his life choices after discovering he's a father, while firefighter Kai Malone grapples with betrayal. Their unexpected reunion reignites an undeniable attraction, challenging both to confront their pasts. READ MORE on Amazon.com!

Derrick moves to Atlanta for a fresh start and maybe a casual relationship or two... Until he meets Kelli, a single mother challenging his views on love. Fate forces them together, changing their lives forever. READ MORE on Amazon.com!

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