Stop Apologizing for Fantasy Tropes. Make Them Work Instead!
I’m going to say something that might ruffle a few feathers in certain writing circles: tropes are not the enemy. Michael and I have been building the World of Menelon since 1994, and I can tell you with absolute certainty that What God Has…
Apple Books vs Amazon KDP: A Guide for Indie Fantasy Authors
Indie fantasy authors have a lot to consider when they publish. In this post we break down the major differences between choosing Apple Books vs Amazon KDP.
Timeless or Tired? The Alluring Secrets of the Hero’s Quest
What exactly makes the hero's quest trope so enduring? And how do modern writers keep it fresh amidst a sea of traditional fantasy? Fantasy writers are reinventing quests in imaginative ways that surprise and engage today’s audiences.
Use These 5 Tips to Master Character-Driven Fiction
In character-driven fantasy fiction storytelling the characters drive the plot. It may seem obvious, but there are subtleties that aren't always clear.
How to Co-Author a Book With Your Spouse (Without Divorce)
When people discover that Michael and I write books together, the reactions split fairly predicably between two camps...
When Words Feel Heavy: How to Write Through Depression
The goal isn’t to overcome depression to become a better writer, but to learn to write alongside it, with compassion for yourself and respect for your unique creative process.
Welcome Back – to the Dark Side: Exposing AI-Driven Book Marketing Scams
Hi all, Alesia here. I’ve come back refreshed after a hiatus from professional writing, excited about the upcoming stories from Menelon. As you have probably seen, we are indie authors working on a new character-driven “romantasy” series. And we are…
The Bad Writing Habits the Internet Wishes You’d Stop
Today’s writers and authors have to learn how to wear many hats in order to get their words in front of readers, but in my view, the worst is editing. I hate editing. I really do. Michael says I’ve got a good eye for it, and maybe…
How Do You Know If You’re A Writer?
How do you know if you’re a writer? It’s the question every writer asks themselves. I don’t know one who hasn’t, at some point in the struggle to get words on paper, just thrown down the pen or chucked the keyboard at the wall in…
For Your Action-Packed Weekend: Is Writer’s Block Real?
A link to a roundup of quotes from published authors, who have opinions about the question: Is writer's block real?