Adverbs – Part Three
The Dreaded LYs
When discussing adverbs in regards to writing fiction, the kind we’re usually talking about are the ly words – like clearly, dearly, and madly.
Many high-brow critics complain that the use of… Continue reading
Adverbs – Part Two
What Words Serve as Both Adjectives & Adverbs?
Yes, some words can serve as both adjectives and adverbs.
- He swung hard with a right hook.
Here, hard serves as an adverb which modifies the verb swung.
- When… Continue reading
Adverbs – Part One
What is an Adverb?
An adverb is a word that modifies a verb, an adjective, or another adverb.
Here’s some examples:
Adjective Form:
- happy
- clear
- close
- dear
- perfect
Adverb Form:
- happily
- clearly
- closely
- dearly
- perfectly
Of course,… Continue reading
Sentence Fragments – Stylistic Choice?
Should I Use Sentence Fragments?
Sentence fragments.
Who cares? You? Me?
Anyone?
Depends.
Writing nonfiction?
Probably wouldn’t.
Work, that is.
Writing fiction?
Could be.
Depends.
On what?
Style.
Active Versus Passive Voice
Engage Your Reader with Active Voice in Your Writing
While it has it’s uses – mostly in business writing – passive voice is considered weak and unappealing.
Technically speaking, voice is determined by the property of a transitive… Continue reading
Fine Tuning Your Manuscript – Part Two
The Three S's - Scene, Setting, and Senses
Stories don’t occur in a bubble.
They have to be set in a real and believable place. And what makes a scene or setting, is detail.
And what makes the… Continue reading
Fine Tuning Your Manuscript – Part One
You've Written "The End" - But Is Your Book Ready?
Okay, so you’ve finally reached the magic words, The End.
But is it really?
Are you done?
Have you really finished your book?
Chances are, you haven’t.… Continue reading