Word magic.
Hate plotting fiction? Me too, at times. Why not do what Shakespeare did? He “stole” plots, as many, many authors do. “Stealing” your plot takes the pressure off. You can focus on building your characters and setting, and developing conflict. Plotting fiction: plots you can steal In Plotting Made Simple: The One-Hour Plotting Strategy, I outlined my usual strategy: Over … Read more
How do you create drama in your fiction? When I coach fiction authors, it’s often simple to make their novels more exciting. Many authors fall into the trap of creating perfect characters. You need to give your characters flaws, and I suggested: (Although) it’s advisable not to use your family and friends when writing fiction… you can use people’s flaws—and … Read more
Bored with your fiction? Why not plot a novella, and write it? Not only do novellas improve your sales, they’ll improve your craft skills as well. I love novellas, because I can write and publish them in a few days; this makes them a wonderful promotional tool. Tip: try writing a novella as a prequel to an upcoming novel. My … Read more
You’re plotting fiction and you’re ready to give up on your plot. Plotting fiction can be a challenge, but it’s easier when you learn a simple secret. Here it is: you need two plots, rather than one. Plotting fiction: your two plots When you work with two storylines/ plots, it will make plotting a novel (or a short story, for … Read more
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