If you’d like to nominate your own page or query for a public critique, kindly post them here in our discussion forums: Nominate Your First Page for a Critique on the Blog Nominate Your Query for a Critique on the Blog And, of course, if you need help more urgently or privately, I’m available for edits and […]
Who are your favorite authors to follow on Instagram?
A photos-based app is an improbable place for the book world, and yet there are some authors who are really great at utilizing Instagram to show their process and give a peek at the life of an author. Who are some of your favorites to follow on Instagram? Some of my favorites: Tahereh Mafi Ransom […]
Why it works: “Master & Commander” by Patrick O’Brian
A lot of the writing advice out there focuses on what NOT to do. Why it works is my occasional series where I take books I love and try to pinpoint what the author does especially well. Today’s entry: Master & Commander by Patrick O’Brian. First, I’ll be honest, Master & Commander is at times an […]
Nail every character’s first impression
You know that old saw “you never get a second chance to make a first impression?” I don’t know how much it really matters in real life, but it absolutely matters in books. The way you introduce a character will leave an indelible imprint for your reader. Hopefully. If you nail it. Here are some […]
RWA implodes (This week in books)
This week! Books! New decade! RIP to legendary Knopf leader Sonny Mehta, whose influence on the world of literature would be hard to overstate. I particularly liked this quote, spotted by Publishers Lunch: I don’t think you can work in this business without faith or optimism. Reading a manuscript, sensing something special about it, and […]
How to be a productive writer
The start of a new year is often a time for reflection and renewed commitments. Many of you may be looking toward the days ahead hoping this will be the year you write a book or improve your productivity. Here are my 7 steps for being a more productive writer: Reclaim your ability to concentrate […]