Word Magic
Writing fiction for self-publishing authors, as well as aspiring authors
When you’re writing fiction, should you begin by creating characters, or should you concentrate on your plot? Authors tend to go back and forth on this. You can do either one: Perhaps you’re inspired by a character, or… You’re intrigued by something and want to write about it. I’ve been coaching a self-publishing author. She’s upset because she received unkind … Read more
Does this sound like you? “I want to write a novel, but I don’t have any time. What do I do with all these ideas in my head?” Writers are shocked when I say that they’re in the perfect situation to kick off their career as a novelist. Many famous novelists wrote their first novels despite having day jobs. We … Read more
You’re writing fiction. Sooner or later, during your first draft, you’ll realize “this isn’t the book that’s in my head. WHY can’t I write what I can see and feel so clearly in my imagination?” Although you’re tempted to stop writing because you’re convinced you’re writing garbage — keep writing. Chances are that you’ll hit this painful psychological wall with … Read more
Do you wish you could be a fiction author? One of my coaching students, Mia, wanted to write fiction, but she recently went back to work full-time. “I wish I could write a novel,” she said, “but I don’t have time. There’s work, and my freelancing side hustle. My son’s only a toddler.” Your life will change, BUT… I know … Read more
All fiction is constructed of scenes, including novels, movies, and TV shows. So, getting to grips with scenes is the foundation of fiction writing. Every novel you write has a certain number of scenes. Even if you hate outlining, the number of scenes gives you a clue to the action at various points in your novel. I know that many … Read more