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Most of us novelists are keen to uncover story secrets, to better connect with our readers. Right now I’m reading Story Genius by Lisa Cron, and it’s opening my eyes to a better sense of how I could achieve that elusive magic. Writing tip for Today: How can we write characters who change and grow? […]
My grown son ran outside to my car in the pouring rain, hauling in the bags of groceries I’d just bought. Before I could ask, he polished the silver for the holidays and then vacuumed the carpet. For nearly two weeks, we laughed and talked and once I even got to hug him. He talked […]
It’s a new year, but as I coach some fiction writers, I still see many of the same problems as in years past. One of the barriers to readers experiencing your fiction in the most complete way is by giving details about a character rather than painting that character in emotional strokes. Writing Tip for […]
Writers are often asked, “Where do you get your ideas?” While some of us have perhaps too many ideas (see my folder of unfinished novels), others need help. Writing Tip for Today: Here are a few ways to cultivate new ideas for your writing: Memory Lane One of my easiest ways to shape a new […]
On an early December evening, my neighbor’s holiday lights sparkle while I sign Christmas cards with Peace glittered across the front. I’m in the spirit—until I start to add personal notes. My chest tightens, my fingers grip the pen. What can I say that isn’t a big fat lie? My inner voice is cruel: Hi […]
We’ve discussed how writers develop voice and platform. But what about the unique rhythm or pace which writers must also develop? Writing Tip for Today: What are some elements of effective story pacing? What’s Pace, Anyway? Your story’s pace refers to several ways that readers experience the story. On a global level, pace can mean […]
As I anticipate the release of Prayers for Parents of Prodigals (my seventh book), I’m keenly aware of the need for a growing readership. Platform is a word that scares many writers, but it really boils down to who you know. Writing Tip for Today: What are some ways to increase your readership and grow […]
As writers practice, we begin developing a voice. But what exactly is voice? Writing Tip for Today: Let’s discuss what goes into a writing voice and how to cultivate one. The Singular You Most would agree that a distinct writer’s voice puts you and what makes you you distinctly on the page. In order to […]
On Monday night, the bedside digital clock reads eleven-thirty-nine PM. My thirty-eight-year-old middle son flings open the door and crashes into our bedroom. Not that I’m asleep or anything—I’ve already awoken to suspicious thumps coming from the kitchen. My stomach clenches, my insides twist themselves into an infinity knot. And I start thinking about love. […]
As you work on your novel (for NaNoWriMo or other reasons), your publishing credits can seem few and far between. Why not make time in your writing schedule to tap into the “short” markets to keep your credits flowing? Writing Tip for Today: Here are some ideas for generating short-term credits while you finish your […]
Linda has always been a daydreamer, artist and storyteller. In addition to doting on grandbabies, collecting too many cats, gardening and walking on the beach, she loves to write and to help writers develop their skills. [READ MORE…]
