by Barbara Linn Probst

At some point in the process of writing a book—or, more likely, at several points—we ask others to let us know what they think of our story. Seeking (and using) peer and professional feedback is a critical part of the writing process.… Read the post

by Karen Debonis

The very phrase “self-advocacy” in the context of my writing gives me shivers of trepidation. Will you follow me on social media? Read my latest essay? Blurb my book? Buy my memoir (someday), and then please, oh please, write a review?… Read the post

By Barbara Linn Probst

Writing a book is hard. So is getting published, and so is achieving success as a writer. If that’s true, then why do we do it?

We may have asked ourselves this question, and others may have asked us.… Read the post

by Ellen Buikema

The antagonist is a character that many readers love and many writers hate. In fact, one of my author friends told me that writing her antagonist was a painful experience. “It was a really hard book to write.… Read the post

By Laura Drake

Having a hard time sitting in that chair and watching that cursor blinking at you? You are not alone. I’m afraid. Every. Single. Day.

We make excuses, like:

• No time – I have a busy life!
• Classes – I don’t know enough
• Research – I don’t know enough
• Too many plot ideas
• Not enough plot ideas
• No writer space – people keep bugging me
• I will.