Word Magic
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
Recently, a writing student asked me for tips on how to write a series. “How do I create a character who’ll be popular with readers?” She asked. That’s an excellent question. You want to create a character readers will enjoy, but you need to enjoy him too. Otherwise you could end up like Sir Arthur Conan Doyle who got tired … Read more
If you’re looking for easy outlining tools, you may be aware of apps like Trello. But have you considered using presentation tools? They create excellent outlines for your projects. Moreover, they’re easy to use; many apps offer free versions. Apps like Google Slides and Visme are free. You may already own a presentation app: Keynote is available on Macs, and … Read more
This year, the most-read posts were about self-publishing fiction and writing (how to write.) Unsurprisingly, I’ll publish more of the same in 2021. A couple of my writing students asked: “can you still make money self-publishing fiction?” Is self-publishing fiction still viable in 2021? People love entertainment, so yes, self-publishing fiction is still viable going forward. That said, if you’re … Read more