by Zoe M. McCarthy | Jun 14, 2018 | Writing
You want to write humor into your story, but it’s funny only in your head. Keep trying, because all genres benefit from some humor. Sometimes humor isn’t well done and poor reviews are valid. But other times, the problem is some readers don’t have funny bones. Ignore...
by Zoe M. McCarthy | Jun 7, 2018 | Marketing Books, Writing
You can’t wait to read the next engaging book. How do you find that novel? In today’s world, whether authors are traditionally published or self-published, we must invest time and money in promoting our books. It would be helpful if we could put out resources into...
by Zoe M. McCarthy | May 31, 2018 | Presentations, Writing
If you have a passion for effective writing concepts, consider turning them into workshops you can share with others. Here are tips to help you prepare a successful workshop. 6 Tips for Preparing a Writers Workshop 1. Start presenting at small venues and move up to...
by Zoe M. McCarthy | May 24, 2018 | Presentations, Writing
Leading a writers workshop is a great way to meet people and pay forward the writing help we’ve received. These tips will help you feel comfortable presenting to a group. 5 Tips in Leading a Writers Workshop – Presenting 1. Arrive early to set up so you...
by Zoe M. McCarthy | May 17, 2018 | Writing
I’ve blogged on coincidences, and Steven James’s article, “What a Coincidence” (Writer’s Digest November/December 2017) hits on similar ideas. But James discusses a fresh angle. James says that at the beginning of a story, we can capitalize on using a coincidence,...
by Zoe M. McCarthy | May 10, 2018 | Writing
Jane K. Cleland’s article, “Whisper Sweet Somethings” (Writer’s Digest February 2018) sparked two ideas about sounds I want to use in my work in progress. Here’s how I received Cleland’s suggestions. 1. Tone Down Sounds for Greater Effect I think of how melodrama is...