Jordan K

Contributor

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.

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Recent posts

5 ways to start a story: Choosing a bold beginning

Great authors show us there are many ways to start a story. You could begin a novel with a narrator/character introducing himself, like Salinger's Holden Caufield or Dickens' David Copperfield. Or you could begin in the thick of action, as Ray Bradbury's does in his classic novel, Fahrenhei...

January 21st, 2024

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What makes a good story? 10 elements

What makes a good story? Understanding the key elements of a great story and what satisfies readers regardless of finer details (such as genre) will help you write a more successful book. We're satisfied when stories achieve certain effects, such as moving us, inspiring us to wonder. With the ad...

January 8th, 2024

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Direct vs indirect characterization: How to show and tell

Characterization describes the way a writer or actor creates or implies a character's personality, their inner life and psyche. Two main ways to reveal your characters are direct characterization and indirect characterization. What are these character creation techniques? Read on for examples of...

November 19th, 2023

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Rising action that grips readers: 10 epic climax tips

What is rising action in a story? How do you make the build-up to the climax gripping, saturated with tension? Rising action is core to impactful dramatic structure. Learn all about it and read ten ideas and examples to make your story gripping: What is rising action? 'Rising action' refe...

July 16th, 2023

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Writing science fiction: 8 ideas for quantum leaps in craft

Writing science fiction has many pitfalls. Jargon-filled language; cryptic abstraction. Read eight tips and ideas from sci-fi icons, from advice on learning the basics to the power of speculation, plus more: Sci-fi writing tips and ideas from icons of the genre What tips and ideas do sci-f...

July 10th, 2023

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Writing romance and love stories: Complete guide

What is romance? Terms and tropes Romance subgenres Writing romantic relationships Romance conflict and suspense Romance publishing Advice from romance authors Romance FAQs Writing romance and love stories places human relationships center stage. Read a complete guide...

July 2nd, 2023

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