We can all remember that first moment we felt like we might understand "how to write a story." The excitement, and the thirst to know more more more. The writing advice moment that turned the key for me came from the late, great mystery and TV writer, Stephen J. Cannell. Trust me, most of you have […]

By Janice Hardy, @Janice_Hardy No matter what form it takes, conflict is at the core of every story. It’s part of what drives the plot, and it’s what makes readers eager to read on to see if the protagonist succeeds. Characters face problem after problem, and with each trouble found, they’re forced to make tough […]

Kathryn Craft Turning Whine Into Gold  Bad experiences have damaged many a writer’s trust in critique partners. I get it. Peer reviewers may bring uneven skills and questionable talents to their assessment of your work. But as a practiced reader, each has something to contribute. To unlock the gold hidden within their feedback, you must […]

 Kate Moretti      We’ve all heard it. Sometimes we groan, sometimes we delight, depending on the situation and where you are in your publishing journey. You’re at a Friday evening neighborhood barbecue when the man down the street approaches you, cautiously, but also sort of expectantly, too: “Can I pick your brain?” As we […]

Laurie Schnebly Campbell Does it speak well for women, or badly, that while the classic Hero’s Journey involves 12 steps, the innovative Heroine’s Journey involves 13? Is that because women take longer to reach their happily ever after? Or does it mean they have more fascinating avenues to explore than men?  Actually, either gender could […]