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 I effectively write foreshadowing?
"How do I write foreshadowing in a way that won't be noticed until you reread the scene?" When foreshadowing is done right it can be one of the most mind-blowing reader experiences. It’s so satisfying when a throwaway comment, or a tiny detail turns on its head and...
How To Get the Most Out of Your Writing Time
The dream of many writers is to make it a full-time profession. For full-time writers, it's easy to build and plan your day around your writing, but for those whose goals are different or whose lives do not lend themselves to writing only, it's critical to have a plan...
How do you start a prologue or first chapter?
"How do you write a prologue or first chapter? I want to start strong but don't know how." I don’t want to sound hyperbolic when I say that your opening is everything. It's your first chance to grab a reader's attention and convince them to keep reading. How you do...
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!
How do you research effectively?
"Hey do y'all have any resources for researching. Cause I have questions about things and I don't wanna end up on a watch list." The number of weird things I’ve Googled over the years would definitely raise a few eyebrows. I’m a professional historian alongside my...
How do you come up with great fantasy names?
"Hello, I want to know what are some ways to come up with names for a non-magical energy source that gives people elemental abilities? I've had a few names in mind, but I always feel like I could come up with something better. Can you please help me out?" Naming...
Are casual character actions necessary, or just clutter?
"How often should I describe a character's "casual actions"? For example, when two of my characters are talking, I'll add in little actions so the conversation isn't just full of dialogue tags. But then I go back and read it and realize I just made them cross/uncross...
