Reading a book is like jumping on an exercise bike for the brain. The reason is because every sentence is a piece of information the reader needs to process. Some sentences are easier to absorb than others. For instance, a sentence that speaks about characters, themes, and plots the reader has already gotten to know doesn’t require as much processing as a sentence introducing new characters, sub-themes, or subplots. We want readers to keep pedaling and processing this new information, but as so often happens in books, there comes a point when the reader decides to take a break. Click the title above to continue reading.
Tag: writing tips
15 tips for interviewing experts for your novel #AuthorToolboxBlogHop
Interviewing has played a large role in my career as a journalist and marketer, and now, as an author. Sure, I still get all flustered when I’m reaching for a big interview, but for the most part, the fifteen tips and techniques below work for me. Click the title above to continue reading.
DIY Budget Writing Retreat (#IWSG Blog Hop)
A change of venue gets my creative juices flowing, helps me focus without all the usual distractions, and gives me incentive to write toward concrete goals. Basically, it’s great for everything except my wallet. Here are my budget writing retreat options. Click the title above to continue reading.
How to freshen up cliched expressions #AuthorToolboxBlogHop
I often read blogs where writers are told to avoid overused expressions like the plague. In my humble opinion, there are ways to update cliches so that they resonate, more often than not to humorous effect. Click the title above to continue reading.
Twitter pitch parties: pro tips, etiquette, and character-counting template (#IWSG Blog Hop)
I share Twitter pitch party tips, some general etiquette, as well as a free Excel/Google Docs template in which I’ve already added character-counting formulas. Click the title above to continue reading.
Fixing implausibility issues in your fiction #AuthorToolboxBlogHop
My first editor, back before I switched genres, gave me some advice about believability issues in my manuscript that I’ll never forget. Click the title above to continue reading.
5 ways to find inspiration for the next great villain #AuthorToolboxBlogHop
The following five methods for brainstorming villains are most applicable if your manuscript or screenplay contains at least an element of the thriller, suspense, or horror genres. Click the title above to continue reading.
Finding peripheral sales channels for your book #AuthorToolboxBlogHop
The trick to finding peripheral sales channels is to think, “Where would my book complement what is already being sold?” Click the title above to continue reading.
5 ways to temper the preachy in your plot #AuthorToolboxBlogHop
We all have issues we care about, and anyone who tells you novels shouldn’t have agendas hasn’t read any lately. But how do we as authors plot issues into our manuscripts without coming off as preachy and one-sided? Click the title above to continue reading.
My list of blog hops for authors (#IWSG Blog Hop)
The benefits of blog hops are many. Sometimes called link-up parties, hops are a great way to meet other writers/bloggers and build your author community; gain traffic and engagement on your site; and I’ve even seen them used as a tool in virtual book-launch tours. Click the title above to continue reading.
Raimey Gallant 