The Code
Some believe in one. Others swear by one. Even the streets are ruled by one. And many die by one. Everyone has a Code—it’s whether they choose to follow it that decides their fate. The Code. A gritty episodic series focusing on law enforcement, mafia, and the structure and confines we all live in or outside of. Story by: William […
The Art of the Short Story
I’ve been thinking a lot about short stories lately, and thought I’d share some of those thoughts here. On paper, short stories look like they should be easy—they’re short, after all. They probably don’t require all the intricate plotting and thought of novels…right? It’s a common misconception that the short story is easy to craft. The reality is quite different. […
The “Real” Hero
One important thing to remember when creating your main character–which in most cases (though not all) turns out to be the hero–is that they need to be real. What I mean by that is creating a character that is believable, despite all of the amazing–if not fictional–acts and accomplishments they achieve over the course of the novel. What does it […
Adding Description
Just last night I was sitting on the couch, reading a few printed-off manuscripts with a mug of tea when my my son’s Miniature Schnauzer hopped onto the couch and onto my lap. I managed to juggle the mug, papers, and the dog long enough to push her off and settle back against the overstuffed cushions. I took a sip, […
How to write a novel synopsis
Below is a Q&A article on the basics of a synopsis, how to write one, and what editors look for. Any questions, please post! Why do you need to write a synopsis? It provides prospective editors/agents with an overall and detailed summary of your novel, introduces the characters, plot and setting, and gives a brief glimpse at your writing style […
Character Description Worksheet
I’ve decided to start an article series focusing on honing your craft as a writer. As a ghostwriter, I get a lot of emails from young and inexperienced writers simply wanting to ask questions about writing in general. Hopefully by starting up this stream of articles I’ll be able to answer most of the common questions I regularly find in […
Eleven: Shadow and Light
Her name is Mila. Her adoptive parents have always told her she’s special, but Mila soon realizes that “special” is the understatement of the century. On the last day of school, she notices a glow coming from her body that only she can see. She spends most of that summer at the beach trying to figure out what it means. […
“Growl Play” in Danse Macabre Literary Magazine
“You’re going to get your head lopped off.” Jake peered at his twin over the rim of the shot glass, and then downed the whiskey in one gulp. He grimaced, set the glass down on the bar top and turned on the stool. Tanner frowned at him. The stench of the alcohol burned his nose and made his stomach churn. […
