Since humans and creatures first gathered in groups, we have had the need for rules and governments. Let’s explore how to choose a power structure for your fantasy novel and how it can impact your characters and plot.
Read MoreWhy does someone do what they do? When it comes to moving your plot forward, it’s not all about the actions; it’s about the internal motivations that make things happen. Learn what I mean in my latest blog article.
Read MoreInternal thoughts can add a lot to a narrative—when used correctly. From reasons for their usage to the formatting needed for each point of view, this blog article will help you understand how to show inner dialogue.
Read MoreFantasy novels can have many elements—including prophecies. In this article, I talk you through the hurdles and pitfalls of writing a fantasy prophecy and dive into the mechanics of how.
Read MoreThere’s no getting around it—death is different in a cozy mystery. If a character’s death is a major plot point in your cozy mystery, use these tips to add umph to your death scenes and ensure you aren’t turning away your genre’s readers.
Read MoreDeath is emotional, and if you want a death scene in your fantasy or cozy mystery that will elicit emotion in your readers, then you need to make it memorable and more. Learn how with this latest blog article.
Read MoreInstead of racing ahead to a new year, take a look back at your journey in 2023 and how your writing life progressed. Use the journaling prompts in this blog article to reflect.
Read MoreNo one remembers the boring books they’ve read, ones with forgettable characters and predictable plots. In this blog article, learn how intentionally subverting reader expectations can make your book stand out and have readers clamoring for your next one.
Read MoreFrom structure to world-building to the mood, there is a lot to edit for in your newly penned fantasy novel. Read here to understand the beginning steps of self-revision.
Read MoreA first draft is just that—first. Not final. Thus, self-editing needs to commence. From your plot to the details, this blog article outlines the basics of self-editing your cozy mystery.
Read MoreWhether it’s editing chronologically by timeline, going from cover to cover, or following one character around, revisions can be difficult when you don’t have a plan of attack. Check out this blog article for some new ideas for beginning revisions.
Read MoreAmazing things can happen when technology and magic combine in your technomancy novel. Learn all about this mash-up genre in this blog article.
Read MoreIt’s been three years since I became a book editor, so I’m sharing three moments that were pivotal in my journey. This blog article reflects on those moments and what I’ve learned.
Read MoreCozy mysteries may seem to have the same features, but they can span a wide range of topics and interests. Explore seventeen subcategories for your cozy mystery in this blog article.
Read MoreDo you know how to self-edit before employing a professional editor? Learn all that and more in my latest blog article!
Read MoreWriting a novel is difficult enough, but naming your characters can be a task of mammoth proportions. In this blog, I discuss what to consider (and not do) when naming characters in your fantasy novel.
Read MoreWhat is a hook? How is it different from an inciting incident? In this article, I look at these two important plot points as defined by Save the Cat! Writes a Novel.
Read MoreWorldbuilding for a milieu (setting-based) series requires varying layers of exploration, from your geography and magic to your inhabitants and details. In this blog, you'll discover how to craft an extended series based in a single fantasy land without having to reprise the same characters or plot.
Read MoreRevising your own manuscript can get emotional. Learn how to kick unhelpful emotions like doubt, fear, judgment, and overwhelm to the curb with the tips in my latest article.
Read MoreEvery cozy needs a memorable protagonist. And crafting the perfect sleuth to investigate your crime requires a few staple ingredients. Let's explore what makes this genre's characters special and how to make your hero stand out.
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