Tag Archives: writertips

Tropes—A Good Thing?

Another feature of a good story is tropes. Before you give tropes a bad rap, they actually can be handy. Readers have different expectations for the books they read, and tropes can help you meet those expectations.

In an old blog post, I mentioned the tropes I would be having in my fairy tale retelling.

Little Red Riding Hood Retelling
Dire Wolf Character
Young Teens
A Crush on a Prince (Who Can Fly!)
Talking Animals
Found Family

Here’s more I’m adding:

Character With Physical Disability
Confronting Bullies
Mad Scientist

Develop a Thick Skin? Maybe? Maybe Not?

I’m sure you’ve heard the expression “thick skin,” especially if you’re a writer and listen to advice on dealing with critiques on your stories. Mentors tell you, “Have a thick skin,” or in other words, “Don’t let what they say wreck your spirit.” At least, I think that’s what they mean. But should we simplyContinue reading “Develop a Thick Skin? Maybe? Maybe Not?”

There’s Always Tomorrow

Hi, all. Thought I’d give you an update on my stories. You’ve probably heard of my work-in-progress, The Galdur Snow Dog. If you haven’t, here’s the link to an old blog post that describes the book. Anyway, I submitted my proposal for this book to another publisher, and I’ll see if they’ll give it aContinue reading “There’s Always Tomorrow”

Wrote a Fairy Tale Retelling?

Hi, all. Anyone wrote a fairy tale retelling (or planning to)? There’s a submission opportunity for a novelist who wants to contribute to fairy tale collections. It’s perfect for any Christian writer (fantasy, historical romance, or contemporary romance) who knows a thing or two about the fairy tale genre. Thank you, Liv Blogs Again, forContinue reading “Wrote a Fairy Tale Retelling?”

I’m Back! Plus More Ideas for Your Reading List

Hi, all. I’m officially back to my little blog. I hope you are all doing well. My experience with Realm Makers’ virtual conference was fantastic, and I pitched my Galdur Snow Dog book to a couple of publishers. I’ll let you know how it turns out. But regardless of what happens, I gained great knowledgeContinue reading “I’m Back! Plus More Ideas for Your Reading List”

Ideas on Improving Your Story, With Jessi L. Roberts

What do you think makes a great book? Do you think you need to improve your story some? Science fiction author Jessi L. Roberts lists traits of well-written books on her blog. I re-blogged it here. Enjoy! Note: This is one person’s opinion, of course. I personally would forgive a long prologue if the worldContinue reading “Ideas on Improving Your Story, With Jessi L. Roberts”

Calling for Book Reviewers!

Do you love reading fantasy and sci-fi chapter books geared toward ages 8 to 12? Jennifer Hallmark, my partner-in-crime in reviewing books, is looking for more book reviewers for her blog “Off the Beaten Track.” She’s interested in fantasy and sci-fi readers who’ll review, from a Christian point-of-view, middle grade novels. These readers are onlyContinue reading “Calling for Book Reviewers!”

Why Make a Map?

Hi, writers out there! Do you think you should make a map that features lands from your stories? Expect your readers to thank you for it, as they may appreciate a visual illustration of your world’s layout. It might ease the readability as they try to picture your story’s scenery. Even if you don’t writeContinue reading “Why Make a Map?”