10 Things I Know About My Writing

Everyone else is doing it, so why can’t I?

1) No two projects are alike, and there’s no rhyme or reason as to what kicks your ass and what’s a breeze to work on. You may think you know what’s in store for you when you begin a book, but if you do it right, you have no idea.

2) If you’re bored, then the reader is too. Only write the interesting parts.

3) There is very little about any story that can’t be fixed by spending a lot of time thinking up a frickin’ incredible reason for why a character would do the thing you want her to do. There’s very little that can be fixed if you don’t have that reason.

4) Unless something extraordinarily cool happens while a character is walking/driving/otherwise transporting themselves from one location to another, don’t write that scene.

5) Ditto for all scenes describing personal hygiene activities.

6) Character is king. Character is queen. Character is jack, ten, and ace of spades. Concept is phenomenal, but it can only take you so far.

7) It’s a thousand times easier to write a new book than to sell a bad book.

8) Every time you think you’ve got this writing gig down pat, you’re in real trouble. Beware of complacency.

9) Every story is better with a little romance.

10) If all else fails, throw in an explosion. (Or a phone call.)

(PS: My book will be out in ninety days!!!)