Backstory is essential to fiction—but it’s also one of the easiest ways to stall or completely derail a narrative. Most writers, especially if they like to plan and outline, don’t struggle because their characters lack  backstory. They struggle because they have too much of it, or because they’re unsure when, where, and how to introduce it without stopping the story cold. The goal isn’t to eliminate backstory. It’s to integrate it seamlessly so that readers absorb it without

One of the most common issues in fiction writing—especially among new writers—is use of process language. This is when narration explains every action or thought a character goes through, which can slow the pace and pull readers out of the story. Learning to cut it out is a powerful tool for making writing leaner and more immersive. What is process language? Process language describes how  a character is doing something rather than showing the result or impact . It often read

Narrative tense might sound like a small detail, but it’s one of the elements of writing that helps your story make sense .  It tells readers when the action is happening—past, present, or future—and keeps them grounded in your story’s timeline. When your tense shifts without warning, it can confuse readers or make your writing feel choppy. Every writer struggles with tense consistency at some point, but it's something every writer can master with a little practice and awaren

You know that moment when you sit down to watch “just one episode,” and suddenly, it’s 2 in the morning? There are many elements in screenwriting that come together to convince you to watch "just one more episode"—cliff-hangers, emotional turns, and perfectly timed reveals. That’s pacing at work—the rhythm of storytelling that keeps audiences hooked. And here’s the thing: The same techniques that make TV shows and movies addictive can make your writing do the same, convincing

You’ve finished a draft. Now comes the part that separates a decent draft from a polished manuscript: revision and self-editing. Many writers dread this stage because they fear “cutting too much” or losing their voice and the meaning of their work. But the truth is, careful tightening makes your writing clearer, sharper, and more impactful. As an editor, the number one difference I observe between the manuscripts of beginner and experienced writers is the knowledge of how to

Writers often face the delicate challenge of crafting stories that feel both surprising and inevitable. A well-timed twist or a big reveal in the final climax should shock the reader, not because it came from nowhere but because they realize—retrospectively—that it was always coming. This is the power of foreshadowing: the subtle placement of hints and clues that build suspense, reinforce themes, and prepare the reader for what lies ahead. Done well, foreshadowing isn't a tri

A novel's atmosphere—or emotional landscape—which colors every scene is also known as mood, and it’s one of the most effective tools a...

When readers dive into a novel, they’re not just seeking plot twists or compelling characters (though those are important!). They’re also...

Writing and publishing can feel like an uphill battle, filled with self-doubt and numerous hurdles. This weekend, I attended a local...