Welcome to the Reading Room
Join us with a cuppa and settle in for expert writing advice, writing and publishing tips, book reviews, and your questions answered!
Writing About Love in a Way That Rings True
Writing about love can be tricky. Love is universal. It's something almost all of us can identify with, in one way or another, and that's probably the thing that makes it the hardest to capture. It's extremely easy to spot love that doesn't ring true in a story, which...
Is there a process for writing a novel?
"Is there a process for writing a novel, or does everyone just figure out what works for them? I feel like I’m making it up as I go and wondering if that’s normal." This is a question that writers, especially new writers, ask across the board. Is there a process, a...
Why We Need To Talk About Adverbs
I've been reading a book lately and the first chapter had me question the way I write and edit my work. I wanted to share with you a little about what I have come to learn: that we need to talk about adverbs. The road to hell is paved with adverbs Stephen King, On...
Got a Question? Ask Novlr!
Want to know more about a certain aspect of writing or need more general advice or inspiration? We’re here to help!
What is the difference between plagiarism and inspiration?
“My newest book idea is inspired from a graphic novel duology, especially the second one. However, I’m afraid the stories are becoming too similar. Several elements are the same, and some are heavily inspired. (Most aren’t figured out yet, I’m in the early stages)...
How do you build and maintain tension?
“Anyone have any advice on how to build and maintain tension? I just read through an old story, and my tension is… nonexistent at best” We’ve all experienced that all-encompassing focus that comes from being sucked into a really great book. One that keeps you at the...
How do you respectfully portray alcoholism?
“This may seem like a weird question, but any tips for writing an alcoholic character?She's the queen of a rather unstable kingdom in a Graeco-Roman inspired fantasy setting and uses wine to cope with stress caused by the political circus and personal things, and her...
