My Blog
Resources for writers and editors navigating the publishing world
5 Ways to Build Suspense in Fiction
With these five techniques for building suspense in fiction writing, you’ll have readers on the edge of their seats.
Even More Tools for Neurodivergent Writers and Editors
If you’re a neurodivergent writer or editor who struggles with executive dysfunction or RSD, be sure to check out these tools.
What is an Editorial Letter?
Find out what to expect when receiving an editorial letter from your developmental editor.
How Long Should the Editing Process Take?
Finalize your publishing timeline with confidence using these tips on estimating how long the editing process will take.
Wicked Fun: Writing a Compelling Villain
What’s a hero without a worthy opponent? Check out my best tips for writing a compelling villain for your novel.
5 Easy Ways to Improve Your Author SEO
Looking to improve your author SEO but keep getting bogged down in the details? Learn about five easy and actionable ways to increase your visibility online.
How to Choose the Right POV for Your Novel
Here are a few key things to consider when deciding what perspective to write your novel from.
When (And How) To Use Content Warnings In Your Book
When writing in a genre that deals with dark or violent subject matter, content warnings ensure readers can make an informed choice about your book.
How to Properly Format Your Manuscript for Submission
These guidelines help ensure your manuscript is polished and presentable ahead of submission to an agent, publisher, editor, or beta reader.
The Best Research Tools for Crime Writers
From bodies to burn patterns to making bail, this list of resources is the place to start when researching your mystery, thriller, horror, or crime novel.
Lunar Literature: Creating with the Moon Phases
Learn about how to tap into the lunar cycle as a source of creativity and inspiration.
Indie Author Success Stories to Inspire Your Self-Publishing Journey
Indie authors Amanda Auler, Harriet Everend, and Heather Garvin share their self-publishing success stories.
Getting Published in Literary Journals: Tips on Answering Calls for Submissions
Erika Steeves, guest blogger and lead editor for House of Zolo, breaks down best practices for submitting your writing to literary journals and magazines.
The Craft of Writing Strong, Descriptive Sentences
Guest blogger Andrea Vande Vorde highlights elements of strong descriptive writing, such as metaphor, concrete imagery, and sound devices.
Ways to Pay for Self-Publishing
These strategies can help stretch your budget and offset your self-publishing costs.
These Indie Authors Prove that Success in Self-Publishing is Possible
Indie authors M.A. Wardell, and Rachel Bowdler share their self-publishing success stories.
Writing Groups: An Introvert’s Nightmare or Saving Grace?
Guest blogger and editor Lauren Alexander discusses the benefits of joining a writing group, especially for introverted writers who are hesitant to share their work.
Mystery Tips: Mastering the Art of Misdirection
Learn about plot devices and principles that help keep mystery and thriller readers from spoiling your ending.
More Tools for Neurodivergent Writers and Editors
A roundup of resources to help neurodivergent writers and editors manage executive dysfunction.
How to Budget for Self-Publishing
My best advice for estimating — an executing — a self-publishing budget.