Articles written by Vickie Britton
Showing 1-100 of 173 Articles
|
Microwave Custards and Puddings
Forget to make dessert? Here are three easy to make microwave puddings that can be whipped up quickly while dinner is on the stove.
|
|
After Christmas Shopping Bargains
Next to Black Friday, which occurs the day after Thanksgiving, the day after Christmas is one of the biggest shopping days of the year.
|
|
Toys Cats Will Really Play With
Tired of spending money on toys that cats just ignore? Here are some suggestions for toys and accessories that will make cats sit up and take notice.
|
|
Writing a Novel or Short Story in Present Tense
Most novels are written in past tense. But sometimes an author may experiment by writing a book in present tense, as if the events were happening in the here and now.
|
|
Are Chupacabras Real or Legendary Creatures?
The Chupacabra is a mythical Mexican beast that is often called a "goat blood sucker." Recently, creatures resembling the Chupacabra have been sighted in Texas.
|
|
Keeping Cats Off the Christmas Tree
Cats can do a lot of damage to a prettily-decorated Christmas tree. Here are some tips for keeping the family cat or cats out of mischief when setting up the tree.
|
|
Romantic Gift Ideas for Women
What do women want for Christmas? Men are often clueless as to what kind of gift to buy for a wife or sweetheart. Here are some suggestions that are sure to please.
|
|
Christmas Gift Ideas to Mail or Ship Easily
Almost everyone has several packages to send each Christmas. Here are some ideas for gifts that must be mailed or shipped.
|
|
Many Vampire Myths Hail From Stoker's Dracula
Quite a few common myths about vampires originated from a single source - Bram Stoker's 1897 novel Dracula.
|
|
Are Vampires and Werewolves Sworn Enemies?
In films vampires and werewolves are often depicted as having a blood feud, but in traditional folklore they were not necessarily bitter enemies.
|
|
In Cold Blood — The Novel and Film Adaptation
Truman Capote's famous 1966 novel In Cold Blood was adapted into an Academy Award nominated 1967 film of the same name.
|
|
The Clutter Murders: Fifty Years Later
Half a century has gone by since the Clutter murders in Holcomb, Kansas on Nov. 15,1959, but memories of the event still cast a dark shadow over the community.
|
|
Fun Pick and Play Games for iPhone, iPod Touch
These three little iPhone, iPod touch games have good graphics and are kid-friendly. They are
great to have on hand for the airport and other long waits.
|
|
The Fourth Kind – Alien Abduction in Alaska
Universal Studios film The Fourth Kind hits theaters November 6, hoping to rival Paranormal Activity at the box office with its tale of alien abduction in Nome, Alaska.
|
|
Paranormal Activity Called Scariest Movie Ever
For those who enjoyed such films as The Blair Witch Project and Death of a Ghost Hunter, Paranormal Activity is a must-see.
|
|
Finding Time to Write With a Busy Schedule
Finding time to write is like finding time to exercise. It's there if one just quits making excuses.
|
|
Nathaniel Hawthorne and Sophia Peabody
In a romantic story reminiscent of Robert and Elizabeth Barrett Browning, despite many obstacles, a recluse and an invalid fall in love and make a happy marriage.
|
|
Help for Common Plotting Problems
Authors are not always aware until they begin the actual writing that a certain scene isn't going to work. Here are some solutions for common plotting problems
|
|
Three Types of Love Scenes in Romance Novels
Since each romance publisher has different guidelines as to the levels of intimacy they expect in love scenes, it pays to know the three types of romantic scenes.
|
|
Willa Cather's Childhood in Red Cloud, Nebraska
Willa Cather was not born in Red Cloud, but the years she spent in the small Nebraska town provided inspiration for some of her best-known novels about prairie life.
|
|
Dexter Seasons 1-4 - An Overview
Each season introduces a new set of problems for Dexter Morgan, who must balance his time between work, family and his secret life as the Bay Harbor Butcher.
|
|
Female Murderers and Serial Killers by Category
Aileen Wuornos was recognized by the media as the first female serial killer, but she was not by any means the first woman to kill multiple victims.
|
|
Flashbacks — How and When to Use Them
Flashbacks are mini-trips into the past that provide the reader with needed information and insight into what went on at a point before the novel's beginning.
|
|
Preventing Carpal Tunnel and Repetitive Stress
Repetitious computer tasks can result in serious injury, such as carpal tunnel syndrome. Here are some ways to identify these problems and suggested remedies.
|
|
Collecting Forties and Fifties Vintage Jewelry
From elegant to downright gaudy, 1940s and 1950s retro jewelry can be fun to wear, collect, or to buy and sell.
|
|
Ed Gein - Inspiration for Many Horror Films
Ed Gein was not a smart murderer, nor was he charming or clever. The simple horror of his crimes, committed by pure insanity, has led to many films based on his case.
|
|
Low Gore Halloween Movies for the Squeamish
For those who can't handle high gore films such as Saw, Hostel, and Texas Chainsaw Massacre, these movies have plenty of thrills while keeping the gore at a minimum.
|
|
Werewolf Movies to Watch on DVD
From early werewolf films through the present, comedic to disturbing, here is a compilation of entertaining werewolf movies through the decades that can be rented on DVD
|
|
Films Based on True American Hauntings
Many supernatural films claim to be based on true events or legends. The following films have their basis in actual happenings and allegedly true paranormal events.
|
|
Demonic Possession: Films Based on True Cases
These three films are based on true cases where priests or paranormal investigators were called in to help rid the sufferer of an evil spirit or demon.
|
|
Public Domain and Copyright Issues for Writers
When it comes to the use of titles, song lyrics, and poetry, many writers are unclear as to the rules of what can be used and what constitutes copyright infringement.
|
|
The Ghosts in the Stories of Henry James
This article discusses the people and ideas that influenced Henry James during his life, and the psychological significance of ghosts in his works.
|
|
Jane Austen's Real Life Romances
Jane Austen, the author of well-known classics about marriage and finding a proper suitor never married, but drew inspiration from her own life and experiences.
|
|
Pen Names,Collective Pseudonyms, Ghostwriters
The name that appears on the title page may not be the author of the book. Books may be written by professional teams,collaborations, ghostwriters, or even posthumously.
|
|
Point of View and Authorial Intrusion
Authorial intrusion is a literary device where the author inserts his own thoughts and opinions into the story.
|
|
New Animated Film 9 Adapted from 2005 Short
9, directed by Shane Acker and produced by Tim Burton and Timur Bekmambetov, will be coming to theaters September 9, 2009.
|
|
New Film The Wolfman to be Released Feb. 2010
The new Wolfman film by Universal Studios was inspired by a previous film about a man with a werewolf curse.
|
|
Paul's Case by Willa Cather-An Analysis
Paul's Case is the story of a sensitive boy with an artistic temperament whose attempt to escape his mundane future ends in tragedy.
|
|
Famous Cat Loving Authors and Pet Names
Cats and authors often share a special bond. These famous authors had a definite soft spot for felines.
|
|
District 9 Box Office Success, Sequel in Works
Producer Peter Jackson's thought-provoking and fairly low-budget sci-fi film District 9 becomes a surprising late summer hit, topping GI Joe at the box office.
|
|
Best Ways to Cook Flat Iron Steak
The flat iron steak is an economically-priced, versatile cut of meat that is great for preparing by many different methods.
|
|
Three Creative Novel Plotting Techniques
Plotting a novel doesn't have to be boring. Take cues from movie script writers and graphic novel authors to make your plot outline more visual.
|
|
The Fate of Katherine Carr-Review
Thomas H. Cook's newest psychological suspense centers around a missing woman. But it is also the story of a man coming to terms with the death of his murdered son.
|
|
Johnny Depp's Upcoming Film Roles
From vampire Barnabas Collins in Dark Shadows to the Mad Hatter in Alice in Wonderland to Tonto in the Lone Ranger, Johnny Depp takes on many challenging roles.
|
|
Tim Burtons Wonderland Film to Debut in 2010
Tim Burton's new fantasy Alice in Wonderland is scheduled for release from Disney Digital on March 5 of 2010. It will be offered in both 3D and 2D
|
|
3D Movie Avatar Opens December 18, 2009
Favorable reports of sneak previews shown at special events have leaked out for this exciting new release which may revolutionize new 3D technology.
|
|
Untrue Ghost Stories and Fake Documentaries
Touting a film as being "based on a true experience" can draw an audience. Here are two very convincing films that are presented as true stories or documentaries.
|
|
Adding Humor to a Fiction Novel
Most novels, even serious novels, can benefit by a touch of humor. Humor, however, is one of the most difficult elements to add and must be handled with care.
|
|
New DVD Obsessed : Other Scary Stalker Films
Some people take a brush-off personally. Here are some well-crafted films about crimes of passion, and rejected lovers who just wouldn't take no for an answer.
|
|
Ian Rankin Writes His First Graphic Novel
The author of the popular John Rebus detective series has written his first graphic novel with artwork by Werther Dell'Edera.
|
|
The Vampire Diaries-New CW TV Series
A new TV series similar to the hit movie Twilight is scheduled to debut this fall on CW and CTV at 8 P.M. on September 10, 2009.
|
|
Plot-Driven Novels vs Character-Driven Themes
A plot-driven novel focuses on action while a character-driven book places the emphasis on emotion and reflection.
|
|
The 3 Most Famous Australian Murder Cases
Australia's isolated roads and remote outback has been the setting for many disappearances and murders. Some of them have been solved, while others remain a mystery.
|
|
Midwest Murders: The Clutter Murder Case
On November 15, 1959, four members of the Clutter family were bound, gagged, and shot to death in their isolated farm home in Holcomb, Kansas, by two strangers.
|
|
Did John Dillinger Die at the Biograph Theater?
Gangster John Dillinger was believed to have been gunned down by the FBI on July 22, 1934. But some historians claim it may not be Dillinger who was killed that night.
|
|
How to Pack Clothes for Summer Vacation
The old adage "bring half the clothing and twice the money" is right on the spot. Most travelers overpack without taking the type of clothing they will really need.
|
|
Chicken, Steak, Fish on George Foreman Grill
The George Foreman Grill is a great, healthy way to cook meats. Grilling removes more of the excess fat than other methods of cooking and the cleanup is easy.
|
|
Mochas, Lattes, Colas - Are You Drinking Calories?
HIdden calories in gourmet coffees, colas and other beverages can sabotage a good diet. Here are some ways to make better choices.
|
|
Death and the Lit Chick by G. M. Malliet
Female British Author G. M. Malliet's latest humorous mystery novel was chosen by Kirkus Review as Best Book of 2008, and is a book club favorite.
|
|
Kid's Films Based on Books with Sad Endings
Most films for children end on a happy note. These three thought-provoking movies and animated films are based on books that have bittersweet endings.
|
|
Writing in Second Person Point of View
Most books are written in first or third person. Only the most creative and experimental write in second person-the "you" point of view.
|
|
Historic Homes of Denver- The Molly Brown Home
A visit to downtown Denver is not complete without a tour of the Mollly Brown Home, a unique Victorian mansion once owned by "The Unsinkable Molly Brown".
|
|
The Ruth Rendell DVD Sets-One Through Four
Fans will be delighted to discover this four-part set featuring short stories derived from Ruth Rendell's most popular works as well as three Inspector Wexord mysteries.
|
|
Is That Item Really On Sale?
Are sale items always a big savings? Not necessarily. Merchandisers play many tricks on the mind to fool consumers into thinking they are getting an extra good deal.
|
|
New Law Sets Limits on Credit Card Tricks
In July 2010 new regulations go into effect to put a stop to unfair or misleading practices that credit card companies have been playing with consumers.
|
|
Deaths of Anna Nicole Smith and Marilyn Monroe
The death of 50s star Marilyn Monroe is reminiscent of the more recent death of Anna Nicole Smith. Both were blonde superstars who died under mysterious circumstances.
|
|
The Three Types of Novel Endings
Do you want your novel to end on a happy note? Or maybe a tear-jerking ending is in order. Or perhaps it is best to leave the reader guessing.
|
|
Suspicious Film Star Deaths: Murder or Suicide?
These three famous film star's deaths were presumed to be suicides, but were they?
|
|
The Twilight Vampires : Meet The Cullens
For those who haven't read the book, a little background into the history of the Cullen family will enhance this film's enjoyment.
|
|
The Film Twilight and the Quileute Legend
The new vampire movie Twilight has generated interest in the Quileute tribe. But how much about the vampire and werewolf legends is fact and how much is fiction?
|
|
Nosferatu to Twilight: The Vampire Evolution
What kind of vampires glow in the sunlight, come out in the daytime, don't sleep in a coffin, are unaffected by crosses and garlic, and have sworn off human blood?
|
|
Review – The Birthday Present
A sex adventure goes wrong when up and coming British political figure Ivor Tesham arranges to "kidnap" his married mistress as a birthday surprise.
|
|
Four Steps to Planning and Plotting Your Novel
Before you begin your novel you should have a workable outline, biographies of major characters, random scenes and research at hand.
|
|
Editing your Manuscript – Adding Length to a Novel
You've just finished your novel and now you've found a potential buyer. Only the guidelines require a much larger book. How can you add fifty pages in a hurry?
|
|
Victorian House or Painted Lady Color Schemes
Restoring a Painted Lady or Victorian house can be a fun and exciting project. A Victorian home can be restored to the original color scheme or take on a whole new look
|
|
Fiction Elements -- What is the Darkest Moment?
The darkest moment in a story is when the character has finally run up against a brick wall. There appears to be no solution, no resolution and no way out
|
|
Review -- The Lives they Left Behind
This book was inspired by the discovery of 425 suitcases in an abandoned attic of Willard State Hospital, which contained the personal belongings of committed inmates.
|
|
Writing in Third Person Point of View
The most highly used third person points of view in writing are third person subjective/limited and third person omniscient. How do these two points of view differ?
|
|
New Dark Shadows Film to Star Johnny Depp
A new Warner Brothers Film based on the Dark Shadows Series is in the works starring Johnny Depp in the leading role as vampire Barnabas Collins.
|
|
Creating an Exciting Middle to the Novel
Many books start with a bang, but in the middle the excitement begins to fizzle. Here are some creative ways to keep the middle from bogging down.
|
|
What's Wrong with My Senior Cat?
Older cats often develop unexpected changes in behavior such as screechings, changes in appetite, and litterbox problems that can be a challenge to the owner.
|
|
Dark Shadows, the TV Series
It's been many years since the original Dark Shadows TV series starring Johnathan Frid as Barnabas Collins aired, but the show remains a cult legend.
|
|
Mary Higgins Clark-Biography
Mary Higgins-Clark has earned the title of America's Queen of Suspense. Her books are world-wide bestsellers, selling over 85 million copies in the United States.
|
|
Writing the Perfect Ending
What elements make up a good ending? Learn about reader expectation and how to make a good, satisfying conclusion to your novel.
|
|
Best Known and Most Quoted Sayings About Writing
Many quotes about writing have been around so long they have almost become a cliche. Here is a selection of well-known quotes about writing and their origins.
|
|
Latin Legal Terms Writers Should Know
Many common legal terms are used in a court of law. It can be helpful for writers to be familiar with these Latin terms used by the justice system.
|
|
When Does a Novel Need a Prologue or Epilogue?
A prologue is an introductory piece which tells what went on before the novel begins. An epilogue appears at the end and tells what happens years after.
|
|
Jaws, Alien, Night of the Living Dead
Afraid of sharks, blood, insects and aliens, cemeteries and zombies? Find out why these three films caused irrational fears and phobias.
|
|
Crime Scene Investigation for Mystery Writers
To create a convincing crime scene, a writer must know the basics of how a crime scene is constructed and evidence such as fingerprints and DNA is collected.
|
|
Collecting McCoy, Hull and Roseville Pottery
McCoy, Roseville and Hull are familiar names in American pottery. These three Ohio-based companies produced quality pieces that are in big demand today as collectibles.
|
|
Biography and Works of Tony Hillerman
Tony Hillerman was best known for his mystery novels set in the Southwest. His detectives Joe Leaphorn and Jim Chee set a new tradition in detective fiction.
|
|
Handling Internal Dialogue
There are several different ways to express direct and indirect character thoughts. Some require the use of quotation marks and others the use of italics.
|
|
Tips for Improving Character Dialogue
This article contains helpful suggestions on using speaker tags such as "he said," the proper use of adjectives and adverbs, and handling regional dialect.
|
|
The Truth Behind the Film Wolf Creek
The 2005 Australian independent horror film Wolf Creek was purely a work of fiction but it contained elements of two real Australian murders.
|
|
Horror Movie Review-The Strangers and Them
Both the US release The Strangers and the French film Ils (Them) claim to be inspired by true events. But how based in truth are they?
|
|
Collecting Carnival Glass for Fun and Profit
Many kinds of antique and collectible glassware such as carnival glass can be found at garage sales, flea markets and antique shops.
|
|
Writing the First Chapter
The first chapter is usually the one that is rewritten the most. Here are some tips to help you get it right the first time.
|
|
Thomas H. Cook: Author Biography
Award-winning author of literary mysteries including Breakheart Hill, The Chatham School Affair, Red Leaves, and Master of the Delta.
|
|
Review: Master of the Delta by Thomas H. Cook
Thomas H. Cook's newest psychological mystery follows the same dark theme as many of his previous works, including The Cloud of Unknowing, Red Leaves, and Mortal Memory.
|
|
Romantic Vampire Movies for Halloween
Looking for a good vampire movie to watch with a date or spouse on Halloween? Here's a selection of vampire movies that have a distinctly romantic atmosphere.
|
Page:
1 | 2
