There are two parties involved in critique: the critiquer and the critiquee. Okay, I just made those words up. So, let’s say there is the giver of the critique and the recipient of the critique. This is true whether the parties are … Continue reading
At a recent science fiction convention, I was on a panel about critique groups. We started by sharing horror stories. I had the singular honor of having the most horrific in the room. I once mentored a group of writers … Continue reading
The situation: Waldo appears in chapter three as a close personal friend of the protagonist. He has an epic encounter with the villain, saves the day and endears himself to a female protagonist. He then promptly disappears for the rest … Continue reading
A frequently asked question, especially at writers’ conferences and conventions is: What is point of view, why does it matter, and how do I choose which one to use? Okay, I guess that’s three questions. I shall attempt to answer them. … Continue reading
Disclaimer: This is part of a series on being professional about the craft of writing no matter whether you’ve been published or not. My use of the word amateur is in the positive sense of doing something for love. Today … Continue reading
Most published authors field questions from new and aspiring writers at some point in their careers. They wonder how to get published, who to schmooze and, if they’re really serious, they ask questions about craft and style and substance. More … Continue reading
I recently read a manuscript in which two characters were described as being in a theater. A dialogue ensued and I visualized the duo sitting in the empty hall chatting. I was surprised when the writer mentioned someone nearby coughing. … Continue reading
So, I’ve been deep in the throes of plotting and planning and behind-the-scenes stuff, so let me bring you up to speed,here. New novel landed in July, “The Second Star”. I just got the royalties statement for the launch period … Continue reading
So I used the time I am spending inside my house – covid, and toxic air, and all like that – in order to try and earn some money. I am doing critique reports for manuscripts through an agency that … Continue reading
This is the second article in my series on Becoming a Professional Amateur — by which I mean simply that if you’re going to write and you’re a lover of writing (literally an amateur), you might as well be professional about … Continue reading
