Tag: writing tips

Pacing: A brief thought

Pacing, without a doubt, will make or break your story. I’ve seen a number of good articles on pacing (links at the bottom); however, I want to talk in more general terms than these articles. I think of pacing as the “heartbeat” of your story. So, in my mind, that pace is fluid—it can begin…

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Set the mood, don’t ruin it

Some readers love descriptive detail that transports them to another place or time. Others, not so much. So, how does one walk that very fine live to satisfy as many readers as possible? First, you have to know your reader. Are you writing to an audience that loves sumptuous detail and the power of beautifully…

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Writing an Outline

Some writers swear by the outline, others …meh. Personally, I tend to write novels that are a bit convoluted, so I find an outline immensely helpful. I recently released The Wolf at His Door, and I am currently working on The Wolf in His Arms, the second book in the trilogy. In the second book…

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Suffering the slings and arrows of reviews (one author’s POV)

Many authors have a love/hate relationship with reviewers. We love the ones who rate us high (4 or 5 stars) and hate the ones who don’t. I feel this is a poor approach. I’ve had a number of good reviews and a few that have smarted a bit. I have found, however, that most bloggers…

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It’s time to people watch like a big-time creeper!

Personally, I enjoy character research. It’s an excuse to people watch. Every new person I meet is fodder for a character. I think people watching offers a great window into understanding character interactions. Among other things, It can help with: dialogue mannerisms traits background Some of my favorite places for people watching are parks, coffeehouses,…

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