April has always been a bit of a trickster. One day it’s sunshine and birdsong, the next it’s sideways rain and a wind that feels personally offended by your existence. And right in the middle of it all? April Fool’s Day—because of course the month itself needed a sense of humor. But if April is…
Ah yes.The New Year. That magical moment when the calendar flips, the internet yells “NEW YOU!”, and suddenly everyone is drinking celery juice and announcing life transformations that require color-coded spreadsheets and alarming optimism. Writers, readers, creatives—gather close.Let’s talk about how to actually survive the start of a new year without losing your sanity, your…
The secret sauce for authors and bloggers, and all who need Email followers. Follow these 18 steps to success in order to grow your email list. Add an opt-in form to your website. This asks people who visit your website to sign up for your newsletter. If may also offer an incentive to do so….
Even as writers, we need a business plan. So, I wanted to share with you the best one for authors. Of course, you could probably apply this to whatever your career field is, maybe with just a few little tweaks. Start with a Mission statement. I know, that sounds like boring work, but you really…
Feng Shui — the combination of ancient Chinese wisdom and practical common sense. How can you use this centuries-old wisdom to improve your work? Start by arranging your environment in such a way that everything harmonizes and stimulates positive energy. Feng Shui is all about the flow of energy. Clutter stops the flow of energy….
What do newbie, unseasoned writers do that give away their inexperience? Books editors love and use, and you can too. These will help you perfect your craft. * The Story Equation * Six Stage Story Structure * Bird by Bird * The Copyeditor’s Handbook * The Editor’s Eye * Copyediting: A Practical Guide * Chicago…
Writing characters that are so real, your fans feel like they know them personally, is every writers goal. I’ve found some great little quotes that can help you along that path: “First, place an instance of self-talk very near your story’s opening to immediately build characterization.” ~ Nancy Kress “The moment comes when a character…
Readers love a good mystery. One where they are surprised at the end. But how can you deliver such a suspenseful story? A strong hook Does it grab the reader’s interest by teasing some further discovery? Does it pose a question the reader will strongly want answered? Does it contain dramatic potential? Active reader involvement…
Join me and three other great local authors in Boise for a book signing event. Wednesday, March 20 5:30 – 7:30 pm The Local, 5616 W. State Street