Now Novel
Jordan Kantey is an editor, writer and writing workshop facilitator. He’s been helping authors develop their stories for ten years. He achieved his Honours in English Literature with distinction from the University of Cape Town. He has had poems published in several journals and an anthology. He blogs about writing craft and process at Now Novel and loves to help aspiring authors reach their goals.
Character profiles are helpful process work for writing. A profile contains all you need to know about your characters; ID facts such as name, age, gender, birthplace, plus story elements such as characters’ goals, motivations, desires, and conflicts. Read how to write character profiles in 10, simple tips:
Writing the middle of a novel has its own unique challenges. You need to develop your story further after your engrossing start and set in place the build to the end. The curse of the ‘sagging middle’ can’t take hold. Read 9 tips on how to write the middle of a story and get it right:
Seeking writing inspiration? Read 10 writing prompt ideas drawn from top authors’ novels, books on writing, interviews, essays and blog posts:
A ‘hook’ in a story promises intrigue, entertainment and answers to the questions it raises. Far from the trickery of a bait and switch, a hook gives a true sense of what your reader can expect of your story’s pleasures. Explore great story hook examples and what they teach us about starting strong:
Learning how to make your writing stand out in a crowded digital marketplace or physical library is key to building your audience. Here are 8 branding tips to help you deliver a dependable author brand:
What is diction in writing? It is the effect that writing creates due to word choice and other elements of style such as register (formal vs casual) and connotation. It’s the choices that make a ‘posh’ voice read posh, for example. Here are simple ways to use it to create personality in your stories and vivid voice, with examples of diction from fiction:
Looking for the kind of story ideas romance directors dream of? You could grow your idea from a ‘meet cute’ scenario. Or find what drives a natural (or unlikely) duo’s mutual attraction. Try these 8 simple steps to develop a memorable romantic story or arc:
Indie author and corporate blockchain educator Kate Baucherel shares insights on writing future technology books. Learn more about writing tech fiction vs non-fiction, being accessible on technological subjects, and more.
Learn how to start a fantasy story and create intrigue. Read examples from great fantasy novelists, plus the insights they share:
