While writing a hook for our first full-length novel, Echo Chamber Heist, I decided to look at some hooks from adventure movies. I included them here, all in one place, to make it easier for you to start your own research.
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Writing Excuses is a podcast run by four successful authors that’s unique because each episode is only fifteen minutes long. This constraint keeps the content focused. Leslie and I listen to them when we’re cleaning or working out, and if we find an especially good episode, we take notes. Here are four episodes focused on writing that I thought were worth sharing.
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I like writing first drafts, particularly first drafts of tricky chapters, by hand. Being away from a computer helps me focus, and by writing things out, I’m less inclined to scrutinize my writing and delete it before it even has a chance at life.
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Since we purchased ISBNs from Bowker and were able to associate them with a publishing company, we debated using Torch Goose Press or 150 Degree Books (after the temperature I prepare my matcha at). We asked around, and Torch Goose Press was preferred. (Also, Leslie preferred 195 Degree Books since that’s the temperature she uses for her black tea.) I wanted to add a logo, so I turned to our friend, Lana Hayes.
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Ever hear the phrase “kill your darlings?” Usually I’m fine with letting them go, but sometimes they crop up in unexpected ways.
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The following is a collection of opening lines to fantasy stories. I like to read first lines for inspiration, so I hope this collection will help you.
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How long should my book be? Long enough to tell your story, but it’s nice to see what other books have done for comparison. This article contains approximate word counts for fantasy books.
Read onBe careful where you break up conversations to discuss setting or emotions.
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The following is a collection of opening lines to horror stories. I like to read first lines for inspiration, so I hope this collection will help you.
Read onAgents and publishers want a synopsis of your book. Even if you self publish, it’s useful to be able to tell your entire story in as few words as possible.
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