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The Manuscript Revision
For some writers, the word revision makes them squirm. Many novice writers go into the writing process fantasizing that they will only have to write one draft of their novel and it will…
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Character Story Goal
Every novel must have a story goal and that goal should be clearly stated for the reader. Let me say that again: every novel must have a story goal. In my novel, Heaven…
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On Writing a Novel
So you want to write a novel. You’ve read other novels and thought, “I think I could do this.” Or maybe you’ve been writing on and off for years. Or maybe you’ve had…
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Too Coincidental
Have you ever read a book and said, “That’s too coincidental. I just don’t believe it?” Or felt like you were manipulated through the story? I hate when that happens. I finished reading…
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Write from Experience
For those of you who aren’t aware, I’m a mom to 10 kids (yes, 10, and yes, I delivered all of them). People ask me if I always wanted a large family…
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Creative Writing Devices
You can change the mood of a scene by employing some writing devices. For example, if you’re writing a tense scene in which the protagonist is being chased by the police, short, choppy…
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Writing Fiction: Definitions
You’ve been dreaming about writing a novel. You’ve thought about the characters, setting, and descriptions. When you finally get up the courage to begin writing your novel, you may be confused with all…
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Conflict in Fiction
In life, we generally try to avoid conflict. We tend to avoid confrontation and contention in hopes of finding peace and tranquility. We work hard to avoid problems at home or in the…
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Creating 3D Characters: Some Tips
Characters can make or break your fiction. It’s imperative that you people your story world with three-dimensional characters who feel real. Cardboard characters used merely to push your plot along will leave readers…
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Tips on Writing a Novel: Conflict Fuels the Story
When I first began writing, I was unclear about conflict. I figured it meant that some earth-shattering event had to take place in every scene. I felt like my novel had to be…
