Writing & Creativity

Mark has had hundreds of articles, curriculum pieces, videos, and books published throughout his writing career, which began as a local newspaper sports writer while he was in college. He offers some humble advice with a good sense of humor.

Mark Gilroy January 3, 2012

What’s In a Name? (I Would Like to Ask J.K.)

Why do so many fiction authors use initials instead of their first name on the cover? Wish we could ask J.K. In this video presentation, I give what I believe is the real reason.

Mark Gilroy November 23, 2011

Reacher, the Hardy Boys, 007, and Other Great Fictional Characters

From my childhood days reading the Hardy Boys (and if I was home sick and was out of new books, my sister’s Nancy Drew mysteries would suffice), I have always enjoyed mystery and suspense series featuring simple and complex heroes and anti-heroes. James Bond 007, Spenser, Jim Chee, Keller, John Rain, Gabriel Allon, and too many others to list here. In this video presentation I share a nice sampling of some of my favorite spies, detectives, and hit men. The psychological nuances created by the authors inspired me on how I developed my lead character in Cuts Like a Knife and Every Breath You Take, Detective Kristen Conner. Consider my novels a tribute to the characters I have enjoyed so much – and the authors behind them.

Mark Gilroy November 12, 2011

Do I Need to Reinvent Myself?

Feel stuck in a rut? Is it time to mix things up in order to grow and regain enthusiasm in your life? Ready to try to accomplish something new? Is it time to reinvent yourself? That’s exactly how I felt – what I felt I needed – when I started writing my first novel. It felt like I was reinventing myself in a very positive way.