Writing is a process, one that is multi-faceted and complex. Some writers love the beginning stages of creating a story. They have a million ideas that never make it to the page. Others love getting that first draft down, writing like they’ll be shot at dawn if they don’t get the thing on paper. Others love to revise, layer, create … Read More
Tone and Mood, the Powerhouses of Writing
Most authors will say the best way to write a strong story is to show, don’t tell. But if the tone or mood of all that showing doesn’t match the intensity of the plot, the story still seems weak. Having all three is the trifecta of great storytelling. The difference between Tone and Mood Tone defines the character’s attitude. Is … Read More
Show, Don’t Tell
Ah, the blessed mantra of the writer–show, don’t tell. It’s chanted in fifth-grade classrooms all across the nation, and yet, even seasoned writers struggle with the concept. The difference between telling and showing Most young writers think of “telling” like a police report. It’s a monotonous sequence of events with no language that would sway the reader emotionally one way … Read More
Outside My Comfort Zone
I was raised in an era where photos were taken with an honest-to-God camera, film and all. Filters were for furnaces, family videos were only for rich people, a brand was for putting on cows, and selfies sounded like something that should be done in the privacy of your own room. It’s not that I’m reaching the octogenarian stage of … Read More
Five Things Successful Authors Do
This past decade has seen a ton of changes in the bookish world. Technology assured indie authors had a voice at the table, and Amazon turned the publishing industry on its ear. We saw the end of great brick-and-mortar stores while digital books rose at unprecedented rates. Gone were the gatekeepers of old, and in their place a new paradigm. … Read More
Five Top Places to Review Books
Reviews have become a staple in our lives. Want to try out the new restaurant down the street? Hop on Yelp and see how many stars they have. Looking for a plumber, or electrician? Check Angieslist or homeadvisor and see what others have said. Today, more than ever, reviews play a critical role in the lives of small business owners … Read More
Piracy Sucks
I came home today to a Facebook notice from a fellow author warning our writing community about a hella huge site in Canada that had thousands of books for free. Apparently, the man that runs the thing is passionate about having access to every book imaginable. So go to your local library, twatwaffle. Here’s the thing. Art isn’t free. Painters … Read More
Trinity Row–Classic Haunted YA Read
Check out Kelly Martin’s new release! Local legend says Trinity Row is the house that won’t die. Local legend isn’t wrong. Sixteen-year-old Ivy Black and her mom have moved in for a quick renovation to make an easy buck. Then it will be on to the next rundown, abandoned eyesore. Simple. Move. Fix. Sell. Run. For the last three years, … Read More
Frequently Asked Question for the Scythian Series
Hi all! I’ve started this post, which I’ll update as I receive questions about the Scythian Series. A big thank you to everyone who has already submitted questions. I so appreciate your interest in The Society! 1. Why are there two covers for The Scythian Trials? Because Vesuvian is a kick-ass company that loves to think outside the box. The vibrant red … Read More
The Trials have Begun!
It’s official. The Scythian Trials has been released into the wild and is off to a great start! If you’d like to pick up a copy, the buy links are below the description on the website as is the button to pick up a signed copy. 🙂 The blog tour was a tremendous success, and I’m so grateful to everyone … Read More