Small ways to incorporate your writing into every day, even when you don’t feel like writing

When it comes to writing, forming a habit is vital. And writing a little every day is enough. But there's no denying we all have days when we don't feel like writing, when we can't find our words. These days can leave you feeling guilty, or wishing you could do SOMETHING to progress your writing.…

Reasons to celebrate at the end of each draft

Writing, re-drafting, and editing. It's a long cycle, but all steps involved in turning your initial idea into a fully finished story. It's always a great feeling, finishing the first draft, and cause to celebrate. But when it comes to subsequent drafts, we tend to just move on to the next step. But really, we…

Interview with Writing Coach Madeline Bartson

This week on the blog, I have the pleasure of interviewing writer and writing coach Madeline Bartson. Her new 1:1 coaching programme, The Story Soul Intensive, is now live, and can be accessed here. In this interview, Madeline introduces herself, the programme, and gives advice for new writers. Let's begin with an introduction. Tell us…

3 important reasons to become a beta reader

Beta readers are a vital part of any writers' journey. They offer feedback, advice, and support to writers as they make their journey from first draft, to published works. Recently, I beta read for the wonderful Lorraine Ambers, and I'm currently reading the third book in K.M. Allan's phenomenal Blackbirch series. It's a privilegeAbove all…

3 must-have books on novel editing

Editing; it's one of those love/hate parts of being a writer. Whether you enjoy the process or loathe it, it is an unavoidable and essential part of the novel writing process. And you will likely edit the same manuscript not once, not twice, but three, four, five....you get the idea! There are many resources out…

5 things to remember when your writing isn’t going to plan

Writing has its highs and lows. While I'd been doing quite well, my new job has taken over my time hugely, and so my writing isn't quite going to plan. I'm behind on my self-imposed deadlines, and finding it harder and harder to fit it in day to day. Rather, I squeeze it in at…

6 essential tips for authentic character voice

In creative writing, voice is everything. It is what defines the narrative and connects the readers. It is what agents watch for when looking for the story that jumps out at them. And more importantly of all, it makes your characters authentic. Getting it right can be tough. Some character voices may come without much…

5 books that made me want to write thrillers

It took years of writing various stories, in various genres, before I found my most enjoyable type of story to write - thrillers! That's not to say it's the only genre I'll ever write - in fact, my work in progress isn't. But it's where all my future ideas lie, and I've written three so…

5 inspiring quotes on finding the time to write

Life is hectic at the moment. Fitting writing around my full time job, and around other busy life commitments, is proving a challenge. A satisfying challenge of course, but still, time is sparse. So, I'm keeping it simple on the blog this week, and sharing 5 inspiring quotes that encourage me to find the time…

5 questions to ask yourself if you’re writing from multiple narrative view points

In all genres, you can find novels with multiple narrative points of view. Some stories need it in order to tell a well-rounded tale, others are enhanced by it, but others are just confusing. There are pros and cons of writing this way. I've only ever written novels with at least two view points, and…