Shantal May 2026

Whether you’re wrestling with a difficult scene or just trying to find your flow, remember that you aren't alone. Grab some chocolate, maybe a few tissues, and just keep moving forward.

On LinkedIn , I recently talked about how "graphic designer" has become a catch-all term that can dilute the craft. The same is true for writers. Whether you’re an illustrator, a book designer, or a novelist, is what allows you to truly shine. Don't be afraid to set boundaries and define what you do best. 3. Community is the Secret Sauce Shantal

Lately, life has felt a bit like a first draft: full of "fibro flares," missed deadlines, and a healthy dose of "I’ll fix it in post" energy. But as I look at the blooms in my spring garden, I’m reminded that growth isn’t a straight line. 1. The Myth of the Perfect Workspace Whether you’re wrestling with a difficult scene or

They say the plot is always the problem. If you’ve spent any time in the "cozy medical drama" world I tend to write in, you know that sometimes the messiest parts of a story—the ones that feel like they're falling apart—are actually where the most growth happens. The same is true for writers