How writers can write complicated plots
Writing a complicated plot doesn't have to mean drowning in chaos. Hugo and Nebula Award-winner David D. Levine breaks down his unique "beads on a string" framework — a practical way to map cause and effect, manage multiple storylines, and decide what order to put scenes on the page. Whether you're a plotter or a pantser, these tips will help you take control of even the most tangled story.
Read More
Tips for writing in the Young Adult voice
Young Adult fiction is one of publishing's most powerful and misunderstood categories. Learn what truly defines the YA voice, who actually reads it, and how to write teen characters that feel authentic to today's readers.
Read More
Using conflict story beats for maximum impact
Conflict in fiction is more than fistfights and villains. It lives in every scene, shapes every character, and keeps readers invested from page one to the last.
Read More
Small-town settings to anchor your story
Bestselling legal thriller author Robin James shares her proven strategies for building small-town settings that feel like living, breathing characters in your fiction.
Read More
Is your romance novel too steamy?
Not sure how steamy your romance novel should be? From clean and wholesome to erotic romance, heat levels matter more than you think. Learn how to deliver the right emotional experience for your readers — and pick up five practical tips for writing love scenes that sizzle at any heat level.
Read More
What goes into a good cozy mystery novel
Mystery fiction generated approximately $1.2 billion in U.S. revenue in 2025 — and cozy mysteries are a big reason why. But writing a cozy that satisfies readers takes more than a dead body and a small town. USA Today bestselling authors Sara Rosett and Tonya Kappes break down the rules, rhythms, and secrets behind the genre's most beloved sub-genre.
Read More
Why do we find (some) stories satisfying?
The answer may surprise you. Here’s a peek behind the curtain of tropes and genre conventions. Why do some stories resonate with readers while others fall flat? Could be a lot of things. Scintillating plot. Great characters. Stellar writing and storytelling. But often, the reason comes down to an unexpected source: tropes. A trope is a recurring […]
Read More
Weaving historical research into a novel
Alessandra Torre talks with bestselling Historical Romance author Audrey Harrison about conducting research for your novel - and how to turn that research into stories that readers will love.
Read More
How to add humor to your novel
New York Times bestselling author Lucy Score discusses how she adds humor to her work – and share tips on how you can do the same for your own writing.
Read More
Should you write in multiple POVs?
Bestselling thriller author Melissa F. Miller discusses writing in multiple third person POVs.
Read More
Myths, fantasy and dark anti-heroes
Romantasy author Scarlett St. Clair, author of NYT bestseller "A Touch of Chaos" on writing dark anti-heroes
Read More
Writing as a hybrid author
Alessandra Torre and USA Today bestselling author Xio Axelrod discuss the benefits of being both self-published and traditionally published.
Read More