Neal Holtschulte's Writing Blog
Whenever you pose a binary question in your writing... Yes? No? Will they? Won't they? Victory? Or defeat? You have to resolve it one way or another. Looking for a "Yes but" or "No and" solution increases reader interest and can be used to develop character, raise stakes, and set up future conflict. https://youtu.be/xwg1ubFwcJw Writers:… Continue reading Spice up conflict with “Yes, but” or “No, and”
There are many different types of revision, but I'm focusing on two general categories here:Creative, expansive revision, in which scenes are fleshed out, broadened, and explored further.versusCritical, contractive revision, in which redundant and unnecessary elements are removed. https://youtu.be/iFgs59pWWJk She was impressed. He was smart. He knew what he was doing. Unpredictable, brave, stupid. Rena caught… Continue reading Did Not Finish: 2 Types of Revision
Talented and humble co-authors of Unrelenting, Marie Parks and Jessi Honard sit down with me to talk writing, inspiration, fan fiction, and Gant charts. What's not to love? https://youtu.be/T75kU-Ukhis Check the video description for links to particular time stamps. Unrelenting is available here: https://www.amazon.com/Unrelenting-Jessi-Honard-ebook/dp/B09VF5CKVZ/ Crew of Exiles is available here: https://www.amazon.com/Crew-Exiles-Neal-Holtschulte-ebook/dp/B0BH5BGGK9/
Brandon Sanderson is a prolific author of fantasy and science fiction. In this video I break down some of the most useful takeaways from his novel Steelheart. https://youtu.be/z8w8JHCu9mY If you are at all connected to the sci-fi fantasy community, especially as a writer, you are probably familiar with Brando Sando. He is an extremely prolific… Continue reading 6 writing tips from Brandon Sanderson’s Steelheart (no spoilers)
Unrelenting is a slick modern paranormal thriller with magic-in-plain-sight and a headstrong female protagonist in search of her sister. https://youtu.be/DooEsyqPFyg Bridget leaned out the open window of James' parked car, grateful for the fresh air. His car smelled like mildew and French fries. She tilted the side mirror so it showed the glass doors of… Continue reading Book Review: Unrelenting
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