by Fae Rowen I am a plot-driven writer. The plot arrives first in my head, then I look for  people who will survive and grow in that world. My #1 concern? My characters MUST connect with my readers. To have the "best book ever" experience, your reader must believe in, root for, identify with, and, […]

We're so happy to welcome Margie Lawson today to share her writing wonderment with us. Margie will be speaking at the RWA National Conference in Anaheim next month, both at the Women's Fiction pre-conference event and a session at the conference. Generous as ever, Margie is donating a lecture packet or a free class to […]

by Jenny Hansen So you think you know how to fight dirty? Monday's post explained the nuance of "clean fighting" and how to use it to your best advantage in your stories. Today, we're gonna leave Mr. or Ms. Nicey-Nice at the door and show you how wallow in the muck. Every entry in the list […]

  by Jenny Hansen Today we’re going to open a discussion here at WITS about how your characters fight. Some of my posse from More Cowbell, who also hang out here, have heard the terms "dirty" and "clean" fighting. Those of you who are new to the concept are likely scratching your heads wondering, "What is […]

By Laura Drake   I read a lot about craft. Books, blogs, articles, websites. I’m always looking to improve my craft. I know you are too, or you wouldn’t be reading this. WITS is all about craft. One of my weaknesses is Plotting. I know these amazing characters – like Athena, they are born, fully […]