How to Avoid the First Draft Rewriting Trap in Your Fiction Novel

How to Avoid the First Draft Rewriting Trap in Your Fiction Novel

You sit down to write, but five minutes later you’re still staring at the same sentence—rewriting, deleting, rewriting again. You tell yourself you’re “just tweaking.” But deep down, you know what’s really happening: You’re stuck in perfection mode. It’s a trap. You know it, but can’t seem to stop. This week I’m breaking down why this happens and how to avoid it.

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How to Wield Narrative Drive to Make a Propulsive Story as a Fiction Writer
Writing Craft, Narrative Drive Stacy Frazer Writing Craft, Narrative Drive Stacy Frazer

How to Wield Narrative Drive to Make a Propulsive Story as a Fiction Writer

One of the most common things new writers struggle to harness—which is also the main issue I see with my clients’ developmental edits—is narrative drive. Or rather, the lack of it. It’s what makes readers invest in a character’s plight and keeps them turning the pages to find out what happens next and it’s crucial to a propulsive story. It’s a tough thing to learn to wield, but knowledge and practice are the keys to the kingdom, and I’m breaking it all down for you today.

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An Honest Story About a Writer Accomplishing Goals Inch by Inch

An Honest Story About a Writer Accomplishing Goals Inch by Inch

Ready or not, 2025 is knocking. I’m not sure if I want to answer, but of course, like you, I will, and I want to go forward with a plan. If you like a plan and want a little help creating one for the coming year, here’s a goal-setting exercise you can use to set intentions and mile markers for 2025. 

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