A Vibe Check for Spring: What’s In & What’s Out (According to Me, for No Real Reason)

April 24, 2025April 24, 2025 ~ Brooke F. ~ Leave a comment

Look, I’m not saying I’m a trend forecaster or anything, but I am saying I have a lot of feelings about things right now. Spring has me in a refresh-and-renew mood. Think open windows, iced drinks, and a chaotic urge to either completely change my life or do absolutely nothing. There’s no in-between. I live in a world of extremes…

So here it is: a completely arbitrary and highly personal list of what I’m loving lately and what I’m politely (or not so politely) retiring. No real logic. Just vibes.

🌸 What’s IN (aka bringing me unreasonable joy lately)

Cream soda – I don’t know why this tastes like childhood nostalgia and magic at the same time, but it does. Bonus points if it’s pink.
Cute coffee shops – I’m talking mismatched mugs, plants in every corner, and baristas who remember your name. We’re romanticizing our lives this year.
Taking walks everywhere – Walking as a personality trait? Absolutely yes. Give me sunshine, a good playlist, and no real destination.
Impressionistic art – Big yes to blurry florals and soft, moody landscapes. If it looks like a daydream, I’m into it.
Gas station snacks – High-end cuisine? No thanks. Give me peach rings and a questionable corn dog.
Retro games – N64, pixelated chaos, that clunky PS1 startup sound. Inject that straight into my bloodstream please.
Pasta – Any kind. All kinds. Pasta is self-care now.
Formal gowns for no reason – Go ahead, wear that dramatic dress to buy toilet paper. I support you.
Saying “no” to protect your mental space – Revolutionary, honestly. I feel like I have to remind myself to do this at some point every year. Gotta keep that FOMO in check.
Giving people the benefit of the doubt – Life’s weird for everyone. Let’s chillout for a second and maybe stop making character assessments of everyone on the interstate just because they didn’t use a turn signal once. Draining honestly and yet I indulge.
Microwave popcorn – The perfect snack for every situation. Salty, satisfying, and takes two minutes. Iconic.
Herb gardens – Even if it’s just one sad basil plant on a windowsill. We’re farming now.
Petting as many cats as possible – If there’s a cat, I’m stopping. Priorities.
Body spray – Strong 2006 mall energy.
Changing your bedding regularly – Like hitting a mental reset button. Plus clean smelling sheets are *chef’s kiss*,

🧼 What’s OUT (aka, I’m over it)

Buying ingredients but never cooking – If I have to throw out one more wilted bunch of cilantro…
Cheap soap – We are grown. Our hands deserve better.
Grudges – Too heavy to carry. Let it go, Elsa-style.
Cruddy socks that need to be replaced – Why do I still have socks with holes in them?? And why does it feel illegal to just throw them away?????
Plain coffee – I want cinnamon. I want foamed milk. I want joy.
Falling asleep to your phone/TV – No more scrolling into the void. Let’s reclaim bedtime.
Minimalism – Bring back cluttercore. Give me trinkets. Give me personality.
6am alarms – Unless it’s for something exciting or airport-related, no thank you.
Self guilt – You don’t have to earn rest or joy or snacks. Be nice to yourself.
Hanging in groups that make you feel bad – Nope. Friendship should feel like sunshine, not stomach knots.
Not complimenting people but still thinking it – Just say it! Give strangers their flowers!
The color grey – It’s giving “dentist office.” Let’s inject some color into our lives.
Monochrome stuff – Matchy-matchy is out. Chaos layering is in.

Anyway, that’s where I’m at right now. Spring is the time to throw open the windows, eat snacks that make no sense, and maybe (just maybe) give yourself a break.

Tell me what’s on your in-and-out list. I love knowing what little things are making people happy lately.

🌼✨

Character Quirks: They Make a Difference

April 21, 2025 ~ Brooke F. ~ Leave a comment

Creating a compelling character isn’t just about giving them a name and a goal to achieve. It’s also about making them feel real to your reader. And what makes someone feel real? The little things. The devil’s in the details.

The way they tap their fingers when they’re nervous, the fact that they always hum while making coffee, or their unshakable belief that their lucky socks will change their fate. These quirks and habits add layers of depth and relatability, making characters leap off the page and stick in readers’ minds.

If you’re looking to add some personality to your cast, here’s a list of quirks and habits you can use or adapt to fit your story. Whether you’re writing a hero, a villain, or someone caught in between, the right little detail can make all the difference.

Common Quirks & Habits for Your Characters

Nervous Habits

Biting nails or lips
Tapping their foot incessantly
Playing with hair or twisting rings
Cracking knuckles, neck, or back
Tugging at sleeves or clothing
Fidgeting with small objects (coins, pens, paperclips)
Avoiding eye contact when lying

Endearing or Quirky Traits

Always carrying a lucky coin, stone, or charm
Collecting something odd (bottle caps, pressed flowers, old receipts)
Talking to plants or inanimate objects
Inventing their own slang or catchphrases
Always misquoting famous sayings
Assigning personalities to everyday items
Laughing at their own jokes (even the bad ones)

Food & Drink Habits

Always ordering the same thing at a restaurant
Hating foods for strange reasons (e.g., “Bananas feel too smug”)
Stirring their coffee exactly three times before drinking
Eating one thing at a time, never mixing food on their plate
Refusing to drink from a cup with a crack, no matter how small
Preferring drinks at specific temperatures (lukewarm coffee, ice-cold soup)

Daily Rituals & Superstitions

Checking their horoscope religiously
Only walking on certain-colored tiles
Always taking the same route, even if it’s inconvenient
Refusing to use red ink because “it’s bad luck”
Making a wish on every stray eyelash
Never leaving home without their signature accessory

Work & Study Quirks

Always writing in a certain color of ink
Organizing their desk in a very specific way
Talking aloud while working through problems
Writing notes on their hands, even when they have paper
Needing total silence—or total chaos—to focus
Humming or tapping when deep in thought

Broadly, Why Quirks Matter

A well-placed quirk can serve multiple storytelling purposes. It can:

Reinforce personality traits (A meticulous scientist always straightens picture frames)
Hint at backstory (A soldier always sits with their back to a wall)
Create humor (A character refuses to eat food that touches on their plate)
Build relationships (Two characters bond over their shared habit of doodling on receipts)

Quirks make characters feel human and help readers form emotional connections. A perfectly polished, flaw-free character is forgettable. A character who double-checks that they locked the door three times? That’s someone we recognize. We look at the character and see ourselves, friends, and family members.

Final Thoughts

Character quirks are the seasoning that makes a good character great. The right mix of habits, tics, and eccentricities can turn a flat character into a vivid one. Feel free to share your favorite character quirks and ideas in the comments below. I always love reading comments!

Tagged Tunes: A Music Blog Tag

April 14, 2025 ~ Brooke F. ~ 9 Comments

First off, a big thank you to Diamond for tagging me in this super fun music blog tag! I had the best time reflecting on the songs that have been with me through different seasons of life. Whether it’s a soundtrack/instrumental piece in the background or a lyric that punches you in the gut (in a good way), music is such a personal part of how we process and celebrate life. So here’s a little peek into my playlist!

And now… to the questions:

Your favorite song right now
Right now, I’m obsessed with a piece from The Wild Robot soundtrack called “I Could Use a Boost.” It’s cinematic, slightly whimsical, and hits that perfect sweet spot for a soundtrack lover like me. If you’re into instrumental pieces that tug at the heartstrings and make you feel like you’re on an adventure, give it a listen. You’re life or drive will feel like a coming of age movie.

Favorite Christian song
For a modern Christian track, “I Need You” by Gable Price and Friends has been on repeat in my car. It’s raw and real and feels like a journal entry to God when you’re burnt out. Plus bonus points for the Screwtapes Letters reference. But if we’re going classic, nothing beats “Be Thou My Vision.” That hymn just has a staying power. It feels like stepping into something ancient and deeply rooted every time I hear it.

Your favorite song five years ago
Back in college, I was loving “Ultralife” by Oh Wonder. It’s just so bright and energizing. Also had “You Already Know” by JJ Heller on my heavy rotation. There’s something about her voice and lyrics that always feels like a deep breath and quietly talking to God about what’s honestly on my mind and heart.

Your favorite lullaby/soothing song
Scripture Lullabies’ “Be Still and Know” is the definition of calming. It’s soft, peaceful, and reassuring in a way that always helps me unwind when life feels too loud. The piano intro is my favorite. Kind of reminds of me of the Princess Diaries Soundtrack in a weird way???

A song that made you cry
“Dear Mum” by Cassa Jackson. Oh my goodness. It’s tender and heartbreaking in the most beautiful way. The lyrics carry such a gentle ache. Definitely one for the “feel your feelings” playlist.

A song that makes you dance
“Sunroof” by Nicky Youre is bubbly and fun. It’s perfect for spontaneous dance sessions in your kitchen in the summer when the windows are open. And for a totally different vibe, “Harpy Hare” by Yaelokre makes me want to swirl around like I’m at a medieval faire. I’m not saying I’ve danced around in a circle skirt to it… but I’m also not not saying that.

A song you covered/performed
I’m not much of a performer, so I’m skipping this one. Unless you count car concerts or singing to my cats….

Favorite movie song
Is it dramatic? Yes. But “The Rohirrim Charge” from Lord of the Rings gets me every time. Epic, powerful, and goosebump-inducing. Instant motivation. Just wanna draw my sword every time I hear it.

Favorite song from a new album
Confession: I’m way behind on new music. I mostly live in my soundtracks and favorite artist bubble. So… if you have album recs, I’m all ears.

A song that makes you sentimental
“Birthday Cake” by Dylan Conrique is like a gentle punch to the gut. So melancholy and nostalgic. It makes me reflect on time passing and all the bittersweet little moments that go with it. The epitome of losing someone before you’re ready.

A song you’ve heard a lot lately
I don’t really do radio, so I don’t have a specific answer here. I tend to get obsessed with a few songs and loop them forever until I emotionally retire them.

A song you’d do at karaoke
Any cringe-worthy 2000s pop hit. Something the whole crowd knows and secretly loves. I want maximum nostalgia and minimum vocal expectations.

A good road trip song
“Driving Myself Home” by Rose Betts is just the right mix of fun, bounce, and sing-along potential. Great for windows-down cruising.

A cute love song
“Ordinary” by Alex Wallen gives me all the cozy love story feels. Simple, sweet, and a little dreamy. I’m not trying to be basic, but I am trying to be honest.

Favorite country song
“Dooley” by The Dillards. Please tell me someone else knows this gem. It’s a classic. Bluegrassy, catchy, and full of charm.

A song you love but cannot sing
Literally any song sung by a male artist in that awkward mid-range that’s too low and too high depending on how you try to adjust. My vocal range just gives up and goes home.

And that’s a wrap on this musical journey! I’d love to hear your answers—consider yourself tagged if you’re reading this and feel inspired. But specifically, I’m tagging:

Can’t wait to see what songs have been living rent-free in your heads!

What Time of Day Should I Write?

April 7, 2025 ~ Brooke F. ~ Leave a comment

Finding My Writing Rhythm: What Time of Day Works Best?

I’ve spent a lot of time (maybe too much!) figuring out the best time of day for me to write. It turns out, it’s a bit of a Goldilocks situation: not too early, not too late, but just right…

Let me explain.

Mornings? Not for me.
I admire the people who can spring out of bed, brew a strong cup of coffee, and dive straight into creative flow. But I am not one of those people. Before 7am, my brain feels like it’s running on fumes. I can barely make sense of my to-do list, let alone string together creative sentences. Morning writing is a no-go. I must wait until I am coherent.

Afternoons are appealing… but tricky.
There’s something lovely about the afternoon: the day has settled in, you’re warmed up mentally, and it feels like a natural pause point. But if you work a regular job, afternoon writing is basically impossible. Unless you’re on a break or you have an unusual schedule, it’s hard to carve out that time consistently. Afternoons are awesome but ENTIRELY unrealistic.

Nights are magical… but a slippery slope for sure.
I will say, writing at night has a certain charm. There’s this quiet energy in the evening hours, when the world slows down and distractions fade. But wow, does time fly. I’ve sat down to write at 9pm, blinked, and suddenly it’s midnight. If I’m not careful, I end up sacrificing sleep in the name of creativity (not ideal for someone who needs to be functional the next day and rather early I might add).

So what works best? Right after work.
For me, the sweet spot is around 6pm. I like spending the day letting ideas simmer in the back of my mind while I’m doing other things like going about my job or doing chores. Then, when I get home, I’m ready to go. It’s like my brain has been preheating all day, and by the time I sit down to write, everything’s at the right temperature. I still have enough energy, but the workday is done and I can shift into my creative zone.

Of course, everyone’s rhythm is different. Some people thrive in the early hours, others love the late-night quiet. The trick is to experiment and pay attention to when you feel most creative and not just when you think you should be writing. For me, writing after work feels natural and sustainable, especially with a full-time job. Maybe it will for you, too.

What’s your favorite time of day to write? I’d love to hear!

NaNoWriMo is Shutting Down

April 3, 2025April 3, 2025 ~ Brooke F. ~ Leave a comment

So, apparently NaNoWriMo is shutting down. Yep. The site. The support. The whole infrastructure that turned November into a word party for writers around the world…it’s closing up shop..

And hey, listen, before we dive in, I have a confession:
I never did NaNoWriMo. Not personally.

Never even tried. Every year, I’d watch the clock tick toward November like someone standing outside a marathon, holding a coffee and a donut, cheering with my whole heart but fully unwilling to put on running shoes.

Goodbye, NaNoWriMo: I Never Knew You, But I Loved You Anyway

It’s not that I didn’t want to write a novel in 30 short days. It’s that I… well, I like sleep. And not failing my college classes. And knowing I won’t collapse into a spiral of self-loathing by Day 12 when I realize I’m 15,000 words behind and my main character still doesn’t have a name.

But even from the sidelines, I loved NaNoWriMo. I loved the wild ambition of the whole event! I loved that it made writing feel less like a lonely, tortured pursuit and more like a chaotic group project that anyone could get in on. I loved that it dared people of all sorts, busy people, tired people, discouraged people alike, to show up and write stuff.

NaNoWriMo wasn’t just about writing a novel. It was about making writing a habit that you consistently stick with. Just so you could see what you could do if you actually gave it your all.

So when I heard it was shutting down, I couldn’t help but feel a little sad and taken aback. Not because I’m going to miss my annual November guilt trip (okay, maybe a little), but because it truly felt like the end of an era. NaNoWriMo was one of the few internet relics that survived the Great Attention Span Collapse™ as audiences moved towards short form content as a whole. It got people excited about writing, which is no small feat in a world of TikToks, inboxes with 472 unread emails and a new attention suck right around the corner. I think this legacy dying is what I’m most sad about.

I’m sad to say goodbye to what it used to be.

From what I’ve seen, NaNoWriMo in recent years has been tangled up in some complicated and concerning controversies. I’m not going to pretend I fully understand all of it, but it’s enough to make me step back and say, maybe this shutdown isn’t entirely a bad thing. Maybe the version of NaNoWriMo that existed at the end wasn’t the one I admired all those years ago. Maybe it had run its course.

Either way, it’s coming to a close (justified or not). It is taking a final bow and putting away the word count tracker for good.

To the people who did NaNoWriMo every year, who started and sometimes even finished their 50,000 words: I salute you. To the folks who got halfway through and still learned something about themselves in the process: I see you. And to the dreamers like me, cheering from the sidelines with our untouched WIP’s and a vague hope of “maybe next year”: we mattered too.

But, even though the organization is shutting down, the spirit of NaNoWriMo isn’t going anywhere. The stories will still get written. The writers will still find each other. November will still come, and some wild souls will still decide, “Yep, I’m gonna write a whole dang book this month.”

And maybe one of these years, I’ll finally join in. Maybe. Probably not. But maybe.

NaNoWriMo reminded us that writing doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be written. And honestly? I think that’s a legacy worth honoring.

RIP NaNoWriMo. I never joined your chaos, but I’m thankful you existed. 💻💔

Farest and fondest of wells.

Masterlist of Endings

March 31, 2025 ~ Brooke F. ~ 2 Comments

As writers, we put a lot of effort into crafting compelling beginnings and exciting middles, but endings? Endings are what stick with readers long after they close the book. A great ending can leave them satisfied, stunned, or even haunted. But not every story needs to wrap up with a neat little bow and a happily ever after. Sometimes, the most powerful endings are the ones that subvert expectations, introduce a twist, or leave a lingering sense of mystery.

Whether you’re writing a novel, short story, or screenplay, here’s a list of unique ways to end your story that go beyond the traditional happy ending. Feel free to use, tweak, or combine these ideas to create your own memorable conclusion to the tale!

Bittersweet & Tragic Endings

The hero wins but loses their memories.
The villain is defeated, but the hero becomes what they once fought against.
The protagonist gets everything they wanted but realizes it doesn’t make them happy.
The hero survives but is the only one left.
The love interest is saved, but they no longer love the protagonist.
The hero sacrifices themselves, but their sacrifice is forgotten.
The protagonist escapes, but their home is lost forever.
The prophecy is fulfilled, but it didn’t mean what they thought.

Open & Ambiguous Endings

The hero wins, but the story hints that the villain may return.
A character vanishes without explanation—did they run, die, or something else?
The story ends mid-action, leaving the outcome uncertain.
The protagonist achieves their goal, but a single clue suggests something was missed.
The final line contradicts what the reader believed was true.
The hero is given a choice, but the story ends before they make it.

Twist Endings

The villain was never real; it was all in the hero’s mind.
The “good guys” were actually the bad guys all along.
The entire story was a test, simulation, or dream—but the protagonist isn’t sure what’s real anymore.
The hero realizes they were the villain in someone else’s story.
The protagonist wins, but only because the villain let them.
Everything resets, trapping the characters in a loop.

Unsettling or Dark Endings

The villain wins, and no one knows the truth.
The hero stops the big bad, but a greater threat emerges.
The protagonist thought they escaped—only to find they’re still trapped.
The hero saves the day but has lost all sense of self.
The world is saved, but it’s unrecognizable.
The hero becomes immortal and must watch everyone they love fade away.
The story ends with a minor, eerie detail that suggests something is very wrong.

Spring Reset for Writers: Refreshing My Writing Routine 🌷✍️

March 29, 2025 ~ Brooke F. ~ 2 Comments

Ah, spring. The season of blossoming flowers, fresh starts, and freshly ignored writing goals. Oops. Did I say that outloud?

Anyways, I am determined to refresh my writing routine this spring as well as declutter my workspace, and become the productive, flourishing writer I was always meant to be. Or at least… try.

Step One: The Desk Purge

Right now, my desk is less of a workspace and more of an archaeological dig of sorts. There are at least three half-filled notebooks, a graveyard of pens (some working, some with ink mysteriously dried up overnight), and a coffee cup that may or may not be from last week. If I dig deep enough, I might find a long-lost plot outline or a note that simply says, “fix this, it’s bad.” Oh, and stickers. Lots and lots of stickers.

This happens periodically. My desk space over any given amount of time will become…how is it we say here in the south? Ah, yes, a HOT MESS.

So, I’m decluttering. The goal is to turn my desk into a space that actually invites creativity instead of making me want to lie down and take a nap. A candle? Yes. A cute notebook that I will definitely use? Absolutely. The ten random receipts and a variety of rogue paperclips? No thanks. You’re out of here (until I somehow collect another collection and do another deep clean this next fall).

Step Two: Reworking the Writing Routine

Right now, my “routine” consists of staring at my laptop at odd times (basically when the whimsy hits), opening a blank document, and then somehow ending up scrolling on my phone for 45 minutes. It’s an art form, really. And while I have been trying to tackle my phone addiction lately (it’s its own issue separately, ok?) my writing routine still lacks consistency.

To fix this, I’m trying out a more structured approach this spring. Instead of telling myself “I’ll write later” (which is a fancy way of saying “I won’t write at all”), I’m setting dedicated writing times. Mostly in the evening after work or after dinner. I have experimented with a few time slots (will be writing a blog post about this later, I’m all about experiments over here), and the evening time slot seems to work best with my lifestyle and schedule. So that’s what we’re going with.

Step Three: Setting Writing Goals That Aren’t Overly Ambitious

I alluded to this already in my New Years post in January. I love making big, dramatic writing goals. “I’ll finish my novel in two weeks.” “I’ll write 1,000 words every single day without fail.” “I’ll win a Pulitzer by June.”

And then reality hits. Life is busy. Some days, writing just doesn’t happen. So I’m continuing to focus on, goals that are actually achievable. Maybe it’s writing for 20 minutes a day. Maybe it’s finishing a single chapter this month. Small, consistent progress is better than unrealistic goals that just make me feel guilty when I inevitably don’t hit them. Right now I’m attempting to finish my Poetry book by the end of summer. That’s THE goal right now.

Step Four: Romanticizing the Writing Process

If there’s one thing I know, it’s that writing is way more fun when you make it an aesthetic experience. I’m talking fairy lights, soft music, a warm cup of tea, and the illusion that I am a 19th-century author composing a masterpiece in my candlelit study. Does this actually help me write better? Debatable. Does it make me want to write more? Absolutely.

So, part of my spring reset is making my writing time feel special. A cozy spot by the window, a new playlist, maybe even a fancy new pen. Whatever it takes to trick my brain into thinking this is a magical, must-do activity. If everything feels stale in your writing process right now, just try and make a few fun little changes.

Final Thoughts: Let’s Make This Our Season of Writing Wins

Spring is a time for growth, so I’m going to try and grow into better writing habits. Whether it’s finally decluttering that desk, setting realistic goals, or simply making writing feel more fun, this is my effort to reset and refresh.

How are you resetting this spring? Do you even believe in spring resets or is time simply an illusion to you? Let’s talk about it in the comments! 🌸✨

My Dream Life as an Author (Manifesting This Immediately) ✨📖

March 24, 2025 ~ Brooke F. ~ Leave a comment

Some people dream of red carpets and bestseller lists and their characters being played by Blake Lively (okay so maybe only a few people dream of this…). My dream however is that of a quiet cottage tucked deep in pine woods, where the only sounds are the clack of my typewriter, the occasional whinny of my horses (yes, I am a horse girl), and the soft rustle of the wind through the trees. The city? Overrated. New York? Absolutely not. Los Angeles? I shudder at the thought. No, I’m staying right here in the South, where the sweet tea flows (yuck. I actually can’t stand the stuff), the humidity ruins my hair, and the locals know how to tell a good story, true or not.

The Books: Where Agatha Christie Meets Dungeons & Dragons

If I could write anything, it would be the perfect blend of mystery and fantasy. Imagine a classic Agatha Christie whodunit, but with wizards, cursed artifacts, and a detective who might have to cast Detect Magic before finding the culprit. A world where taverns replace tea parlors, the suspects might be elves or shapeshifters, and the murderer was possibly a necromancer all along. Murder mysteries, but make them magical.

The Library: My Own Personal Wonderland

Now, my home wouldn’t just be any cottage. It would be the ultimate book lover’s retreat. It would be a place where the walls are lined with shelves, and books climb all the way up to the ceiling. A rolling ladder would be a necessity, obviously. There would be nooks for reading, armchairs worn in just the right way, and maybe even a secret passageway hidden behind one of the bookshelves… (see my previous post on my dream book nook.)

The Writing Process: Typewriters and Total Control

No laptops for me! Just the click-clack of a typewriter, because I’m dramatic like that. Would it be practical? Probably not. But would it make me feel like an eccentric genius author? Absolutely. My editor would have to deal with getting actual, physical pages, and I’d refuse to change my methods even as the world moved into holographic AI writing or whatever the future holds.

The Movies: Only Under My Watchful Eye 👀

Now, let’s be realistic here; eventually, someone would want to turn my books into movies. I would allow it… BUT ONLY IF I SUPERVISE. No sloppy adaptations, no weird modernized versions that miss the heart of the story. I’d be the author in the back of the studio, wrapped in my elegant trench coat, sipping coffee, and glaring at the scriptwriters over my glasses. My books, my rules.

The Style: Classy, Retro, Timeless

(And the delusion continues!)

Speaking of trench coats, my author persona would be expertly curated so maintain an air of mystery (to match my books). I’d dress like I stepped out of a vintage detective novel. Something Nancy Drew would approve of. Think elegant dresses, stylish coats, maybe a brooch or two. A little bit of film noir meets Southern charm, effortlessly timeless and full of mystique. When people met me, they’d instantly assume I had secrets because, honestly, what’s the fun in being an author if you don’t cultivate a little mystery?

The Travel: A World of Inspiration

Of course, I wouldn’t just stay in my little pinewood haven forever. I’d take grand trips around the world, collecting stories like a dragon hoarding treasure. A week in an old Scottish castle for ghost story inspiration? Done. A summer in Italy writing in a café? Yes, please. My passport would be well-used, but I’d always return home to my cottage, my books, and my horses.

This, my friends, is the dream. The author life I was meant to live. A life of stories, mystery, and just the right amount of eccentricity. One day, it’ll be real (or so I like to tell myself). Until then, I’ll keep writing (and waiting for Hollywood to beg me for adaptation rights). 😉

Your Turn! Share Your Dream Author Life ✨

Copy and paste this template, fill in your own answers, and let’s all daydream together!

🌲 Where do you live? (City penthouse? Cozy forest cabin? Haunted Victorian mansion?)

📚 What kind of books do you write? (Fantasy romance? Sci-fi thrillers? Poetry collections about moody cats?)

🖋 How do you write? (Typewriter? Quill pen by candlelight? Voice memos while pacing dramatically?)

🎬 Would you let Hollywood adapt your books? (If yes, under what conditions? If no, why the distrust? 👀)

🕶 What’s your author aesthetic? (Trench coats and mystery? Cozy sweaters and tea? Gothic elegance?)

✈️ Do you travel for inspiration? (Where are you going, and what stories will you bring back?)

Drop your answers in the comments or post your own version! 💫📖

My Dream Writing/Book Nook ✨📖

March 22, 2025March 21, 2025 ~ Brooke F. ~ 3 Comments

Listen, I could technically write anywhere…a coffee shop, my bed, the floor of my apartment while my cat watch me intently (probably waiting for a snack). But in a perfect world? Oh, I’d have the writing nook of my dreams. A little slice of literary heaven. A cozy, magical hideaway where inspiration flows as easily as my third cup of coffee.

First things first: secret entrance. My nook is not just a regular room—it’s hidden behind a bookcase door, because if I’m going to be a writer, I at least want to feel like a mysterious, reclusive novelist with an air of intrigue. (Or like I live in a Nancy Drew novel, either works.)

Inside, there’s a bed nook built into the wall, because everyone knows that half of writing is dramatic thinking sessions where I just stare into space. I’ll curl up with a notebook, wrapped in a big blanket like a Victorian woman lamenting her tragic love story.

And when I’m feeling extra lazy? There’s also a giant bean bag, perfect for flopping into after writing three sentences and deciding I deserve a break. A very well needed break

The desk situation you may be asking (nobody is asking)? Oh, it’s vintage and aesthetic, covered in scattered notes, coffee stains, and probably a half-eaten cookie. Sitting on top is a typewriter because if I’m going to write, I might as well be romantic about it. But don’t worry, I also have my laptop for when my fingers get tired of clacking away. Very loudly I might add.

There’s a big window, because I need to stare outside while contemplating my life choices, and on rainy days, I can pretend I’m in a moody indie film while writing. At night, the whole room glows with twinkling fairy lights, making it feel like a secret storytelling cave.

And the vibes? Immaculate. Soft indie folk, lo-fi beats, maybe the sound of a crackling fireplace. Some days I might put on instrumental music and pretend I’m a tortured 18th-century poet. Other days? Just cozy silence, with the occasional interruption of my cat knocking something over.

This is where I’d write my best stories, fueled by too much caffeine and unrealistic levels of coziness. One day, I’ll make it happen. Until then, I’ll keep daydreaming (and procrastinating). ✨

Now it’s your turn!

Describe your dream writing nook using the template below and share it!

🖋 What is your method of writing? (Typewriter, laptop, quill pen, enchanted scroll?)
🕯 What is your means of lighting? (Candlelight, fairy lights, a single moody lamp?)
📚 What is the centerpiece of your nook? (A big desk, a window seat, a mini library?)
🎶 What music is playing while you write? (Lo-fi, classical, the sound of your own existential crisis?)
📍 Where is your nook located? (A hidden attic, a treehouse, a bookshop corner?)
☕️ What’s on your writing desk? (A coffee cup, an open notebook, a cat that refuses to move?)

Tag me if you share—I need to know what kind of dreamy, bookish spaces we’re all manifesting. 📖✨

k, bye all!