Query Letters #atozchallenge #writer

We can't go into "cute dog" mode to get people to like our novel. We can't just cock our head and cast a pleading, expressive glance at the people involved--whether to solicit an agent or a book reviewer. So what do we do? We write query letters...which may be one of the unavoidable, least fun … Continue reading Query Letters #atozchallenge #writer

A Writer’s Source of Ideas

For "I," I wanted to write about ideas. Some writers have no trouble coming up with ideas. Others have a few thoughts of what they'd like to write about--a particular character or genre, perhaps--but need help coming up with the rest of the story. The plot, the description, the "meat" that makes the story long … Continue reading A Writer’s Source of Ideas

Why Some Books are Boring, Or Why I’m Still Stuck in the Middle of Lilith

For those few (anyone?) who has been paying attention to my Goodreads account, you'll notice that it still says I'm reading Lilith, and have been for...half a year now. It's not that the book is particularly long; in that time, I've read War and Peace without the least difficulty.  And it's not that the book … Continue reading Why Some Books are Boring, Or Why I’m Still Stuck in the Middle of Lilith

Writing that Scene: “A Dog and His Boy”

In the format of a non-traditional critique, Writing That Scene examines the fundamentals of what makes a scene powerful and memorable for readers. The goal of these posts is to provide an opportunity for authors to learn from each other and to see their own writing with fresh eyes. In my own experience, hearing what … Continue reading Writing that Scene: “A Dog and His Boy”

Book Review: The Idea Factory

Book Description (from the author): One idea can create a book. One idea can spark a career. Do you have a hard time coming up with ideas on what to write? Countless writers love to write fiction. Exploring a plot and fleshing out characters is part of what makes the project fun. However, few things … Continue reading Book Review: The Idea Factory

Writing That Scene: Maid Marian

In the format of a non-traditional critique, Writing that Scene examines the fundamentals of what it takes to capably convey a scene to one’s readers. The opinion expressed is my own, and other readers’ opinions may and will differ. If you are interested in sharing a scene of your own for a future post, click … Continue reading Writing That Scene: Maid Marian

Writing That Scene: The Portrait of a Lady

In the format of a non-traditional critique, Writing that Scene examines the fundamentals of what it takes to capably convey a scene to one’s readers. The opinion expressed is my own, and other readers’ opinions may and will differ. If you are interested in sharing a scene of your own for a future post, click … Continue reading Writing That Scene: The Portrait of a Lady

Scribblers, Storytellers, and Authors: Which Are You?

I was recently talking to a friend about writing, and she said she never considered herself a writer because she isn’t interested in the mechanics of writing. She is a voracious reader, though, and she enjoys coming up with stories. This got me thinking about the different kinds of people that are drawn, in one … Continue reading Scribblers, Storytellers, and Authors: Which Are You?

Writing That Scene: Damsel in Distress

In the format of a non-traditional critique, Writing that Scene examines the fundamentals of what it takes to capably convey a scene to one’s readers. The opinion expressed is my own, and other readers’ opinions may and will differ. Thanks to Christina Wehner for suggesting this scene for this week’s edition. If you are interested … Continue reading Writing That Scene: Damsel in Distress