Everyone has a story. What is rare is the ability to tell it so well that the world listens.

Writing contests bring out a chill like nothing else. There have been so many contests that I had plans to enter, but whenever I would ready myself for the challenge–even when enthusiasm was bursting from my writing soul! — No – Words – Came. Contest entries are the only real writer’s block I have ever experienced. And knowing how much prestige comes with winning or placing in a contest, I tried really hard to write something–something really great! All to no avail. It wasn’t until the ‘Last Day To Enter’ rolled around for the Southern Writers 2014 Short Story contest that I jumped up and ran to my computer to write what the voices in my head were telling me to write. Even I was amused with the story as I wrote it! After a bit of careful research and several hours of intense writing, I submitted my entry. Then this week, I received the wonderful news that I had won! You cannot imagine how thrilled and honored I feel, not only because I won, but because I won a contest in the prized Southern Writers Magazine whose writers are amazing themselves! Check them out at http://www.southernwritersmagazine.com/

It’s been a good week. It’s been a very good week.  If you’re a writer, keep writing! If you’re a reader, keep reading!

What does it say when 9 literary agents reject your historical novel saying, “no one wants historical fiction anymore!” Yet 3 of 6 publishers have requested a full manuscript after reading the same 50 page sample?

It’s a wonderful feeling knowing that whomever it is that discovers you will be in for the thrill of a lifetime. The feeling is mutual.

This New Year has brought thoughts of writing a New Adult romance story rather than my beloved MG or YA tales. Set in Texas, this yarn may prove to be a delightful spin! Watch for Banner House to come knocking on your door soon enough.

As a writer, I’ll rarely give up an opportunity to put words down on paper. Words are pure joy to me. Some words more than others. So while www.KSJones.com focuses on my work, a new blog called The Mirrored Pen ( http://TheMirroredPen.blogspot.com  ) allows me to focus on my life as a writer. Join me. I hope you’ll enjoy spending time with me.

Today, I have nothing to say. Maybe it’s the cold of winter or perhaps the bitterness of heart. No matter. Today has grown silent.

The sweetest words written in my 102,169 word YA Historical are the last two–THE END!