So Many Books, So Little Time: Why Your Writer Friend Needs You to Leave a Book Review and How to Write One

Book reviews absolutely help sell books. Most often it’s word-of-mouth reviews, such as telling a friend about a new novel you loved or one in a genre they might enjoy. But in today’s digital world, the reviews also need to be online. A book’s reputation and Amazon search rank are tied up in reviews. Plus,Continue reading “So Many Books, So Little Time: Why Your Writer Friend Needs You to Leave a Book Review and How to Write One”

What’s a Teen Book: Young Adult vs Middle Grade

If you’re looking for a good book for your teen or tween, chances are you’re wondering what the difference between young adult and middle grade is? These terms are often in the description of books and library catalogs. If you’re unsure about them, then you are not alone. I was there with you, wondering aboutContinue reading “What’s a Teen Book: Young Adult vs Middle Grade”

Dear YA Reader, Welcome

I want to start this author blog with a thank you. Thank you for searching out this little corner of the internet for Emily Refermat, YA Fantasy, or The Invisible War. Whatever search term brought you here, welcome. Here’s a bit about what you’ll find here.   My YA Debut: The Invisible War For months now,Continue reading “Dear YA Reader, Welcome”

Fast Fridge (Drawer) Fix

I’m not sure why it was today of all days. I’d been putting up with the cracked and duct-taped refrigerator drawer for months. Literally. But today, it was too much. I had to fix that run-down, broken refrigerator drawer. I. Just. Had. To. A Christmas fridgacle Let me tell you a bit about this refrigerator.Continue reading “Fast Fridge (Drawer) Fix”

Quick, Easy Halloween Fruit Platter

Fruit. AGAIN. That was my initial response to my longtime friend who was hosting our bi-monthly multi-family evening. Usually the host makes dinner and the other two couples bring a side dish or dessert. The worst part was that it was my own children who condemned me. The other moms were happy to let meContinue reading “Quick, Easy Halloween Fruit Platter”

Purple is the New Idaho

Think about the last time you did something boring or ordinary. Could it be more interesting? Think like a fiction writer. Now can you imagine how it might be improved? My Pick Digging up potatoes becomes a treasure hunt. And possibly some gratitude for not having to rely on my own farming to eat. WantContinue reading “Purple is the New Idaho”

The Mysterious Ruins At MacArthur Log

Ever watch those dramatic history shows? The announcer tells you the story of an ancient civilization. Simple words transform a pile of rock in the home of ancient people with strange and dangerous customs. Let’s flex some imagination muscle and write our own.  My Pick While hiking with my dog, I saw a hold-ridden log.Continue reading “The Mysterious Ruins At MacArthur Log”

Why Middle Grade Books?

I remember when reading was a chore. Teachers and parents demanded books read, logged, analyzed, and discussed. I would spend hours staring at the cracks in my bedroom wall instead of reading those last 10 assigned pages. Yet, here I am, writing books as an adult. Why? Because I discovered my genre – Middle GradeContinue reading “Why Middle Grade Books?”