5 things to do if you’re behind on your word count

This year I'm taking part in NaNoWriMo, and I'm currently VERY behind on my word count. Whether you're taking part or not, it's likely you have set writing deadlines. If you do, and you're behind on your word count, here are five things to do to help. Plan a writing marathonPick a day, and carve…

5 ways to write characters readers can relate to

There is little more satisfying than reading a book, and feeling a connection with the characters. Being able to relate to people in fiction has a very real impact, and creates a lasting effect. As I continue with my NaNoWriMo project, I'm sharing the five ways I'm writing relatable characters. Be sure to share your…

7 novel plotting quotes to inspire and encourage you

I spent most of last week plotting my new project, which I start writing today as part of NaNoWriMo. Whether you're taking part in National Novel Writing Month or not, here are some of my favourite novel plotting quotes to inspire and encourage you. Get your character in trouble in the first sentence and out…

Benefits of taking part in NaNoWriMo

It's that time of year again. November is but a week away, which means it's nearly time for 2020's National Novel Writing Month. I've taken part three times before, in 2015, 2018 and 2019. I've only managed the full 50,000 words once, but each time has been a fantastic experience. You don't, by any means,…

My writing journey – where I am right now

I don't often write posts that focus entirely on my writing journey. I do try to keep the posts in line with things I'm learning as I'm learning them, but I try to keep the focus broad and relatable. This week though, I've been reflecting a lot, and I thought I'd share the honest truths…

The Do’s and Don’ts of Taking A Break From Writing

For the first time in three years I didn't post my weekly blog post...for two weeks in a row in fact. It was certainly an odd feeling, breaking habit. But I have had a lot in, including moving into a new house (only just got internet!) and interviewing for a new job. Still, it's good…

Novel editing: How to fix a boring chapter

I try to keep each weekly blog post relevant to my own writing journey. This week, I struggled through the heart crushing moment of realising one of your chapters is BORING. It's tough to admit. I tried playing it down at first, but eventually I held up my hands. Because if the writer thinks it's…

Don’t lose your novel! 5 ways to backup your writing

Writing a novel is a huge deal. It is tough and exciting, long and rewarding, emotional and powerful. Those words you produce, those characters you breathe life into, those worlds you create, are more valuable than gold. And nothing could be more heartbreaking than losing it all. So, while it may sound like simple advice,…

5 things you need to know about your characters before you write your novel

Creating characters is one of the most exciting parts of novel writing. Getting to know your heroes, your villains, your story's main players is a lot of fun. You'll learn more about them as you write, at that exploration is the best way to understand them completely. But before you start writing, there are five…

The Do’s and Dont’s of Writing What You Know

It's one of the most common pieces of writing advice. Write what you know. But what does it mean? That you can only write about crime if you're a police officer (or a criminal?!)? That you can only write about falling in love with a stranger in Paris if you've been there, done that and bought the…