When Brenda Hardwick's son decided to move his family to Portugal last year, she didn't hesitate to join them. "It was not only an opportunity to travel internationally, but I am able to help raise my granddaughters," she shares. This spirit of embracing new adventures perfectly captures Brenda's approach to both life and writing.

A Journey That Began with a Stolen Poem

Brenda's writing journey started in an unexpected way – with a childhood setback that became a valuable lesson. "I've been a writer since third grade," she recalls. "I wrote a Christmas poem that I read during the class Christmas pageant. The very next year, I saw my poem in a book of children's Christmas poetry under a man's name." Rather than discourage her, this experience led to her first lesson in protecting her work, thanks to her father, himself a self-published poet, who taught her about copyright protection.

From American Roots to Portuguese Inspiration

As the author of "The Circle" series and metaphysical self-help works, Brenda brings a unique perspective to Porto's writing community. Her current projects include "Origins of The Source: Book 4 of The Circle," while her most recent published work, "Freedom Rings: Book 3 of The Circle," tackles themes of crisis, leadership, and racial justice through a supernatural lens.

Drawing inspiration from literary giants like Anne McCaffrey, Toni Morrison, and Terry Brooks, Brenda has developed her own distinctive "pantser" writing style. "I have no plots or plans; I just listen to my characters and put the words down," she explains.

Finding Her Porto Rhythm

Since settling in Porto, Brenda has been discovering new dimensions in her writing. "Living in Portugal has provided a new backdrop for my writing. My series is very much based in the US, but the possibilities for weaving in some of the culture here and learning the different flavor of the magic here has been fascinating."

While still establishing her writing routine in her new home, Brenda has carved out a dedicated space for her craft. "We bought our flat in March so now I have a small office and can close the door and get lost in the words. That helps a lot."

Embracing Porto's Writing Community

What stands out to Brenda about Porto's writing scene is its rich diversity. "There are writers from everywhere in the world reflected in the writing community here. The stories are amazing, and the words are painted in an international vibration of uniqueness."

Words of Wisdom

For aspiring writers, Brenda's advice is refreshingly straightforward: "Pick your tools, pen and paper, pencils and notebook, computer, audio recording, whatever suits you, and sit down and get some words onto the paper/screen. Don't worry about spelling, grammar, right or wrong. Just Write!!!"

Her biggest challenge? "Getting my butt into the chair to write," she admits. Her solution is simple but effective: putting "Writing" on her calendar as a non-negotiable appointment with herself.

Looking Forward

As Brenda prepares for upcoming projects, including participation in NaNoWriMo, she continues to balance her writing life with family responsibilities, viewing her writing as an essential part of self-care. Through her own publishing company, Shine Your Light Publishing, she maintains control over her creative work while contributing to Porto's vibrant literary scene.

Connect with Brenda:

• Website: brendahardwickauthor.com
• Shine Your Light Publishing: www.sylpublishing.com
• Facebook: @BrendahAuthor

Want to join our writing community? Just Write! Porto meets weekly and welcomes writers of all backgrounds and experience levels. Join our MeetUp group or subscribe to our email list to become part of our growing family of writers.

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