Writing advice and tips.
When it comes to tools in the writer’s toolbox, the query letter is a must. I can always tell newby writers (or those who refuse to learn the tools of the trade), by their query letters. These letters are either chock full of the wrong information, or have barely any information at all. I’ve even…
Guest Posting today is Jennifer Slattery Every first draft I write seems to be crammed with cliché characters. The Sunday school teacher with silver hair pulled back in a bun. The buff and burly loan shark. The alcoholic husband who burps and slurps and does all sorts of other crude things unfit to share in…
I’ve been reading an excellent blog series by Erin Buterbaugh found in the archives of Chip MacGregor’s blog. It’s about voice—something that seems to elude writers, beginning writers especially. To quote Erin, voice is “the personality of the author as revealed through the writing.” When I first started writing with the intention of earning money…
We all know hiring a professional editor can be an expensive proposition. So finding ways to help your editor save time in editing your book is a good thing. I can’t take credit for today’s idea. I learned this tool from author and publisher Mark Gilroy at a Heart of America Writers Conference I attended…
With conference season upon us, I thought it would be interesting to learn what goes into creating those conferences, so you can better evaluate the conference(s) you choose to attend (and pray for their organizers). I asked Julane Hiebert, chairwoman of the Called to Write Writers Conference held in Pittsburg, Kansas, to share her experience and…
Today, I finish this series, and maybe you’re drawing a breath of relief about that. That’s okay. I understand. I know you’re looking for specific advice on improving your story and getting published, but there are times when my spirit is so burdened that I must write about what I believe God has for me…
We all know life comes with problems, as much as we wish it didn’t. In light of all the recent shootings and violence, today’s subject is a difficult topic. This post was written and planned long before the recent events in Paris and those in the US in Colorado Springs and San Bernadino. My heart…
Today continues my 4-part series on principles I learned as a Marine that can be applied to our lives and to our work as writers. Click Teamwork to read part 1. Marines have the well-earned the reputation of being the toughest fighting force of the US. Hard work, not laziness, laid the foundation. Boot camp…