by Rachel D. Russell, @RDRussellWrites “Mom, what’s your question?” I interjected, as gently as possible, when she paused to take a breath. The light on my multi-line phone base had been blinking …
Six Tips for an Unforgettable First Line
by Rachel D. Russell, @RDRussellWrites By the time your reader opens your novel, it’s already passed the front cover and back-blurb tests. Next up? Win the reader with a hard-hitting, attention-grabbing, tell-me-more …
3 Tips to Optimize Your Pre-contract Writing Life
by Rachel D. Russell, @RDRussellWrites I forged ahead writing my first two novels under contract with a gripping realization. I had squandered my pre-contract writing time—my life when I thought of myself …
Do You Know Where to Start Your Story?
by Rachel D. Russell, @RDRussellWrites As I laid out my opening chapter of my novel during a recent planning session with my mentor, she paused. Opened her mouth. Closed it. Thought for …
How to Turn Down the Dial on Your Inner Critic
by Rachel D. Russell, @RDRussellWrites When it comes to the mental game of writing, I’m most certainly my worst critic. I think a lot of writers can relate to that. The uncertainty. …