Look and Listen

Biography

Joylene Nowell Butler, Metis Canadian, has been writing for 25 years. A retired emergency response member, she belongs to DeadlyProse. In the past she has worked with writers on Novelpro & Novels-L, & has critiqued such prize-winning novels as The Race by Dave Shields, Deadly Enterprize by Chris Hoare, The Jesus Thief by JR Lankford, & The Throwaway Piece by JoAnn Y. Hernandez. Joylene is also the primary critique consultant on the soon to be released The Scrimshaw by Ric Wasley. She lives with her husband, their 4 cats & I dog on Cluculz Lake in central BC. She's currently working on her 6th novel & teaches Tai Chi in her spare time.

Inspiration

I am inspired by good books, excellent movies, & exceptional music. The first time I read BLEEDING HEART by Marilyn French I was blown away by French's depiction of a multi-faceted woman. Finally a woman of my generation that actually seemed as real & authentic as any of the women I know. I felt that same admiration whe I first viewed Steel Magnolias. I've always admired strong women, but I can't say I appreciate how they're often painted in movies & books. If you're not the picture of what others think is beautiful or desirable, then you aren't worth knowing. That's a crying shame. The more weathered a woman's face, the more fascinating she is." When I need the perfect mood to write, I listen to Sade, Etta James, or Jann Arden. What more can I say?