8 hobbies that are good for writers

hobbies

If you plan to earn a living as an author, then boosting creativity will no doubt be a top priority in your life. Writing is a creative process.  We’ve all read horror stories about writer’s block, something every author hopes to avoid. Developing hobbies (outside of writing) is a great way to engage your mind and spark … Read more

Take 7 steps to complete your first draft

first draft

If you were to interview all the prolific authors in the world, you’d undoubtedly discover that no two writers have the same daily routine. There are “last minute” authors, who work best under pressure and love plowing through a manuscript when a deadline is looming just ahead. On the contrary, many writers like to approach … Read more

Sci-fi versus fantasy

fantasy

Christian fiction isn’t limited to stories about Jesus. In fact, while many novels include characters who are believers, as well as various ideologies within the faith, some authors choose to take a more subtle approach when telling stories based on Christianity. For example, an author in the Christian fiction industry might write a book in … Read more

Keep your writing process moving forward

writing process

No two authors are exactly alike. One might swear by using outlines, while another has never created one or used one for a novel. Each writing process is unique. However, there are several tips that can help most writers move from start to finish in a productive, smooth-as-possible manner.  Most authors have, at some point, … Read more

4 reasons to choose traditional publishing over self-publishing

publishing

Today, phrases like “Dream big” and “Go big or go home” are core mantras that guide young adults through their academic and professional careers. Advanced technology, as well as countless resources, enables people to accomplish goals, such as writing a novel, which might not have been possible long ago. One of the primary decisions authors … Read more

Christmas in July is a smart strategy for authors

Christmas in July

November is a highly competitive month for fiction authors. This time of the year is known as “Q4” or “the fourth quarter” in the publishing industry. Authors can gain an edge over competitors by adopting a “Christmas in July” strategy.  Whether a current manuscript is specifically a Christmas novel or romance, mystery, fantasy, etc., isn’t … Read more

Classic literature versus modern novels

classic

Comparing the writings of authors, such as Charles Dickens, Mark Twain or Nathaniel Hawthorne to writers of today like John Grisham, Freida McFadden and Cara Bastone might seem like comparing apples to oranges. As with fashion, music and other industries that change with the times, writing has evolved (or, as some critics would say, “devolved”) … Read more

Edit one section at a time before submitting a manuscript

edit

Prior to sending your novel to a publisher, you’ll want to do everything you can to make sure it has achieved its full potential. The best means for doing so is to use beta readers and professional editors. Don’t even think about submitting a manuscript until you’ve completed a thorough edit and revision—preferably, more than … Read more

Don’t bury the lede, and other writing tips

bury the lede

Is it possible to earn a decent living as an author without hitting the best-seller list? Yes, it is, if you’re good at what you do. If you’re a prolific author and consistently provide quality material for your readers, you can build a loyal fan base even if your name isn’t in the Top Five … Read more

Character development is top priority for fiction 

Character development

Have you ever been excited to read a book, then disappointed by the time you finished it? You felt let down, like something was missing. You determine that the author didn’t focus on character development. This is a big mistake, one that inexperienced writers often make. Character development should be a top priority for fiction … Read more