Tag: writing tips

How to Unlock Raw Power & Write Stories Readers Love

Monday we brushed the surface of speculative fiction and why it can be such a powerful and world-changing genre when executed well. In my opinion (based on years of experience with new manuscripts) this genre shares a lot of the same pitfalls as literary/character-driven novels. If we aren’t careful, world-building—while vital—can take over and obscure …

Continue reading

Once Upon a Plot: Retelling Myths and Fairytales

OhmygoshitisWednesdayandthatmeansitistimeforMEEEEE!!!!! In other words, it’s Squatter’s Rights Wednesday with me, Cait Reynolds. Today, I’m going to talk about the fact that there is nothing new under the sun. And, by that, I mean that every variation of story has been told before. Every culture from every time period has its version of Cinderella, its Aladdin …

Continue reading

Science Fiction, Horror & More—Why Speculative Fiction Matters

On Friday, we explored how shame is the beating heart of great fiction, how probing the shadow sides of human nature is what can separate the mundane from the magnificent. All fiction has its place. Some fiction is purely fun and escape and the world needs more fun and feel good. Certain books are simply a …

Continue reading

The Reason Shame is the Beating Heart of All Great Stories

I read a ridiculous amount of novels and I’m very picky, namely because I have the attention span of a fruit fly with a crack habit. Like most modern readers, it takes a lot to grab then keep my attention. Most books I end up putting down or returning to Audible for another. There are …

Continue reading

Lasers, Swords, and Brianna, oh, my!

It’s Squatter’s Rights Wednesday! I’m back, along with Denny Basenji, opinions on words, and a new haircut. Also, I do know that I owe everyone my freshman year high school photo. I will post that on Friday. *pinky swear* So, today, I’m talking about world-building for epic fantasy and science fiction. Of course, there are …

Continue reading