In my years of teaching at universities and conferences, lecturing on podcasts, and conducting instructional panels and presentations, I have encountered the phrase “Show, Don’t Tell” as one of the most basic yet often misunderstood phrases and pieces of advice and...
Deepening your characters’ motivations in the middle section of a story is vital to increasing the narrative's momentum. The middle section of your story, rather than sag, should be dynamic. It should further complicate the plot and use those motivations to create a...
It drives me crazy when things are left unfinished, including story endings. An excellent story ending includes many things. It is not simply the plot but also character resolutions and thematic finality. Tying up loose ends leaves me with closure and emotional...
Great beginnings hook readers, but before them, they hook agents, editors, publishers, script readers, directors, actors, producers, and studios. When you think of great beginnings, one of the best ways to start your story is with a strong and memorable protagonist....
Plotter or pantser? I am not fond of those terms. I am not fond of those discussions. I was on a panel discussion at Bouchercon last week, and my answer is that we are both. If you ask a professional writer if they are a plotter or a pantser, you’ll probably see them...
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.
A protagonist doesn’t need to be likable—just unforgettable. Whether heroic or villainous, they must captivate from their first entrance. Readers should feel an irresistible pull, whether through admiration, disgust, or fascination. The key is to create a character no one can ignore.
Characters’ jobs are more than just details; they shape personalities, relationships, and the plot. Explore how a character’s career can add depth, reveal inner motives, and drive the story forward.
Getting an agent isn’t as difficult as many believe. The real challenge lies in having a polished, ready manuscript and a platform to sell it. In this post, learn how to prepare for agent submission and how the process can become easier once you’re ready.