Takeaways from the 2024 Author Nation Conference
Top takeaways from the Author Nation conference, including using curiosity gaps to hook readers, leveraging new tools and services for authors, and thriving in self-publishing. Learn about marketing strategies, metadata tools, and standing out in the age of AI—plus advice from experienced authors.
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Novel Study: Decoding the Secrets and Structures of Contemporary Fiction
Novel Study is now a book!
2023 Year in Review
My year in review, featuring highlights as well as numbers, for a glimpse behind the scenes of a freelance editing business.
The Blue Garret tech stack
Read about the tools I use every day to keep my business running smoothly.
How to use AI tools for fact-checking
Learn how AI tools can assist writers and editors with fact-checking quotations. Though you still need to verify results, using AI tools such as ChatGPT and Microsoft’s internet-connected Bing can save you time and even provide you with additional context that can enhance your work.
Report from the 2023 Editorial Freelancers Association Conference
Discover key insights from EFACon2023. From Cathy Hannabach's keynote on "critical generosity" to Ebonye Gussine Wilkins's enlightening workshop on inclusivity in AI-generated text, there's a wealth of knowledge to explore.
Ending a scene with a resonant moment
Not every scene can end with a cliff-hanger. What other techniques can you use to get maximum impact from your last few lines?
How to use sensory details to ground introspection
Learn how to use sensory details to bring important introspective moments alive for your readers and help them identify with your point-of-view character.
Public speaking for introverts
Learn how introverted writers and editors can overcome the fear of public speaking and make it a powerful marketing tool.
2022 Year in Review
My year in review, featuring highlights as well as numbers, for a glimpse behind the scenes of a freelance editing business.
Report from the PageBreak Conference, October 2022
A write-up of the proceedings at PageBreak, a "next-generation" publishing conference, with ideas, tools, and strategies for self-publishing authors.
How do you read a novel?
Use my method to read and analyze novels in your genre to learn the writing craft secrets used by your favorite authors.
Advanced Zoom tips for editors
Tips and tricks for using Zoom to build connection with colleagues and clients.
How experienced novelists can use beta readers in the editing process
Learn how successful indie author Jane Steen, author of the House of Closed Doors Series and Scott-De Quincey Mysteries, uses beta readers as part of her revision process.
What’s the live version of your scene?
If you stepped away from the page or screen, with only the characters and situation in your memory, how would you rewrite your scene in a new way?
How to fix common point-of-view problems
How do you decide what point of view is best for your story, and how do you use point of view to deepen your reader’s engagement with your characters?
Get a fresh view of your novel with zoom-out questions
Construct questions that will help you see your novel in new ways.
How to spot plot problems
Learn how to spot possible plot problems in your novel and how to fix them.
Could your secondary characters be stars?
How to make sure your secondary characters are pulling their weight in your story.

