Using Hyphens to Avoid Confusion
If I called you a short story editor, would I be remarking on your height? I would be, if I…
How Writers Can Be Storyshowers instead of Storytellers
Editor Rachel Starr Thomson dives into our new monthly fatal flaw: # 6 Telling, instead of Showing, Story . Writers often…
6 Tips on What to Do with Those Great Writing Ideas
Today’s guest post is by Alex Limberg: Everybody has advice on where you can find ideas for your next book…
I Would if I Could . . .
Some people might consider the distinction between could and would to be only a matter of degree of politeness (would…
Staying in Character: The Convergence of POV and Voice
We’re wrapping up our look this month into Fatal Flaw #5: POV Violations. And there are many. POV “rules” aren’t hard…
Why Writers Should Enter Free Writing Contests
Today’s guest post is by Michael McPherson: Entering writing contests can afford a great opportunity to practice new skills, hone…
Are You Getting the Just Deserts You Deserve?
Sometimes we think bad people should get what they deserve, but we shouldn’t liken that punishment to eating day-old pastries….
Problematic POV—Characters’ Names, Thoughts, and Senses
This month we’re looking at Fatal Flaw # 5: POV Violations. Fiction writers often violate POV “rules,” and have trouble seeing how…
You’re Not Alone: 10 Perfectly Normal Struggles Writers Face
Today’s guest post is a fun and helpful infographic by best-selling author Warren Adler. I have been lucky as hell…