Between the Words

Where a writer's creativity is born . . . and nurtured.

All the things that happen in an authors’s life between writing books is the “life blood” of creativity. Really. This time is important, vital, necessary for fueling our imaginations. Without the precious moments between writing there would be nothing imagined, remembered, or crafted. Nothing to dream about or write about.

For it is here, in the time and space between the words—where life is lived—that ideas and stories are formed and nurtured. This may seem obvious, but it’s also worth taking the time to stop and think about, something we should really pay attention to.

Hence the change in focus here. I’ll continue to write about my books—past, current, and upcoming. I’ll still get into the craft of writing. But I will also explore and reveal more of what goes on behind the scenes when I’m not writing. For without pursuits that stimulate and captivate us between writing there would be no words.

I’ll start with my trip to Martha’s Vineyard this past summer. It’s also the scene of the crime—or at least one of the primary locations—in my upcoming suspense novel due out early next year. I’ve been traveling to the island almost every summer for more than a decade. It’s one of my happy places, bringing joy, peace, and warmth whenever I visit. The history, culture, and sheer beauty of the island fascinate me and inspire my imagination like few other locations.

Every author should have a “Martha’s Vineyard” to enrich their lives and cultivate their creativity. It doesn’t have to be someplace far away or an exotic destination. I enjoy taking long walks around my neighborhood and other places nearby. Gardens both local and distant always fill my soul and get the creative juices flowing.

For now, let’s focus on this magical island and you’ll see why this destination always sparks my creativity.

A mesmerizing harbor view at sunset in Oak Bluffs on Martha’s Vineyard. You’ll find sunsets like this all over the island.

The breathtaking view of the clay cliffs on the westernmost edge of the island in Aquinnah. Nearby are a historic lighthouse, gift shops, and a gorgeous beach. The cliffs are part of an environmental resource program awarded to the island's Wampanoag Tribe.

Selfie taken at Aquinnah Cliffs with the lighthouse in the background. This is the oldest of five scenic lighthouses on the island.

Menemsha, a small fishing village in Chilmark where we first purchase fresh seafood then walk down to the beach to catch the stunning sunsets.

Having dinner and drinks at a harborside restaurant on the final evening of our visit and at the end of a trip to remember.

Who wouldn’t have their imaginations fired up by such incredible surroundings?