Publishing my first book was a milestone I had dreamed about for years. Yet, nothing prepared me for the realities that followed. The first year after publication brought a mix of excitement, challenges, and valuable lessons that shaped my journey as an author. If you are considering publishing your work or have recently done so, this reflection might offer insights to help you navigate your own path. Understanding the Publishing Process Beyond Writing Many writers focus inte

Writing a novel can feel overwhelming. You have ideas swirling in your mind but struggle to organise them into a compelling story. Many aspiring authors start with enthusiasm but lose momentum or get stuck on structure and character development. That’s where How Novel: A Novel Writing Course , steps in. It offers a clear, step-by-step path to help you craft your first book with confidence. This guide will walk you through what makes How Novel effective, how it supports write

Writing flash fiction is a fantastic way to sharpen your storytelling skills. These ultra-short stories, usually under 1,000 words, challenge writers to convey powerful narratives in a limited space. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced writer, having a collection of flash fiction ideas can help you overcome writer’s block and inspire fresh stories. Flash fiction demands precision, creativity, and emotional impact. The best way to get started is by using prompts that

When I first started writing thrillers, I quickly realised that the heart of any gripping story lies in its characters. Characters are not just names on a page; they are the lifeblood of your narrative. Without well-rounded, believable characters, even the most thrilling plot can fall flat. That’s why I’ve found that investing time in character development tips and exercises can transform my writing from good to unforgettable. Why Character Development Tips Matter Characters

Understanding Narrative Construction The construction of a complex novel can be likened to weaving an intricate textile. Numerous threads: characters, ambitions, conflicts, and settings—interlace to produce a unified design. Regardless of the craftsmanship involved, the reader should perceive only coherence and inevitability. As Gustave Flaubert observed, “An author in his book must be like God in the universe, present everywhere and visible nowhere.” The labour of orchestrat

Tension drives thrillers. It keeps readers turning pages, heart pounding, eager to find out what happens next. Yet many new writers believe tension means nonstop action or loud drama. That’s a mistake. True tension is subtle, layered, and carefully crafted. It’s the question lurking beneath the surface, the stakes that matter deeply, the pressure that tightens with every scene. This guide breaks down a 10-step process to build tension that grips readers from start to finish.

Story Shapes “ For centuries there's been one path through fiction we're most likely to travel - one we're actually told to follow - and that's the dramatic arc: a situation arises, grows tense, reaches a peak, subsides!” (Meander, Spiral Explode by Jane Alison) Aristotle (384-322 BCE) suggested dramas should have a three-act structure, a beginning, middle and end. Beginning (Exposition/Protasis): This part introduces the characters, setting, and initial situation of the sto

Something Happened on the Way to… BCW Writing Session – 13.01.2026 At our BCW writing session on 13 January 2026 , we explored a deceptively simple but powerful prompt: Something Happened on the Way to… Choose a Familiar Journey Think of a journey you know well — one you have travelled at least once before (and perhaps many times). Type of journey (path, train, car, walk, etc.): Where does it start? Where does it end? Visualise the Journey Imagine this journey as if you a

If you’re a thriller author, like me, on BookTok, calls to action (CTAs) can feel… awkward. You don’t want to sound salesy.You don’t want to break the tension. And you definitely don’t want to scare readers away with “BUY MY BOOK.” The good news?You don’t need hard sells to grow an audience or sell books. You need layered CTAs —ones that match the mood of your content, train the algorithm, and slowly turn viewers into readers. Here’s how to do it. Micro CTAs for thriller aut

I was thirteen when I turned into a goblin. The world was big and I was small and my dog was my sidekick. I packed up my school bag with pencils and notebooks to make leaf rubbings and design my adventures. The fairy palace was my own creation. I drew it into being. I scrawled a tiny door on the rock, and just like that, it was real. Major Event was the keeper and the guard who stood watch over the drawbridge. “How do you stop the kids from storming t

Creating an engaging author profile is an essential step for writers who want to connect with their audience and build a loyal following. A well-crafted profile not only introduces you to readers but also reflects your personality, style, and the essence of your work. Whether you are a novelist, blogger, or content creator, your author profile can be a powerful tool to attract interest and encourage readers to explore your books . Why Engaging Author Profiles Matter An author

The Weight of Responsibility I mean, nobody wants this job, do they? Do you think I want to spend my days dishing out punishments? Judges get paid. And… they have twelve people to decide guilty or not guilty. All I have are two eyes and a heap of responsibility weighing on me. Back in the day, there was at least a bit of glamour with the job. A pretty dress and some sparkle. But not now… Now, I’m parked outside some creep’s house at 2 AM in a hoodie. A hoodie! No glamour, no

Every author has a distinct voice that sets their work apart. This unique writing style is what draws readers in and keeps them coming...

Writing for me is not just a hobby; it is something I need to do to feel a sense of balance and that my creative self has an outlet. ...

In today's digital age, a professional author website is more than just a portfolio; it is a dynamic platform essential for building your...

This week’s challenge invites you to write a flash fiction piece. The maximum word count is 500 words. Your story must revolve around the...

In today's digital age, building a public profile is essential for authors. An engaging public persona can attract more readers and...

The sea holds stories—of love and loss, mystery and myth. It can be calm or cruel, a place of escape or return. This week’s challenge:...

Creativity can sometimes feel elusive, especially when writing solo. Group writing activities offer a refreshing way to inspire new...

Character-driven novels have a unique charm that captivates readers. These narratives are not merely about events; they focus deeply on...