Welcome to the Reading Room
Join us with a cuppa and settle in for expert writing advice, writing and publishing tips, book reviews, and your questions answered!
How do you get into a character’s head when writing fanfiction?
"I'm struggling to get into characters' heads. The fandom I write for has many different characters and I'm trying to keep them as canonical as possible. Are there any tips or techniques which can help?" Working in the sandbox of someone else’s world is one of the...
Finding Your Muse: Tips for Overcoming Writer’s Block
When you take on any writing project, you might find yourself stuck on a story point, unable to muddle through a character’s motivation, or be unsure about how to get from one scene to the next. It happens to every writer, but it doesn’t have to put a stop to your...
How do I turn an existing short story into a novel?
"I wrote a short story a while back that I really love, and I keep thinking about it. I feel like there's more to explore with these characters and this world. How do I go about expanding it into a full-length novel without just padding it out?" Many novels began...
Got a Question? Ask Novlr!
Want to know more about a certain aspect of writing or need more general advice or inspiration? We’re here to help!
What is lyrical prose and how do you use it effectively?
"I've been told my prose is 'too plain' and that I should make it more lyrical, but I’m not really sure what that means. Can you help?" Firstly, I want to start off by saying that using plain language is absolutely fine. Clarity should always be your aim when writing,...
How do you write a tragic backstory?
"I'm trying to write a backstory for my main character. She's supposed to have this really tragic past that explains why she's so closed off and distrustful, but every time I write it, it feels... fake? Like I'm just piling on sad things for no reason. How do I make...
How do you fix plot holes?
"Hello, I was writing my book and I realised that I had two plot holes that need fixing. I am not good at fixing plot holes so I tried to find something in the reading room about it but there was nothing there yet. Can you help?" Plot holes are a natural part of the...
