You know what a scene that lacks context feels like, even if you can’t quite put your finger on it. You’re immersed in a new book and you turn the page to a new scene when suddenly, the author has switched setting or timeline without specifying. You’re jarred out of [...]
As a writer, reading inside your genre is essential for understanding your market and becoming an expert in what you write. But reading outside your genre is just as important for developing a well rounded sense of writing and story. You'll begin to notice storytelling patterns in other genres, maybe [...]
“If you don't have time to read, you don't have the time (or the tools) to write. Simple as that.” - Stephen King Good writers read, both in our genres and outside them—and it's important to read through the eyes of a writer. Inevitably, when you do this, you'll notice [...]
This post/page contains affiliate links. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. Golden May will only ever recommend products or services that we fully stand behind! Thanks for your support. Good characters have agency. Agency is the drive and capacity to make choices. [...]
This post/page contains affiliate links. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. Golden May will only ever recommend products or services that we fully stand behind! Thanks for your support. A story that sticks with us is one with a strong point—a [...]
Okay, writers. Time for some real talk. Have you ever felt like the words you’re writing don’t translate what’s actually in your head? Like your story is getting lost even as you type? Or perhaps you’ve finished a manuscript (woo!), but feel entirely overwhelmed because you know something isn’t working, yet [...]
Great scenes build an exhilarating push and pull between a story’s plot and characters. Plot events drive characters to make choices, and their choices in turn shape future plot events. This wave of tension locks in readers, compelling them to read chapter after chapter. With the 15 key elements in this guide, you can claim this page-turning power as your own! We’ve included two analyzed, annotated scenes to show you how it all works.
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