Chapter Four - Mel Odom on genre writing and tips for authors

We're kicking off National Novel Writing Month with a fun and encouraging conversation with author and professor, Mel Odom. Mel has published over 220 novels in genres ranging from science fiction to westerns to romance to tie-ins with popular movie and television franchises. In addition to his writing, Mel has taught in the Professional Writing department at the University of Oklahoma for several years.

Mel says of his work that he writes "with the hope of telling an interesting tale that will incite a reader to think for himself or herself, to examine his or her own place in the world, and offer a little nudge in the direction of dreams, faith, and personal growth in spite of whatever odds a person has to face. I also believe we were all put here for a purpose. Hopefully, several purposes." You can connect with Mel and find his entire catalog at melodombooks.com.

Our conversation covers Mel's story and career, the challenges of writing across genres, the advantages of self-publishing, and a ton of great tips for both new and experienced writers who are tackling NANOWRIMO.

Our review comes from Tulsa author Bre Lockhart, reviewing Fragile Things - a short story collection by Neil Gaiman. Bre is a fantasy and science-fiction writer from Tulsa, who also publishes mystery and poetry under different pen names. In addition to her writing, Bre is an editor for Three Point Author Services and serves as an administrator for the Tulsa Writers' Syndicate. You can find out more about Bre and her work, including links to her social media, at brelockhart.com.