As an author, rejection comes in many forms. Mostly it comes from an unhappy editor or dissatisfied recently queried agent. They may say things such as the storyline was flat; the story suffers "saggy-middle syndrome," or the ending didn't have a satisfying climax; it ended too abruptly,...
What motivates our characters to wander into danger, risk everything, and face a fate worse than death? Outer conflict.
Now that we have created a Conflict Map, let's look at ways to deepen the conflict and uncover what drives our Hero(ine) and Villain. We will expand our character's story...
Use Simple Language
No reader wants the extra work of decoding information. Simple words go a long way to ensuring that readers stick to reading your book to the end. This, therefore, means that the author should build an engaging concept as readers are attracted to...
In How to Write a Unique Spooky Story, I wrote about how to write a unique spooky story by either creating your own monster, creature, or horror yourself or by finding a monster that is not well known. I advised finding a monster by researching myths...
There are multiple temporary writing places that have been found to inspire writers. One often overlooked place of writing and inspiration is a college campus. Most people think of college campuses mainly as places for student learning. In doing so, they neglect thinking of college...
Serialized fiction is a story that's published in parts, usually in “episodes” or chapters, which are published in papers and magazines. Instead of waiting for the next book to release, people wait for the next chapter to come out so that they can see what...
When you're getting ready to write your novel, it's good to remember three important elements. Every story you read contains the B story, increasingly difficult obstacles, and the dark night of the soul.
Most stories are layered with several storylines happening. Even your classic Christmas stories...
There are multiple temporary writing places that have been found to inspire writers. One often overlooked place of writing and inspiration is the park. Most people think of parks mainly as places for children, sports players, joggers, and dog walkers. In doing so, they neglect thinking...
There, their, they’re – tired of figuring out which there is theirs? Or, for that matter, yours because you’re overwhelmed by the confusion. And the spell check really isn’t helping.
It’s amazing how the inconsistencies and unusual nuances and innuendoes of the English language can confuse...
It was a special occasion. My husband and I decided to drive to a nearby town, browse the historic section and enjoy a lunch out. After walking about, we settled in at an out-of-the-way family restaurant, small, quaint, but reported to have good, homemade (freshly...
