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Advice
for Writers

Advice
for Writers

an ancient greek depiction of achilles and patroclus surrounded by the text "exploring mythology through a queer lens"

Mythology and folklore have long been a source of inspiration for writers, providing a rich tapestry of stories, characters, and themes to draw upon. As a writer who is passionate about both mythology and queer representation, I find the intersection of these two areas incredibly exciting and ripe with potential. Writing queer mythological books offers a unique opportunity to reimagine ancient tales and breathe new life into timeless narratives.

an image of a father and son holding hands in the woods under the text "writing fictional fathers"

Father characters can be some of the most compelling figures in literature. They often serve as pillars of strength, sources of wisdom, or, in some cases, complex figures with their own sets of flaws and struggles. Creating believable and memorable father characters requires a delicate balance of understanding their roles, motivations, and relationships within the story.

an image of book pages laid on top of each other with the text "curating a book epigraph for literary impact" on an orange background

As writers, we constantly seek ways to enhance our stories and captivate our readers from the very first page. One powerful tool to achieve this is the epigraph. An epigraph—a quote placed at the beginning of a book or chapter—can foreshadow themes, set the mood, and provide a lens through which readers interpret the narrative.

an image of a woman writing next to an image of a couple embracing, next to the text "writing intimate scenes with sensitivity" on a pink background

As writers, we often find ourselves tasked with portraying intimate and romantic scenes that are not only engaging but also respectful and realistic. These moments of vulnerability can be powerful tools for character development and plot advancement, but they also require careful handling to ensure they are portrayed sensitively and authentically. In this article, I'll share guidelines for crafting intimate scenes that enhance character development while maintaining sensitivity and respect.

letters and envelopes spread across a table with the text "the art of writing epistolary novels" overlaid atop it

As writers, we are continually seeking innovative ways to tell stories and engage readers. One such approach is the epistolary novel, a narrative told through letters, diary entries, emails, or other documents. Epistolary novels offer a unique storytelling format that allows for intimate character development, intricate plot twists, and immersive world-building. In this article, I'll explore the art of writing epistolary novels, discussing the challenges and opportunities they present.

an image of a woman wearing headphones and hiding her face behind a book next to the text "writing a book synopsis that sells"

Creating a Standout Synopsis In the journey from manuscript to published book, writing a book synopsis is one of the most crucial …

an image of a red pen laying on a piece of paper under the text "even professional writers need professional book editing"

So, you’ve finished your book. You’ve edited it yourself. You’ve combed through every word at least ten times and it couldn’t be more perfect. Your genius has been perfectly captured in your writing, and you’re ready to hit “Publish” and let the world bask in the glory of your literary prowess. But wait! There’s a little voice in your head saying “Hold on a minute, hotshot. Even the best writers need an editor.”

an image of a woman sitting at a computer looking defeated and the text "author mindset: overcoming self-doubt and imposter syndrome"

As an author, it's not uncommon to feel like an imposter or doubt your abilities. The creative process can be a rollercoaster ride of highs and lows, and it's easy to get stuck in a negative mindset. However, there are strategies you can use to overcome self-doubt and imposter syndrome, cultivate a positive author mindset, and become a more confident and productive writer.

Understanding Hybrid Book Publishing Contracts

In the vast world of literature, authors embark on a journey that commences with a blank page and culminates in a published book gracing shelves or illuminating screens. Along this intricate path, they encounter a plethora of choices, from sculpting characters to honing plots, from seeking representation to selecting the right publishing avenue. Each decision marks a pivotal moment, shaping the trajectory of their work and the terms under which it finds its audience.

a young woman crouching down with a bow and arrow in the woods and the text "writing young adult fantasy"

In the realm of young adult fantasy, writers hold the power to transport readers to fantastical realms where anything is possible. From the towering spires of enchanted castles to the depths of uncharted oceans teeming with mythical creatures, the canvas upon which these tales are painted knows no bounds. But crafting a compelling young adult fantasy novel requires more than just a vivid imagination; it demands careful planning, skillful world-building, and an understanding of the unique elements that resonate with readers in this genre.