Writers will at some stage come across the feedback in their own writing, or perhaps in reviews that says: “avoid cliches” or “this was too trope driven”. But what does that advice mean? And should writers always avoid tropes and cliches? While the answer varies depending on who you ask, I’d like to take aContinue reading “Are tropes and cliches always a bad thing? Romance Genre spotlight”
Category Archives: Uncategorized
November Monthly Wrap-Up
The last few months have been busy, so I wanted to share a different kind of post to update you on what I’ve been up to recently. In addition to my usual posts, looking forward to 2023, I plan to share more of these more informal behind-the-scenes posts. If that’s not your thing, don’t worry, there’s plenty of my usual writing and editing content planned for 2023.
When “Write every day” isn’t an option: Chronic Illness and publishing
It’s the classic writing advice: write every day. But what about when that’s just not an option? For many people, writing advice like this can add stress and strain, rather than fostering creativity and motivation.
Are Unreliable Narrators Unlikable? The Maid Book Review
In this post we’ll be talking about what makes unreliable narrators potentially unlikable to readers, how to use this strategy effectively in your writing, and discuss The Maid by Nita Prose as a case study for the unreliable narrator. If you haven’t yet read The Maid, I’ve done my best to avoid spoilers.
Are Sit/Stand Desks Worth It? Everdesk+ Max Desk Review
If you’ve heard of sit/stand desks, or you’ve been considering purchasing one, you may find yourself asking: is the hype really worth it?
This post aims to answer that question because I’ve recently become a sit/stand desk owner!
Blurring The Lines Of Originality: Is Fanfiction Mainstream?
Many published authors such as Sarah J Maas, Rainbow Rowell, Cassandra Clare and many many more got their literary starts thanks to fanfiction sites which encouraged them to ultimately pursue traditional publication.
In this post we’re looking at how fanfiction stories have gone mainstream.
Verspertine by Margaret Rogerson Book review
With an exciting premise, and unique worldbuilding there’s much to love from Margaret Rogerson’s latest novel, Vespertine. But if you’re looking for the usual Rogerson romance, this isn’t quite it.
What Makes a Good Retelling? Marvel 1602 book review
What makes a retelling good? I recently read Neil Gaiman’s Marvel 1602 and found myself asking this question. This post uses this comic series and other examples of retellings as a case study for a better understanding of the topic of retellings in fiction.
How Do Coauthors Write A Book? Interview with Lauren Sevier and Abbie Smith
Guns & Smoke was written by coauthors, Lauren Sevier and Abbie Smith. In this post, I’m delighted to interview them about their journey to publication and ask them your burning questions about all things coauthoring.
What Is Your Ideal Writing Set Up? Desk chair edition
I get a lot of questions about my writing and office set-up. If you follow me on Instagram, you’ve likely seen my desk and laptop at some stage. This blog is usually focused on the craft of writing, but today we’ll chat about some of my essentials for a good writing set-up.
Steph Huddleston 