Self-publishing costs can add up, so one of the best ways to save money on editing is to take your story from good to great before bringing in an editor. This is also the goal for those seeking traditional publishing as well--not to save costs, but to stand out in the slush pile. Whichever path … [Read more...] about How to Take a Story from “Good” to Great
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Helpful Picture Book Tips and Tricks (Plus a Giveaway!)
Whether you’ve always wanted to create a picture book, are in the process of revising one, or your manuscript is out on submission, your 2026 picture book goals are within reach! Through hosting the popular PBParty contest and my PB Fairy Godmother critique service, I’ve learned tons of tips and … [Read more...] about Helpful Picture Book Tips and Tricks (Plus a Giveaway!)
Coping Mechanism Thesaurus Entry: Keeping Relationships Superficial
When a character suffers emotional pain, the brain’s response is to stop the discomfort, and often this results in a coping mechanism being deployed. Whether it's an automatic response or a learned go-to strategy, a mechanism helps them cope with the stress of the moment or escape the hurt of … [Read more...] about Coping Mechanism Thesaurus Entry: Keeping Relationships Superficial
Make Retreats Part of Your Writing Life
It’s that time of year when writers and non-writers alike make huge aspirational lists of resolutions for the coming year. One of the most common things writers build into their new year resolutions is how to make time for writing in the busy-ness of work and family and friends and, well, life. How … [Read more...] about Make Retreats Part of Your Writing Life
Wishing You a Happy and Healthy Holiday Season!
Angela, Becca and I hope you’re having an amazing holiday season full of family, friends, good food and special memories. We are so grateful for your visits, kind words of support, and trust in us. We love serving the writing community through this blog, One Stop for Writers, books, and … [Read more...] about Wishing You a Happy and Healthy Holiday Season!
Coping Mechanism Thesaurus: Maladaptive Fantasy
When a character suffers emotional pain, the brain’s response is to stop the discomfort, and often this results in a coping mechanism being deployed. Whether it's an automatic response or a learned go-to strategy, a mechanism helps them cope with the stress of the moment or escape the hurt of … [Read more...] about Coping Mechanism Thesaurus: Maladaptive Fantasy
Win Editorial Feedback on Your Chapter 1 Hook
Want to win editorial feedback and take your opening hook scene from good to great? Well, my writerly friend, you're in luck! It's time for our monthly Phenomenal First Pages contest. In this draw, you can win... Editorial feedback on the scene with your Chapter 1 hook. This contest … [Read more...] about Win Editorial Feedback on Your Chapter 1 Hook
See Why Three Types of Character Motivation Matter
All About Character Motivation Character motivation is key in any good story. A great character wants or needs something for a reason ... and they must struggle to get it. Your characters should drive the plot through their own choices, behavior, worldview, backstory and … [Read more...] about See Why Three Types of Character Motivation Matter
Coping Mechanism Thesaurus: Codependence (Caretaking Aspect)
When a character suffers emotional pain, the brain’s response is to stop the discomfort, and often this results in a coping mechanism being deployed. Whether it's an automatic response or a learned go-to strategy, a mechanism helps them cope with the stress of the moment or escape the hurt of … [Read more...] about Coping Mechanism Thesaurus: Codependence (Caretaking Aspect)
What’s More Important: Storytelling or Writing Craft?
When first learning how to write, we often focus on the skills of writing craft—grammar rules, point of view, etc.—but storytelling skills are just as important. Some might even say they’re more important. After all, we can probably think of popular books that suffer from poor craft, such as … [Read more...] about What’s More Important: Storytelling or Writing Craft?
Writers Helping Writers® Thesaurus Guides Sale: Buy One, Get One Free
Becca and I have a case of Christmas Mania right now because having our own bookstore means we can wrap up terrific deals for you in ways we can't with Amazon. So, drum roll, please! All Digital Single Thesaurus Books Are BOGO Maybe you have a few holes in your digital shelf, or you want … [Read more...] about Writers Helping Writers® Thesaurus Guides Sale: Buy One, Get One Free
Coping Mechanism Thesaurus: Anticipation
When a character suffers emotional pain, the brain’s response is to stop the discomfort, and often this results in a coping mechanism being deployed. Whether it's an automatic response or a learned go-to strategy, a mechanism helps them cope with the stress of the moment or escape the hurt of it. … [Read more...] about Coping Mechanism Thesaurus: Anticipation