Like a recipe, it might sound fun to throw a bunch of spices into something, but what often happens is that the flavors become muddled and indistinguishable. A sign of a seasoned and skilled chef is restraint -one who makes few ingredients shine. Likewise, a skilled author will highlight their most important characters, being sure not to pollute the pages with unnecessary information or names.

Flashback scenes garner a mixed response from critics because they can be difficult to write and even more challenging to know where to place. However, a well-written flashback can enhance the reader’s understanding of the character, their motivations, and what’s at stake.

Reading books on technique while you have your story in mind allows you to think about your work differently.

The gestational period of story ideas is exciting. One after another, ideas seem to sprout like weeds, and often, you can’t get the ideas onto paper quickly enough.

Twelve books for writers, a holiday gift book guide for the writer in your life.