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Writing Craft

People-Pleasing Writers: The Surprising Connection that Slows You Down

January 15, 2026

People-Pleasing Writers: The Surprising Connection that Slows You Down

January 15, 2026

If you’re a writer, you’ve probably heard that writers and people-pleasing don’t usually go together. One is about self-expression. The other is about self-abandonment. But here’s something I found out…

How to Take a Story from “Good” to Great

January 13, 2026

How to Take a Story from “Good” to Great

January 13, 2026

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.…

Helpful Picture Book Tips and Tricks (Plus a Giveaway!)

January 10, 2026

Helpful Picture Book Tips and Tricks (Plus a Giveaway!)

January 10, 2026

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…

Coping Mechanism Thesaurus Entry: Keeping Relationships Superficial

January 8, 2026

Coping Mechanism Thesaurus Entry: Keeping Relationships Superficial

January 8, 2026

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…

Make Retreats Part of Your Writing Life

January 6, 2026

Make Retreats Part of Your Writing Life

January 6, 2026

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…

Wishing You a Happy and Healthy Holiday Season!

December 23, 2025

Wishing You a Happy and Healthy Holiday Season!

December 23, 2025

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…

Coping Mechanism Thesaurus: Maladaptive Fantasy

December 20, 2025

Coping Mechanism Thesaurus: Maladaptive Fantasy

December 20, 2025

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…

Win Editorial Feedback on Your Chapter 1 Hook

December 18, 2025

Win Editorial Feedback on Your Chapter 1 Hook

December 18, 2025

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.…

See Why Three Types of Character Motivation Matter

December 16, 2025

See Why Three Types of Character Motivation Matter

December 16, 2025

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…

Coping Mechanism Thesaurus: Codependence (Caretaking Aspect)

December 13, 2025

Coping Mechanism Thesaurus: Codependence (Caretaking Aspect)

December 13, 2025

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…