Sharpened Words

A hub for storytellers

How to use this blog

This blog is structured with a number system relating to the section or “unit” and the posts within that unit. The numbering system will go by unit:post number. So, 1.01 will be the first post in the character unit. Here’s some others I intend to explore:

1.00 Characters: We will tackle how to build a character from the ground up, including what makes for compelling protagonists, antagonists, supporting characters, romantic interests, and so on!

2.00 World Building: Every sci-fi/fantasy writer’s favorite. Let’s talk about how to craft coherent worlds with sound internal logic—and how to put your own spin on genre standards to make the setting pop.

3.00 Plot and Craft: The meat and bones of the story. Here we’ll tackle everything from plot arcs to pacing, povs and tense choice. Basically, all the moving parts that make your story.

4.00 Querying: Advice for those who have set their sights on traditional publishing. What to expect on this treacherous leg of the journey.

0.00 Hearthside: For posts that don’t quite fit into other categories. Pull a seat up to the fire and your friendly neighborhood editor will offer insight and advice on varying steps in the author’s journey.

While I will strive to stay somewhat on track with a given unit, my lizard brain will invariably stray. But variety is the spice of blogs and whatnot.

Recent Posts

  • Hearthside logo in pale orange. A simple drawing of a log fire with a text overlay of: 0.01

    0.01 Hearthside: On Feedback

    How to take and give feedback

  • bite sized beta logo: a simple candy in a wrapper on a purple background. The text overlay reads: B.01

    Bite Sized Beta 001: The Room

    Avoiding “White Room” syndrome

  • sharpened words logo

    1.02 Character Arcs

    From Point A to Point Z

Meet the Editor

Writer turned beta reader turned editor.

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