Since 2009, I have started eight novels and two novellas. I have finished drafts of five of them. Three I will never look at again (not to edit or salvage, anyway — maybe to learn from them). In terms of major …
Write What You Know: Specialisms
When I did my A-level in English Language, my tutor wrote in my university reference that I could easily study it at degree level. Despite the fact the reference was for a BSc in Psychology. Although this was two years before …
Celebrating the End of a Stage
On Friday night, I finished the read through of Planes Shifter. About two weeks earlier than I’d expected to. This was the first time I’d read it from start to finish, without letting myself tweak anything. The last time I …
A New Editing Checklist
The early stages of writerhood can be confusing. The advice given to the first-time or aspiring writer generally points to “finishing your first draft.” Once you’ve crossed that border, you can call yourself a writer, and the suggestions of next stages are …
Resilience: My Side Project for 2014
They say that when you finish a draft, you should leave it for a few weeks; or a few months if possible. It’s even better if you can throw yourself into a new project in that time – to get …
What 2013 Taught Me About Being a Writer
This year surprised me. I started two new novels entirely. I edited Planes Shifter to the point where it makes sense. I went to writing workshops, meetups and a convention. Here are thirteen things I learned: – If you go …