Word Magic
Writing fiction for self-publishing authors, as well as aspiring authors
Did you know that in many ways it’s easier to write a series than it is to write a standalone novel? Novels in a series are more profitable too; they sell better. In a series, each novel promotes the others, so marketing is a snap. Want proof it makes sense to write a series? Check the catalogue of any bestselling … Read more
This week, we’re talking about plotting, because for many authors, plotting fiction is the hardest part of writing. This applies whether they’re writing novels, short fiction, or scripts. My theory is for that for authors who avoid plotting (pantsers), mechanical plotting is a disaster. Not only does it pull them out of a creative mind state, it may make it … Read more
I adore writing short fiction. It’s the only way I can keep several pen names going concurrently and have time to ghostwrite short fiction as well. Recently I did a Q & A with my Pro Fiction class (sorry, it’s invitation only) on writing short stories. A couple of the students weren’t keen on short fiction. They were new to … Read more
In fiction writing, dialogue is more than conversation, so make your dialogue work for you. Unlike real-life conversation, dialogue builds your plot and characters. It’s heavy with subtext and packed with conflict. Have you noticed that commercial fiction is dialogue-heavy? Readers expect scenes (showing) rather than narrative (telling.) This means there’s lots of dialogue and every word of dialogue is … Read more
When you’re writing fiction, think worse. Make things so tough readers are convinced your main characters have no hope of overcoming their challenges. When they start a new novel, many authors begin with developing the protagonist; the hero/ main character. A great hero’s essential, right? Yes, he is. However, every hero needs something to fight: an antagonist—a dangerous enemy threatening … Read more