• road with future, past, present written on it, road is surrounded by grass and trees and sunset in the background; past tense or present tense

    Has My Story Happened, or Is it Happening Now? When to Write in the Past or Present Tense

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    Among the plethora of elements a writer has to consider when writing a manuscript is what tense they wish to write their stories in. The tense of a story is separate from the point of view it is told, but thankfully, there are only two tenses to choose between: past and present. In brief and relatively self-explanatory, past tense is used when telling a story that contains events that have already happened (whether in the distant past or recent past). Present tense, on the other hand, is used when telling a story of events that are currently happening or happening…

  • man typing on laptop; editorial critique

    The Editorial Critique: An In-Depth Review of an Author’s Manuscript

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    One of the most popular editorial services offered at Xulon Press is the Manuscript Review, a short, yet detailed review that offers authors a handful of strengths and suggested areas of improvement along with other helpful recommendations for their work. But for the authors who want a more in-depth look into their manuscript and even more recommendations on how to strengthen their work, look no further than the Editorial Critique. Now, the word “critique” can sound rather daunting to writers, but there is no need to feel weary as the Editorial Critique is far from the verbal “bashing” service it may…

  • Rise of the Hero: Writing the Hero’s Journey Arc

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    Imagine this. A youth who lives a carefree life is suddenly thrust into a situation where they must leave behind everything they know to embark on a journey full of uncertainties and dangers to accomplish a specific task. Along the way, they meet companions and other unusual characters who either aid them or try to stand in their way. The events that unravel during this journey all lead up to one ultimate decision, one ultimate goal to make what had ultimately gone wrong right again. The youth succeeds, becoming a hero in the process, and they are rewarded with the…

  • songwriter playing keys on a piano and writing down notes on paper; Permissions for My Book

    Getting the Right Permissions for My Book

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    . Ever have those relatable lyrics of a song, that one incredible picture, or those motivational Bible verses that have inspired you so much that you wish to include in your book to inspire others? Of course you have, but before you publish your book, keep in mind a very important fact. Make sure you have the correct permissions to use any and all of the aforementioned. It can seem daunting at first to acquire permissions. Issues with permissions may not even happen once you are published, but our Xulon Press team believe it’s better to be safe than sorry…