Hi! My name is Lainey and I am an amateur mystery writer. I have passed through the "wanna be" stage, by way of self-mockery and need for a creative outlet. Last year, I decided to stop telling myself and anyone else who would listen, that I "really could probably write the stuff
I spend all my free time reading". I actually began a novel and am now in the process of trying to get past the first few chapters.

I really owe any and all writers a BIG apology, because although I do have a little bit of creativity and style, I have been greatly lacking in stick-to-it-tiveness. Writing is hard work! It takes way more commitment and time than I ever imagined (as evidenced by three chapters for my novel and one short story in all of 2005). Hats off to all of you published and seeking to be published writers out there. Heck, anyone who actually takes time to write on a daily basis should feel great about themselves.

Anyway, I started this blog in the hopes of finding other writers who would like to shares thoughts, ideas, critiques, bitches or brags about their experiences in writing. I've found that sharing with others at any stage in the writing process has been a catalyst and motivator for me, so please stop by frequently and let me know what you think.

The name of my novel in progress is No Time Off for Bad Behavior.
the protagonist is a parole officer in a mid-western city, and it is a humorous (hopefully) mystery that I would like to turn into a series.
I have a lot of writers that I enjoy reading and that have influenced my writing, but two stick out because not only are they awesome writers, but they have taken the time to share insights into the art and science of writing: Janet Evanovich and J.A. Konrath. They both have excellent web sites and J.A. Konrath has a great blog too.