You know writing a book is going to be hard, even grueling. But synopsizing it should be easy. So, why does it feel so intimidating? It’s not just because you must convince an agent or a publisher (in as few as 500 words) that your novel or nonfiction manuscript will succeed in the marketplace. It’s […]
Read MoreGuest blog by Dr. Richard Lederer As Christians approach Easter, commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, this seems like a good time to think about the influence of faith on the words we speak and hear and write and read every day. We think of carnivals as traveling entertainments with rides, sideshows, games, cotton candy, […]
Read MoreAcquisition editors have eagle-eyes for both talent and for amateurs. They’re looking for stuff to buy and publish, and most are so overwhelmed with submissions, they’ve learned to quickly spot anything that allows them to set your piece aside. Sound cruel? They don’t want reject your writing. But because of their work loads (and their […]
Read MoreNeed fast, practical help getting readers to care about your main character? Enjoy this blog by my friend and colleague, an award-winning, bestselling novelist. JJ Guest post by Brandilyn Collins Regardless of genre, novelists must create empathy for protagonists at their first appearance. Mere action isn’t enough! The most interesting plot won’t matter to readers if […]
Read MoreWriting a novel with multiple main characters can seem insurmountable. Who’s on stage when, and what do you do with the others at the same time? When your top priority is crystal clarity for your reader, you must somehow weave different perspectives in a way that makes sense. Common wisdom says you get one perspective […]
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