National Writing Day 2023
This year’s National Writing Day takes place Wednesday 21 June 2023. Head over to the First Story website for the […]
Avoiding the Idiot Plot
Avoiding the Idiot Plot: in which characters behave like idiots. Logic and good sense go AWOL. Along with the reader’s
What’s Taking So Long?
Endless posts on writing but no sign of publishing a novel; what’s taking so long? It’s not one novel but
Shepherd’s in Da House
The shepherd’s in da house again this Tuesday 6 June for Sampford Courtenay Novel Writer’s Group. Join us at the
Essential Components of a Scene
Building a story at the scene-level, we have to understand the essential components of a scene in order to give
Work in Scenes Not Chapters
Why should authors work in scenes not chapters? The answer: focus. Don’t take my word for it, this is the
A Solid Three-Stage Book Plan
How do you define a solid three-stage book plan without writing a single line of the novel? Abigail Perry presented
Imperfect Heroes are Better
When it comes to engaging readers, imperfect heroes are better. Put another way, perfect heroes are dull. Imperfect heroes are
To a happy and prosperous 2026
Here’s to a happy and prosperous 2026. With multiple books in progress, it promises to be a busy year.
The Serpent in the Sands
“What’s with all the cloak and dagger, old boy?” Bainbridge asked as he sat down next to me on the