The longer I study story, the more I understand it less as a collection of techniques and more like a single pattern expressed in many different ways. We talk about plot, character, and theme as if they are separate tools, but in practice they are all part of the same deeper structure that shapes not […]
April 27, 2026 by 309 Comments Editing Your NovelFind a Writing Buddy (2026 Edition!): Critique Partners, Beta Readers & More
Want to find a writing buddy? A critique partner? A beta reader? Here’s your stop! If you’re looking to find a writing buddy, critique partner, or beta reader, this annual link-up is designed to help writers connect with each other and build meaningful creative relationships. A writing buddy is another writer who offers feedback, accountability, […]
February 10, 2025 by 62 Comments Writing ResourcesExploring the Impact of AI on Fiction Writing: Opportunities and Challenges
Artificial intelligence is changing the way we do just about everything these days, and the impact of AI on fiction writing is no exception. As a writer who cherishes the creative process, I have spent the last few years grappling with both the possibilities and pitfalls this new technology brings. On the one hand, AI […]
January 27, 2025 by 66 Comments Writing ResourcesMaster List of Answers to Most Asked-For Writing Topics on This Site
You who read this site and participate in its discussions on all the writing topics are an endless source of inspiration to me. This is true in many ways, but most literally in that when you ask deeply insightful questions, you often give me great ideas for posts about writing topics! A few months ago, […]
December 9, 2024 by 25 Comments PodcastTop 8 Lessons I’ve Learned as a Writer in 16 Years
Today, I want to take a moment to talk about eight of the lessons I’ve learned over my years of being a writer. Particularly, I want to share some of the the biggerepiphanies and moments that have impacted me in a way that’s changed my life. These are lessons that have been meaningful on a […]
January 27, 2020 by 34 Comments Writing LifeUnboxing Review: Writer’s Medic Bag From Galen Leather Co.
Two things I love: taking my writing on the go (whether outside or to a coffee shop) and beautiful writing accessories. So I’m excited for this opportunity to review a handcrafted carrying case made just for writers, from the family-run company Galen Leather in Turkey. The company offered me my choice of products to review—which […]
May 20, 2019 by 92 Comments Writing Resources20 of the Most Instructive Quotes About Writing
I’ve been really into writing quotes lately. Many of the posts I write are inspired by great things I read from other authors, so I decided to go on a hunt through my archives and find twenty of my favorite instructive quotes about writing. There’s so much wisdom to be found in our fellow writers. […]
January 18, 2016 by 176 Comments Writing ResourcesThe Ultimate Glossary of Writing Terms
I still clearly remember the day I learned what “WIP” meant. I was a newbie on a writing forum, and everybody was using special writing terms like “WIP.” It got to the point where I wanted to scream: What’s a WIP? And why don’t I get one tooooooo? Then I googled it. Oh. Work-in-progress. That’s […]
January 15, 2016 by 37 Comments Writing Resources10 Writing Resources You’re Missing Out On
What if I told you you’re missing out on half the writing resources I offer on this site? Here’s the thing about websites: all the focus is on the homepage, and that poor little homepage gets crowded fast. That’s where I have to put all the obvious stuff like the new posts, social media buttons, […]
December 11, 2015 by 25 Comments Writing ResourcesTop Christmas Gifts for Writers in 2015
Sometimes buying Christmas gifts is fun. Sometimes it’s hard. If you’re like me, you’re always on the watch for that perfect unique gift for all your favorite people on your list. In this year’s installment of our annual Christmas Gifts for Writers post, see if you can find just the right gift for the writers […]
