How To Write A Novel

I Want To Be A Writer But I Don’t Know What To Write

I want to be a writer but I don't know what to write

Is the main problem with your writing career (the one that you dream of), the fact that you just don’t know what to write? Never fear. It turns out that this isn’t the problem after all. Not knowing what to write, as we shall discover, is actually another problem in disguise. But thinking that you don’t know what to write can be the barrier between dreaming about being a writer and actually being a writer. So let’s knock this issue on the head for once and for all. It’s Not That You Don’t Know What To Write As I said … Read more

Novel Writing – What It Really Takes To Get To ‘The End’

Novel writing - what it really takes to get to the end

When it comes to novel writing, or in fact completing any book, getting to The End is a labour of love. And in some ways, it’s that labour of love that separates those of us that want to write a book, from those of us that actually do. The commitment to completing a large project with very little (or zero), external validation, is not to be underestimated. There is no guaranteed reward, interest, or publication. The motivation has to come from deep inside you. You have to really want it. There are some major progress killers in novel writing, and … Read more

Great Storytelling: The Key To Getting It Right

Great storytelling - the key to getting it right

There is an art to great storytelling. The exact same story told in two different ways can feel so different and be either satisfying or unsatisfying. If you’re unsure if your story has what it takes, take a look at the points below and see how you measure up. Getting your story right is not rocket science. Make sure you’ve covering the following items and you’ll be good to go.

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How To Start Writing When You Don’t Know Where To Start

How to start writing when you don't know where to start

Not knowing how to start writing is very common – and it is not a bad thing at all. If you struggle with knowing where to begin with your writing, you’re in good company. The first paragraph, the first chapter and the first page are sources of sweet agony to most of us. There are two main obstacles when it comes to starting writing, and I’ll talk about each of them in turn: a) the physical act of writing, and b) knowing what to write about. This post contains an affiliate link, which means if you click and purchase, I … Read more

How To Build A Daily Writing Habit (And Stick To It)

How to build a daily writing habit and stick with it

There is only one way to write, and we all know what that is. As much as all authors love to think about stories, plan stories in their heads and to fantasise about their novel finally making it onto the shelves at WHSmiths, there is one simple fact that none of us can ignore. If we don’t actually write, then nothing gets done. Building a daily writing habit is hands down the ultimate way to realise all of your writing goals.

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Outlining A Novel (Without Dying Of Boredom First)

Outlining a novel without dying of boredom first

It took me a long time to come around to the benefits of outlining a novel. I was very much a “just start writing” kind of author. And in many ways I still am. I don’t plan out or outline short stories, I just write. The story unfolds as I create it (and sometimes it turns out completely different to how I expect – there is magic in writing when that happens). This post contains affiliate links, which means if you click and purchase, I receive a tiny referral fee at no cost to you. This helps to support my … Read more