Word Magic
Do you wish editing fiction could be easier? Perhaps you have a NaNoWriMo novel (or several NaNoWriMo novels) on your hard drive and can’t get inspired to start the edit. One of my students faced this situation; here’s the simple process which helped her to get started on the editing process. Editing fiction: the process needn’t take forever Over time, … Read more
You’re writing fiction. Perhaps you’ve heard the saying: show, don’t tell? “Show, don’t tell,” is shorthand for write in scenes and it’s a vital skill. Writing fiction: why is “writing in scenes” so important? Essentially, writing in scenes helps you to write exciting, unputdownable books. In today’s publishing climate they’re the kinds of books you MUST write if you want … Read more
It’s time for Motivation Monday again. The inspiration for this post comes from writers who promise that they’ll achieve their writing goals when they have more time. These writers tell me: “I’ll have lots of time to write when… the kids go to school; this summer vacation; when I retire, etc.” Sadly when the long-for event arrives, the writer rarely … Read more
When you’re writing fiction, suspense is vital, no matter the genre. When readers can’t turn the pages fast enough, you’ll build readers and fans for your books. Recently a writing student asked about a quick way to build suspense. That’s an excellent question, because when you’re writing fiction creating suspense always needs to be in the back of your mind. … Read more
Do you have a writer’s website? Although many writers believe they don’t need a website—they’ve got a Facebook page, or they post on LinkedIn—relying on these networks can be a sad mistake. All these years later, I’m still annoyed about Posterous. If you’re wondering what Posterous might be: it was my salutary lesson in building on sand. Your writer’s website: … Read more