In an age filled with writing software and digital tools, there’s something timeless—and surprisingly powerful—about notecard novel planning. Mapping your book by hand using physical notecards lets you see your story’s structure in a tactile, flexible way. This low-tech approach…
When it comes to crafting a compelling story, many novelists can learn a lot from filmmakers. Screenwriting techniques focus on clear structure, precise pacing, and vivid storytelling—all essential elements that can elevate your novel to the next level. By borrowing…
Finishing a book is an incredible achievement, yet many writers find themselves grappling with writer’s self-doubt the moment they type “The End.” Instead of feeling proud and accomplished, it’s common to experience uncertainty, disappointment, or even frustration with your work.…
Marketing your book can feel overwhelming or even uncomfortable—especially if you worry about coming across as pushy or “selling out.” But it doesn’t have to be that way. Authentic marketing is about sharing your story and passion in a way…
Writing the ending first is a technique that many writers overlook, yet it can be a powerful way to bring clarity and focus to your storytelling. Endings are often the hardest part of a story to write because they must…
If you’re an author wondering how to get your book in bookstores, you’re not alone! Securing shelf space—especially in indie bookstores—is a valuable way to reach local readers, build your audience, and boost sales. But pitching your book to bookstore…
If you’ve ever searched how to run a book giveaway, you already know the promise: more visibility, more readers, and maybe even a burst of reviews. But too often, authors end up spending money on prizes, shipping, or ads—only to…
Cassandra (she/her) graduated from Indiana University in December 2020 with a bachelor’s in English literature and minors in creative writing and psychology. She has experience in many aspects of book publishing, but she found her passion in interior book design…
Eco-fiction is literature that places the environment at the heart of storytelling—not just as a backdrop, but as an essential force. These are novels and short stories that engage directly with ecological themes: climate change, biodiversity, sustainability, and the fraught,…
The honest truth is that most authors don’t make a substantial amount of money selling their book. It’s a crowded marketplace, with lots of choices for readers, and it’s difficult to carve out a niche and promote your work to…
As writers, we are the architects of worlds, the creators of dreams and nightmares alike. And in the realm of dark fantasy, our pens become the wands that summon forth demons and dragons, witches and warlocks, heroes and antiheroes locked…
Embarking on the journey of publishing your book is an exhilarating adventure, but it’s crucial to navigate the landscape with discernment and insight. One aspect that warrants careful consideration is the distinction between hybrid publishers and vanity presses (also known…
Daria Marmaluk-Hajioannou is a globally acclaimed musician and songwriter, celebrated for her culturally rich and diverse music-earning over two dozen international awards. Alongside her musical journey, she has been creating pysanky since the age of twelve, inspired by the vibrant…
Kaylee’s writing career took off at the age of twelve, when she decided to record the stories she and her older brother had created while they played. Six years later, now a high school graduate, Kaylee Umstead is ready to…
Christopher Bolsover joined the Derbyshire Constabulary at sixteen, then the Royal Military Police serving in Germany and Northern Ireland, the latter as an investigator with the Special Investigation Branch during the major troubles there. He immigrated to Australia in 1974…
Christopher J. Rziha completed his undergraduate studies at Benedictine College, earning degrees in philosophy, theology, and Spanish. He earned his MA at Baylor University, where he analyzed the presence and role of marriage in the religious theater of the Spanish…
Ted Virts’ life has wandered and wondered through preschool teaching, labor in startup manufacturing, Planned Parenthood management, ministry and pastoral supervision. There were stops along the way: Korea, the Philippines, China, the Caribbean, Mexico and the Arctic. There were stumbles…
Marinela was born with a rare form of Retinitis Pigmentosa, where she lost her central vision but not her peripheral vision. She has written her blog, Nerdy Shique Universe, which is a variety blog that aims to all types of…
Former journalist for a short time before I married. Studied journalism (dah) and international politics. Taiji player. Bridge bum. Genealogist focusing on family stories. Cat lover. Destroyer of almost any houseplant. Hockey fan. Bite at poetry but I have written…
Carol A. Taylor is a Texas-born poet who loves meter, form, and rhyme. Her poems are more intellectual than emotional. She has four chapbooks, including the bilingual Sonetos del Inglés, and in 2023 she gathered up her complete works to…