Ever wanted to pack more suspense into your stories, Chris Eboch has some valuable tips… A few years ago I had the chance to ghost write a novel about a certain famous girl sleuth. Not only was that fun, but I learned something valuable from the editor. She asked me to look again at…
Tag: books
Monday Motivation-Even If It’s One of Those Days
Last week I watched the final night of the women’s figure skating contest at the Olympics. Lots of the skaters weren’t have the skate of their lives, but one in particular had a tough night. Every jump she made ended in her falling. I felt for her and I almost cried for her. Not that I’ve…
Friday Ramblings From An Author-The Universe Sends a Message
Happy snowy Friday…yes, snowed again and more snow is on its way. I’m looking forward to spring this year. Remember last year I wrote the first draft of a TV pilot? Yes, you say, but what happened to it? I’m ashamed to say it’s sitting in a notebook. I’d handwritten it because that’s what I do when…
How to Write a Cozy Mystery
Today, mystery author J.Q. Rose is going to share her tips for writing a great cozy mystery… If anyone has a writing question, just pop it in the comments below and I’ll answer. And if I don’t know the proper answer, I’ll make up one! Remember, I write fiction so I make up a…
Plotting Tips with Valerie Ullmer
Have trouble plotting your story? Author Valerie Ullmer has some easy tips to follow… Whenever I start plotting a new novel, I start at the beginning. Story Structure. Your story, whether a short story, novella, or a full-length novel should be told in three acts, with eight plot points specifically placed along the…
Monday Motivation-Pick Yourself Up
I often have weeks where either the muse isn’t available or I think my writing stinks. It’s part of the process and what being a writer is all about. Best thing is it passes just as quickly as it arrives. Don’t worry If last week wasn’t a good writing week for you. Each week is…
Friday Ramblings From An Author-Ten Years and 110 Books Later
I thought I’d post an earlier than normal Ramblings this week as I want to give you this link to a short story contest that deadline is fast approaching. If you write mysteries, go for it. I hope one of the writing prompts has turned into a short story that wins this award for…
Self Editing Tips with Daryl Devore
Here’s author Daryl Devore with some self editing tips we can all use… You’ve written a book – a chapter – a scene – congratulations. Now let’s do a little clean up. First off – don’t be hard on yourself. Everyone makes mistakes. And quite often they are silly little mistakes. So allow yourself to…
Wednesday Writing Blog-The Wrong Pants
This week’s prompt is all about the wrong pants…or the wrong piece of any clothing. Here’s the scenario- Your character picks up their dry cleaning but when they get home they discover they have the wrong item. Do they find something in the pocket of that item? Are they tempted not to return it…
Friday Ramblings From An Author-Foot of Snow and a Cold
Another week, another foot of snow and I end this one with a cold. At least I have the weekend to recover (and what a great excuse to just sit and binge watch movies). I’ve been working non-stop all week getting my classes revamped and uploaded to the new platform so I can launch the…