So, the decision to do a newsletter was a long deliberation before I decided to do it. I researched all that I could, signed up to EmailOctopus (free account), created a template and started working on content. Then I looked at all the work I still need to do before I die. I’m not beingContinue reading “Final decision – no newsletter”
Tag Archives: book
My first painting for 2025
My first acrylic of the year 80x60x2 cm – title, Wish Tree. I know, I’m slacking on the painting front. However, 41,802 words written for the second book of my new fantasy series. Book one out later this year as I’ve submitted it to 7 agents for representation. 3 have said no already, but comeContinue reading “My first painting for 2025”
Is a lost writer not a writer?
So, I’m learning the guitar. I’ve found a new console game that’s devouring my time. The element needs changing on the oven. There are twenty things with priority on my to-do list. So. I’m not writing much and when I do, it is only a few words, and the thread of the story is aContinue reading “Is a lost writer not a writer?”
Traditional Vs self-publishing
Nearly every writer wants a traditionally published novel or book. It’s considered an achievement of recognition for their skill and the years of effort they have put in. However, many self-published authors have succeeded too. Then there are the traditional authors that, with a publishing house, agent, and ghostwriters, have a top selling book butContinue reading “Traditional Vs self-publishing”
Want to stand out?
Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, but it’s a no-win position. Even if you succeed, you’ll be indistinguishable from all the other mimics out there. Develop your own style, whether that is as a writer or an artist. When you craft and create, find yourself. However, there is no magical tip, idea, trick, orContinue reading “Want to stand out?”
Writers have to write everyday
Many famous writers give this advice, but it’s wrong. However, writing regularly and improving your writing skills is a good habit to form. I need to write several times a week, otherwise I might lose the flow of my book. I have a life outside my writing and so cannot commit to every day, butContinue reading “Writers have to write everyday”
Writing and art – talent Vs skill
Most thoughts are that if you are not a genius or gifted at writing or art, then you will never be successful. Stephen King started practicing his craft before he was ten years old. Pablo Picasso started painting when he was seven. They practiced and did the doing. The more you write and create, theContinue reading “Writing and art – talent Vs skill”
Embrace failure as a writer and/or artist
One thing I agree with, that nearly all the successful writers say, is that you must learn to handle criticism, and face rejection and failure. Whether you’re rejected by an agent, fail to get a publishing deal, or have your stories, pitches, art, or poems rejected by publications, you must remember that failure is anContinue reading “Embrace failure as a writer and/or artist”
Show, don’t tell – mostly
Show, don’t tell is a narrative technique to allow the reader to experience the story through actions, words, thoughts, and senses, rather than through the author’s exposition, and description. It avoids adjectives describing the author’s analysis and instead describes the scene in such a way that readers can draw their own conclusions. But there areContinue reading “Show, don’t tell – mostly”
Traditional writing rules
Many famous authors tell us how to write, what rules to use, the do’s and don’ts to be a successful author and writer and we follow blindly. But always remember many famous authors broke many, many, of those rules and created a unique voice for themselves. Writing should be an art and not a formulaContinue reading “Traditional writing rules”
Andrew Sharp Fantasy Author 
You must be logged in to post a comment.