The POV you use to write your novel helps shape the narrative and frame the story for maximum impact. Choosing which point of use to employ and being consistent with it are challenging. For clarity on how to use POV, dive into this post by novelist and editor, Kay Keppler.
Enjoy these 7 clues from mystery writing that can enhance any type of fiction.
The Shape of Stories can be graphed. At least that is what Kurt Vonnegut thought and AI is confirming.
When your writing is stalled, you might think you’re having writer’s block. Figuring out what questions you should ask will help you clarify what you need to know—and what you need to do—to move forward.
You do not want a reader who is determined to read your book to fall asleep while they’re still in the first chapter because you stopped revising too soon. When you find the heart of your story and reveal that to the reader, you’ll keep them engaged.
Four common issues will force the air out of your manuscript faster than a needle can pop a balloon. Find out how to fix these issues and repair the sagging middle of your story.
If you’re stuck on your book, try outlining your novel. If you hate rigid outlining, doing a brainstorming page might change your mind about how you plan out your book. Read on for more tips on outlining your novel.
How careful are you when you describe your characters? Have you ever—or ever been tempted—to fall into clichés to get your point across? If you can avoid character stereotypes, you can strengthen your writing and keep your reader captivated.
Tips and advice on how to improve the dialogue and cut exposition in your fiction from prolific writer of science fiction, urban fantasy, and comic books, Chuck Wendig, shared by novelist and editor, Kay Keppler.
Discover how to craft a story and characters readers love by creating a main character with agency, including a clear goal, motivation, and conflict by editor and novelist, Kay Keppler.
If plot stymies you, as it does many people, you might be able to stimulate some ideas by thinking about your characters and what is likely to happen to a person like that. Ask yourself these questions. By novelist and editor, Kay Kappler.
Hook your readers with great beginnings and endings. If readers don’t like your opening scene, they won’t read the rest of the book. But if your last scene doesn’t provide a pay-off, you’ve failed them—and they won’t read your next book.
You don’t learn how to write only by reading books you enjoy. You also learn how to write by reading books you dislike. So why should you read (even if you don’t finish) books you don’t like?
Writing a novel is only the first step. You still need to revise it to make it as polished as you can. Even if you think it’s ready for prime time, try these four exercises to spot areas that could be improved.
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