From First Draft to Real F’ing Novel

I’ve only written two full novels, but I seem to have already developed a standard editing procedure. Both novels were drafted using completely different methods, but the editing process has been (thus far) nearly identical. Everyone has their own process that works...

Critique Partners and Beta Readers

I am so, so lucky to have several people who put eyes (and in some cases, teeth and knives) to my manuscripts before they ever see the light of day. These people, my critique partners and beta readers, are so valuable (and patient, and kind, and merciful). As writers,...

Addicted to Progress

Give me a wordcount hit, I need it! Need the rush, need that high, need the validation–I can do this, I will do this. Like most people, I get into awful ruts where it’s nearly impossible to force myself to write, edit, or be in any way creative. For me, it’s...