Ask the Editor

The End: Finishing Your Novel

Filed in Writing Tips by Erika Bennett on June 25, 2019 • 0 Comments

By the time writers find themselves writing the ending to their story, they are 80,000 words—if not more—into their story. After months or years of getting their story on paper, writers may feel burned out, ready to be done, and wanting to be onto their next project. The downside of that, however, is that a […]

Said Is Dead: 141 Synonyms for “Said”

Filed in Writing Tips by Elaine Retty on June 13, 2019 • 3 Comments

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 […]

Establishing Rapport and Credibility in Nonfiction

I often find myself telling authors that they must establish rapport and credibility with their readers before anyone begins reading their book. This is vital for a number of reasons. The most important reason is that as an author, you want potential, on-the-fence readers to keep reading. You want them to recommend your book to […]

How to Write Your Life Story

Filed in Ask the Editor, Writing Tips by Erika Bennett on May 30, 2019 • 0 Comments

One aspect of writing that I love is when we stop to look inward at ourselves. We take note of the choices we’ve made in our lives and they present a multitude of stories to tell. Most writers don’t think it is that easy. I have received a lot of messages over the years from […]

Writing a Great Author Bio

Filed in Ask the Editor by Erika Bennett on May 28, 2019 • 0 Comments

Your manuscript is done. It has been through the rewrite and revision, beta reading, and editing processes. You can see the finish line, and you are so ready to feel the sense of accomplishment that comes with crossing over that invisible line. Then, your dreams come to screeching halt! Your publisher asks you to submit […]