A Writer in the Making...

Character Arcs, what are they? In Creating Character's Arcs by K.M. Weiland, it's how the protagonist begins in your story, the journey of your protagonist, and how he or she ends up at the end. The author goes even further to ask, what's the "lie" your character believes? For example, Ava may begin in the story wanting to be loved and seeking a marital relationship. Her lie? No one will love her for her because her last relationship ended with her fiance dumping her on Valentine's Day. She's feels worthless. From there, whatever our inciting incident is (main dramatic event of the story), Ava goes on her journey, which pulls her to face her lie versus staying the same. Maybe she meets a new man, and the conflict is breaking down her walls since he's sincere in his approach. By the end, does she change for the better or worse? Does she experience what she needs (i.e. spiritual/emotional freedom) versus what she wants (seeking love)? When I first s...

I saw a post on Twitter and the question was asked, which writer's guide are the most helpful? Then I got to thinking, do writers even need one? Aside from critique partners, editors, and beta readers (another post for another time lol), what else is useful during the writing process? What if you're new and don't know how to structure an outline? What if you have a plot hole, or maybe your descriptions fall short and you need a fuller vocabulary of words to choose from? For me, I definitely fit into this category. I'll be honest and say my weaknesses include naming emotions, using weak verbs, and... drum roll please... crutch words "just", "admit," and my personally favorite in dialogue, "you've got to be kidding me." Now, while there are times these things can be used, the key word is sparingly . I've learned that readers want an experience when they read a book. You've got to touch their hearts with a story. As a romance a...

We've all heard as writers "show and don't tell," while others have heard "show and tell." Which one do you choose? I have found it's best to find a balance. If your details are not moving the story, then of course tell your readers, "Mya went to work." On the other hand, if she gets into an accident on the way or she meets her hero (love interest) because he's her new boss, then show it. Ex: "Mya gripped the steering wheel. Her radio clashed with traffic noises outside, but she sung along to the tunes anyway. She could use another cup of coffee, but stopping on the way--out of the question. Five will be here soon and I can go home. If only she could keep her eyes from drooping, but her boss's thick eyebrows would raise if she trotted inside the office late. Then the purr of her motor came to an end as she cut the engine, finally parking in her spot. Then she saw... Greg? " This is a rough version, but get you the point, ...