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No Plot? No Problem! by Chris Baty (book review)

January 23, 2023 by Karin Beery Leave a Comment

You’ve always wanted to write, but . . . just haven’t gotten around to it. No Plot? No Problem! is the kick in the pants you’ve been waiting for.

Let Chris Baty, founder of the rockin’ literary marathon National Novel Writing Month (a.k.a. NaNoWriMo), guide you through four exciting weeks of hard-core noveling. Baty’s pep talks and essential survival strategies cover the initial momentum and energy of Week One, the critical “plot flashes” of Week Two, the “Can I quit now?” impulses of Week Three, and the champagne and roar of the crowd during Week Four. Whether you’re a first-time novelist who just can’t seem to get pen to paper or a results-oriented writer seeking a creative on-ramp into the world of publishing, this is the adventure for you.

So what are you waiting for? The No Plot? approach worked for the thousands of people who’ve signed up for NaNoWriMo, and it can work for you! Let No Plot? No Problem! help you get fired up and on the right track.


This book was recommended to me by another writer, so I picked it up to see what it’s about. I didn’t know anything about it before hand, so I didn’t realize it’s essentially a guide on how to succeed at NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month). Though the book is geared toward completing NaNoWriMo (writing 50,000 words in thirty days), this book could also be titled “How to Finish Your First Draft,” as the emphasis really is on finishing that first round of your book in all it’s terribly glory.

I know many people who do well plotting and outlining manuscripts for weeks (or months) before writing — this book isn’t for them. It’s for those writers who can’t seem to finish the first draft.

This book won’t tell you how to write well or how to create dynamic characters. The point is to simply FINISH THAT MANUSCRIPT! If that’s your biggest struggle, this is the book for you.

A couple of things worth mentioning:

  1. This really is written for people ACTIVELY writing 50,000 words/month. If you aren’t, then you can skip four chapters near the end (one for each week of a monthly writing spree).
  2. The font is a bit smaller than usual, which isn’t a huge issue, but I did find it hard to read the gray sidebars. Not only was the font smaller, but the thin letters on the gray page were hard to read. I skipped most of those as it wasn’t worth the effort to try to read them (younger people might not have that issue).

Overall, I would definitely recommend this to anyone struggling to finish their first draft. This truly is a book about how to get yourself to write 50,000 words/month, but it’s not going to help you write something coherent. (You’ll have to edit for that.)

Get your copy here!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Filed Under: book reviews Tagged With: book review, fiction writing, fiction writing tips, rough drafts, writing advice, writing tips

Writing Tips with Sharee Stover

January 3, 2023 by Karin Beery Leave a Comment

If you’re writing romantic suspense, you won’t want to miss today’s interview. Award-winning Love Inspired Suspense author Sharee Stover shares her tips, suggestions, and encouragement.

Welcome!

What is your favorite craft book?
Any of the thesaurus books from Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi are a MUST HAVE in my opinion.

Which do you think is the most underrated craft book? Why?
I’m unsure it’s underrated, but it’s one that I think is essential. GMC by Debra Dixon.

What is your favorite (or most anticipated) writers conference?
Writers Police Academy by far was my most favorite of all the conferences I’ve attended. 

What’s your favorite other source (YouTube, podcast, etc.) for writing tips/info?
I use YouTube, podcasts, newsletters, online classes, etc. and especially love any features with forensic specialists.

Who is your writing mentor/inspiration? Why?
I’ve been blessed with several wonderful mentors over the years who have prayed with me, critiqued my work, and offered wisdom in my writing journey. I appreciate candidness, but also love having their kind support on those super rough days.

What’s the worst writing advice you’ve ever received? Why was it bad?
I can’t say I’ve ever had bad writing advice.

What’s the best writing advice you’ve ever received?
Learn craft. It’s important to understand the rules before you go breaking any of them if you choose to do so.

What would you say is the best writing tip for new authors?
Get involved with writing groups and attend conferences. There’s a great wealth of information out there. Use it!

What is your best self-editing tip or advice?
I always do an audio read through of my books. Our minds can tend to fill in anticipated words even if they’re missing from the page. Hearing the words helps me to filter out typos or missing information as well as listen to the characters’ dialogue interactions.

Please share your most encouraging tip for frustrated/discouraged writers.
Pray before you start, while you’re writing, and when you’re finished. A rejection letter isn’t the end of your journey. It’s a part of the process, see it as a learning opportunity. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a short break, then start again. Never give up. Never give in. Writing is tough. But there’s so much involved in the journey beyond a published book. Be willing to learn. Nobody knows it all.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

Thank you for the wonderful opportunity to join you today!


Proving his innocence may cost him his life…

After a brutal attack, US marshal Riker Kastell regains consciousness only to find a murdered gang member in his mudroom. Even worse, Eliana Daines—his ex-sweetheart—has a DNA program that pinpoints him as the murderer. And Eliana’s technology has them both targeted by criminals.

Now he and his K-9 must protect Eliana…and find the killer who looks just like Riker before they become the next victims.


Award-winning, Publisher’s Weekly Best-Selling author, Sharee Stover transplanted from Colorado to the Midwest where she lives her happily-ever-after with her real-life-hero husband and three wonderful children. A self-proclaimed word nerd, she loves the power of the written word to ignite, transform, and restore. She writes Christian romantic suspense combining heart-racing, nail-biting suspense, and the delight of falling in love all in one. Sharee also enjoys reading, crocheting, and long walks with her obnoxiously lovable German Shepherd. Visit her at www.shareestover.com.

Website: https://shareestover.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/shareestover
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorshareestover/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shareestover/
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/sharee-stover
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/shareestover
Amazon Author Page: https://amazon.com/author/shareestover
Newsletter: https://bit.ly/3PgASBB

Filed Under: interview Tagged With: author interview, Love Inspired Suspense, romantic suspense, writing a book, writing advice, writing fiction, writing tips

The Essential Books on Writing Boxed Set by Bryn Donovan

October 29, 2022 by Karin Beery Leave a Comment

Get all three books for writers in one collection perfect for novelists, screenwriters, short story writers, and National Novel Writing Month enthusiasts!

From editor, author, and writing coach Bryn Donovan, you’ll turn to these essential tools on writing again and again to write faster, write more, and write your best work yet.

5,000 Writing Prompts
Blurb: Creative writing prompts for many genres, including fantasy, science fiction, mystery, thriller, romance, young adult, and poetry, as well as prompts for writing about yourself, blog writing, and more. Use it for your work in progress or for a good way to free your imagination from writer’s block!

Master Lists for Writers
Blurb: A reference book and thesaurus designed to make the writing process go more quickly by offering lists for common writing elements…from facial expressions and physical descriptions to conflicts, plots, and character names. Please note that Master Lists for Writers does include adult content for romance writers.

Review: I’m reviewing these two together because I had the same thoughts about both. Here you go:

These books are everything the titles promises: THOUSANDS of ideas on a variety of lists to help motivate and inspire any writer. Whether your a newbie who needs an idea of how to get started or a veteran who needs a fresh idea, you can’t open this book without finding something to inspire you.

(There are some formatting issues, but if you can look past those, this book will get your creativity flowing.)

Blank Page to Final Draft
Blurb: a step-by-step handbook to prep for, write, and edit a novel from with either getting published traditionally or successful self-publishing in mind. It contains help with pacing, dialogue, character development, and more. Even if you’re in the middle of writing a draft, it can provide clarity and a guide for revision.

Review: This was a very different type of writing book. IMO, it’s more of a motivational book than craft book, and I can see it being the go-to book for new writers because of it’s step-by-step approach.

Donovan’s book includes lots of tips and advice, but it’s value isn’t in teaching you fiction-writing techniques (though there are several discussed); it’s value is in walking you step-by-step through writing a novel. Like the title says, it starts with a blank page and gives you the steps you need to finish your first draft.

If you need to strengthen your POV or showing skills, I wouldn’t recommend this book, but if you’re not sure how to start your novel–or you keep starting novels without ever finishing them–I wouldn’t hesitate to pass this along. Donovan’s info and tone are perfect for the struggling, discouraged writer who needs an experienced cheerleader.

Get your boxed set here!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Filed Under: book reviews Tagged With: book reviews, fiction writing, fiction writing tips, writing advice, writing books, writing fiction, writing prompts, writing tips

How I Write: Carol Stratton

April 12, 2021 by Karin Beery 1 Comment

Like many writers, Carol Stratton doesn’t limit herself to one niche. She also sometimes wonders what she’s doing! Today, she’s here to tell us how she does it and to share some writing advice.

Welcome! Why did you pick your genre?

I do wonder why I write, especially on those days when nothing exciting comes out of my fingers but jumbled up plot points, dull dialogue, and flat characters. The reward comes when a reviewer says, “This book forced me to look closer at my life,” or “I learned about forgiveness in this story.” These readers encourage me to push on in spite of the hard work. Stories have a way of crawling up into a reader’s soul, able to teach truth (often more effectively than non-fiction). I view my writing as a ministry and find joy when readers catch the spiritual values I weave into my work.

 What’s your favorite book on writing? What do you like about it?

Other than some of the basics like Stephen King’s On Writing, and Elements of Style, I love anything written by James Scott Bell. At my first writing conference, I took a fiction writing class from him and so much of his advice stayed with me. When I read his books I can hear his voice talking to me. His books on Plot and Structure and How to Write Dazzling Dialogue are exceptionally helpful. In addition, he is a fun read.

What conference do you most want to attend? Why?

Well, I’d love to attend the Mount Hermon conference in California. As I grew up around that area, I have happy memories of attending conferences at Mt. Hermon, including becoming a Christian at a Young Life conference. To combine spending a few days in the redwood trees with studying writing … now that would be heaven.

How do you combat writer’s block?

I find taking a break and doing something physical helps to jump start my brain. Doing a mindless task allows my mind to wander. And often a walk is another way to sort out a problem scene.

If you’re self-published, why did you decide to go that route? If you’re traditionally published, why did you decide to go that route?

I decided early in my career I wanted to be traditionally published as it seemed a way to get my stories out to more people. In traditional publishing you have editors who critique your work and make sure your writing is the best it can be. In addition, the traditional publisher offers more marketing support. With Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas I also found a strong camaraderie among the authors as we all helped each other get out the word about any new books. Writing is a lonely endeavor, but having that tribe of other authors has made such a difference. I think without some of my friends I would have quit a long time ago.

I did I self-published a children’s Christmas book last October. I’ve always wanted to write a Christmas book and it seemed like the perfect time. I enjoyed the process of picking out a cover and finding an illustrator. It stretched my creativity as I helped the artist envision my characters. Several times she came up with the perfect picture and I thought, “Oh yeah, that’s exactly how my character looks.

What’s surprised you the most about the publishing process? Why did it surprise you?

My biggest surprise came from other authors. I have been so blessed to have made friends with other writers who choose to spend their valuable time encouraging, praying and supporting me with any new book. In turn, I’ve tried to be a cheer leader for their projects.  Often family and friends don’t understand the grueling time, the rejection that is needed to complete a book, so talking over issues and celebrate victories with my writing buddies refreshes me.

I’ve been to secular conferences where the competitive vibe is palpable. Other authors are seen as opponents in a rush to get that coveted contract. But in the Christian community I’ve found a different attitude as we are all trying to do the Lord’s work.

What advice do you have for new authors?

New authors have unrealistic, romantic notions about writing. The truth is writing is hard work with lots of rewrites and rejections. I tell prospective writers not to put “Write a book” on their bucket list unless they understand the time commitment needed to become published. But then I say, “If you can’t not write, you have a writer’s heart.” Some of us are born with a God given desire to communicate, whether through the written or spoken word and we have to follow that path.

How do you self-edit your manuscript?

After I’ve finished a rough draft, I close down my computer and take a break. I may not even write anything for a few weeks while my story marinates. When I come back to review my manuscript I am able to look more objectively at my story and can find it’s horrifyingly awful.  After fixing some formatting issues and running spellcheck a second time, I print a clean copy, find a cozy armchair and read what I have. I don’t make changes right away but I do read to see if the plot moves well and the characters are well developed. I may insert notes such as, (need an extra scene here) or (this plot point doesn’t make sense) At this point I am working on the main plot.

After I’m satisfied and fixed my plot and beta reader, I print up another clean copy and examine word choices, setting, and dialogue. I’ve found sitting and reading an actual piece of paper helps me focus and see errors better than when I am editing on my lap top.


A novelist, reporter, and freelancer, Carol has penned 500 articles and two books, Changing Zip Codes, and the award-winning debut novel, Lake Surrender (inspired by her work with autistic students). The sequel to Lake Surrender, Deep End of the Lake, is now available.

An avid hiker and baker she also speaks to women’s groups such as Mothers of Preschoolers. Married to her literary muse, John, they have four children and eight grandchildren and reside in Clemmons. She loves to encourage new writers and readers who have moved.

Website: carolgstratton.com
Facebook: Carol Grace Stratton
Pinterest: Carol Stratton
Twitter @Carolgstratton
Instagram CarolStratton51


Parenting a rebellious teen and autistic son, satisfying a demanding boss, and learning to love again, single mom Ally Cervantes learns when you’re in the deep end of the lake you’d better know how to swim.

Filed Under: interview Tagged With: author interview, Carol Stratton, James Scott Bell, writing advice, writing tips, writing tools

How I Write: Beth Steury

November 16, 2020 by Karin Beery 1 Comment

Did You Know …

Getting your first book published is thrilling, but the work doesn’t stop there. You have to keep writing, keep growing, and keep working hard.

Beth Steury’s here to talk about her writing strategies, her decision to self-publish, and her advice to new writers.

Welcome! How do you prepare to write your books: pantser, plotter, both, something completely different? Describe your strategy.

I think I’m a “plantser,” a combination of pantser and plotter. I definitely did not create detailed outlines for my YA series, but I did have a solid idea where the plot would go for books one and two. For the final book in the series, see the next question!

Which was harder: the first book or the following books?

Book three is proving to be the hardest. While the first two books came together with relative ease, the final book is presenting more of a challenge. I recently heard a well-known, much-published author admit, in reference to her current work-in-progress, “the plot is eluding me.” That’s me and book three! I love my characters and their journey. And I will persevere.

You’re self-published. Why did you decide to go that route?

I had interest from traditional publishers for my YA series, but when two different publishers ceased their fiction line while reviewing my full manuscript, I felt led to pursue indie publishing.

What’s surprised you the most about the publishing process?

While there is a fairly-steep learning curve involved in taking on the role of publisher, the reality proved to be easier than I anticipated. I entered the world of indie publishing with fear and trembling, so much so that I nearly talked myself out of taking the plunge. Discovering the Facebook group Christian Indie Authors proved to be incredibly helpful. It’s a great resource for information as well as support and encouragement.   

How did you find your freelance editor? How would you describe the experience?

I have worked with two freelance editors, both of whom I met through connecting and networking opportunities associated with American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). I think the best descriptors would be “valuable” and “worthwhile.” I feel I benefited, as did my series, from both experiences. My goal to produce a quality book/series was greatly aided by both of these experienced professionals.  

How do you self-edit your manuscript?

I begin each writing session by reviewing that I last wrote. I find that a stronger verb or more detailed noun will often immediately come to mind during this very initial stage of editing. Two major concerns of mine, consistent characterization and story flow, usually each get a dedicated edit. Typically, the all-important beginning and ending gets tweaked many times.

What conference do you most want to attend? Why?

I would have loved to attend the Mount Hermon Writers Conference, but I understand the conference has been permanently cancelled. Possibly the Write-to-Publish Conference in Wheaton, Illinois then. In general, I adore writers’ conferences! I relish the time spent with fellow writers. I love immersing myself fully in the writing world. I love how the conference experience allows me to focus only and fully on writing. A friend and I tucked ourselves away in a lake house to attend this year’s online ACFW Conference, to more fully capture the conference experience.

What advice do you have for new authors?

WRITE.

It doesn’t matter what you write or how well you write, simply write. Take advantage of every possible writing opportunity whether it be for the Women’s Ministries newsletter, the family Christmas letter, the neighborhood watch fundraiser flier. Explore topics and styles and genres. Try to discover what works best for you: daily word counts, timed writing sessions, legal pad scribbling, note-taking apps on your phone or a laptop. If turning the weekly grocery shopping list into a poem sounds fun, go for it.

Just WRITE.


Beth immerses herself in the YA world via substitute teaching, connecting with the teenage staff at the fast-food joint where she claims the back booth as her office, and reading YA fiction.

She’s a cheerleader for saving sex for marriage. Her “Waiting Matters … Because YOU Matter” blog helps people of all ages navigate the choppy waters of saving sex for marriage and “renewed waiting.” In her “Choices Matter” YA series, a relevant cast of high school-aged characters face real life choices and consequences in the often-messy, rarely simple world of friendship, family matters, and dating relationships. The mini books of the “Waiting Matters” series offer practical, candid advice for making wise life decisions. 

Beth is also a genetic genealogy enthusiast who used DNA to find her birth parents. Her journey to find and connect with her biological family is chronicled in “A Doorstep Baby’s Search for Answers”. Her “Slices of Real Life” posts find GOD in the day-to-day moments of real life. All of Beth’s writing endeavors can be found on her website at https://bethsteury.com

Facebook:       Beth Steury, Author
Twitter:           @Beth_Steury
Pinterest:         Beth Steury, Author
Goodreads:      Beth Steury, Author
Amazon:          Amazon Author Page

Filed Under: interview Tagged With: author interview, Beth Steury, indie publishing, self-publishing, writing advice, writing fiction, writing tips, YA fiction

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ABOUT ME

Editor. Teacher. Novelist.
A passionate lover of fiction, Karin doesn't just write novels, she helps others write their best stories! A certified substantive editor with the Christian Editor Connection, her goal is to help authors to put her out of business by equipping them with the tools they need to become better writers.

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