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.
My Pop-Up Bookstand!
Tag Archives: Novels
Scratching Pages
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 ~
It’s Just Practice
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.
Set Your Goals
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!
Forget Magic Wands
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
New Facebook page!
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
Kenosha Book Festival!
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/
The Magic Was Real
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!
Studio Moonfall Tomorrow!
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/
A Wonderful Bookish Day
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!
Oak Brook Artisan Market Tomorrow!
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!
Literary love, Smiles, and Sparkle!
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!
Event Tomorrow!
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!
My Bookish Briefcase
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?
.
Keep Smiling! Stay Inspired!
Novels and Fairy Tales Too!
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!!
Just weeks away!!
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!!
A Season Of Bookish Fun To Begin!
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.
Chasing Your Dreams
Chasing your dreams is never crazy.
Take it from someone who has been doing it for a while now…
~ Stay Inspired ~
What Events Do You Suggest?
Hi Friends!
Man…is anybody else ready for spring?! I sure am. I need some warm sun. It’s been a winter, that’s for sure!
So, I’m thinking about events in 2022 and beyond and thought I’d ask you all – what do you suggest in the Chicagoland – Milwaukeeland area that I check out? Fairs, festivals, markets, conventions, independent-author-bookish-fun-stuff, etc.? Please mention in the comments and I’ll absolutely take a look! And, thank you!
Stay Inspired!
Only Two Goals Today…
I have only two goals today. To eat that sandwich (check!) and to sharpen those pencils (I’ll get there…maybe this afternoon…or tonight).
I’m not aiming high. I need rest. And some days, we just have to say, that’s okay.
Yes. Dull pencils drive me bonkers. Quite bonkers.
Author asides: Still releasing soon!! Oh my gosh – oh my gosh – oh my gosh. Who wants to get creeped out in a museum?! ME – Me – ME!! Early 2022 – date coming in a blink!
Dragons at Dusk – first quarter of 2022! Other new works? A glimpse is just around the bend. New events? Will announce the 2022 bookish fun as it is scheduled!!
Bonus: 5 author-signed copies of my Ancient are on giveaway NOW at Goodreads! Here’s the link.
For a list of my works, please visit here.
Stay Inspired!
My Holiday Wish…
What would make my holiday wish come true? A book review, from you!
Dear Friends ~ If you have read and enjoyed one of my tales, I would warmly appreciate a book review on Amazon, or Goodreads, or both! I genuinely appreciate these. Even just your rating and a sentence or two is so meaningful to this independent author who started this writing journey from scratch! Today, I am so excited about where I am, but also for all the stories I have yet to share! So please, make this wish come true! Your support continues to mean everything.
Thank you, thank you. Happy Holidays ~ Michelle
To learn more about my books, please visit here.
To join me on Instagram, please visit here.
To join me on YouTube, please visit here.
Ever Humbled and Thankful
Book day today!! Book days are the best days!
Can’t every day be a book day?!
Thank you to all the gracious folks I met in Skokie at the Holiday Fair Extravaganza today! And for your support, each of you new readers. I ever hope that each tale that walks away, brings with it as much adventure, inspiration, and happiness, as always seems to come to me. I, am ever humbled and thankful.
All my best – Stay Inspired!
Fairy Tales Make The Best Stocking Stuffers…
Next up for me? Some sparkly festive cheer talking books at Skokie’s Holiday Fair Extravaganza! Fairy tales make the best stocking stuffers, you know! I’ll be there signing mine from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.!
Stay Inspired!
A Magical Mention!
Thank you to Studio Moonfall for hosting this author yesterday. My new Moonfall mug filled with hot cocoa (and refill!) was a treat, and proprietor Donovan Scherer a true mentor to the independent author.
A magical mention!! A selection of my books are now available at Studio Moonfall. Presently – Beauty Sleeping, Veleno, Dragons at Dawn, and Once Upon a Star! If you haven’t yet visited this gem of a bookstore in Kenosha, WI – you really must!
New books, new events, more magic coming soon! But in the meantime, Stay Inspired!
Guest Author at Studio Moonfall Tomorrow!
Guest author at Studio Moonfall in Kenosha tomorrow between 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.! I’ll be taking in the fresh air just out front, talking books. And probably eating Halloween candy. Wait – who is bringing the Halloween candy?! There HAS to be Halloween candy! I better find some Halloween candy!?!
Best to you all – and a very Happy Halloween!
Things are going to get a little sillier…
As if things weren’t getting silly enough, they’re about to get just a little sillier. Come join me on the new YouTube channel – Authoress Michelle Novak.
Because there’s nothing like a little storytelling, is there?
Halloween Event!
As my bookish schedule changes, I’ll keep you in the loop. Next up – Studio Moonfall for Halloween!! Can’t wait to see you again – Kenosha! Various vendors for a special day of festive fun! If you haven’t visited this bookshop yet – it’s truly a place of creative delight!
More special announcements just around the bend – and they glitter and sparkle!
Stay Inspired!
What A Wonderful Adventure…
What a wonderful adventure I had at Studio Moonfall today in Kenosha, WI. Thank you @donovanscherer for graciously hosting me and welcoming my tales to your wondrous bookshop! And a special thank you to the new readers I met today. My goodness – I won’t ever forget this sunny, welcoming, bookish day!
Friends! Special updates coming soon!!! What a magical season this has been! This author’s cup runneth over! How much I appreciate you all…
Stay Inspired!
Studio Moonfall Tomorrow: Sept. 19th!
Though I will not be dressed in historic garb (or will I?), I will be selling and signing my tales tomorrow at the very fantastic Studio Moonfall in Kenosha, WI from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Check out this awesome bookshop at:
https://www.studiomoonfall.com/
@donovanscherer
All my best!
Ancient by Michelle Novak
Authoress Michelle Novak shares the inspiration that moved her to write Ancient.
Studio Moonfall next Sunday, Sept. 19th!!
An exciting update to events! I’ll be a guest at Kenosha’s Studio Moonfall – Donovan Scherer’s House of Art & Story, next Sunday September 19th from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.! Selling and signing my tales, alongside some other super fun vendors! And this bookshop!!! Be sure to check out this amazing place at https://www.studiomoonfall.com/
Gratitude for the invite @donovanscherer and I’ll be seeing you soon, Kenosha readers!
Stay Inspired!
Thank you, thank you!!
Friends ~ Thank you for THE most amazing Bristol season my little bookstore, The Quill and Brush, could have ever hoped for. Your generosity, kindness, ideas, smiles, laughter, and inspiration, were incredible this 2021. My 5th season was truly, a dream.
I wish that every tale that walked away with you, will entertain, lift, delight, hearten, and inspire. Such a hope, is what fills my heart and moves my pen! More stories are very soon on the way!
My next event – Evanston’s Maker’s Market – October 2nd.
For a list of my works, please visit: https://inspiredbyvenice.org/about/
Just Two Festival Weekends Left!
Just two festival weekends left at the Bristol Renaissance Faire. Don’t let the heat keep you away from these last magical days. I hope to see you at The Quill and Brush!
Stay Inspired!
For a list of my works, please visit: https://inspiredbyvenice.org/about/
Offering just a little bit…
Do you know what fills my heart? Boxes of books. My books. The loves of my life. The works of my soul. The hundreds of hours spent to give them breath.
They may not look like much in the cardboard, stacked in their paper and plastic. But when I place each individually into someone’s hands, and they walk away, I somehow feel I’m doing what it was I’m here to do. Offering just a little bit of magic, love, happiness, adventure…This is what I have to give.
Stay Inspired
New Events, New Books!
I’m scheduling new events! TBC (to be confirmed). TBA (to be announced). I anticipate the release of Still by the November 20th event, so anyone coming out in their cozy sweaters may just snag a first copy. I’ll keep you posted!
As for 2022? I’m planning to make it an amazing year of new releases and events, and I’m taking you along for the ride!
For a list of my works, please visit: https://inspiredbyvenice.org/about/
Giveaways & Shout-outs! Let’s have some fun!
Hello, hello! I hope that you are well and happy in every way today! Mondays aren’t most people’s favorite, so I thought we could have some fun! How about we start with some giveaways?!
There are two giveaways taking place right now for your chance to win a copy of Veleno, my newest tale, one creepy thriller filled with lots of surprises…Bwa-ha-haaaa!
For your chance to win 1 of 5 copies on Amazon, click here to check out the giveaway. The Amazon giveaway ends tonight at midnight, so hurry!
For your chance to win 1 of 3 signed copies straight from my hand through Goodreads, click here to check out the giveaway! The Goodreads giveaway ends on September 26th (next Tuesday) at midnight.
Please share these giveaways, and spread the fun!
The 2017 Bristol Renaissance Faire season has sadly come to an end, but we had such a wonderful season thanks to each and every one of you who visited us at our tented shop, The Quill and Brush. My folks and I can’t wait to see you all again in 2018 for our 3rd Bristol season! Huzzah!
And for some more fun on this Monday, I just want to send out some shout-outs!
Hey Once Upon a Time Book Club! Thank you for sharing Veleno! I sincerely hope you enjoyed the read…my favorite part is the ending. Eeekkk!
Thank you for recommending my books, and I hope the granddaughters are enjoying The Itty Bitty Littles, Princess Liliana and the Dragon, The Fairy Woods and A Magical Kingdom. May their reading time be filled with magic and delight…
I also want to say thank you to Newton’s Travels, a charming family travel blog! There is nothing I love so much as travel, so sites like these are always an inspiration. Angie of Newton’s Travels wrote a charming review of the Bristol Renaissance Faire and shared a snippet about my books! With all there is to see and do at Bristol, I smiled ear to ear for this special mention above. Thank you Angie! Check out her post about Bristol here…
I also want to send a shout-out to fellow authoress, Danielle E. Shipley. Not only is she a prolific writer of fantasy and adventure tales, but also one truly creative and charismatic individual. Ms. Shipley read aloud some of my back covers so entertainingly at Bristol, that I wanted to read my own stories all over again. Too fun! Be sure to check out this local Chicago author’s books!
I also wanted to share with you all today that my Goodreads author page, and Amazon author page are live! Please ‘follow’ if you’d like word of my new publications, or to see what books I’m reading and reviewing, etc. I am also accepting ‘author questions’ on Goodreads in case you feel like quizzing my brain!
And one last shout-out…thank you to all of the readers that have come back to my little shop the last two summers to give me feedback and inspiration. Thank you to all the readers who sent an email or letter, to tell me what you thought about one of my stories, warming my heart. And thank you to each reader who wrote a review on Amazon or Goodreads. Those reviews are a precious gift to me as a writer, and keep me inspired! Please keep the reviews coming!
I’ve just begun my newest novel, a romantic odyssey based in ancient times. My mind is already caught up in a place very far away, from very long ago. The research (one of my favorite parts about writing historical fiction) is already breaking my brain. Love it! A harrowing, swoon-worthy adventure is in the works. I’ll be sure to keep you posted!
Stay well, stay happy, stay inspired!
Inspired By Venice 