Eggcorns … Is that Microwavable? I love words and the zany ways they can be interpreted, misinterpreted, misheard, misspoken, and slipped into a conversation without us even realizing it—as in eggcorns and mondegreens in the novel writing process. Let’s nip […]
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NEED WRITING TIPS?
Of course you do! Everyone can benefit from helpful writing tips, whether you’re an emerging author or veteran novelist! Get expert advice from a book editor, ghostwriter, blogger and content developer with decades of experience. I’ve worked with many authors, many genres and many publications, and became an gatherer of tips, myself! I love sharing information and welcome your comments. I’ll keep adding nuggets of wisdom to help clients and potential clients well into the future. Perhaps you’d like to share some, yourself! These writing tips are inspired by questions from the authors who trust me with their manuscripts, as well as the magazine assignments I chase. Got questions? Ask me and I’ll do my best to answer.
Manuscript Editing and Word Count
How Many Words Are “Just Right?” Manuscript editing involves much more than correcting grammar. A book editor should be familiar with various genres and know the ballpark word count recommended for each. I’m often asked, “How long should my nonfiction […]
Developmental Editing (Part Two of a Two-Part Series)
When Is Developmental Editing Necessary? If you’ve read Part One of this series, you already have a good idea about the developmental editing process. However, there’s more to cover as you research potential editors, hire your finalist, and embark on […]
Developmental Editor (Part One of a Two-Part Series)
What is a Developmental Editor? I’m often asked about my role as a developmental editor—what I do, why it matters, and if this service includes other forms of editing such as proofreading and line editing, or even substantive editing. This […]
From the Pros: On Better Writing
As an editor and writer, I make it a point to scope out the writing landscape. What’s going on in the world of words, and who’s sharing tips for better writing? Over the years I’ve stumbled across writing advice from […]
Favorite Writing Blogs, Style Guides and Books
Think writing is easy? Not so much! Creative writing is one thing, but writing for specific industries and institutions is another. One size does not fit all. As writers and editors, it’s great to have a stash of go-to writing […]
Financial Writer: Economic Snapshot
I’ve written and edited many business articles, but one of my favorites was for the suite of Lifestyles and Homes magazines in the Houston area. I love finance, economics and money saving information — I guess that would classify me […]
Lifestyle Writer: A Chat with Food Network’s Melissa D’Arabian
As a lifestyle writer and editor, I love conducting special interviews with amazingly talented people. With the holidays around the corner, it seems appropriate to share an article I wrote a few years back. Enjoy! A Chat with Food Network’s […]
Culture Writer: German-American Heritage Month
It’s fun being German-American culture writer, especially in October! I love writing about our traditions during this festive time of year. In honor of German-American Heritage Month I’m reposting an article I wrote for Katy Lifestyles & Homes back in […]
Writing About Special Olympics in Honor of Down Syndrome Awareness Month
Writing about Special Olympics: They Brought Home Bronze! Wow! This interview was such an uplifting experience, and I can’t believe it’s been six years since the article below was published in The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes magazine! In honor of […]