One of the main things people say when I tell them I’m a writer is that they too have toyed with the idea. Like it’s something that you just do for a moment because it’s fun. I mean, it IS fun. But that’s not all it is and I know it’s not something I could […]
Being a writer means you’re the boss of your own work. This can have benefits as well as downsides. It’s nice when (at least at first) nobody is looking over your shoulder, but it also means you’re the only person who can assess your own progress. And just like you have evaluations at ‘normal’ jobs, […]
Writing is amazing. It’s my favourite addiction. If I ever get stranded on a deserted island, I’d only need a pen and paper. I’m pretty sure I was born a writer. Apart from being a writer, I’m also a perfectionist. I can assure you that it is highly annoying, but at the same time ensures […]
It’s always fun to challenge yourself, especially when it means you get to unleash all your creativity. Even if it means you get some creativity into your eye. Just don’t blink and it will go away. Below are some creative challenges of which you must execute at least three. If you spot any that are […]
Writing itself is already hard enough, but querying is a whole different ballgame where the balls are made of metal spikes and are also on fire. Querying is a process that is out of your hands and that is probably what makes it so hard. Here are some tips to make it feel less like […]
Every writer has their own process when it comes to tackling a new novel. Imagine sitting in the middle of your room while a story is bubbling to the surface surrounded by an explosion of post-its. Or perhaps staring out the window or at your partner’s face while a story crawls up to your conscious […]
Papercuts aren’t the only problems a writer has to face. Mainly because there are laptops now. But also because there are plenty of issues that withstand the test of time. If anyone ever makes you feel like writing is easy, feel free to give them a high five. In the face. With a cactus. The first […]
Writing can be a dangerous endeavour. Havoc, despair, mayhem and all such things can and will be present during the writing process. Don’t get me started on the characters. It probably doesn’t help that I usually give them weapons. Before embarking on the next novel, one should definitely take into consideration what to bring on […]
Everybody can use a dash of magic in their lives, especially if shenanigans follow. So why not throw a character into a pool of magical mayhem and see if they can swim to the other side. Have fun. #1 Your character stumbled upon a coffee shop that she has never seen before, though it is […]
As a child, I loved reading R.L. Stine. I was captivated by his Fear Street novels and devoured them like a book-loving banshee. However, even HIS earlier work was not as good as his later work. That is not surprising. The more experience, the better you are wielding the written word. When being any kind […]