Dialogue feels like it should be easy — just write like you speak! — but it’s deceptively tricky. Not only is it challenging to write well,…
The epilogue debate is nowhere near as heated as the great prologue debate. However, the rules are the same for both–if you don’t have a clear…
The prologue, the delicate introduction to your novel and a much-debated topic in the literary industry. In many cases, if you think you need a prologue…
Are you speculative fiction-curious? This sophisticated umbrella-genre likes to defy clear definition. It does, however, encompass the following genres: Fantasy, Science Fiction, Horror, and Historical Fiction,…
The other day I was asked to provide an overview of my book series to a friend. When I finished, he asked me whether I’d considered…
Suspense is a wonderful tool to evoke a strong emotional response from readers. Who wouldn’t want to spike their reader’s adrenaline? Or, make a reader turn…
If you’re writing mystery — or any plot-focused genre, for that matter — you need to keep careful track of information in your novel. Your story…
Young adult (YA) fiction has dominated the market for years. Harry Potter, Twilight, and The Hunger Games have achieved blockbuster success with fans of all ages.…
Is your story plot-driven or character-driven? Let’s break it down. If your story arc builds towards a final event or outcome of the plot, it’s plot-driven.…
Emotion can make or break a story. Getting readers to feel each scene right alongside your characters transforms your words into real people. Readers will bond…