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Welcome to Ink + Scalpel:
A blog for writers about the craft of writing
Write with free-flowing abandon + Edit with surgical precision


Empowering Inclusion Through Audiobooks, My Vision Journey and the Art of Audible Storytelling
Audiobooks have transformed how many people have access to stories. For those with visual impairments, they open doors to worlds that might otherwise remain closed, offering not just entertainment but a vital form of inclusion. For me, audiobooks are more than just a way to enjoy books—they are part of my personal vision journey and a tool that shapes my writing craft. How Audiobooks Support Inclusion for the Visually Impaired Access to literature can be a challenge for peop

J.L Calder
May 34 min read


The Rise of Independent Book Publishing: Unlocking Self-Publishing Benefits
Let me tell you something straight up: the world of books is changing fast. If you’re a fan of thrillers, edgy procedural fiction, or military drama, you’ve probably noticed a shift. The gatekeepers of traditional publishing aren’t the only players anymore. Authors are grabbing the reins themselves, and the rise of self-publishing is shaking things up like a high-speed car chase. Why? Because self-publishing benefits are real, tangible, and game-changing. If you’ve ever wonde

J.L Calder
Apr 284 min read


What 2025 Taught Me: An author's confession
I decided to launch Dwyer Street Press this summer. Why? Great question. Maybe I thought it would be easy. Maybe I thought it would be fun. Maybe I was infected by that delicious, long summer light that hangs over Southern California (where I live) and fuels me with energy. Maybe I was being totally ignorant. With that summer fun faded and the overwhelm that comes with both the holiday season and a deeply rooted Seasonal Affective Disorder, I lean toward the 'ignorant' answe

J.L Calder
Dec 17, 20254 min read
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