The Writing & Self Publishing Blog
Guides, tools, and strategy to help you sell more books.
How to Outline Your Book: A Step-by-Step Guide for New Writers
So—you’ve got a brilliant idea for your book. You’ve done your research, brainstormed your characters, maybe even made a few Pinterest boards (no judgment here—we’ve all been there). Now you’re staring at a blinking cursor, wondering…
“Okay… how do I actually start writing this thing?”
How to Research and Brainstorm Your Book Idea: The First Step to Writing a Story That Lasts
Every finished novel starts the same way: with a flicker of an idea.
But turning that flicker into a fully developed story? That takes intention, inspiration, and a little bit of strategy.
Whether you’re a plotter, a pantser, or somewhere in between, the research and brainstorming phase of writing a book is where the real magic begins. In this post, we’ll break down how to turn that “what if?” moment into a powerful foundation for your story—with examples, tools, affiliate resources, and helpful tips to guide you from blank page to story plan.
Everything You Need to Know to Publish Your Book with Confidence
Thinking about self-publishing your book but not sure where to start? This beginner-friendly guide walks you through every step of the process—from editing and formatting to choosing the right platforms and launching your book like a pro. If you're ready to take control of your publishing journey, this is the roadmap you need.
How to Write a Strong Opening Chapter That Hooks Your Reader
Let’s be honest—first chapters are make-or-break territory.
Your reader picks up the book, flips open to page one… and within minutes, they’ve already decided: Am I in or am I out?
Show, Don’t Tell: The Golden Rule of Writing (And How to Actually Do It)
If you’ve ever taken a writing course, read a craft book, or gotten feedback from an editor, you’ve probably heard the phrase: “Show, don’t tell.”
But what does that actually mean?
It’s one of the most important (and misunderstood) rules in fiction writing. And today, we’re going to unpack it—clearly, thoroughly, and with real examples—so you can start using this technique to make your stories come alive.
Writing Dialogue That Feels Real
Let’s be honest—writing dialogue seems easy until you actually sit down to do it. Then suddenly every conversation sounds either painfully stiff or like a confusing jumble. Great dialogue does more than fill space—it reveals character, builds tension, and moves the plot forward.
So how do you write dialogue that feels real while still serving a purpose? Let's break it down together.
How to Structure Your Story Like a Pro
So—you’ve got a killer idea for a story. Maybe it came to you in the shower, or at 2 a.m. when your brain refused to sleep. But now you’re staring at a blinking cursor, wondering: Where do I even begin?
Don’t worry. That feeling is totally normal.
How to Create Characters Your Readers Will Fall in Love With
Have you ever closed a book and genuinely missed the characters? Maybe even wished they were real friends you could call up or meet for coffee? We’ve all been there! Great characters linger in our minds long after we've turned that final page.
The Secret Recipe to Crafting a Page-Turning Plot
Ever read a book you literally couldn't put down? You glance up, notice it's 3 am, and promise yourself, "just one more chapter!" That's the power of a truly captivating plot. As writers, we all dream of hooking readers like that—but what's the secret recipe?