In this first post in the “Strong Beginnings” series, we’ll explore the promises made in a compelling first act that engross your reader so completely they don’t stop reading until they get all the way to the satisfying conclusion of your story.

The beautiful thing about the structure of the Flexible Writer’s Framework is that you can apply it at any stage of your writing process—which makes it perfect for pantsers and plotters alike. Learn how it works in this post.

After ten years studying the craft and business of writing, here are my top recommendations for podcasts, blogs, books, and newsletter lists to add to your arsenal as a writer this year.

Creating a log line before you begin drafting (or even after!) lets you see whether you have a story that will carry a novel or help you flesh out an idea into something that will. Use this simple plot structure device to make sure you have a story worth telling.

Most of us avoid conflict at all costs, but conflict in all its forms is the beating heart of great fiction. In this post, I give you simple tips on how to infuse more conflict into your writing.