Inspiring the Uninspired
Writing, re-drafting, and editing. It's a long cycle, but all steps involved in turning your initial idea into a fully finished story. It's always a great feeling, finishing the first draft, and cause to celebrate. But when it comes to subsequent drafts, we tend to just move on to the next step. But really, we… Continue reading Reasons to celebrate at the end of each draft
This week on the blog, I have the pleasure of interviewing writer and writing coach Madeline Bartson. Her new 1:1 coaching programme, The Story Soul Intensive, is now live, and can be accessed here. In this interview, Madeline introduces herself, the programme, and gives advice for new writers. Let's begin with an introduction. Tell us… Continue reading Interview with Writing Coach Madeline Bartson
Beta readers are a vital part of any writers' journey. They offer feedback, advice, and support to writers as they make their journey from first draft, to published works. Recently, I beta read for the wonderful Lorraine Ambers, and I'm currently reading the third book in K.M. Allan's phenomenal Blackbirch series. It's a privilegeAbove all… Continue reading 3 important reasons to become a beta reader
Editing; it's one of those love/hate parts of being a writer. Whether you enjoy the process or loathe it, it is an unavoidable and essential part of the novel writing process. And you will likely edit the same manuscript not once, not twice, but three, four, five....you get the idea! There are many resources out… Continue reading 3 must-have books on novel editing
Writing has its highs and lows. While I'd been doing quite well, my new job has taken over my time hugely, and so my writing isn't quite going to plan. I'm behind on my self-imposed deadlines, and finding it harder and harder to fit it in day to day. Rather, I squeeze it in at… Continue reading 5 things to remember when your writing isn’t going to plan
In creative writing, voice is everything. It is what defines the narrative and connects the readers. It is what agents watch for when looking for the story that jumps out at them. And more importantly of all, it makes your characters authentic. Getting it right can be tough. Some character voices may come without much… Continue reading 6 essential tips for authentic character voice
It took years of writing various stories, in various genres, before I found my most enjoyable type of story to write - thrillers! That's not to say it's the only genre I'll ever write - in fact, my work in progress isn't. But it's where all my future ideas lie, and I've written three so… Continue reading 5 books that made me want to write thrillers
Life is hectic at the moment. Fitting writing around my full time job, and around other busy life commitments, is proving a challenge. A satisfying challenge of course, but still, time is sparse. So, I'm keeping it simple on the blog this week, and sharing 5 inspiring quotes that encourage me to find the time… Continue reading 5 inspiring quotes on finding the time to write
In all genres, you can find novels with multiple narrative points of view. Some stories need it in order to tell a well-rounded tale, others are enhanced by it, but others are just confusing. There are pros and cons of writing this way. I've only ever written novels with at least two view points, and… Continue reading 5 questions to ask yourself if you’re writing from multiple narrative view points
For a lucky few, writing is a full time job. For others, it's more of a 'side hustle', and for some, simply a hobby. Whatever writing is to you, it is undoubtedly shaping traits and skills that will help you grow, whatever career path you go down. Even if creative writing is only a hobby,… Continue reading Skills and traits you develop through creative writing, that will help you grow in any career
