Steven James | Donna L.H. Smith

Story-fixing Your Novel––Part IX

Posted on March 8, 2017 Leave a Comment

This lesson will be a challenge for me, because although I understand the concept, I’ve not used it as much in my writing. Subtext––is what’s really meant, not what’s said. Click to Tweet #amwriting #storyfixing

Story-fixing Your Novel––Part IV

Posted on January 18, 2017 Leave a Comment

This time we’re talking about setbacks. How can hindrances, hold-ups, delays, impediments, and obstructions to your protagonist can actually help move your story along? Click to Tweet #amwriting #story-fixing

Story-fixing Your Novel––Part III

Posted on January 4, 2017 1 Comment

Interlude. Scene and sequel. Taking a break. Hit the pause button. You know, that thing in-between scenes, right after a scene, the character processes, takes stock of what’s just happened, and decides what they’ll do next. Even an action novel or cozy mystery needs to have an interlude. Click to Tweet #amwriting #story-fixing

Story-fixing Your Novel––Part II

Posted on December 14, 2016 Leave a Comment

What makes a story? Is it the plot? Is it the characters? Is it both? Yes and no. You can have the best plot in all the world, but if no one cares about your characters living the plot, then the story doesn’t succeed. The U.S. Declaration of Independence talks about as our main goal…life, […]

Story-fixing Your Novel––Part I

Posted on December 7, 2016 Leave a Comment

You’ve written your novel and proofread it for grammar and usage. We’re starting a new series based on Troubleshooting Your Novel. In it, pantser extraordinaire Steven James will show us what questions to ask ourselves to analyze and fix some of the problems our novels have. Asking yourself the right questions when story-fixing your novel […]

Writing Unforgettable Fiction—Part II

Posted on July 8, 2015 Leave a Comment

Last week, I talked about making promises to readers from Chapter 11 of Story Trumps Structure: How to Write Unforgettable Fiction by Breaking the Rules, by Steven James. Today, I’m going to talk about plot twists.

Writing Unforgettable Fiction—Part I

Posted on July 1, 2015 3 Comments

A year ago, when I finished my Craftsman class with DiAnn Mills, she recommended I get a book entitled Story Trumps Structure, by Steven James. I finally ordered it last week. Its tagline is How to Write Unforgettable Fiction by Breaking the Rules. I haven’t read it all yet, but I’ve been skimming. This is […]