The “Smart Dog” Fallacy: Why You Don’t Need to Master Every Part of Writing
Writing isn’t one skill. It’s a collection of skills—character, dialogue, description, structure, pacing, voice, plot, point of view, tension, scene-setting,…
Add Meaning and Impact to Your Stories with Stealth Context
Good storytelling gives readers the context they need without making them stop to process an explanation. Learn how to weave…
Breaking Up with Your Story
Not every story is meant to be finished. Learn how writers can recognize when a difficult draft simply needs more…
Does Your Character Really Want What They Think They Want?
A character’s stated goal isn’t always what truly drives them. False wants and hidden or unconscious desires can shape richer…
Be Honest with Yourself: Auditing Your Writing Habits
Most writers already know, on some level, why they aren’t making the progress they want. Maybe too much time is…
Story Transitions and Connective Tissue: Techniques for Creating Seamless Narrative Flow
Seamless narrative flow comes from more than strong scenes—it depends on the connective tissue between them. Effective transitions show how…
You Don’t Need Permission to Invest in Your Writing
Writers often feel pressure to justify spending money, time, or energy on their craft unless it promises a financial return.…
How to Become a Bestseller
If you’d like to receive my blog in your in-box each week, click here. Okay, friends, we’ve been flirting around this…
Don’t Squander the Power of Platonic Relationships
Friendships don’t have to take the spotlight in your stories to play important roles in them; few manuscripts I work…
How AI Changes the Game
If you’d like to receive my blog in your in-box each week, click here. Oh, dear. AI shenanigans are once again…
