The Cartography of a Novel
In the last article, I mentioned that I do a lot of visual work when I prepare to write a novel, particularly maps. Ever since I was a child, I’ve…
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The Cartography of a Novel
Through the Eyes of the Syraestari
As I mentioned in one of my early articles, part of the reason I became an author is that I can’t draw. I see imagery in my head and, rather…
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Through the Eyes of the Syraestari
A Tome by Any Other Name
As I was doing research for my recent two articles on the creation of “Tears from Iron”, I also stumbled across some brainstorms regarding the book title. I thought I’d…
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A Tome by Any Other Name
Blocking a Novel
I’ve mentioned several times that I’m a discovery writer, but that doesn’t mean I write blindly. I have a basic plan before I begin. This gives me the basic plot,…
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Blocking a Novel
The Birth of “Tears from Iron”
As we begin a new year and look forward, I thought I’d look back instead. How is a story born? What are the moments that see its first formation in…
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The Birth of “Tears from Iron”
Writing is an Act of Faith
It has occurred to me this past week that writing fiction is an act of faith. Not being a detailed pre-plotter, I can’t say with absolute certainty that this is…
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Writing is an Act of Faith
Quotes: The Birth of Empire
This is my third article on the quotes that begin each chapter of “Tears from Iron.” You can find the other two articles here: Concerning Chapter Quotes Quotes: Memories of…
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Quotes: The Birth of Empire
Behind the Pages: Vitarria
It’s been a while since I last wrote a “Behind the Pages.” This stems, in part, from a desire for variety but also from my increased focus on the characters…
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Behind the Pages: Vitarria
Families & Fantasy
There is a dearth of families in fantasy. There are, of course, exceptions, but most of these are where said families and/or children are important to plot, character, or theme. …
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Families & Fantasy
Individuals, Society, Change, and Story
This article centers on a combination of seemingly disparate thoughts, so I ask for your patience as I bring them all together. The conclusion, I think, will be interesting.So the…
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Individuals, Society, Change, and Story