How to Craft Compelling Character Backstories
Episode Transcript: www.well-storied.com/backstory Part of crafting characters involves exploring their history. Just as your lived experiences have shaped the person you are today
Ep. 452: The 10-Step Checklist to Writing an Above-Average Novel
On your way to writing an above-average novel, learn how to apply these ten straightforward solutions to common fiction problems.
4 Ways to Write Backstory That Matters (How to Outline for NaNoWriMo, Pt. 5)
Backstory influences plot events, character motives, and thematic subtext. Here are the only 4 questions you need to find your best backstory.
Most Common Writing Mistakes, Pt. 50: Info Dumps
Learn how to avoid four lethal types of info dumps, and, even better, how to use them as opportunities to strengthen every part of your writing.
Crafting Stunning Character Arcs, Pt. 4: Your Character’s Ghost
What is your character's ghost, and how does it affect his character arc?
6 Ways to Pull off Dual Timelines in Your Novel
Dual timelines can include a deeper plot, more resonant theme, and greater character development.
Are Your Flashbacks Flashy or Flabby?
A good flashback is sometimes just the ticket for bringing to life an important event in your character's past.
Most Common Mistakes Series: Is Nothin’ Happening in Your Scene?
In order for something to happen next, something has to happen to begin with.
Is Your Story Mysterious Enough?
The art of the mysterious is at the heart of every type of story, not just mysteries and suspense.
What a Mouse Can Teach You About Story Arc
This charming little story features almost all of the important tenets of a story arc.
9 Ways to Strengthen Your Beginnings
Nine traits of a good beginning.
Backstory: The Importance of What Isn’t Told
Particularly during this modern trend of beginning stories in medias res (in the middle of things), a deep and full-bodied backstory is every whit as important as the story itself.