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Story-fixing Your Novel––Part X
Posted on March 15, 2017 Leave a Comment
There is an abundance of material we could continue to cover on this general subject, but I would suggest that if you like what you’ve seen, you purchase Steven James’ Troubleshooting Your Novel. He has so much more in that book than we can share with you in ten parts. To finish up this series, […]
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 VIII
Posted on March 1, 2017 Leave a Comment
It’s all in the details. But there are so many of them. Which ones to include? What is necessary to the story, and what isn’t? Details will either help your story take wing, or weigh it down like an anvil. They’ll either lift your story or burden it. Click to Tweet #amwriting #storyfixing
Story-fixing Your Novel––Part VII
Posted on February 22, 2017 Leave a Comment
Let’s take a look at the main character. What applies to him/her will apply to all the characters that need to be “fleshed out.” We’re talking about “Dimensionality” –– or adding proportions and scope to your main character. Readers want to read about conflicted characters doing difficult or extraordinary things. Click to Tweet #amwriting #storyfixing
Story-fixing Your Novel––Part V
Posted on February 8, 2017 Leave a Comment
This week, we’ll talk about escalation and how to fix some issues having to do with get the snowball down the mountain. It’s picking up speed, gaining momentum, and it will eventually become an avalanche. This is what needs to happen with your story. Click to Tweet #amwriting #storyfixing
Story-fixing Your Novel––Part V
Posted on January 25, 2017 Leave a Comment
Villains. Scoundrels. Antiheroes. Adversaries. Mwmah ha ha! Every story needs an antagonist. Click to Tweet #amwriting #story-fixing
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 […]
Donna L.H. Smith 