Novels demand more than ideas—they require structure, persistence, and the discipline to see a story through. These posts explore the full landscape of long-form storytelling: writing, publishing, marketing, and the realities of bringing a novel to readers, whether examining others’ work or my own.
When self-publishing a book, authors often neglect the importance of the interior font, which significantly impacts readability. Ideal fonts like Garamond, Georgia, Minion Pro, and Palatino enhance the reading experience by being legible and aesthetically pleasing. The right typeface builds trust with readers and supports immersion in the story.
Choosing the Right Font for Self-Published Books Read More »
I made it home. Sam didn’t stir as I entered. She was asleep—or pretending. The house was dark, cool, lifeless. The perfect opposite of where I’d been. I stood in the kitchen for a long time, letting the hum of the refrigerator fill my head. The clock ticked. My ears rang with leftover echoes. Nina’s
The Weight of Darkness: A Journey Home Read More »
The rope had dried where it had dug into my skin. Blood crusted against the fibres, flaking as I moved. Still tied, still seated, I offered Mitchell another example. “Solitary confinement,” I said. “Tasmanian prisons. Early 1800s.” He leaned forward, eager. “Yes… go on.” I explained the silence, the darkness, the prisoners led into church
Insights from Tasmanian Isolation Prisons Read More »
In the aftermath of a confrontation with Mitchell, Tony grapples with guilt and fear, haunted by his choices and silence. Alone with his thoughts, he refrains from seeking help, choosing instead to clean the blood on the floor, aware that protecting his family may mean concealing dark secrets that could threaten their future.
Silent Confessions: The Burden of Secrets Read More »
To create intrigue in fiction, authors should master information withholding. Techniques include starting with a mystery, layering secrets, employing unreliable narrators, and using foreshadowing. Ending chapters on cliffhangers also heightens suspense. The goal is to control curiosity, presenting a puzzle that compels readers to seek answers.
How to Hook Readers with Intrigue Read More »
Tony is confronted by a confessor of murder who skillfully avoids claiming responsibility, suggesting a fantasy figure, “The Beast,” is the culprit. As Tony grapples with this reality, he becomes increasingly uncertain, revealing his struggle to reconcile his role as a counselor with the chilling truth of having spoken to a killer.
Murder, Reality, and the Mind’s Truth Read More »
The storms stopped. So did the excuses. Without rain, I couldn’t justify leaving Sam. Couldn’t drive into the wet, say I was chasing lightning, and then detour to Nina. For two months, we had just one encounter. My drought returned. Hers too, though she never said it. I told her work had piled up. She
A Tale of Escape and Desire Read More »
Congratulations on completing your manuscript! Now that you’ve finished, it’s time to choose a title that will capture the essence of your story and attract potential readers. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect title for your book: Remember, your title is the first thing readers will see when they come across
Judging a Book By its Title! Read More »
On a sweltering Brisbane Christmas, the narrator arrives at Nina’s door, dripping with uncertainty. As she questions his delay, he reflects on his transformation during the stormy drive. What was meant as a gift turns into a complex exchange of emotions, suggesting change in their relationship and unspoken feelings.
Love and Regret in the Summer Heat Read More »
Chapter length is a crucial concern for contemporary novelists, with many opting for shorter, more engaging chapters to accommodate readers’ limited time. Chapters can mirror commute lengths, around 10 to 15 minutes of reading. While some narratives may require longer chapters, shorter ones are generally favored for their digestibility and appeal in a distraction-filled environment.
The Perfect Chapter Length: Writing for the Commuter Reader Read More »