Search Results for: accidental writer

My first rule regarding reviews—every one is valid. Each one represents a reader’s feelings about a book and therefore is legitimate and important and should be examined in that light. Yes, even bad reviews are valid, and smart authors will comb

Unfortunately, I think it does. Different genres have general length guidelines professionals in the industry pay attention to. I don’t think they function as set rules, but more like rules of thumb. Still, for a new author, violation of a

A book blurb or the back cover of your book is a difficult thing to write. Publishers used to retain professionals who just wrote book jackets. Now, most publishers look to authors to write their own blurbs. It’s tough to

I had a long discussion the other day with another author about the benefits of Beta Readers. I have a great group of Betas I rely upon who have given me insights that have made my books better. He believes

A good first chapter should feel like a first kiss.   It should leave the reader intrigued, a little breathless, and wanting more. If your first chapter does that, then you have a winner. Of course that’s easier said than done.

I was extremely fortunate to interview the immensely talented Robb Grindstaff. Robb has had a long career as a newspaper editor, publisher, and manager that has taken him around the world. He has two published books – Carry Me Away and

There is a movement afoot to do away with adverbs.  In fact, many “serious” writers scoff at those “ly” words, turning their noses up in the air, and pursing their lips. Why so much venom?  At first, the extreme reaction