The creative writing blog

Louise Dean

Character agency is the ability to affect a plot, and its absence is one of the biggest reasons for agent rejections. Find out why it’s so vital!

Mahsuda Snaith

Try these three original character development exercises created by writing coach and author Mahsuda Snaith to write engaging, believable characters.

Dr. Stephanie Carty

Find out how to use the principles of psychology to create fully rounded characters in your novel.

The Novelry

What does character development mean? With our guide, you can write a great story by learning how to create novel characters who act in believable ways.

Louise Dean

Learn how to become a better writer by reading. We recommend the books you need to guide you, featuring The Novelry’s own Hero Book method.

Amanda Reynolds

Amanda Reynolds joins us as a writing coach of psychological thrillers and suspense. Here, she discusses getting published in her fifties and finding a writing community.

The Novelry

Learn how to start a story that hooks readers from the very beginning with these compelling writing tips from bestselling authors, editors, and publishers.

Tasha Suri

Are there rules on how to plot and plan a love story or a formula to follow? Follow the steps of great example novels in this guide to writing a romance story.

Katie Khan

Can creative writing be taught? It’s something many have pondered. Author, Katie Khan, who’s taken several creative writing courses, investigates their value.

Patrick Gale

Researching historical fiction is hugely important – but can you research too much? Bestselling author Patrick Gale shares his top tips and insights.

Tess Gerritsen

Is writing a novel without an outline madness, or sacrilege? International bestseller Tess Gerritsen doesn’t think so! Here, she shares her process.

Emylia Hall

Wondering how to write a murder mystery? Try these five top tips to connect with your characters, map your plot and lean into the questions raised as you write.