Stephen King could probably publish his grocery list and it would hit the bestseller lists… Although, King is such a terrific writer, he wouldn’t (and doesn’t) break very many of these rules and conventions. This is just to make you aware that many times brand name authors aren’t always the folks to go to for writing models.
Category: Writing Tips
Apr 05 2013
Les Edgerton Shows How to Write Amazing Dialogue–Part 2 AN EXERCISE
I hope you guys enjoyed Les’s guest post yesterday. Today, Les is offering a bonus…an EXERCISE to help you develop your skills for writing killer dialogue. Take it away, Les! Exercise on Subtext This exercise is primarily for the teacher teaching basic writing principles, although perhaps even more advanced writers may get something out of …
Apr 04 2013
Les Edgerton Shows How to Write Amazing Dialogue–Part 1
Dialogue is one of the most crucial elements of good fiction writing. For many of us, it’s also one of the toughest skills to master. Some writers have an instinct for writing great dialogue, but for others it takes hard work to achieve believable and interesting dialogue. But, no matter if it comes naturally to you or if you have to work long and hard to be able to create convincing dialogue, it can be achieved by almost everyone.
Mar 15 2013
The Clock is Ticking—5 Tips for Tighter, Cleaner Writing
Time is our enemy. Most people don’t have enough. This is why our writing must be tight, direct and hook early. Modern audiences have the attention span of a toddler hopped up on 2 liters of Coke. We can’t afford to let them drift. Drift=Bad juju I’ve edited countless books, many from new authors. I …
Jan 07 2013
Writing Tip #3–Talent is Cheaper than Table Salt
I’ve been working as a professional editor, writer, ferret-herder for twelve years now, and one thing I’ve learned is that talent is highly overrated (which is why this quote by Stephen King remains one of my all-time favorites). I constantly meet writers more talented than I am, but I know they won’t make it despite …









