Word magic.
Frustrated? When you’re writing fiction, frustration is a given: you’ll often become annoyed. Please expect that. Every project is different, regardless of what you’re writing. Last week, an author told me she was ready to give up. She’d started a series, and although the first book sold well, the second wasn’t moving at all. Moreover, the third novel was a … Read more
The self-publishing process involves many elements. It’s easy to get bogged down. You wait and wait some more: for a cover to be done, or for beta readers. To avoid so much waiting, develop a workflow, so that your writing and publishing process eliminates wasted time. Try these tips. 1. Get an idea, write a blurb (description) As soon as … Read more
Confused about plotting? A reader said that she’s giving up on her current novel because “her characters won’t behave.” She doesn’t like them, nor does she believe in them. Here’s a secret. Misbehaving characters can be a GOOD thing. Usually, it happens when you’re trying to make a character do something he can’t naturally do. It’s wonderful: it means that … Read more
I love plotting fiction now, but I used to hate it. What changed? My love for short fiction. When I chatted about this with a student this morning, I realized that writing short stories has a hidden benefit: it teaches you how plots work. Troubles plotting fiction? Write short material Here’s a basic plot formula used by Pixar for their … Read more
If you’re a fiction author, you know that short stories sell. They’re useful as promotional tools, and if you’re beginning, they’re a fun way to learn storytelling skills. Recently, a coaching student told me that one of her little ebooks outsells everything else she’s written. “It’s become the foundation of my self-publishing business,” she said. “This story introduces my readers … Read more