Word Magic
When I help new authors to plot fiction, I suggest that they consider writing a series, rather than a single novel. Series sell. Moreover, a series of novels can be infinitely easier to write than the same number of standalone novels. With a series, once you’ve decided on the series’ parameters and choose the series’ voice, you’re good to go. … Read more
If you’re a new author, there’s a lot to learn about writing fiction—and you never stop learning. Something to keep in mind. When you write fiction, you’re writing a story. Here’s a brilliant explanation of “story” from Lisa Cron’s excellent book, Wired For Story: A story is how what happens affects someone who is trying to achieve what turns out … Read more
Are you writing fiction? Lately I’ve received many more questions about fiction. Most of them can be answered in four words: do it your way. Writing fiction without rules Questions: I don’t know how to… But what if… I can’t write (something or other)… Someone said that… To repeat: do it your way. Every novel and short story you write … Read more
You’re writing fiction. Would you like to write a page-turner, that is, a novel which keeps your reader up long after his bedtime? Of course you would. Let’s look at how to do that. Whatever genre you’re writing, be it a cozy mystery, or science fiction, or even a literary novel, you need suspense to keep readers reading. “Suspense” is … Read more
Thinking about writing fiction? I’ve had questions from freelance writers who want to spend their sudden free time writing a novel. One writer, a former freelance writing student, said she’s tried writing fiction during NaNoWriMo, but hasn’t published a novel yet. She wants some help. “How do I write a good novel? What’s the secret?” She asked. Writing fiction: start … Read more