Strong stories need a plot, a setting, and most importantly, engaging characters. Agents and editors will tell you that all stories are character-driven. However, if your characters are stereotypes, one-dimensional, or predictable, the reader will soon...

In this webinar, "How To Overcome Writer's Block and Write a Novel Fast," join professional writer Michael Ashley as he reveals ways to overcome writer’s block and successfully write your novel. Five powerful mindset hacks are presented to stir creativity...

People don’t always say what they mean or mean what they say. That’s true in real life and in fiction. Dialogue is not only about what is being said, but also about what is left unsaid. That is the playing field of narration: it shows us how people interact...

You are now a couple of months into writing your novel and the deadline for your first draft is quickly approaching – what’s your plan to get it done? Do you feel behind and need some advice on how to catch up? Are you struggling with how to end your...

Write everywhere about everything on anything you can find. Write. Just write. Don’t wait, write. Write from who you are. Write about what you do. Write when you want to, write when you don’t want to. Write now, write then. Write notes while...

Books and speaking are not only great pipeline strategies, but are also excellent revenue streams. Cathy Fyock (The Business Book Strategist) has teamed up with Lois Creamer (Book More Business) in their new book, The Speaker Author , to help you leverage...

In fiction, plot is defined as the series of events (action) that make up a story. Most plots follow a structure known as Freytag’s triangle, which has five basic elements: Exposition/Introduction Inciting Incident Rising Action Climax Denouement...

The term “plot” is used as one of the three cornerstones of creating a fictional story: 1) Characters, 2) World, and 3) Plot. Starting from the definition of what a plot is, fiction author Valerie Willis dives into how genres play a part in plot development...

Many authors dream of having their books placed on the shelves of big box stores such as Wal-Mart, Target, and Costco, or front and center in airport stores across the country. But, is this dream even feasible, especially for self-published or indie...

One of the best ways to build your author business, sell books, and expand your thought-leadership is by speaking about your nonfiction book's topic. This session, led by veteran speaker and Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) Cathy Fyock, will help...