The creative writing blog

Polly Ho-Yen

Struggling with imposter (also known as “impostor”) syndrome as a writer? Discover why self-doubt is normal—and learn practical ways to build confidence, stay motivated, and keep writing!

Natasha Qureshi

Discover what defines dystopian fiction, from its core themes of power and control to iconic novels like 1984 and The Handmaid’s Tale. A practical guide for readers and writers.

The Novelry

Breaking the fourth wall, secret codes, messages in maps. Authors have relished including “Easter eggs” for their readers in their works—we look at some of the most fun meta references across literature, from Game of Thrones to Alice in Wonderland.

Libby Page

What makes readers cry—and why do we love it? Discover how to craft deeply moving stories with The Novelry writing coach Libby Page’s expert tips on emotion, character, and unforgettable weepy book moments across literature.

Jasmine Richards

Jasmine Richards, author and founder of the inclusive fiction studio Storymix, examines the ongoing importance of celebrating diverse stories from different cultures in children’s books and children’s fiction.

Nic Caws

A Big Five editor weighs up the pros and cons of writing your novel in past tense or present tense, and what this could mean for the style of your story, plot, and characters.

The Novelry

From Anne of Green Gables to Lyra from His Dark Materials, we asked The Novelry team to tell us about standout female fictional characters and literary feminist icons across the decades for International Women’s Day.

Mahsuda Snaith

As a writer, do you prefer to collaborate with others or go it alone? Learn how to set up a writing group, discover existing ones online, or simply hear the case for why a writing group could help you. Perhaps a creative community is exactly what you need to help your book flourish.

Urban Waite

What is the premise of your story? What are the stakes your main character must encounter? Learn how to nail a great premise for the novel you're writing—and how to mold that idea or concept into something attention-grabbing.

Lizzy Goudsmit Kay

Discover why your book needs a “big idea” to apply pressure to your story, and take part in The Big Idea Challenge at The Novelry in March 2026.

Emily Kitchin

Sports romance books are having a moment. Here’s why locker-room love stories are booming and what writers can learn about passion, pressure, and payoff.

Libby Page

How does book club fiction shape reading culture? Discover the core elements that help certain books get picked with these practical tips for writers.