• Passive Voice: It’s So Passé

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      Passive voice has a time and place in writing, as it serves to be a stylistic additive in many books and papers. In some cases, people prefer passive voice in creative pieces, such as poetry and prose; however, writing in passive voice too often in your fiction and non-fiction pieces can cloud your writing. The “passive voice” can best be described as writing that quietly emphasizes the subject in the sentence, rather than the verb. It also indirectly guides the reader to a course of action or situation without a direct voice, which can leave readers scratching their heads. It…

  • inspiration for writing a book

    Goal Management: Patience + Persistence = Progress

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    Taking control of your writing dream means actively making your routine and writing goals a priority in your life. Some say writing is about inspiration, but it’s more practical than that. It’s about actively seeking inspiration while following through with an idea, and manifesting your thoughts into words. This can be achieved with action and persistence. The mindset you subconsciously (or consciously) have before writing is paramount in your level of enthusiasm. In other words, be confident and focus on your immediate goals, rather than the end result. Writing from a place of doubt, anxiety, or pressure seldom creates a positive result. If…

  • writing historical fiction, characters historical fiction

    How-To Write: All About Historical Fiction, Real Characters

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    In historical fiction, your focus as the author may be toward authenticating the setting, presenting believable characters and creating a compelling storyline that will grab readers and hold their attention from beginning to end. What can be an aspect missed while writing historical fiction is the opportunity to allow readers access to the main characters’ thoughts, feelings and beliefs through inner monologues. The reason could be that the author may see the story as what will be the relatable factor for readers, or maybe a hesitance to put oneself into the characters’ mindsets at that particular time period and produce…

  • The Last of the “Somedays”: Why Writing a Book Can’t Wait

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    In 2013, we signed an author who was still early in the process of writing a book. Our team provided coaching and guidance, but she had yet to finish her book. Unfortunately, she unexpectedly passed away last week. Our thoughts and prayers go out to her friends and family. I think I may be the only person who knows what she was going to write about, because I still have her notes and outlines. She had an awesome testimony: God redeemed her from a life in prison and was using her to rescue other women. I hate to think of…