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Advice
for Writers

Advice
for Writers

image of an organized desk with a keyboard, coffee mug, notebook, headphones, and glasses above the text "effective ways to combat perfectionism"

Perfectionism in writing often arises from a fear of failure or criticism. We set impossibly high standards, believing that anything less than perfection is unacceptable. This mindset creates a vicious cycle: fear leads to procrastination, procrastination breeds guilt, and guilt reinforces the belief that we are “failing” as writers.

an image of a stack of books in the background with an open book in the foreground under the text "How to Create a Story Bible for Your Novel"

At its core, a story bible serves one purpose: to keep your story consistent. It’s where you track character descriptions, relationships, settings, world-building rules, plot timelines, and more. Whether you’re writing a standalone novel, a trilogy, or an entire fictional universe, your story bible becomes the anchor that holds everything together!

image of torn paper showing the definition of obsession and a mysterious man's eye under the text "How to Portray Obsessive Characters in Fiction"

Obsession in literature refers to a character’s persistent and intrusive focus on a particular person, idea, or goal—often at the expense of their well-being, relationships, or even sanity. This intense preoccupation can drive plots forward, create compelling conflicts, and offer deep psychological insight into characters.

Image of a young woman holder a folder alongside the text "How to Create a Press Kit for Your Book"

A book press kit is a collection of promotional materials that offer detailed information about you, the author, and your book. It’s designed to make it easy for media professionals to write articles, conduct interviews, or feature your book in their publications. By providing all the necessary details in one place, you increase the likelihood of gaining media coverage and reaching a broader audience.

an image of light glinting behind a planet under the text "Meta Writing"

Meta writing allows us to layer depth into our narratives and encourage readers to think critically about the text. It draws attention to the fact that a story is, in fact, a construct. Done well, it invites readers to engage with the text in new, profound ways. In this post, we’ll explore how to incorporate meta writing into your work and maintain balance so that your self-awareness enhances the experience, rather than detracting from it!

Black and white image of Roland Barthes alongside the text “Death of the Author: what reader-driven interpretation means”

Roland Barthes introduced the “death of the author” theory in his 1967 essay, arguing that the identity and intentions of the author should not limit the interpretation of their work. He proposed that once a text is created, it becomes independent, allowing readers to derive their own meanings without being influenced by the author’s personal context or intentions. This perspective empowers readers to engage with the text on a more personal level, fostering a diverse range of interpretations and new insights.

image of a young person with glasses and holding a coffee mug alongside the text "Marketing for Introverted Authors"

As an introverted author, the thought of promoting your book can feel daunting. The idea of hosting high-energy events or launching extensive social media campaigns might not align with your natural preferences. However, effective marketing doesn’t have to involve extroverted tactics! In this post, I’ll share strategies tailored toward introverted authors to promote your book in ways that feel authentic and manageable. By focusing on low-energy yet impactful approaches, you can engage with readers and build a strong audience without compromising your comfort.

A patterned background of illustrated books, pens, and journals with the title text "Choosing a Book Title"

Selecting the perfect title for your book is more than just a creative endeavor; it’s a strategic decision that can significantly impact your book’s success. A compelling title is the first impression potential readers have of your work, influencing their decision to pick it up and dive into its pages. In this post, we’ll explore how to come up with a book title that resonates with your audience and enhances your marketing efforts.

an image of a hand writing in a notebook next to the text "The Importance of Author Voice"

As a writer, it's essential to have a distinct author voice. It's what sets you apart from other writers and makes your work unique. Your author voice is your personality and your style that comes through your writing. It's not just what you say, but how you say it that matters. Developing your author voice can be challenging, but it's a critical skill to master. Read on to explore the importance of author voice and how to find and develop your unique writing style.

a young blonde woman in a yellow sweater resting her arms on a stack of books alongside the text "The Power of a Good Author Bio"

As an author, you know that every word counts. Your author bio is no exception. It’s often the first impression potential readers and industry professionals will have of you. A well-crafted biography not only introduces you but also entices readers to explore your work. It’s a valuable marketing tool that can be the difference between a reader skimming past your book and choosing to dive in!