Heidi McCrary's Blog

Yep,” I said as my husband and I watched a woman setting up a merchandise table in front of the music venue that would soon be filling the night sky with “Anti-Hero” and a plethora of tunes I have no familiarity with. “I think tonight is Swift Night.”

While it’s highly unlikely Taylor Swift will ever grace this particular stage, that hasn’t stopped the folks running Warner Vineyards from hiring the next best thing. Cover bands for ABBA, Phil Collins, Pink Floyd, The Bee Gees, the Beatles, and … well, you get the idea, are taking over this venue and the hearts of every 55+ music lover in West Michigan. A win-win for Paw Paw and Warner Vineyards, a winery that is finally stepping out from the shadow of the winery located just down the street. 

It turns out, cover bands are the perfect next-best thing for anyone who’s old enough to remember general seating at rock concerts. There are several key advantages to catching a cover band at Warner Vineyards…

It’s insanely easier to snag tickets to see Taylorville than the actual Taylor Swift. And cheaper. Waaaay cheaper.The cover band performers are often younger and more in tune with how the actual stars sounded in their heyday. And alive. You’re never going to see the entire Fleetwood Mac gang or Bee Gee brothers ever again.Cover bands only play the hits. They’re never going to make us sit through their new avant-garde album. Or skip their biggest hit because THEY’RE sick of singing it.They start at seven without a warmup, and we’re all home by ten. This just might be the biggest advantage of all.

Discreetly, my husband and I slide over to a table with our wine as “Taylor” and her backup dancers take the stage for a quick dress rehearsal. Over to the side, a girl, maybe 8-years old, watches wide-eyed, decked out in a shimmering dress with lots of fringe ala’ flapper style, as her mother stands beside her. While thousands of young girls have seen the real Taylor Swift in concert, something tells me that tonight will be just as magical for this little girl. And Mom and daughter will be in bed by 10:00.

When my Chicago friend insisted that I had to experience Vito & Nick’s

My hairstylist knows what I like… The color, length, and whether I’m feeling bangs or no bangs. She also knows I like visiting new places and trying new things, so it didn’t take long for us to land on what she calls the “Best pizza place in the world.” (My words, not hers, but she was pretty adamant.)

The problem is, this quaint family-owned pizza joint is located on the wrong side of Chicago for me, and I still haven’t gotten there.

And then I saw it. Sitting in the frozen food section in the local grocery store…

Enlisting an elite group of taste-testers, I opened the packaging and was surprised with how good it looked. The sauce-to-cheese ratio just perfect, along with plenty of toppings that covered the pizza.

And we threw it on the grill, which was a great decision. 425 degrees on a pre-heated stone. Be sure to let the pizza cool. Unlike most frozen pizzas, this pizza will drip with wonderful messiness … like a real pizza.

Our grade for Vito & Nick’s Pizza? A+

And yes, I still have to get to that quirky pizzeria on the outskirts of Chicago. I promise, Kathy!

The original Vito & Nick Pizzeria is located at 8433 South Pulaski Road in Chicago, Illinois. And you can also find it in your frozen food aisle at Meijer and other grocery stores.

Thirty-five years ago, a quirky TV show premiered on CBS about a big-city doctor forced to set up his practice in a remote town in Alaska. Northern Exposure was funny and heartfelt, with a cast of characters you fell in love with. ALL of them. The writing was smart, and the actors knew how to play up and underplay the weirdness. 

For those who miss the gang from Cicely Alaska, do yourself a favor, and get to know the colorful folks living in the fictional town of Port Wenn, Maine. Best Medicine, airing on FOX, also centers around a fish-out-of-water doctor surrounded by a colorful cast of characters. Is it a coincidence that Best Medicine ALSO features a nontraditional animal wandering down the street, in front of a restaurant?   

Best Medison stars Josh Charles and Abigail Spencer, along with the fabulous Annie Potts. Apparently, this new show is the American reboot of the English TV series, Doc Martin, and for those who enjoyed that show, the reviews have not been kind. While this show may not do justice to the British series, it’s a welcome comfort for those who miss Joel and Maggie, and those lovable quirky characters that can only be found in a small town.

Best Medicine airs Tuesdays on FOX.

Author of Chasing North Star and publishing soon, I’m Your Person.

Heidi McCrary

Is it OK for a man to write from a woman’s perspective?

Cozy mysteries are a popular genre in the literary world and provide readers with a quick enjoyable read which is why they continue to grow in huge numbers. Mysteries also often come in sets, allowing the reader to keep up with the protagonist as the hero encounters a never-ending list of quirky suspects and entertaining escapades.

The series format works because readers grow fond of the central character, and if done correctly, each new book grows with help from a captured audience. And with each new book, we get to know the protagonist all the more—as comfortable as reconnecting with siblings when we go home for Christmas.

But what happens when the central character in a book or a series of books is a woman, and the author is male? Does it matter? Should it?

This probably isn’t a yes/no answer. A variant of this question is being asked today in the movie industry, as we ask if it’s art or misogyny for actors to play roles outside of their gender/race/identity.

While reading a book recently, told from the perspective of a female crime solver, I couldn’t help but cringe at the many passages written by this male author. No woman says that, I caught myself thinking more than once as I read the flowery prose, sighing at the numerous sex scenes where our central character basked in the strong arms of her man. Again, and again, and… (Cue the eye roll.)

Of course, many authors write in a voice that differs from their own. Where would we be if authors weren’t allowed to reach beyond their own personal opinions and identity. Authors are in the glorious position of being able to embrace every character—male, female, old, young, angry, timid or brash. Every character within the pages is part of the author, and a good writer embraces the many different nuances, actions and feelings of each role. It’s part of the writing process.

But … is it another thing, when a male author writes from the sole perspective of a woman, in not just one, but in a complete series of books? As a self-described feminist who champions women’s voices, I ask, “Do we need another man telling us how women feel?” It’s an honest question … and I’m listening.

Author of Chasing North Star, and coming January 2027 – I’m Your Person

Heidi McCrary

Is it ever okay to use the F bomb in your writing?

After the publication of my first novel, I excitedly went on the author tour, meeting with appreciative readers at local libraries and other facilities to read from my novel and share anecdotes.

During the usual Q&A at one such appearance, a women rose from her seat and introduced herself as the mother of a childhood friend of mine. As she told me how much she liked the book, she paused for a moment before saying she was also disappointed in me. With raised eyebrows, I listened as she explained that she was sorry that I felt the need to include swear words in the book.

“Ah, yes,” I replied. “I have a feeling I know what word you’re specifically talking about. I actually used the word twice in dialogue. I didn’t use it lightly. I felt that the scene warranted the reaction of the characters, and was necessary for realism.” I thought for a moment, because I didn’t want to discredit her concern, and I appreciated her honestly. “I do understand that you may not appreciate it, and I hope you are able to look beyond it.” I didn’t know what else to say, so I thanked her for her comment and moved on.  

Are swear words necessary in novels? It’s a fair question, and I believe the answer is, “Yes, when it moves the story along in a realistic fashion and is true to the character’s situation and reaction.”     

I recently read a bestseller that contained the F bomb casually throughout the pages, and curious, I went to the Amazon reviews to see if readers had an issue with it’s liberal usage. Turns out, a fair percentage of reviewers did indeed cringe at the number of times profanity appeared, and some even stopped reading the book.

While I don’t pretend to take any moral high ground, my question of whether to use profanity is more of a business question. Does the inclusion of swear words diminish sales? It’s a real question that authors have to ask themselves, and it’s a balancing act between being authentic in writing and character development, and wanting to sell books.

As I finish the manuscript for my second novel, I am comfortable with the true language spoken by my characters, and I’m just going to have to stand there and take it when my childhood friend’s mother stands before me and tells me she’s disappointed in me, yet again.

F*ck!

Author of Chasing North Star and the upcoming I’m Your Person

Heidi McCrary

It was 1990-something, and I set my muffin down on the small café table as I joined my husband in this cozy bakery located in the midst of The Magnificent Mile in Downtown Chicago, celebrating our wedding anniversary. As we took our seats, I hung my purse on the back of my chair. When we finished, I grabbed my handbag and noticed it was now open, no longer holding my Ralph Lauren sunglasses, a gift I received from my husband an hour earlier, or my wallet, which held a vacation-weekend full of cash and credit cards. So many credit cards.

It was the last time I ever threw my purse on the back of a chair in a restaurant.

Every woman can relate to this. No man has ever stressed over where to put his wallet when sitting down at the bar, which might explain why it’s still an issue today in the majority of eating establishments. The answer is the simple purse hook, yet, so many bars still don’t have them, and I’ve yet to see purse hooks available for tables. No woman wants to put her handbag on the floor, and tables rarely offer enough space. My sister bought me a purse hook that I now keep in my purse, and it’s a godsend. 

Pictured, are purse hooks adorning a bar in The Grey Rabbit, a beautiful art gallery and lounge in Grand Rapids. I wish I could thank the woman who insisted they be installed. Because we all know, as the bar was assembled, a woman asked, “Where are the purse hooks?”

Author of Chasing North Star, and the upcoming I’m Your Person.

Heidi McCrary

This is the greatest story ever told, I thought to myself as I sent the first draft of my manuscript off to my editor. The best writing since Hemingway. Surely, she’ll fix a couple of typos, telling me that she is sorry, but her services are simply not needed because my writing is flawless.

Of course, it wasn’t.  

But the truth is, if you’re sending off your manuscript, not thinking that the editing feedback will be minimal and kind, you’re a better person than me.

A good editor fixes typos, grammatical errors, and inconsistencies. A great editor rips your manuscript apart, deletes one fourth of your copy, and questions character direction, dialogue, narrative, and pacing until it feels like you’ve been beaten senselessly.

Early in my career, I had a boss give me direction on handling employees in need of guidance. “Don’t sugarcoat it. Give it to them ruthlessly, and when you think they’ve finally had enough, tell them what they’re doing right, and pat them on the back before sending them on their way.”  He was on to something.

Editorial feedback is just that … feedback. As a writer, you can argue that the editor doesn’t get it, and brush off the critique as simply a difference of opinions. Or you can realize the editor’s sole job is to get the best out of you. To make you dig deeper, start over. Make you question and reevaluate every word, phrase and description.

Following is an excerpt from my own editor on the manuscript I’m currently working on…

You have the plot and structure down; you have done great work to begin mining the wonderful web of emotionality you’ve woven within that plot and between your cast of characters, and now, in revision, you’ll have the opportunity to dig even deeper to bring the true story into the light. And trust me—that’s the place where, as an author, you want to be.

And trust me, this editor was brutal. As I began writing the second draft, the edits initially felt overwhelming, but as I continued, I quickly found the rhythm of the direction, and my writing consumed me, everything in my life taking a backseat until I finished.

Do I think my revised manuscript is now the greatest writing since Hemmingway?

Of course, I do.

We all thought we understood the story of “The Wizard of Oz.” After Dorothy crash lands in Munchkin Land, she is told that only The Wizard can transport her back home. When she is finally granted an interview with him, he tells her he can help, but only if she kills the Wicked Witch of the West. After Dorothy surprises everyone by actually accomplishing her quest, The Wizard tries to renege on his promise, and it’s not until Toto pulls back the curtain, that Dorothy and the rest of us realizes that The Wizard is nothing more than a huckster. If we truly think about it, this is not a story about an evil witch, but rather a tale about an evil con man convincing a young woman to kill someone.

So, it begs the question … who really is the bad guy in this story?  Cue the prequel…

“Wicked” follows the heartwarming and surprising friendship formed early on between the witches of Oz, long before Dorothy skips down the yellow brick road. Actresses Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande bring tenderness to a story that flips the narrative, giving hope to a tale that inevitably will end tragically for Elphaba, the so-called Wicked Witch. Meanwhile, actor Jeff Goldblum aces the role of the charming yet diabolical Wizard of Oz.

Make no mistake, “Wicked” is written and directed for today’s audience, with colorful costumes and sets similar to Barbie World, and a storyline reminiscent of “Mean Girls.” But “Wicked” is also the retelling of an old story … now told from a perspective that turns what we thought we knew, upside down.

Like its predecessor, “Wicked” is a charming mix of storytelling, colorful imagery and music. While this is the initial installment of a 2-part story, viewers can take solace that the ending of Part 1 is a satisfying intermission until the release of Part 2, coming out November 2025.

“Wicked” is available now on Amazon Prime. 

By Heidi McCrary, author of “Chasing North Star,” available online wherever books are sold. You can follow Heidi at heidi@heidimccrary.net.

Back in the early 70s, the Stafford family decided to open a restaurant down the road from us on Sixth Street in our little town of Alamo, and they christened it Staffordshire, complete with their family crest hanging on the wall and fancy white tablecloths. Never mind the cows grazing outside the windows. This was still farm country.  It was the most exciting thing to come to town since the Miller IGA, which served everyone’s grocery needs until it outgrew its location at the four corners in Alamo and packed up and left for the larger little town of Cooper. At least we still had the Miller Gas station for the purchasing of Snickers bars and Marlboros. 

Dan Miller and Jon Newby, taking a break so they can appease a customer and former classmate (Me).

After several successful years in business, Staffordshire closed, briefly reopening as The Shy Turtle before the restaurant changed hands again. In 1979, Fricano’s opened at this location, where their signature pizza was a mainstay in the area for 45 years. This past January, Fricano’s closed, with news that someone purchased the building, and a new restaurant would be opening soon. 

If you happen to be from the Alamo area, you might remember a couple of boys from your school days. Dan Miller and Jon Newby were buddies growing up, and a few years later (Okay, many years later), they’ve joined forces again and have opened the delightfully named, Joe Shmoe’s Bar and Grill. While they offer the usual pub fare, they also have sirloin steak, traditional Italian entrees and a delicious thin pizza reminiscent of Fricano’s on the menu. 

Awesome food and spirits, great surroundings, and two fabulous guys… the perfect recipe for Joe Shmoe’s. If you happen to stop in, say hi to Jon and Moose… I mean, Dan. Just a couple of great guys who grew up in Alamo and found their way back home. 

Heidi McCrary

Heidi grew up in Alamo Michigan, and is the author of “Chasing North Star,” available wherever books are sold.

And how I learned about my hybrid cat…

At the time, I didn’t know there was such a thing, as I scrolled through the wonderful selection of felines currently residing at our local shelters. I paused to look at few friendly faces, reading their descriptions. All cute. I kept scrolling, surfing… finally landing on a local Cat Café & Rescue site.  

Scrolling down, I scanned the current lineup of inhabitants at the café, finally landing on a peculiar little one named Shiraz. Cute enough photo, capturing her staring at the photographer while perched atop a Keurig Coffee Maker. Reading the description, I discovered she was found wandering the streets. She had some medical issues that were dealt with at the vet, and now appeared to be healthy and looking for her forever home. I continued staring at her, knowing we were meant to be. I just needed to get past the phrase that came up more than once in her bio… “She can be sassy.” For those unfamiliar with cat-speak, that’s code for “Mean.”

OK, I rationalized. I’d be a little “sassy” too if I’d been roaming the streets for a while. Truth is, I respect a cat with a little attitude. Before my husband could say I was moving too fast, I signed us up for an appointment to visit with Sassy … I mean, Shiraz.

Now keep in mind, that when a place is called Cat Café, I envision a cute little shop with quirky painting on the wall of cats in period pieces, with a barista refilling my coffee as a kitten jumps onto my lap with her purring machine revving. Yeah, that’s not it.

First, there’s a fee just to visit with the cats, and I get that. There’s rent to cover, employees to pay, and cats to feed, neuter and comb. As we stood in line to enter the little building, we were vetted as I soon discovered that “Café” is a bit of a stretch. The only thing resembling a coffee shop in this place is the Keurig Coffee Maker sitting inside a gated room housing a surplus of cats in every size, age and color. No little café tables, no soft jazz playing in the background. Just a coffee maker and cats. Lots and lots of cats.

And still sitting on top of that Keurig was my new best friend Shiraz.  

“I see she likes you,” the assistant said as I stroked Shiraz’s fur, making her purr loudly. “She usually doesn’t let anyone pet her.” I looked up, smiling just as a paw swiped across my forearm, creating an instantaneous flow of blood.

“Let’s allow her to settle down a bit,” my husband suggested as we joined the cat party with the other guests. As a petite Calico wrapped his tail around my arm, I scratched his neck, making him stretch for more attention. A loving cat that I’m sure will be a wonderful pet, I thought as I looked back at Shiraz, who was curled up on the coffee maker. A cat who appreciates coffee will also surely make the perfect companion, I rationalized. Once she gets to know me, we’ll be inseparable.   

While I do appreciate a nice glass of Shiraz, our new cat had to endure a name change. Living in the golf world, she was soon answering to the name, Bogey. With her dark ears and paws, it’s apparent that Bogey is part Siamese. But her tortoiseshell stylings on her face give her a unique look. With a quick Google search, we discovered that Bogey actually falls under the breed subcategory called Tortie Point Siamese. (Fun fact: Nearly all Tortie Point Siamese cats are female.) While some cat registries recognize the breed, not all do, instead labeling this hybrid as a Colorpoint Shorthair.

Not surprising, many articles depict the Tortie Point Siamese as being sassy (There’s that word again). Loving, playful, vocal like their Siamese cousins, and doglike. Bogey’s been with us for four months now, following me everywhere through the house, and always receptive to affection and cat treats. And yes, you can teach a Tortie Point Siamese tricks. Like most Siamese cats, she’s a darter when a door opens so microchipping is a must.

And sassy? I still have the track marks on my arms to prove it.    

By Heidi McCrary. You can follow Heidi at heidi@heidimccrary.net. Heidi is the author of “Chasing North Star,” available online wherever books are sold.

Heidi McCrary