Writing Advice with Donna Schlachter
What is your favorite writing craft book?
The First 50 Pages by Jeff Gerke was a mainstay for me for the first few years I was writing. I used it like a workbook.
Which do you think is the most underrated writing craft book? Why?
The Flip Dictionary, because I think most writers think it’s just another dictionary, and we can find that online. However, The Flip Dictionary helps you look up words when you know what the item is, but you can’t remember the word for it. It is also a great thesaurus, giving plenty of words for a thing with wheels you push, for example.
What is your favorite (or most anticipated) writers conference?
Writers’ Police Academy. I’ve been once, and want to go again.
What’s your favorite other source (YouTube, podcast, etc.) for writing tips/info?
I prefer asking my online groups for advice, unless I need something simple, like a template.
Who is your writing mentor/inspiration? Why?
Agatha Christie. Her mysteries are excellent, deep but not confusing.
What’s the worst writing advice you’ve ever received? Why was it bad?
“Nobody wants to read about accountants. Accountants are boring.” That was the response to my first appointment at my first writing conference about my cozy mystery series. I was in tears. But I persevered, and many readers have enjoyed that series since.
What’s the best writing advice you’ve ever received?
Never quit. Famous words by Sir Winston Churchill, that when I hear them, he’s speaking. Nevah quit. Nevah, nevah quit.
What would you say is the best writing tip for new authors?
Never quit, but be teachable. That requires humility to admit we don’t know it all. Fact is, we never will.
What is your best self-editing tip or advice?
Get a good grammar program. I use ProWritingAid.
Please share your most encouraging tip for frustrated/discouraged writers.
Get help. Don’t let frustration or discouragement win. They are tools of the enemy of our souls and our calling.
Tell us about your newest release/upcoming release.
Hearts of Midway is set in Midway Station, Nebraska Territory in 1860. Here’s the blurb: Missing cattle. A sheriff's daughter with a nose for mystery and a penchant for wearing trousers. And a Pony Express rider with a secret.
A hybrid author, Donna writes squeaky clean historical and contemporary suspense. She has been published more than 60 times in books; is a member of several writers’ groups; facilitates a critique group; teaches writing classes; and judges in writing contests. She loves history and research, traveling extensively for both, and is an avid oil painter. She is taking all the information she’s learned along the way about the writing and publishing process and is coaching committed career writers.
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