Inside My Cozy Writing Space with Dogs, Sunroom Vibes, and Story Magic
If you’ve been here a while, you already know two things about me: I believe stories are magic. My very real writing life is full of dogs, chaos, and cozy corners. It probably won’t surprise you to hear that my favorite cozy writing space with dogs is my sunroom. It’s where most of my books—mysteries, magic, and all—come to life. So today, I thought I’d share a little peek behind the scenes into where the writing magic happens… and how three dogs manage to supervise every single sentence I type. My Cozy Writing Space with Dogs (Otherwise Known as the Sunroom) My sunroom is, hands-down, my favorite place to write. It’s bright space is filled with plants, and the windows offer the perfect view of the trees swaying outside and a little lake in the distance. It’s cozy, peaceful, and…completely ruled by the dogs. Dobby, Nacho, and Pippin have claimed this space as their own. They rotate between snoring under my desk, watching the birds, and occasionally jumping up to bark at absolutely nothing (or maybe at invisible story ideas;I like to think they’re helping). There’s just something about this cozy writing space with dogs by my side, the light streaming in, and the sounds of nature outside that inspires me to dive into my stories. Stormy Weather, Curious Dogs, and Creative Energy If you read one of my recent newsletters, you know the dogs treat summer storms like front-row seats to a magic show. The sky darkens. Thunder rumbles. They line up at the window. I like to think we’re all casting spells in our own way—me with my words, them with their intense storm-watching skills. For me, those moody, stormy afternoons are perfect for writing about mystery, secrets, and a little magic. A Few Other Writing Rituals I Probably Shouldn’t Admit If I’m being honest, I have to admit that I procrastinate. Sometimes the story comes easily, and sometimes I’d rather be making book covers or planning online courses. And sometimes, I rearrange my desk, light a candle, pull a book off the shelf for “inspiration”, and curl up for a recharge. But in the end, that cozy writing space with dogs curled nearby always grounds me. The sunroom, the storms, and the pups are my real-life version of story magic. Until next time, may your writing (or reading) space be cozy, your stories full of wonder, and your dogs (or cats… or snacks) right by your side.
10 Signs Your Favorite Book Character Might Be A Witch
As your resident story witch, I’ve been thinking…have you ever been reading a book—like maybe a cozy mystery, a lush piece of women’s fiction, or even a thriller—and thought, Wait a second… I think this character might be a witch? ??♀️I have! The thing is, it’s clear to me that not all witches wear pointy hats or stir cauldrons. Some of them are hiding in plain sight. They bake sourdough that just so happens to heal emotional wounds, tend to rose gardens that bloom out of season, or whisper secrets to the wind when no one’s listening. As a writer who spends a lot of time conjuring stories with magical threads and creating magical characters just like these (and, um, maybe a few actual spellbooks ?), I know the signs. So here you go. Here are 10 signs your favorite book character might just be a witch in disguise: 1. Plants just… love them Their herbs grow faster than anyone else’s. Their succulents never droop. The roses climb their cottage like it’s a fairytale. Green thumbs? Maybe. But it’s more likely the plants are responding to magic. 2. They’re drawn to old things Antique keys, weathered journals, dusty spellbooks (ahem, a grimoire), chipped teacups that belonged to their grandmother. If they’re always rummaging through flea markets like they’re on a treasure hunt, that’s a witchy clue. 3. Strange coincidences happen around them They light a candle and someone calls. They think about a person and that person shows up. Coincidence… or, I submit, intuitive magic humming just under the surface. 4. They have a deep connection to the moon They don’t need a calendar to know it’s a full moon. They feel it. Maybe they make moon water or charge their crystals. Or maybe they just stare out the window a little too long when the moon is high. 5. They keep unusual pets A cat that seems to know too much. A raven that visits every morning. A scruffy dog that growls at all the wrong people. Familiars come in many forms. 6. They know things they shouldn’t Not in a spooky, jump-scare kind of way. More like, they understand people deeply, or sense what’s going to happen before it does. It’s intuition turned all the way up. 7. They’re obsessed with tea, herbs, or baking Chamomile for sleep. Lavender for calm. Rosemary for clarity. Or maybe their cinnamon scones always leave you feeling just a little bit braver or happier. That’s a little bit more than just culinary skill! 8. They live in a place that feels… alive The house creaks at the right moments. The garden seems to rearrange itself. The attic holds secrets. Witches often live in spaces where magic seeps into the walls. 9. They have an heirloom that feels powerful It could be a locket, or a mirror, or a book passed down through generations. These objects remember. And often, they’re the key to unlocking the character’s true nature. 10. They believe in magic, even if they don’t call it that They talk to the wind. Make wishes in secret. Trust their dreams. They might not know they’re a witch, but you can feel the magic in the way they move through the world. Whether you’re reading a mystery with enchanted dress patterns (hello, Harlow Cassidy! ?), or a magical realism tale where bibliomancy informs everything or the house itself holds secrets (hello, The Bibliomancer’s Daughter and The House of Spells and Secrets ?⬛), these signs are my favorite breadcrumbs to follow as both a writer and reader. Next time you find yourself falling for a character who seems a little too in tune with the world, ask yourself: Is she just quirky… or is she quietly conjuring magic beneath the surface? Witchily yours,Melissa / Ivy ?Your Story Witch ✨ May your characters be complicated, your tea strong, and your books full of secrets.
Why I’m a Story Witch (and What That Actually Means)
Hello there, and welcome to Notes from a Story Witch. This is my cozy little corner of the internet where magic, mystery, and storytelling meet. If you’ve landed here, you might be wondering: What exactly is a story witch? Is it a vibe? A brand? An actual broomstick-and-crystals situation? Or just a quirky author thing? The answer? Yes. Yes. Yes. and also yes. Plus… more! Stick with me and et me explain. Words are spells ? They are to me, at least. Stories have power. They enchant, heal, reveal truths, and stir emotions. For me, writing (and reading) isn’t just about plots and page counts. It’s about weaving spells made of words. That’s what makes me, what I like to call, a story witch. When I sit down to write, I’m not just putting one scene after another. I’m conjuring all sorts of story magic: characters with secrets houses that breathe bibliomancy and books that communicate forests that listen the magic of sisterhood magic rooted in legacy, bloodlines, and belief These things are at the core of what I love to write and what my books are about. Whether it’s a cozy mystery with a whisper of magic (the Magical Dressmaking series), a cozy series with the slight hint of magic (the Bread Shop series), or novels steeped in Irish lore and curses (the Book Magic series), or a folkloric novel about forgotten spells and family secrets, magic infuses my books (The House of Spells and Secrets). Even in my non-magic books and series lies the quiet magic of relationships, truth, and transformation. It is the kind of everyday enchantment that comes from love, loss, healing, and what I see as the unbreakable threads that connect us (the Lola Cruz series). Magic ✨ is in the details (and also the revisions!) Being a story witch isn’t about always knowing the right words. It’s about listening for them. Trusting your gut. Knowing when something’s off in a scene, even if I can’t quite explain why. That’s me to a T. I don’t always get it right the first time, but I love revisions because that’s when a story truly comes alive for me. It’s story witchery at its best. Sometimes that means lighting a candle, brewing tea, opening a notebook, and inviting the muse to sit with me. (It’s also, once in a while, deleting 3,000 words and starting over… because sometimes a spell just fizzles. (It even happened to the Sanderson sisters in Hocus Pocus!) The stories I write ?️ are magical✨, but I believe the stories we live are, too The magic in my books isn’t always overt. Often it’s soft and subtle ways: an ancestral orchard that holds memory a spellbook hidden for generations a sprinkle of magic baked into bread three sisters bound by legacy and loss a clothing designer who sews wishes and dreams into garments a bibliomancer who finds truth in the pages The real magic, though, is in the connection that happens between me and the characters, and then between my books and you, the reader. If something I’ve written resonates with your…if it makes you feel seen, understood, or inspired…if it evokes some kind of emotion… to me, that’s the truest kind of witchery. So, why Story Witch ? ? The answer to that is simple. It is because I believe in the alchemy of imagination.It is because my creativity is enhanced by folklore and legends, intuition and instinct, and ancestral threads that come with family. These are the things that inspire me every time I sit down to write. More than anything, it is because writing is my spellwork, and I want to share that magic with my readers. Whether you’re a reader, a writer, or someone just a little witch-curious… you are welcome here. I hope you poke around! Thanks for being in my circle.And think about it. What kind of magic do you make?
Great Gemini Quotes for Writers!
It’s Gemini season! My brother is a Gemini and fits the bill so perfectly. He’s an artist, so he’s bursting with creativity. In terms of writing, the Gemini zodiac centers around fresh ideas and the creative energy that keeps writers up late scribbling in notebooks or building entire stories while walking the dog. Geminis are known for their duality, wit, restlessness, and insatiable curiosity—and if you ask me, that sounds like a lot of writers I know. We contain multitudes, don’t we? We question everything. We see the world through shifting lenses, and we translate that into stories. So, in celebration of the Gemini season, I’ve put together a collection of original quotes that reflect that unique energy—perfect for writers, readers, and anyone with a curious mind and a love of language. These quotes are broken into categories so you can find what speaks to you, whether you’re seeking inspiration, validation, or a nudge to embrace the many sides of your writerly self. Gemini Quotes for Writers ? (by Melissa Bourbon, WriterSpark) “Geminis write in layers—every draft a different voice, every revision a new lens.” “A Gemini doesn’t outline a story—they chase it.” “The mind of a Gemini is never still, which means the page never stays blank for long.” “Gemini writers flirt with genres, jump between POVs, and break rules beautifully.” “Writing with Gemini energy means you never run out of ideas—just notebooks.” “Every Gemini draft is a conversation between the many voices within.” “Geminis don’t just write dialogue—they live in it.” “A Gemini writer will start five stories before breakfast and finish the most surprising one by midnight.” “Writing as a Gemini means surrendering to curiosity—and following it wherever it goes.” “Gemini energy on the page? Smart. Unexpected. Never boring.” Gemini Quotes for Readers ? (by Melissa Bourbon, WriterSpark) “Geminis read with one eye on the plot and the other on the prose.” “A Gemini reader loves a twist, craves cleverness, and always wants just one more chapter.” “Reading multiple books at once? Gemini behavior.” “Geminis don’t just read the book—they annotate, highlight, and start a debate club in their head.” “To a Gemini, the best stories are the ones that surprise them—then make them think.” “Geminis read to learn, to escape, to argue, and to explore. Sometimes all in the same afternoon.” “Bookstores are Gemini playgrounds—a new voice on every shelf.” “A Gemini doesn’t play favorites—they reread them all.” “Gemini readers collect quotes like souvenirs.” “Books are the Gemini version of time travel, therapy, and a road trip—rolled into one.” Creative Wisdom for the Gemini Writer ✨ (by Melissa Bourbon, WriterSpark) “Let your curiosity be your compass.” “Gemini minds don’t wander—they explore.” “You don’t need to choose one voice. You are a chorus.” “Writing is your way of asking questions the world hasn’t thought to answer yet.” “Start the story. Trust it to surprise you.” “Being curious is not a distraction. It’s your greatest strength.” “Gemini writers don’t just tell stories—they translate possibility.” “You are not too much. You are too full of ideas to keep still.” “Write what you wonder.” “You don’t have to finish what you start to prove you’re a real writer. You just have to keep starting.” A Few Famous Quotes That Echo Gemini Energy ? “I write to discover what I know.” — Flannery O’Connor “You must stay drunk on writing so reality cannot destroy you.” — Ray Bradbury “I am large, I contain multitudes.” — Walt Whitman “If you want to change the world, pick up your pen and write.” — Martin Luther “The cure for boredom is curiosity. There is no cure for curiosity.” — Dorothy Parker “A writer is someone for whom writing is more difficult than it is for other people.” — Thomas Mann “In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.” — Albert Einstein So, which quote feels most like you? Are you a Gemini or just vibing with the energy? Let me know in the comments or tag me on Pinterest @WriterSparkAcademy with your favorite! Want more zodiac-meets-writing content? Subscribe to the WriterSpark newsletter or explore courses that help you stay creative, curious, and connected. And subscribe to my Substack for even more writing tips and inspiration. xo, Melissa Click here to see Taurus quotes for readers and writers.
Leaning Into the Witchy Vibe: Why I’m Embracing Magic in My Author Brand
If you’ve been poking around my Melissa Bourbon Pinterest account or website lately, you might’ve picked up on something new—something a little… witchier. A few more magical pins. Some folklore-inspired content. A definite shift toward that cozy, mystical vibe. Yep. It’s intentional. And honestly, it feels exactly right. Magic has always been a part of my storytelling. From the legacy of bibliomancy in the Book Magic Mysteries to the ancestral threads woven into The Ghost Orchard, I’ve always been drawn to stories where the unseen nudges the ordinary. But for a while, I kept those elements kind of quiet. I stayed in my lanes: cozy mystery author here, writing coach there, folklore enthusiast somewhere else. But I’ve realized… those lanes all lead to the very same place. So I’m leaning into it fully. And that includes my Pinterest presence, my blog content, and the way I talk about my books. Why This Feels Like the Right Move We hear a lot about author branding, and usually it sounds like a marketing buzzword. But for me, it’s not about logos or color palettes. It’s about alignment. About making sure everything I share—from writing tips to story inspiration—feels like me. And the fact is, I love stories filled with intuition, quiet magic, feminine power, ancestral threads, and characters with secrets that stretch back generations. That’s the heart of what I write and teach. So it only makes sense that my content reflects that, too. This Means a Shift in My Pinterest Strategy Magical writing prompts and story structures that tap into archetypes and intuition Behind-the-scenes peeks into the Book Magic world and my new project, The Ghost Orchard Witchy aesthetics (without the pointy hats, unless they’re cute) Seasonal book lists, writing rituals, and folklore-inspired visuals And yes—writing tips! Just with a little more soul and sparkle I’ll be infusing everything with the kind of story magic I love most. It’s less of a pivot and more of a permission slip. One I finally gave myself. If you’re a writer, reader, or dreamer who believes in the magic of storytelling… hello! You’re in the right place. Thanks for following along. I’m so excited to share more of this path with you. xxx, Melissa ✨ Want to explore more story magic? Check out my Pinterest board: Magical Writing Vibes Or dive into the Book Magic Mysteries to see where it all began. Read more about my magical heroines!
Witches, Mystics, and Women of Power
Witches, mystics, bibliomancers, and everyday women of power are the best kinds of heroines to write. They all have a spark of something more, which is what I love about writing them. I’ve always believed that magic can be quiet. You might be asking what that actually means. To me, it means that it doesn’t have to be dramatic spells or wand-waving (although I do have the dramatic spells and the equivalent of wand-waving in two of my series). Most of the magic I write into my stories is rooted in intuition, legacy, and love—and it lives in the women who carry it. From bibliomancers (like Pippin Lane Hawthorne above) and magical dressmakers (like Harlow Cassidy) to bakers with soul magic (Olaya Solis and Ivy Culpepper) and women descended from Irish mystics, (Rowan Early Connors–coming soon), my books are filled with heroines who don’t always want the power they’re born with… but learn to embrace it anyway. If you love witchy books, cozy mysteries with magical elements, and stories about women reclaiming their power, let me introduce you to a few of my favorite magical heroines. ? Pippin Lane Hawthorne (Book Magic Mysteries) Pippin is a bibliomancer—one of the last in her line. Her family’s magic flows through books, and she’s tied to a mystical legacy passed down through generations of women in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. If you love bookish magic, ancestral secrets, and a heroine who uncovers power through grief and discovery, Pippin’s story is for you. ? Harlow Cassidy (Magical Dressmaking Mysteries) A descendant of Butch Cassidy (yes, that Butch Cassidy!), Harlow runs a custom dressmaking boutique in Texas. Her magic is stitched into fabric—literally. Each creation carries just the charm the wearer needs… and sometimes, unintended consequences. This cozy mystery series blends murder, heirloom magic, and Southern charm. ? Ivy Culpepper (Bread Shop Mysteries – as Winnie Archer) Ivy’s gift isn’t traditional magic, but there’s something deeply ritualistic and healing about the way she (and Olaya Solis, who is her mentor) bakes. Ivy and Olaya bring heart and soul to their sleuthing in Santa Sofia, California. These books are perfect if you believe baking is a kind of witchcraft—and that comfort, intuition, and memory can be magical. Spoiler: I do! ? Rowan Early Connors (Coming Soon from Crooked Lane/Alcove Press, written as Ivy Cassidy) Rowan is the newest magical heroine to join my world. She’s descended from Biddy Early, the famed Irish herb woman and healer (a real person and the last woman tried for witchcraft in the 1800s in Ireland). But Rowan’s mother spent her life running from her legacy, and Rowan never knew about it. The truth lies in Swallow Hall, her family’s ancestral house on a sinking island in the Chesapeake Bay. With folklore, legacy magic, and mystery all wrapped into one, this book is perfect for fans of atmospheric witchy fiction and generational stories. ✨ Why I Write Magical Heroines These magical women are messy, brave, intuitive, and full of heart. They carry the burden of inheritance and the beauty of becoming. Some wield books. Some sew spells. Some stir emotion with a wooden spoon. All of them—at their core—are magical. If you’re drawn to stories of quiet power and everyday enchantment, I hope you’ll fall in love with them like I have. Now, if you want more magical bookish content, follow me on Pinterest and browse my board: Witchy Reads & Bookish Magic ? Start Reading: The Book Magic Mysteries The Magical Dressmaking Mysteries The Bread Shop Mysteries The Sky Girls of Swallow Hall (Coming Soon!)
Books, Bread, and Bourbon: What My Characters Would Order at a Café
If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably imagined your favorite fictional characters sitting down at a cozy little café, sipping on something warm (or strong!), and ordering their go-to comfort food. Since my characters live rent-free in my head—and honestly, they’re always chattering—I thought it would be fun to share what I imagine they’d order if they popped into a charming bookish café. So grab your favorite drink, settle into your reading nook, and join me at the fictional—but—oh—so—real in my heart— Books, Bread & Bourbon Café… Ivy Culpepper from The Bread Shop Mysteries ? Order: A thick slice of warm sourdough with rosemary and sea salt, slathered in honey butter (locally sourced, of course), paired with a dark roast coffee—no sugar, just a splash of cream. Vibe: Ivy loves comfort, tradition, and flavor. Her order is simple but made with love, just like her. And yes, she’d bring Olaya a loaf of fresh bread as a thank-you. Pippin Lane Hawthorne from The Book Magic Mysteries ? Order: A lavender London fog with a vanilla scone, lightly dusted with powdered sugar and a touch of lemon zest. Vibe: Pippin is thoughtful and a bit mysterious, always with a book in her bag (once she embraces the bibliomancer thing) and questions in her eyes. Her order has a hint of magic—like her family’s legacy. Harlow Cassidy from The Magical Dressmaking Mysteries ? Order: A sweet peach iced tea and a slice of bourbon pecan pie. Vibe: Southern charm meets creative flair. Harlow’s order is a tribute to her roots—and yes, there’s just enough bourbon ? in the pie to count. Lola Cruz from The Lola Cruz Mysteries ? Order: Café con leche and a spicy breakfast burrito with jalapeños and extra salsa on the side. Vibe: Bold, confident, and full of energy. Lola’s order has bite—just like her. She’s fueling up before heading off to crack a case (and probably break a few rules doing it). Bonus Guest: Dobby, Pippin, and Nacho (my real-life writing companions!) ? Order: A trio of pupcakes—peanut butter, banana, and bacon—served with fresh water in a silver bowl. They’d each bark for a different flavor. (Nacho would also bark at the door. Just in case.) Your Turn! Which character would you want to share a table with at the Books, Bread & Bourbon Café? What would you order? Drop your dream café order in the comments—I’d love to know! And if you’re curious, I’d order a brown sugar oat milk latte (and when it’s fall, definitely a pumpkin spice latte☕️) and a big hunk of gluten-free sourdough slathered in butter and sea salt. Because some cravings never go away. ? Until next time, Melissa P.S., Subscribe to my Substack to see the writing side of my life!
Taurus Energy for Writers and Readers: 70+ Quotes to Ground, Inspire, and Delight
Taurus season has arrived, and whether you’re a true Taurus (like me) or just someone who craves a cozy writing nook, a stack of books, and a solid creative routine (also me), you’re in the right place. As a Taurus myself, I know firsthand the power of this earth sign: we’re grounded, stubborn (in the best way), loyal to what we love, and find comfort in the little rituals that make a creative life feel deeply satisfying. So I started jotting down quotes—some from famous thinkers and authors, and others straight from my own Taurus heart—that capture the essence of what it means to write, read, and live with Taurus energy. This post is a collection of Taurus quotes for writers, readers, creatives, and cozy souls, organized by theme. Pin them. Share them. Print them out for your vision board or your planner. Most of all, let them remind you that slow, steady, and rooted is a powerful way to create. ✍️ Taurus Quotes for Writers (by Melissa Bourbon, WriterSpark) “A Taurus writes with the patience of a gardener and the determination of a mountain.” “Steady hands craft powerful stories.” “A Taurus doesn’t rush a masterpiece.” “Consistency over chaos—that’s the Taurus writer’s secret weapon.” “Taurus writers write what feels real. Always.” “Words are the soil. Taurus is the one who grows the story.” “When a Taurus commits to a story, they see it through to the end.” “Slow and steady doesn’t just win—it publishes.” “A Taurus may not shout their stories, but they’ll echo for years.” “A Taurus writer’s stubbornness is actually just loyalty to the work.” “Comfort, tea, a good chair, and the draft: the Taurus way.” “Taurus doesn’t chase trends. They create enduring tales.” “A blank page is just earth waiting for seeds.” “Structure soothes the Taurus soul—and organizes the plot.” “A Taurus edits like a sculptor—patiently chiseling away to reveal truth.” ? Taurus Quotes for Readers (by Melissa Bourbon, WriterSpark) “A Taurus doesn’t read a book—they inhabit it.” “If a Taurus loves a book, they’ll read it ten times.” “Books are how Taurus escapes while staying comfortably home.” “Taurus finds luxury in linen covers and well-worn pages.” “A Taurus reads with all five senses—and their sixth sense for character.” “No one builds a better book nook than a Taurus.” “Reading is ritual. Taurus gets that.” “A Taurus book stack is curated, not chaotic.” “To Taurus, a good book is like a trusted friend—reliable, rich, and worth returning to.” “Slow readers aren’t slow—they’re savorers. That’s Taurus.” “A Taurus doesn’t skim—they soak it in.” “Hardcovers, ambient lighting, and a blanket? That’s Taurus heaven.” “A Taurus never forgets a book that made them feel something.” “Loyalty to a favorite author is a Taurus specialty.” “Taurus reads for depth, not drama.” ? Taurus Wisdom for the Writing Life (by Melissa Bourbon, WriterSpark) “Plant the words. Nurture the draft. Harvest the story.” “The Taurus way: grounded in reality, guided by heart.” “Let your writing be like a Taurus—rooted, rich, and quietly powerful.” “Routine is the Taurus muse.” “Some writers sprint. Taurus writers endure.” “Write like a Taurus: beautifully, deliberately, and with purpose.” “A Taurus writer knows—comfort fuels creativity.” “The muse shows up when Taurus does.” “When others quit, Taurus revises.” “Stubbornness becomes strength when writing a novel.” ? Poetic & Playful Taurus Lines (by Melissa Bourbon, WriterSpark) “Taurus is the bookmark you can always count on.” “A Taurus doesn’t just read for pleasure—they read for peace.” “The pen is steady. The bull is strong.” “Taurus: the slow-burning flame of a great novel.” “Earth signs edit like prose—no fluff, all feeling.” “Beauty matters to Taurus—and so does the font.” “A Taurus won’t abandon a story. They finish, no matter how long it takes.” “Sensible, sensual, and story-obsessed. That’s Taurus.” “Taurus writers take their time—but their words are timeless.” “Every Taurus writer knows: even the strongest roots grow slowly.” “Taurus energy: curl up, commit, and create.” “Words are grounding. Taurus knows how to build a world.” Bonus: Famous Quotes That Echo Taurus Energy Strength & Stubbornness “Facts are stubborn things.” — John Adams “Be stubborn about your goals and flexible about your methods.” — Unknown “The writer’s secret is not inspiration… it is his stubbornness, his patience.” — Orhan Pamuk “I’m determined and grounded. That’s who I am.” — Michelle Pfeiffer “My strength lies solely in my tenacity.” — Louis Pasteur Reliability & Loyalty “Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.” — Robert Collier “The most reliable way to predict the future is to create it.” — Abraham Lincoln “Endurance is nobler than strength, and patience than beauty.” — John Ruskin “Loyalty means nothing unless it has at its heart the absolute principle of self-sacrifice.” — Woodrow Wilson Indulgence & Sensory Joy “One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.” — Virginia Woolf “Luxury is not a necessity to me, but beautiful and good things are.” — Anaïs Nin “Let the beauty of what you love be what you do.” — Rumi “Books are a uniquely portable magic.” — Stephen King “The smell of a book is the most comforting scent I know.” — Anonymous Which quote speaks to you most? Are you a Taurus or just a Taurus at heart? Let me know in the comments or tag me on Pinterest @MelissaBourbonBooks with your favorite! Want more inspiration like this? Subscribe to my newsletter and Substack, or (of course) start reading my books! xo, Melissa
My Absolutely (Almost) Perfect Dogs
Let’s talk about what the real author’s life looks like. Forget the Pinterest-perfect images of tranquil writing nooks, steaming cups of tea, and uninterrupted creative flow. Seriously, forget all of that. My actual writing life involves a laptop, a plotline that may or may not be cooperating, a lot of busy stuff, and three furry, four-legged writing buddies who run our house. You might even call it a dog-powered publishing company. This is writing with dogs—and it’s equal parts chaos, comedy, and canine cuddles. Meet My Writing Buddies First up, we’ve got Dobby, the resident grandpa pup. He’s a chug (that’s a Chihuahua + pug combo, for those not fluent in boutique dog breeds ?). Dobby is a tiny tyrant wrapped in a blanket, with soulful eyes and zero tolerance for being ignored while I’m trying to write dialogue–especially when he decides it’s time for a walk. If he’s not curled up behind me, his little chin resting on my shoulder, he’s throwing shade from across the room because I won’t stop typing and start petting. Then there’s Pippin—yes, she’s named after my bibliomancer heroine from my Book Magic series. She’s a superbreed mix of mystery and fluffiness, and she brings serious main character energy to my writing routine. Pippin is my plot whisperer. She stares at me like she knows the ending to my novel but refuses to spoil it. Rude. Last but definitely the loudest is Nacho, my feisty Jack Russell Terrier. His full-time gig? Barking at everything that moves outside the sunroom window. A leaf drifting by? BARK. A bird just existing? BARKBARK. A serial killer? Okay, probably just the Amazon driver. But still. He’s committed. Nacho is the self-appointed security chief of my writing routine—and yes, his commentary is frequent and intense. The Realities of a Writer’s Life (With Dogs) If you’re imagining a peaceful writer’s routine, think again. Writing with dogs means learning to revise a manuscript while a squeaky toy chirps relentlessly under your feet. It means taking breaks not for coffee, but for potty time outside. It means embracing the sound of snoring during…well, just all the time. But here’s another real thing: writing can be lonely. The author’s life is full of long hours, plot problems, and occasional crises of confidence. My dogs in a lot of ways are my co-authors. They’re my emotional support team. They’re the background noise, the distraction, and the joy that keeps me grounded. My writing sessions always involve fur pretty much everywhere (especially Nacho’s white hair), a chewed-up sticky note or two, and the occasional canine keyboard edit. (Thanks for that scene break, Nacho.) But honestly? I wouldn’t trade this dog-filled writing routine for anything. Why Dogs Make the Best Writing Partners Let’s be real—dogs don’t care if your plot has holes or if your first draft is a hot mess. They just want to sit by your side (or on your lap, or your keyboard) and keep you company. And that’s the most beautiful thing. They remind me to take breaks. They remind me that fresh air helps with writer’s block. And they definitely remind me that treat time is sacred. So yes, this is my writing life with dogs—messy, noisy, and totally perfect. If you’re a writer with pets, you get it. And if you’re not, well… maybe you just need a Dobby, Pippin, or Nacho of your own. Because behind every great writer there very well might be a dog barking at a squirrel and a manuscript covered in paw prints. ? Let’s Keep the Conversation Going! Do you have a furry (writing) buddy? I’d love to see them! Drop a photo in the comments or tag me on Instagram @bookishly_cozy with your #WritingWithDogs crew. And if you’re a writer looking for support, community, and storytelling inspiration (with or without a slobbery sidekick), join my WriterSpark newsletter for writing tips, creative encouragement, and maybe the occasional Dobby/Pippin/Nacho update. Because writing is better when we do it together—and with a little dog hair in the mix. ? Check out WriterSpark HERE