If you’re wondering whether to pursue writing, we can go over some of the most common myths about publication to help you make your decision.

“September. It seems these luminous days will never end.” This is how James Salter’s 1967 novel, “A Sport and a Pastime,” begins. The unnamed narrator is describing Paris—in the present tense. It made me pause because countless writing workshops, articles, and panel discussions tell us the same thing: don't write your novel in the present tense.

If you once had a collection of Metallica albums or Kurt Cobain posters, then you’ll understand why romance author Christa Maurice writes about rock stars. She admits to being that rare first grader who knew about Black Sabbath and Blue Oyster Cult. In this Q&A, she talks about her latest book, “A Gift to be Simple,” and what she likes about being a hybrid author.

Whether it’s in the supermarket or the airport or the dentist’s office, we all eavesdrop. But it’s likely to be a passing experience. Not so for independent writer Audrey King. A conversation she heard in a gift shop combined with the romantic atmosphere of the town where the shop was located inspired her latest romance book, “Love As It Seems.”

In Mae Clair’s latest book, Halloween is scorching hot. “I always wanted to write a tale centered on that holiday,” she said. The result is “Myth and Magic,” a romantic suspense and mystery novel inspired by her childhood fascination about a haunted house in her neighborhood.

I discovered James Salter’s “A Sport and a Pastime” last year, thanks to my writing critique partner’s recommendation. I don’t know how I missed such a beautiful novel all these years, but better late than never.

When Erin Fanning was learning how to knit a few years ago, she happened to read an article about an Italian woman who occupied herself by knitting when she got trapped underneath her bed after an earthquake.

If you’re a published author and your name is neither J.K. Rowling nor Stephen King, then the results of three recent surveys will confirm what you probably already know—authors are earning less these days.

Most unpublished writers consider the two obvious publishing paths available—traditional publishing with the Big Five and self-publishing. They should also consider small presses as a viable third path. Harvard Square Editions, Salvo Press, and Split Lip Press are small publishing houses that accept unagented and unsolicited manuscripts.

If you’re a reader or author feeling lost in a sea of Internet noise about books, check out iAuthor, a new platform for discovering books. The U.K.-based startup provides a free platform for authors and publishers to share excerpts of their books and for readers to sample them.