Craft + Creativity
Blog posts to help you learn, grow, and succeed as a writer.
Whether you're writing your first novel or revising your fifth, you'll find practical advice, craft tips, and publishing insights designed to help you move forward with confidence.
Where to Find Inspiration for Your Next Story
Eight ways to explore your curiosity and give inspiration a helping hand for your novel.
My Problem With Writing Prompts
The best writing prompts foster curiosity, connection, and conscious attention. Try this one!
Nail the Ending: Write a Great Conclusion to Your Novel
Six options to write a solid ending to your novel
How to Withhold Information from the Reader
Withholding information isn't necessarily a bad thing but trying to lure the reader with vague tidbits can lead to frustration.
How to Research Your Novel and Stay on Track
Five tips to protect your writing time and make your novel research productive.
Five Books on Writing and Creativity You'll Want to Read
Here are recommendations for books about the writing life that may have slipped under your radar.
How to Find the Best Writing Group for You
Five tips to find the right writing group for you
Three Questions to Ask Yourself When Writing Descriptions
Writing vivid description is about curating the essential elements for the reader.
A Surprising Trick to Write Vivid Description
Writing vivid description gives your prose power so don’t skimp on the details!
The Secret to Writing Great Description
The one tool every writer has in their toolbox to write vivid descriptions.
Author Interview: Bethany Ball, What to Do About the Solomons
Read a Q&A with author Bethany Ball about her debut novel, What to Do About the Solomons.
Author Interview: Jill Santopolo, The Light We Lost
Read a Q&A with author Jill Santopolo about her novel, The Light We Lost
The Dreaded B-word: Backstory
Do not fear backstory! Here are five questions to deepen your protagonist's past.
How to Get the Most Out of Writing Conferences
Five tips to have a productive writing conference
Overcoming Self-Doubt and Fear
Don’t let self-doubt and fear keep you from writing your novel!