Dressing as a character from one of my own books? An author’s heart is all in!
Who is she?
Say hello in the comments – you know I love to hear from you!
Still by Authoress Michelle Novak
Costume: Lita Lockhart (the authoress’s mama)
For a list of my works, please visit: https://www.amazon.com/author/mnovak
The Kenosha Book Festival yesterday at Studio Moonfall was an incredible event! Thank you to all the readers that came out to show your bookish love and support, with so many signed adventures from wonderful local indie authors carried away! I’m still smiling!
Happy reading! Stay inspired!
Being a part of the Evanston Farmer’s Market as one of the Home Grown Artists has been a real blessing to me these last three Saturdays. Great conversations, with so many interesting, intelligent, kind, generous people in my own community. Thank you for supporting this indie author!
Next Sunday, June 25th – I’ll be at the Kenosha Book Festival at Studio Moonfall from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.! Can’t wait to see so many of my fellow indie authors, and Kenosha friends!!
Another great day yesterday as one of the Home Grown Artists at the Evanston Farmer’s Market! Such great conversations and how much I’m enjoying just being out with my community on a sunny Saturday morning! Thank you, Evanston!
I was one of the Home Grown Artists at my local Evanston Farmer’s Market yesterday. To the new readers I met, you made my heart smile ~ and I sincerely hope you enjoy reading your new tales!
To my bookish friends ~ I regrettably had to miss a handful of my planned events in April and May, a very first in all my author years. And a sting, as my book days mean everything to me. I’ve therefore decided to schedule this summer a bit more impromptu than usual, rather than ahead. One glorious week of books and sunshine, at a time. I’ll keep the schedule up-to-date here at InspiredByVenice.org
Keep Smiling! Keep Reading! Stay Inspired!
Kenosha Book Festival this Sunday, May 28th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Studio Moonfall!
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I’ll be selling and signing my tales! But what’s better? I’ll be alongside the MOST amazing company of indie authors! Come out for this bookish blast and pages of inspiration!
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For a list of my works, please visit:
https://www.amazon.com/author/mnovak
All organized to head to Studio Moonfall in Kenosha, WI next Sunday May 28th from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. for the Kenosha Book Festival!
I’ll be selling and signing my tales ~ but more importantly, I’ll be seeing YOUR smiling faces and enjoying a lovely bookish day!
For a list of my tales, please visit: https://www.amazon.com/author/mnovak
What an adventure yesterday! Thank you @magicalmenageriemarket for the party! Wow!!!
Met some awesome people and lovely new readers! Thank you for all the magical and bookish conversation! Sincerely hope that anyone who went away with one of my tales will be wonderfully whisked to my imaginary worlds! All, all, ALL the best!
Stay Inspired!
Tomorrow! Magical Menagerie Market – Stan Mansion, Chicago – March 26th – 12 to 7 p.m.
I’ll be selling and signing my tales ~ Sincerely looking forward to the music, food, smiles, fellow artists, and good cheer! See you then!
https://www.instagram.com/magicalmenageriemarket/
~ My kitchen table ~
Words. I love words. And cheese & crackers.
Stay Inspired!
InspiredByVenice.org
I’ll be selling and signing my tales! Save the date for The Magical Menagerie Market! @magicalmenageriemarket
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March 26th ~ 12 to 7 p.m.
Stan Mansion ~ Chicago
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Flyer artist: @thesinisterrex
Event host: @theapothecarycupboard
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For a list of my tales, please visit: https://inspiredbyvenice.org/about/
Here’s my current adventure schedule!!!
For a list of my tales, please visit: https://inspiredbyvenice.org/about/
At the close of one sweltering day’s journey beneath Egypt’s unrelenting sun, a young woman and her nomadic parents lead their flock into the calm of an unexpected and flourishing oasis. It is a place of ideal refuge in the desert, at least for one night along the family’s annual passage through a barren land…
Taking advantage of what little light remains, Hem trails away to search for nabk berries by her mother’s command. Only, finding a verdant spot right for fruit, this single child of Amosis and Oila will soon discover that she and her family are not alone. Someone else has also discovered the sanctuary in the wilderness. Someone who is about to endanger all of their lives, and alter each of their fates, forever.
There is a place where the sands run deep. High above, a scorching sun beams. Far below, the ancients sleep. Scorpions scuttle, and the ibis stalks. People chant, while the gods, they watch…
Sleek statues stare, and vipers slither. Incense streams like a gentle whisper. Hem has a perilous journey ahead, with no choice but endure. Whether or not she will live, no one’s destiny is sure.
Available on Amazon
Cover Artist: https://selfpubbookcovers.com/Viergacht
For about a year, I’ve been reading business books, listening to podcasts, researching, reading articles, exploring, testing new ideas, all around my author life, in ways I never had before. It’s been fun! And interesting! At the core of it, I just want to learn…stuff. Just nerd out on new ideas!
Currently reading MicroFamous by Matt Johnson. Sure to gain a new pondering or two, I gather.
https://www.instagram.com/microfamous/
For my traveling book display, I have a tiered cardboard stand that breaks down flat in my bag. It works well to present height, rather than the books filed down a table.
One downside of my train-hopping display is that I can’t pack the weight of my sample copies. And one thing I know about book lovers is that they like to flip the pages…reading the cover alone just isn’t enough.
Me and my traveling books! Happiness!
So I’d gotten this teeny kiosk that I can carry on the L train to events around Chicago. And I’m already rethinking it. It’s fast to set up, and so perfect. But still too bulky for L hopping. For close to home, it will still work. I’d also designed that ad board twice, and didn’t like either! So ran out of patience and left it blank (awkward!) this particular day. Let’s see what else I come up with for my city adventures…
Keep trying! Stay Inspired!
Thank you for hosting the Cupid’s pop-up last Sunday @missioncontrolarcade (https://www.facebook.com/missioncontrolarcade)! Next up for me, The Magical Menagerie Market March 26th! @magicalmenageriemarket, this authoress is looking forward to the fun!
Stay Inspired!
My books and I took an adventure today! Shout out to all my author and creative friends out there going those miles (or L train tracks) to share their stories, their craft, their passions, and their heart! Stay Inspired!
I’m all ready to visit Mission Control Arcade Bar in Chicago tomorrow from 12 – 4 p.m.! I’ll be selling and signing my tales! Please visit InspiredByVenice.org for a list of my stories! See you then!
@missioncontrolarcade
https://www.facebook.com/missioncontrolarcade
How much I’m looking forward to meeting with friends and readers, old and new!
For a list of my works, and updates to events I’ll be joining in 2023, please visit InspiredByVenice.org ~ Stay Inspired!
I think dictionaries are ridiculously entertaining ~ just flip the pages and point to a word. Did you know that word before? Do you know how to pronounce it? Is its meaning curious or does it make you laugh? My grandma used to tell me to “look it up in the dictionary” when I used to ask how to spell something. I didn’t like that. I was a kid. I thought that was a chore. But not now. I love words. Words. Words. Words. Sometimes I make them up in my writing and can’t believe they aren’t in the dictionary when I edit my work. I might start leaving some of them in my books instead of correcting them. My little secret. See if anyone notices.
Go flip the pages of the dictionary. What was your word?
Everything in twinkle lights! All year long! ALL the twinkles! That’s what I say ~
How are you, Friends? Events starting up for me again next week, which is my joy! My bookish days are my best days. Really looking forward to it, and will share my adventures here with you!
Twinkle-twinkle! Stay Inspired!
I’m looking forward to joining the Cupid’s Pop-up at Mission Control Arcade Bar in Chicago on February 12th, selling and signing my tales from 12 – 4 p.m.! Thank you @missioncontrolarcade ~ https://www.facebook.com/missioncontrolarcade/ ~ for this graphic, and for welcoming this authoress to the fun!
For a list of my tales, please visit: https://inspiredbyvenice.org/about/
I’ll be joining the Cupid’s Pop-up at Mission Control Arcade Bar in Chicago on February 12th, selling and signing my tales from 12 – 4 p.m.! Thank you @missioncontrolarcade ~ https://www.facebook.com/missioncontrolarcade/ ~ for this pretty pink graphic, and for welcoming this authoress to the fun!
For a list of my tales, please visit: https://inspiredbyvenice.org/about/
I’m very excited to be joining The Magical Menagerie Market on March 26th from 12-7 p.m. at Stan Mansion in Chicago!
I’ll be selling and signing my magical tales! Thank you @magicalmenageriemarket & @theapothecarycupboard for hosting and for welcoming this authoress to this incredible event!
Flyer art – @thesinisterrex
Still by Michelle Novak:
Roe works as a backer, a jack-of-all-trades in one of New York City’s oldest museums. Housing a legion of ancient treasures, its dim and mysterious halls have been venerated for long over a century. Her father before her, an esteemed historian in the museum for decades. It was from him, that she learned everything.
In this place, Roe’s whole life has been spent. Exploring every shadowy corner, gazing over every priceless piece, sneaking a glance inside every creaky drawer. So, she thought she had discovered all of its even most secret of secrets. But that couldn’t be further from the truth.
In a museum, there is always more to find. Or more to find you. And here, something has been hiding in the basement for a very long time. Something that has now begun looking, for Roe.
To find Still, and my other tales, please visit: https://www.amazon.com/author/mnovak
I’ll be updating with a few events shortly, and what a fun project it’s been planning a new bookish stand to take along on my outings! Really looking forward to meeting new friends and readers soon. As I always say, my bookish days are my best days. But not just because of the books. It’s because of YOU. The incredible, kind, artistic, interesting, creative people I meet. I’ll be seeing you soon!
My pop-up bookstand is coming along! And it all fits in a few bags easily carried. I make my own magic, man! And you may think those are twinkle lights…but they’re fairies. They flew by to approve my shop.
Just a mock-up…but this little kiosk collapses into a bag to go over my shoulder! Tiered cardboard bookshelf on the way will sit on top. Need batteries for lots more twinkle lights! Let’s see what I do with the sign. Storage in the back for extra tales. Starting February, my little mobile bookshop and I will be L hopping. I owe you some visits, Chicago! Come along on the adventure with me…
How are you staying inspired today? I’ll be spending my day in a bookish way – writing, planning, dreaming ~
I’m enjoying Stephen King’s On Writing – quite the storyteller!
Oh where will my pen take me today? Away, away…
Stay Inspired!
Still was the first fully contemporary book I’ve written, and the first that felt like I might pass by one of my characters in a museum, or on a city street one day. The people I created felt so real. Maybe because they live in my world. Or maybe, that’s just how powerful the imagination is.
For a list of my stories, please visit: https://www.amazon.com/author/mnovak
Wishing your holiday season filled with fairy tale moments! But if you need some…this fairy godwriter can point you in the ‘write’ direction! Tee-hee! Sparkle-sparkle! Stay inspired!
For a list of my magical works, please visit: https://www.amazon.com/author/mnovak
The writing has been difficult these weeks. Words? I have them. They are on the page. I always have words. I’ve been scratching pages. Which isn’t like me. But that’s because I know. They just aren’t the right ones.
This coming event season when a reader asks for my newest novel, I want to hand them something that is going to make them gasp, revolt, smile, laugh, cringe, drop a tear…need to stay up for just one more chapter. But that takes more than words. It takes heart.
~ Stay Inspired ~
Received this in the mail today! Excited to learn new things!
5-Minute Book Marketing for Authors by Penny Sansevieri
Wonderful Readers ~ Please consider a dragon tale to gift this season! Reading is such an adventure and so incredible for the imagination! Please also consider supporting indie authors, independent bookstores, small creators and small businesses, who strive to bring the world unique goods and special experiences!
For a list of my independently published works, please visit: https://www.amazon.com/author/mnovak
To all the northern Illinois, southern Wisconsin readers…what events should I check out for 2023? Any fun festivals, fairs, or bookish spots I should look into? I’d love your input!
Stay Inspired!
{InspiredByVenice.org}
Hello My Bookish Friends!
If you’ve enjoyed a little inspiration from my writing corner over the years, please consider…
~ Following me on Goodreads, and adding some of my tales to your Want to Read shelf!
~ Submitting an Amazon or Goodreads review for one of my books (this means THE world to an author)!
~ Ordering one of my stories for yourself or a special gift (and if you bring it to one of my events, I’ll be so happy to sign it)!
~ Following my author journey on Instagram, Facebook, InspiredByVenice.org, YouTube
~ Coming by for a signed copy at one of my outings. 2023 is going to be special! Schedule announcing soon on InspiredByVenice.org!
~ Sharing your inspired words, likes, and follows. This keeps me lifted and fuels my pen!
Thank you sincerely – for the inspiration you give, to me!
~Author Website: InspiredByVenice.org
~Amazon Author Site: https://www.amazon.com/author/mnovak
~Authoress Michelle Novak on YouTube
My book bins were sassing me today. They said they haven’t been out to an event in weeks! I told them we had to take a break so I can write new books for them to tote. But they talked back, told me they were missing out on the holiday market fun! I told them I don’t drive in the snow in winter. It gives me anxiety. They said it’s not snowing yet. I told them we take a break every winter. They said that’s ridiculous and that I’m a bore.
I mean – what to do when your book bins are giving you attitude?
I may not be an artist…but I’ve got quite an imagination…and this fairy bookmother’s been dreaming. And if there were ever a fairy bookmother who could make a magical bookish dream come true, well…
The Garnet Crossing – What’s keeping my quill busy!
What are you working on, or inspired by right now?
Cover Art by: selfpubbookcovers.com/DesignsByDaylin
Wonderful Readers ~ Please consider a mysterious tale to gift this season! Reading is such an adventure and so incredible for the imagination! Please also consider supporting indie authors, independent bookstores, small creators and small businesses, who strive to bring the world unique goods and special experiences!
For a list of my independently published works, please visit: https://www.amazon.com/author/mnovak
Thank you, as ever, to Studio Moonfall in Kenosha, WI ~ This magical bookstore endlessly supports indie authors and makers! They host wonderful bookish fun and carry so many titles by independent authors, mine included! Check it out with a visit in-person, or online – You can even take a virtual tour on the website! https://www.studiomoonfall.com/
My first book was published in 2015 and I’ve been on an adventure ever since. Growing as a writer, indie publishing, event attending, small business skills, marketing, social media. I love it all – I never get tired of it – I’m always inspired by it – and every day I’m growing. In fact, I feel like I’m just getting warmed up!
I wanted to say to all the writers, artists, creators, and small business owners out there. I see it now – one must KEEP LEARNING. Read, watch, listen, research, ADAPT, get excited, get inspired, keep going, KEEP GOING! It’s the ones who keep learning, and do not stop, that actually make strides to get where they want to go! Common sense? Then tell me why it’s so easy to become stagnant and let go of one’s hopes for one’s craft?
I’m very, VERY excited for 2023 in my bookish life. Some exciting new fun is approaching! And I believe that if I continue to take my own advice, the future is really looking very magical!
Stay Inspired!
Wonderful Readers ~ Please consider a magical tale to gift this season! Reading is such an adventure and so incredible for the imagination! Please also consider supporting indie authors, independent bookstores, small creators and small businesses, who strive to bring the world unique goods and special experiences!
For a list of my independently published works, please visit: https://www.amazon.com/author/mnovak
I usually don’t throw out a story and start it from scratch again. But when you know it isn’t THE story you’re going to write, well…then it’s literally back to chapter one.
But just remember – nothing is ever a loss. It’s just practice.
Wonderful Readers ~ Please consider a magical tale to gift this season! Reading is such an adventure and so incredible for the imagination! Please also consider supporting indie authors, independent bookstores, small creators and small businesses, who strive to bring the world unique goods and special experiences!
For a list of my independently published works, please visit: https://www.amazon.com/author/mnovak
I won a Goodreads giveaway! A Most Intriguing Lady by Sarah Ferguson – Duchess of York! I can’t wait to read it – what a treat!
Wonderful Readers ~ Please consider a magical tale to gift this season! Reading is such an adventure and so incredible for the imagination! Please also consider supporting indie authors, independent bookstores, small creators and small businesses, who strive to bring the world unique goods and special experiences!
For a list of my independently published works, please visit: https://www.amazon.com/author/mnovak
What I wrote: “And then she knew, it would be up to her to save the kingdom.”
What I was thinking: “Michelle. You drink four cups of coffee in the morning just to make it to lunch. But you expect your character to save an entire kingdom. I bet you’re going to give her a sword, aren’t you? Could YOU wield a sword? One who is wary of toenail clippers. Just so you know, you have to write this thing. So actually YOU have to save this kingdom. Did you think about how you’re going to do that before you decided to put the weight of the world on this character’s shoulders?! Better sharpen your pencils! Here we go!”
What I write: “And then the fairy twirled about, dusting them all with magical glitter to make their wishes come true…”
What I think: “Wait. Michelle. Remember that time glitter got in your eye from that makeup you were wearing when you were eating at that fancy restaurant. And it ruined dinner because it scratched your eyeball. Like, really bad. And the server tried to lend you their eye drops but you were too scared to use them when you scurried off to the bathroom because you’ve always had a strange terror of eye drops. And then how you looked like a wreck instead of a glittering beauty because the tears wouldn’t stop gushing from that eye to try and expel it. And how the other tables probably thought you were having a breakdown. But you weren’t. It was just one-single-evil-fleck of sparkle. So…are we sure about the glitter?”
Okay – I’ll let you in on a secret. If you want to see vibrant stories in your imagination, you have to wear colorful eyeglasses. And then to capture those bright words, you must use a rainbow of ink. It’s the only way to write a fairy tale. Every fairy godwriter knows this.
I checked my email this morning and saw that I had won one of the book giveaways on Goodreads! I post giveaways for my own tales, but I never expected to win a book myself! I’ll share the title when it arrives in the mail! How fun!
To join me on Goodreads – and to see when I post a giveaway – please visit here.
~ Dear Readers ~
If you have read and enjoyed one of my tales, please consider showing your support with a review on Amazon and Goodreads. Reviews mean so much! Especially to a growing indie author, like me. My very sincerest, and thank you for reading!
Amazon Author Page
Goodreads Author Page
Author Website: InspiredByVenice.org
Venice’s Cover Artist: https://selfpubbookcovers.com/Daniela
Top three I’m currently reading, bottom three to be read…
Ghost by Alan Lightman is fiction, and I usually like ‘true’ ghost stories, but I’m enjoying how a writer can elicit a feeling, an atmosphere. I admire it. I’m more of a ‘help you SEE the scene’ writer, not a ‘make you FEEL the scene’ writer. I think.
Why do I like true ghost tales? It’s peoples’ stories. Their life and the context around some strange thing that happened to them. A handful have really blown my mind. I never get tired of reading them. But do I want to SEE a ghost? No. No I DO NOT. No – no! Nope. No. I only want to read about them in books.
Most recent book mail from my dad. I can’t wait to read it (I’m bonkers for history) but I have so many good ones to read right now! If only I could get paid to take a reading vacation.
{Doc Susie by Virginia Cornell}
Happened upon an Evanston bookstore I’d never been to before yesterday. AND THEY SUPPORT INDEPENDENT AUTHORS. So I supported them with a purchase, a few titles that were on my to-read list. Thank you for lifting up self-published authors, @pageonebooks !!!
When you don’t see enough of the good, the beautiful, or the magical around you…have courage, and create some!
Stay Inspired!
Where’s your life adventure taking you right now?
I’ve been all about my little bookish business, planning for 2023. Writing, considering new ideas and goals, planning my hopes for an exciting book season in the new year. All of those things that make me really happy!
Amazon has a sale on my Queen of the Elves and Delight (not sure for how long)! Please consider reading and supporting an independent author. Happy reading!
My Amazon author page: https://www.amazon.com/author/mnovak
Handwritten pages just before I slipped them into the shredder. I prefer to handwrite my youth adventures, but I don’t keep the paper pages after they are eventually typed up.
I just love writing these tales! Can you hear the fump-fump-fump of the dragon’s wings? The squalling of his wild cry? Feel the heat in the fire from his snout? I can.
How many of my bookish friends out there, like me, seem to always be reading a stack of books at once? Why can’t I just pick one? And how many titles am I reading right now with the word ‘ghost’ in it? Read after read, scaring myself silly. I can’t explain it. But what if a ghost floated right past you right now?! EEEkkkk! Anyone know of a good ghostly tale?
Stay silly! Read a story! Stay Inspired!
For a list of my tales, please visit: https://inspiredbyvenice.org/about/
Veleno – one of the loves of my life, and my most popular tale. Amazon’s got it a little discounted today (not sure for how long) – please consider supporting and reading an indie author! And if it’s my Veleno – I sincerely wish you a mysterious and thrilling journey!
My Amazon author page: https://www.amazon.com/author/mnovak
I spotted this painting above a business while walking to my L stop in the city last weekend. It instantly took me away to a faraway castle, as in one of my tales. And what a smile that brought me.
For a list of my stories, please visit: https://inspiredbyvenice.org/about/
After setting up for a bookish day a few Sundays ago, I grabbed a coffee and muffin, and sat enjoying the sunshine, looking forward to the day. I had all four of my favorite things – I was outdoors, with my books, drinking coffee, eating a muffin. PURE happiness.
What makes you happy like that? Go do that. And I suggest a blueberry muffin while you’re at it. Or pumpkin. Or banana.
Stay Inspired!
Where my pen will be traveling these next chilly months. One of several new tales that will be available for my next bookish season – plans for which are already looking exceptional. Announcing soon!
Thank you all for being on this author journey with me! Stay Inspired!
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Cover Design: https://selfpubbookcovers.com/DesignsByDaylin
For those of you who have read a tale or two of mine, what was memorable about one of them?
Reading means so much to me. I was thinking today about how a book I’ve been reading, just a sweet story, has several times quelled my stress. I’m thankful for that. Books have so many purposes. They are a getaway, excitement, make you dream, are educational, calming, and many many other things. When I write a book, and let it go, I know it has a life beyond me that I never see. And sometimes I’m curious if and what it might have meant, to someone else. The way books I read by other authors, make impressions on me!
Stay Inspired!
For a list of my stories, please visit: https://inspiredbyvenice.org/about/
Thank you @napervilleartisan for a wonderful event this last weekend! And to all the new readers and friends who made it so memorable for me ~ I sincerely appreciate all of you so much!
And now ends my 2022 event season until the spring. My fingers are on fire for a winter of writing!
Stay Inspired!
A belated thank you to @evanston_made for hosting another wonderful Maker’s Market on Oct 2nd! Thank you for your support to creators and the community!
My current writing habit is to chip away on one of my stories every day. I’m working on 3 tales at the moment (next out – Dragons at Dusk). Energetic writing goals don’t work for me. I prefer to simply pick up my pen once a day – even if that means writing only a sentence. It still means more words than I had down the day before!
Set your goals to work for YOU! Stay Inspired!
I’m so looking forward to my bookish day this Sunday at the Evanston Made Maker’s Market! I’ll be selling and signing my tales, and can’t wait to see some of YOU!
Thank you Evanston Made for this lovely graphic!
Are you watching for the fall fairies, hiding in the leaves?
To catch my silly fairy videos, please visit: Authoress Michelle Novak on YouTube
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For a list of my fairy tales, please visit: https://inspiredbyvenice.org/about/
Did that cookie read my fortune, or what?
Stay Inspired!
Just two events left in my bookish event season, then it’s time to give the bookmobile a rest and concentrate on writing projects! I hope to see some of your smiles yet, in October!
Stay Inspired!
How do you make your own magic?
I like to take walks and dream about my little bookish plans, or browse book cover art and imagine stories I’d like to write. And of course, I pen tales that take me far away and then share them with you!
Take time to dream ~ you make your own magic!
What a lovely read! Only a quarter the way through, but such a sweet treat!
{check out the author at: https://jenturano.com/}
One of the interesting things about being an author, is discovering different writing styles and genres than your own through reading. Once, I only read books. Now, I both read, and consider the writing with the eye of an author. Reading is even more inspiring to me now, if that could even be possible!
Stay Inspired!
Less than two weeks away! Evanston Made Maker’s Market! I’ll be selling and signing my tales ~ Always a great day celebrating creative works in my community of makers! I hope to see you there!
Thank you @evanston_made for this lovely graphic!
For a list of my titles, please visit: https://inspiredbyvenice.org/about/
A special share! The ArtSpace Podcast covered the Kenosha Book Festival several weeks ago, speaking to the guest independent authors! I’m the first author interviewed after the introduction – and this episode is just an indie author gem! Thank you to the podcast’s creators – Jake and Shelby! Have a listen all of you, my bookish friends!
The ArtSpace Podcast: Episode 21 – https://open.spotify.com/show/0HYIVXq1q7Dcksx7GSbbV7
I love my simple home. My simple pursuits. Simple as they are, this summer felt yet again – busy!!
As fall makes its way in, I’m looking forward to slowing down. To reading and writing more, being on-the-go less. I still have several events yet for October, so I hope to see some of you yet. Then it will be back to my writing season, and planning ahead for next year! I have a very special plan brewing – but nothing confirmed yet!
For a list of events and my works, please visit: https://inspiredbyvenice.org/about/
What a day! Thank you @donovanscherer of Studio Moonfall for hosting the Kenosha Book Festival yesterday!
Incredible meeting so many other independent authors!!! And it was yet again, such a joy sharing time with readers, both old and new! These bookish days, and the people I meet, bring so much inspiration and happiness to my life. It’s everything to me – thank you!
Forget magic wands. This is my magic pencil.
Stay Inspired!
For a list of my works, please visit: https://inspiredbyvenice.org/about/
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/author/mnovak
Who is ready for the Kenosha Book Festival tomorrow?!? (www.kenoshabookfestival.com)
I mean…not me! I just finished my oatmeal! I’m only on coffee 2 of 4! I haven’t even packed the bookmobile! Where’s the books?! I hope I have some books! Do I have gas in that car? You’d think I wanted to get stuck on the side of the road – I always ignore that silly tank! Wait – gas is less expensive in Wisconsin than Illinois, right? I’ll wait till I cross the state line. A near-empty tank will get me from Evanston to there, right? (just kidding!) Where’s the snacks?! Just as important as the books! I need my snacks!
Thank you for being there on my author journey, Friends! It means everything to me. I hope to see some of you tomorrow – I’ll be selling and signing my tales, including my newest Still, from 10 – 2 p.m. (Sunday August 28th). STAY INSPIRED!
Who is coming to Kenosha to visit the Kenosha Book Festival?! I’ll be joining the fun this Sunday, August 28th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. I’ll be the one with the endless smile while having a bookish blast!
Thank you @donovanscherer for this graphic!
Friends! The Kenosha Book Festival is going to be THE place to be this Sunday August 28th from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.!
It’s going to be raining authors and books, and I am just so excited to be a part of this! I’ll be selling and signing my tales, and basking in the bookish fun! See you there!!!
Thank you to @donovanscherer for this wonderful graphic!
Back in this spot I wish I could be more often than not…
Who loves coffee? I LOVE coffee. Black, no stuff in it. That muffin is vegan. I just finished it and it was so wonderful. Oh, blueberry muffins. I love you. I LOVE you.
So – I prefer to write my short adventures by hand. I feel like a kid with a giant pencil, my tongue sticking out the side of my mouth, eraser bits everywhere. Writing anything I want, anything I can imagine.
My novels – computer only. My brain operating more like I’m in some darkened corner of a vast library, studying hard. Oversized glasses falling down my nose. All my reference books splayed around me. Deeply focused on the scene I am creating.
They feel different. And I love them both. That’s why I write both novels, and tales. Two sides of my personality. I bet there is some place in your life you can to relate to feeling like that.
Oh! New Facebook page in case you prefer your updates there! https://www.facebook.com/inspiredbyvenice
Friends! Kenosha Book Festival! Next weekend! I’ll be a guest author at Studio Moonfall on Sunday Aug. 28th from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. This is going to be an INCREDIBLE bookish blast!
I can’t wait for the fun, and I can’t wait to see YOU!
I’ll be selling and signing my tales. For a list of my works, please visit: https://inspiredbyvenice.org/about/
Kenosha Book Festival: https://www.studiomoonfall.com/kenosha-book-festival-year-zero/
Nothing makes me more optimistic than a piercing blue sky with bright green trees! What a view!
Just this moment, I have something special on my heart I’m hoping and waiting about. Something bookish and wonderful. But as it’s just not sure, I can only be hopeful and patient right now. I must believe that the best will happen, right?
What inspires you to be optimistic?
Authoress Advice – # 1
When coming up with a plot for a novel, you’ll consider one or even a hundred wonderful ideas. Tales that would be amazing, and which you and others would love to read! But there needs to be something much more.
Writing, editing, publishing a book is a marathon. Imagine it. That you are running, for a very, very long time. In spite of the reasons you are running, even that you love to run, you’re going to get tired. Maybe even want to give up along the way. Because while you’re in it, in spite of the love, it’s a lot of work.
When deciding your project/idea – consider which will inspire you, drive you, keep you going, until the book is one day in your hands. Great ideas are great! But is it one that will endlessly fuel you?
My Still, a mystery in a New York City museum…I love it so much. I could stay there forever. Write another and another in that world I made up. That’s my place, man. Let me go THERE. Those people, they are real to me.
Will the idea you are considering make you feel that way too? Trust me, you’re going to need, and want it to. Look for THOSE bright stars.
Stay Inspired!
Today I got in a few minutes of writing during my lunch hour and realized I was doing the funniest thing! My expressions were totally reacting to what I was writing. I mean, do I do that? Eyebrows going a little crazy every time a dragon screeches on the page?
This can only mean one thing. Dragons at Dusk is turning out an awesome adventure! My eyebrows know.
Where fairy tales begin…
Upcoming bookish fun!!! Selling and signing my tales with sparkle and a smile! I hope to see you there!
A September event may yet sneak in, and there’s a December event that is quite likely, but I’ll update when I’m certain.
For a list of my works, please visit: https://inspiredbyvenice.org/about/
I ordered this one for my Dad, and then he mailed it my way after he read it. We’ve been mailing each other books for several decades now.
This one is REALLY good. I was reading while walking on a sunny evening and something moved – probably a bird in my side vision – and I jerked. I mean, that bird could have been a ghost for all I knew!? So sure, I was a little jumpy. And that bird did that on purpose. I know he did. Just to make me look weird in public. As if I’m not already awkward enough.
This is my favorite…
Stay Inspired!
The magic was real this weekend at the 18th World of Faeries Festival in South Elgin, IL! So was the heat and humidity – oh my word! But let me tell you, if you are local, and especially if you have little ones, visit this event in the future. It is so special!
Thank you to the incredible readers, old and new. You bring sparkle, inspiration, and blessings to my life – I was amazed by the incredible reception I had at this event! And thank you to my friends who came out to support me and my bookish business! It meant so much!!
ALL my best to all! Stay Inspired!
This book fairy is preparing for a magical weekend! Who will be joining me at the 18th World of Faeries Festival?!
I will be selling and signing my tales, filled with fairies, unicorns, dragons, elves, and every enchanted creature imagined! So break out your glitter wings and come out to dance a day in the sunshine with your fellow fairies!
Sat. Aug 6th – 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sun. Aug 7th – 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Food – Music – Magical Merchants
Vasa Park – South Elgin, IL
https://theworldoffaeries.com/home
For a list of my tales, please visit: https://inspiredbyvenice.org/about/
I took myself into the city yesterday for a spot of art and quite enjoyed my adventure! And have you watched the new adaptation of Jane Austen’s Persuasion on Netflix yet?! Oh my word, so lovely! I’m reading an eerie ghost book (when am I not) just now, and I’m also sort of convinced I might have caught something ghostly on camera yesterday (maybe I shouldn’t announce that on the internet).
I’m heavily deciding on new writing projects this minute, as well as heavily procrastinating on some important paperwork! Oh, and I had toast with lots of raspberry jam this morning. Isn’t jam so swell? AND! I went to the dentist Friday – love my teeth cleanings! Because I’m weird like that. And now I can go eat some candy. How’s that for an update?!
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Stay Inspired!
I don’t believe I’ve ever read one of Stephen King’s books before. But I’m going to read this one! Let’s see what I can learn!
Keep Growing ~ Stay Inspired!
Giveaway ends August 05, 2022.
See the giveaway details at Goodreads.
My Dragons At Dawn and Once Upon A Star on a shelf at Studio Moonfall in Kenosha, WI.
Nothing makes me smile more than to imagine the adventure someone is going to have when they pick up one of my tales! Reading is so wonderful!
Stay Inspired!
For a list of my works, please visit here!
Still is available now!! And, up on Goodreads to add to your To Read shelf! Thank you for reading and supporting Indie Authors!!
Still on Goodreads
Still on Amazon
Still by Michelle Novak
Roe works as a backer, a jack-of-all-trades in one of New York City’s oldest museums. Housing a legion of ancient treasures, its dim and mysterious halls have been venerated for long over a century. Her father before her, an esteemed historian in the museum for decades. It was from him, that she learned everything.
In this place, Roe’s whole life has been spent. Exploring every shadowy corner, gazing over every priceless piece, sneaking a glance inside every creaky drawer. So, she thought she had discovered all of its even most secret of secrets. But that couldn’t be further from the truth.
In a museum, there is always more to find. Or more to find you. And here, something has been hiding in the basement for a very long time. Something that has now begun looking, for Roe.
AVAILABLE NOW!
Still by Michelle Novak
Roe works as a backer, a jack-of-all-trades in one of New York City’s oldest museums. Housing a legion of ancient treasures, its dim and mysterious halls have been venerated for long over a century. Her father before her, an esteemed historian in the museum for decades. It was from him, that she learned everything.
In this place, Roe’s whole life has been spent. Exploring every shadowy corner, gazing over every priceless piece, sneaking a glance inside every creaky drawer. So, she thought she had discovered all of its even most secret of secrets. But that couldn’t be further from the truth.
In a museum, there is always more to find. Or more to find you. And here, something has been hiding in the basement for a very long time. Something that has now begun looking, for Roe.
.
Click here to see Still on Amazon
Books, coffee, and my morning treat…finding happiness in little things.
Yes – I’m reading six books at once. I pick which depending on my mood and never have trouble jumping right in where I left off. And, a new Studio Moonfall mug – a gift from my recent author visit. That mug is going to be seeing a lot of coffee!
~ Find the happiness ~ All my best ~
Here are the five titles from the used-books bag of ghostly tales I picked up on Sunday! Who else loves a good haunting tale?!
As if reading every true ghost encounter book ever written was not enough, I picked up a bag of ghostly fiction from Studio Moonfall on Sunday.
I’ll share the titles tomorrow, but I already started reading one, and yikes! I am absolutely going to scare myself silly!
On one of my walks I found a fairy!!! See! You just have to keep your eyes open, and you’ll find magic!
For a list of my magical tales (fairy books too!), please visit: https://inspiredbyvenice.org/about/
I spy, with my little eye, something written by ME…
Who can name the title? And man my book is in such good company on the shelves of Studio Moonfall in Kenosha, WI.
For a list of my works, please visit: https://inspiredbyvenice.org/about/
This author journey is an incredible one, and keeps getting better with every day! Thank you to Studio Moonfall for today’s wonderful event! And thank you to the readers – every single one of you. It is a privilege to be able to share my stories, with you.
For a list of my works, please visit: https://inspiredbyvenice.org/about/
Who is going to be selling and signing her tales at Studio Moonfall in Kenosha, WI tomorrow?! She’s someone who is writing ALL the fairy tales! Someone who loves dreaming, and imagination, and sparkle! Someone who thinks reading is magic! Someone who loves to see your smiles and talk books!!!
Studio Moonfall ~ Kenosha, WI. ~ Sunday June 19th, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
For a list of my works, please visit: https://inspiredbyvenice.org/about/
My kitchen table is making me happy right now…
Stay Inspired!
~ Authoress Michelle Novak ~
Author Updates ~ Summer 2022!
To learn more about my works please visit: https://inspiredbyvenice.org/about/
Stay Inspired!
Had a wonderful bookish day at the Oak Brook Artisan Market last Sunday! I’ve said it so many times, but I have to say it again – book days are the best days.
To all the readers on this author journey of mine – I sincerely appreciate you.
Stay Inspired!
Dear Friends ~ I hope you all are staying inspired?! Grant me a smile with your comments! You know I’m always glad to hear from you!
I’ll be selling and signing my tales at the Oak Brook Artisan Market tomorrow from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and it’s going to be bookish and lovely! And crafty and arty! And I hope to see you there!
Had a great time at the Evanston Made Maker’s Market last Sunday. As I always say – book days are my favorite days, and this one was no exception!
Here’s a photo of my trusty bookmobile and parking lot book display. The bookmobile and I are always ready for a bookish pop-up (see that event tent temporarily crushing my passenger-side seat?)
Local event (Chicago-ish, Milwaukee-ish)? Send me an invite! The bookmobile and I will drop in to spread some literary love, smiles, and sparkle!
I’ll be at the Evanston Made Maker’s Market tomorrow – May 1st – from 12 – 5 p.m. signing and selling my tales! So excited!
In advance of any book-selling event, I take prep pretty seriously. I have this fear that I’ll show up without my cash box, calculator, receipt book, etc. Or very importantly, snacks. Ha!
I used to teach public speaking, and one of the keys to helping with nervousness is to be as prepared as possible for your speech. I use this tip to feel ready for events too. Bookmobile already packed!
Just 2 days away!! Evanston Made Maker’s Market with all of its incredible treats, crafts, and art! Novels and fairy tales too!!! I hope to see you there!
Thank you Evanston Made for this lovely graphic, and for welcoming this author to the fun!!
Maybe I should renovate an old ice cream truck and instead of cold treats, sell fairy tales. I know some of your are saying – If anyone would do this, Michelle would. And they would be right.
I mean, I already have my old rusting bookmobile. (Can I sell books out of my trunk? Need you ask?)
I have my book tent. (A first trial setting up of which yesterday, nearly gave me a concussion and completely defeated me physically. I’m still recovering. But I think I figured it out. Hopefully. Maybe.)
And there’s my bookish briefcase here! Traveling tales saleswoman. Wonder what the reception would be if I tried to sell books door-to-door?
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Keep Smiling! Stay Inspired!
For the book lovers out there ~ what’s your favorite thing about reading?
For the writers ~ why do you write?
For the creators ~ when does making feel like magic?
Me? I write for the transcendent moments. Those times when it takes me some place incredible, within myself. A really focused, yet far away, beautiful place.
Occasionally I get stuck for an eternity working on one-single-sentence. One I just can’t get right. Just a dizzying puzzle of moving letters. I put in a struggle but get nowhere.
The next day I revisit it, and it takes moments to rewrite. Way better than what I could have spun the day before.
As a writer, struggle only sharpens my pencil, making the sentence come easier the next go around. But apply that to just about anything in life, and I’m certain those words will still be true.
Stay Inspired!
Have you ever bound an often-read book?
As a youth, I remember we covered our text books with paper grocery bags and then scribbled all over them. You could then tear off the paper when it was time for return.
This is my Bible. Bound in my favorite green color, a velvety fabric. It’s gone through several covers and decades of page turning. It’s nice to hold it with this fabric and makes it feel personal to me. Consider it an idea for your most beloved tomes!
Just 2 weeks away!! Evanston Made Maker’s Market with all of its incredible treats, crafts, and art! Novels and fairy tales too!!! I hope to see you there!
Thank you Evanston Made for this lovely graphic, and for welcoming this author to the fun!!
Queen of the Elves is on sale right now on Amazon! {$4.23 paperback}
I’ve noticed these sales from time to time that Amazon puts on, but I understand they do not negatively impact an indie author’s royalties. So hey – if I notice a sale on one of my tales, I’ll spread the word! Thank you for reading!
For a list of my works, please visit: https://inspiredbyvenice.org/about/
Here’s to all you strong and amazing mermaidens out there!! Keep making a splash!!
The Mermaiden by Michelle Novak
{For a list of all my works, please visit: https://inspiredbyvenice.org/about/}
{Please join me on Goodreads}
{Please join me on Instagram}
~ Thank you for supporting Independent Authors! Stay Inspired! ~
I own several old etiquette books. Because I think manners are nice. This one has a woman’s name in cursive dated 1899 in it! You should smell the old book smell! Swoon!
Now I’ll just have a little read and see if I can’t pick up a proper notion or two!
{Etiquette by Agnes Morton – Edition from 1898, it appears}
I’ve been an author since I was a child. Here’s the proof. I think I’ll be doing a video reading, because A Lizard Named Tom needs to be heard by the world!
For your kids, for yourself, pick up a few blank books. To write and draw one’s own stories! Trust me. It’s how I got my start.
Stay Inspired!
May 1st ~ 12 – 5 p.m. Evanston Made Maker’s Market with all of its incredible treats, crafts, and art! Novels and fairy tales too!!! I hope to see you there!
Thank you Evanston Made for this lovely graphic, and for welcoming this author to the fun!!
Of course there is a quill in my pen cup.
What else would I use to write tales of suspense with?
Stay Inspired!
Whatever the goal is, and no matter how hard it feels some days taking that step to get there, you made the goal because it meant something to you.
Keep Going ~ Stay Inspired
Jelly beans…
Writing fuel for fairy tale authors.
For a list of my works, including the sweet and magical Once Upon a Star, please visit: https://inspiredbyvenice.org/about/
Still by Michelle Novak
Roe works as a backer, a jack-of-all-trades in one of New York City’s oldest museums. Housing a legion of ancient treasures, its dim and mysterious halls have been venerated for long over a century. Her father before her, an esteemed historian in the museum for decades. It was from him, that she learned everything.
In this place, Roe’s whole life has been spent. Exploring every shadowy corner, gazing over every priceless piece, sneaking a glance inside every creaky drawer. So, she thought she had discovered all of its even most secret of secrets. But that couldn’t be further from the truth.
In a museum, there is always more to find. Or more to find you. And here, something has been hiding in the basement for a very long time. Something that has now begun looking, for Roe.
For a list of all my works, please visit: https://inspiredbyvenice.org/about/
What author’s works have made an impression on you?
Barbara Ehrenreich covered topics on fair wages and employment issues that I found compelling. I’m certainly planning to read more from her.
Just weeks away!! Evanston Made Maker’s Market with all of its incredible treats, crafts, and art! Novels and fairy tales too!!! I hope to see you there!
Thank you Evanston Made for this lovely graphic, and for welcoming this author to the fun!!
What is a title that you simply found a joy to read?
Peter Mayle’s A Year in Provence swept me away and his descriptions make me laugh out loud!
Such a treat!
Each day, I write myself away to places I imagine…
One of the best parts?
Eventually sharing those places, with you.
{For a synopsis of my forthcoming Still, and other works, please visit: https://inspiredbyvenice.org/about/}
Keep Reading ~ Keep Creating ~ Stay Inspired!
So what’s our feeling about something hiding in the basement?
BWA-HA-HA! (that’s my sinister laughter)
For a synopsis of my forthcoming Still, please visit: https://inspiredbyvenice.org/about/
I hope to see you for some bookish chats in 2022! Please visit InspiredByVenice.org for a list of my works, and the events I’ll be joining!
Stay Inspired! ~ Authoress Michelle Novak
What books have turned into movies that had an impact on you?
Onegin ~ as heartbreaking as Romeo and Juliet, my word.
Dracula ~ he’s not romantic, he’s a monster! Run!
The Great Gatsby ~ well that story is just SAD.
Solaris ~ will break your brain, and then your heart, and then your brain again. Outer space is SCARY.
The first book I wrote was 521 pages. I look back and think I was crazy. Venice is an interactive book as well – you pick the next page to turn to at the end of each chapter. Do you know how especially crazy you have to be to write a 521 page interactive brick?
And yet…without that first jump off my crazy cliff, I’d never have known this happiness. The kind only writing and sharing my tales, has given me.
Do what you love – Stay Inspired
My grandma gave me a super vintage card table this Saturday along with some other very useful furnishings. They will all help in my home office, or for bookish events. I was really thankful to save money on things I needed.
I love secondhand. And I love my grandma. And I’m pretty sure I ate Thanksgiving at this little green table when I was teeny-tiny and had to sit at the kid table.
The Stranger In The Woods by Michael Finkel – Incredible read.
And speaking of hermits, I sometimes like to look at remote little places for sale online and dream of moving away from the urban to be a recluse writer. But then I scare myself imagining it just being me out in the woods with Sasquatch, bears, wolves, TICKS. And 7 feet of snow and being stranded. And running out of La Croix and toilet paper. Not sure I have that kind of grit?
Received a little shipment of postcards today with my author photo on them – oh goodness! I’m getting fancy!
A step up from the handwritten ones I gave out last season, which were quaint but not practical!
Getting ready for bookish fun!!!
Don’t forget to enter the Veleno giveaway on Goodreads!
Head here to enter
There once was a great Venetian palace. The name of which, everyone did know. Inside its walls dwelled an esteemed noble family. All revere, ’tis the House of Orso!
Its patriarch, a rich and powerful merchant. With a wife very clever, such a beautiful sight. His daughters, four, a precious gift. How unfortunate now, each should meet their plight…
Orso dead? Perhaps by plague! Mirella turned strange, a widow made.
Fina gone, for a courtesan’s life. Noemi must escape, or make a woeful wife. Mafalda will rise in a cold, cruel pit. Paola sent off to a nunnery, might lose her wits.
Venice’s year, 1575. Pestilence arrives, Venetians fear for their lives! But in Orso’s house, strong daughters were made. Yet can courage be enough, to escape the grave?
I have been voraciously listening to independent-publishing podcasts and LOVING IT!
I’m really enjoying hearing other writers share their authoring stories. A bonus – I’m learning SO MUCH at the same time.
Watch out! I’m learning stuff! HA!
I sure am ready for spring weather and a season of bookish fun to begin!
Confirmed ~ Evanston Made Maker’s Market – Sunday May 1st – 12 to 5 p.m.
Confirmed ~ Oak Brook Artisan Market – Sunday May 15th – 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
I’m working on Dragons At Dusk, the follow-up to my Dragons At Dawn. I reread Dragons At Dawn last week as a refresher and I say…I could just live in that world! Scary screeching dragon in my village and all, I’m there!
I won’t pick one of my beloved tales over another, because they really each are special to me. But I have to say, I just dig this story, and I’m really excited to soon be sharing its sequel!
Have you ever thought about writing a book? If you did, what would it be about?
Still by Michelle Novak ~ Releasing Soon!
For a synopsis of Still and my other works, please visit: https://inspiredbyvenice.org/about/
Who wouldn’t be weary of wearing masks by now.
Yet there’s one mask I’ll never get tired of!
Venetian Carnevale just ended – every year at this time I dream about the beauty of Venice.
What inspires you?
{Book ~ Venice Incognito by James Johnson}
Mark your calendars! The 18th World of Faeries Festival ~ Aug. 6th & 7th, 2022 ~
To learn more about the festival, please visit: https://theworldoffaeries.com/home
To learn more about my works, please visit: https://inspiredbyvenice.org/about/
~ To My Very Dear Readers ~
I wanted to share with you before I began announcing my forthcoming 2022 event schedule…
My little bookshop, The Quill and Brush, where I’ve signed and sold my tales at the Bristol Renaissance Faire for 5 incredible summers, will be sitting out the 2022 season. As many know, the faire is one of the loves of my life, and has been since I was a little girl. And my tented shop? Don’t get me started! Some of the best memories of my life were made there, making friends with so many of you, on so many beautiful festival days. It is because of these experiences that my tales have gone out into the world, and lived.
I will never be able to express enough gratitude for the patrons and friends of The Quill and Brush. But know and believe, how much I sincerely thank each of you.
Yes! There are magical future possibilities for The Quill and Brush! But for now, I am fully embracing 2022 as a year of learning and growth as an author, new opportunities and different experiences. I’ll be popping up everywhere, toting my tales along. It would fill my heart to see you! Thank you for being right there beside me on this incredible journey, which continues to amaze me.
Now, with all of this said – let the new books, new events, new announcements, excessive silliness and sparkle, commence!
Malaysian author and storyteller
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