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Resident Writing Coach

Meet Our Resident Writing Coaches

October 1, 2024

Meet Our Resident Writing Coaches

October 1, 2024

I am honored to work closely with the Resident Writing Coaches. They’re all talented, generous authors who share their wisdom to help take your writing to the next level. I’ve…

Should Your Novel Have a Prologue?

September 17, 2024

Should Your Novel Have a Prologue?

September 17, 2024

All About Prologues Every word counts in a story and first impressions matter. Traditionally, a prologue is an introductory chapter that sets the scene, tone and genre of your novel.…

How to Strengthen Our Story with Tropes

September 10, 2024

How to Strengthen Our Story with Tropes

September 10, 2024

Every genre and medium of storytelling uses tropes—common themes or story devices. However, the frequency of certain storytelling ideas, such as “the chosen one,” makes them so common that readers get…

The Missing Link in Three-Act Structure

September 3, 2024

The Missing Link in Three-Act Structure

September 3, 2024

In any discussion of story structure, the three-act model inevitably dominates the conversation. Even as plotting methods such as Save the Cat, the Hero’s Journey, and the Snowflake Method gain…

How to Fix a Boring Main Character and Save Your Story

August 27, 2024

How to Fix a Boring Main Character and Save Your Story

August 27, 2024

Are you struggling with a boring main character? Are you afraid that he or she is limiting your story’s potential? This happened to me with my most recent release, “The…

Creating Suspense in any Genre

August 20, 2024

Creating Suspense in any Genre

August 20, 2024

When we think about suspense in writing, we naturally leap to thrillers and mysteries, genres that are known for suspense and rely on it. But that doesn’t mean the rest…

Story Structure as a Fractal

August 8, 2024

Story Structure as a Fractal

August 8, 2024

Structure is critical to every story. And it’s highly likely that if you are reading this article, you are familiar with the most basic shape of story structure. This one:…

Unlock Your Funny Bone: Writing Humor Is Easier Than You Think!

July 11, 2024

Unlock Your Funny Bone: Writing Humor Is Easier Than You Think!

July 11, 2024

I’ve rarely attempted to be funny in my writing. There are a couple of reasons for that. One, my stories tend to lean toward the serious side. The characters deal…

Could a Raptor Play the Protagonist Role?

July 9, 2024

Could a Raptor Play the Protagonist Role?

July 9, 2024

Raptors are some of the most successful predators on the planet. From owls, eagles, and vultures to hawks, falcons, and other birds of prey, raptors are skilled hunters with incredible…

Top 10 Tips On Writing A Fantasy Novel

June 18, 2024

Top 10 Tips On Writing A Fantasy Novel

June 18, 2024

What Makes Up Fantasy As A Genre? If you want to write a fantasy novel, it pays to understand what goes into this fascinating genre. Fantasy conventions can vary widely,…