What is a synopsis? It's a summary which provides, in one quick read, the unique and compelling aspects of a story. How do you write a synopsis… Read more
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Foreshadowing - a 'warning or indication of a future event' - is a useful device in storytelling. Hinting at what will happen serves multiple purposes (such as… Read more
The opening chapter of a book needs to hook your reader. How? By creating intrigue, suspense, lovable (or at least compelling) characters and interesting setting or action.… Read more
The Oxford dictionary defines dialogue as 'a conversation between two or more people as a feature of a book, play, or film' (OED). Yet the 'or more' (dialogue… Read more
When you're writing a first or even second draft, the parts of a story - exposition, development, and ending - often feel disconnected. For a cohesive plot,… Read more
There are two sides to learning how to start a book: Deciding on a process for starting and finding the beginning of the story itself. Here are tips for… Read more
Many aspiring authors contact us with this problem: 'I don't know how to start writing a book. I only have a few rough ideas.' There are variations:… Read more
Writing contests are useful for developing your writing craft and giving yourself a deadline to finish something polished. Often, you receive valuable feedback from experienced judges. It's… Read more
What is the one most common piece of advice established authors give aspiring ones? It's not 'show, don't tell' or 'kill your darlings'. It's 'read more'. Reading… Read more