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Joan Hiatt Harlow
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Joan Hiatt Harlow

Joan Hiatt Harlow is the author of several popular historical novels on the McElderry list, including Secret of the Night Ponies, Shadows on the Sea, Midnight Rider, Star in the Storm, Joshua's Song, and Thunder from the Sea. Ms. Harlow lives in... Read full bio

Author Revealed:
Q. What is your motto or maxim?
A. When your dreams turn to dust ... VACUUM!
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My amusing Muse
By Joan Hiatt Harlow - January 22, 2009
Do authors really have a muse?  I have a  muse who presents me with ideas and plots and characters.  Although it takes research, imagination, knowledge of the craft, devotion,and especially PASSION, to write an historical novel, I, for one, can attest to having my own personal muse.  She is also my dream-keeper and she's taught me:

1) To listen to my own inner voice

2) To trust that inspiration is everywhere, and if our minds are open to wonder, it will be revealed.

3) Too many words can stifle a thought

4) To laugh at myself

5) Never give away my gift or your empowerment to critics.

 

Those are only a few things my muse has taught me over the years.

She is playful, and has surprised me many times. She also hangs around with me and shows herself at odd times.  It's fine with me.  She's been a great pal. I prob ably should honor her with a name, but MUSE has worked so far.

 I'll tell you more later.