I’m a fan of true crime. I founded a writers' conference (Killer Nashville International Writers’ Conference) partly because of my desire to explore it, learn more about forensics and law enforcement, and hang out with writers who spend their lives looking through...
I usually write about aspects of literature, but today, I will veer a bit. Several out there seem to be songwriters or budding songwriters and have asked for some songwriting tips, knowing I’ve had a little musical background, including writing, producing, and...
Because I’ve had some decent success writing for children, I often get asked about various aspects of writing for that demographic. It’s a fun demographic. I love seeing younger people excited to read. As a writer, I always try to envision my reader when I’m writing,...
Hollywood has an allure, and I am often asked, in my consulting work and at conferences such as Bouchercon and Killer Nashville, “How do I get my book turned into a film?” The first answer to the question is straightforward but not always easy to accept. Do you have a...
Embrace the joy of brainstorming. It's a process I love, filled with cool ideas that may not all work out, but some are definitely keepers. And even the ones that don't stick around forever can lead to even more fantastic ideas. It's a constant process, and I...
Realistic writing reflects the truth of the seen world by implying and suggesting rather than revealing everything. Learn how to create authentic characters and situations by embracing the unknown.
Plots are not limited to a fixed number; they are as endless as life itself. Writers should embrace originality and creativity, crafting plots that capture the complexity of life, relationships, and character arcs.
Creativity is a complex process that involves breaking rules, recognizing cultural influences, and advancing the discipline. For creativity to reach its full potential, it must be shared with others and break free from its vacuum. Writers must know precedence, but also push beyond it to create something original and lasting.
Writing is a journey of constant growth. Each project allows us to explore new territories, evolve, and create distinct narratives. Embrace change in yourself and your work to continue growing as a writer.
Writing is not magical, but a process of self-exploration and communication. Learn how writing helps you make sense of the world and share your thoughts with others.