Category: Writing Tips

Formula: Writing to Formula vs. Being Formulaic

Formula is critical in everything, even writing. Thus, when someone asks, is storytelling becoming more of a product than an art form, the answer isn’t as straightforward as one might think.

Writing Rules: How & Why We Play ‘Follow the Reader’

Writing rules tend to make newbies break out in hives. They, as I once did, believe that the word ‘rules’ automatically implies creativity is somehow stymies and the art will not flow. WRONG.

On Writing: Why Mastery Should Matter to Authors

Mastery is a concept that many believe is subjective, especially when it comes to writing (novels in particular). There’s an insidious belief that what constitutes good or bad is a matter of popular opinion. Quality isn’t something we can measure.

Write FAST & Furious! Outrunning “Spock Brain”

Fast drafting is when we sit down and write a book within a given amount of time. It can be as short as two weeks and I don’t recommend longer than six.

Gaslighting: Narcissists & Tampering with Reality

Gaslighting is also referred to as ambient abuse, and is a form of intimidation/psychological abuse that makes a victim doubt their sanity.