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Elaine Retty

With experience as an English literature teacher and freelance writer, Elaine brings her knack for revision to the editorial team. She started at the University of Central Florida in 2005, and she holds degrees in English Literature and Language Arts Education with an additional minor in writing. As a parenting blogger, she enjoys writing about her adventures with her toddler daughter and husband as they take advantage of living where the rest of the world vacations.

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Elaine Retty's Latest Posts

Set the Scene for Writing Success

Filed in Writing Tips by on September 12, 2019 1 Comment
Set the Scene for Writing Success

Most writers have a routine they like to follow, and bless your heart if you suggest changing it. Maybe you like to curl up on the couch with a notepad and pencil, or perhaps you have worn your imprint into the best seat at a coffee shop (you know the one: right next to an […]

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Great Beginnings: Starting a Novel

Filed in Writing Tips by on August 15, 2019 1 Comment
Great Beginnings: Starting a Novel

By your side is a ratty notebook, bruised black and blue with the smeared ink of furiously scribbled ideas that came to you at midnight, dotted with translucence from the epiphany you had about your villain, while still wet from a shower.  You’ve finally decided to write the story that has been stirring around in your […]

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The Best Writing Tool You Aren’t Using

Filed in Author Inspirations by on August 8, 2019 0 Comments
The Best Writing Tool You Aren’t Using

Everyone knows about a certain digital pinboard, known as the procrastinator’s best friend, the party planner’s go-to inspiration, and the foodie’s favorite recipe archive. But, as a writer, have you ever thought about how you can use Pinterest to develop your scene descriptions, hone your style, and actually see your characters take shape? Here are just […]

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Said Is Dead: 141 Synonyms for “Said”

Filed in Writing Tips by on June 13, 2019 3 Comments
Said Is Dead: 141 Synonyms for “Said”

You are doing everything possible to make your writing better, tighter, and more interesting, but are you still using “dead words?” These are words that are simply just too plain, bland, and vague to be included in your awesome writing. One of the most notorious “dead words” is “said.” But dialogue is important! I hear you. It is also […]

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5 Writing Prompts To Make You A Better Writer

Filed in Author Inspirations by on June 4, 2019 6 Comments
5 Writing Prompts To Make You A Better Writer

Reading and writing every day is the best way to sharpen your craft. What if you (like many people) don’t have time to sit down and write lengthy paragraphs on a daily basis? Or what if you need a little help with what to write? These quick and easy writing prompts and exercises are concise […]

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