Writing Roots

Starting is the hardest part about writing a novel. You have so many ideas swirling around in your head, but the question remains of how to even get those first words on the paper. The answer is different depending where you are in your own writing journey. From starting with nothing as a first-time author, to having the experience and knowledge of a five-time author.

We break down what you need to know in order to get started, no matter where you are in your process.

First aired December 28, 2020.

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There are all kinds of things that can keep someone from writing. There’s not enough time. Other things need to take priority. Inspiration or the muses have not struck yet. The next scene is difficult. And the list goes on. Trust us, we know each of these from experience. Often times, though, we take all of things and lump them under the category of “writer’s block.”

In this episode, we explore different ways we’ve found to overcome writer’s block, along with other common hinderances to the writing process.

First aired December 26, 2020.

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Any book taking place in the real world – especially those in the modern era – will have mentions and references that anchor them into a timeline. That can be anything from mentioning the type of phone they’re using (is it a flip phone or a smart phone?) to dropping actual names of people or things. There is a common question we see a lot, especially from anyone wanting to start writing something like Ready Player One, which is chock full of so many references it has any nostalgic heart longing for the past.

What’s the line, though? What makes something fair use or a copyright infringement? Can an author mention someone else’s work without having to get a written, contractual permission? The short answer is yes, but with limitations. Listen to this episode for a break down of what does and does not apply under fair use laws in fiction.

First aired December 24, 2020.

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There are so many answers to this frequently asked question. What software and which programs are the best for the different phases of writing and publishing? Unfortunately, there is no one right answer. At least not for authors as a whole.

Every writer will need to find what works best for them. Sometimes, it’ll be the free options. But as Benjamin Franklin said, there is a benefit to investing in the tools of trade. This is especially important when it comes to creating professional-level quality books. We break down different options for the writing and formatting phases in this episode.

First aired December 21, 2020.

The post S17E6 – What Software is Good for Writing and Formatting? appeared first on Writing Roots.

Pricing is not always easy when considering the value of a produce, especially of a book. You may believe it’s worth much more because it’s yours. Not everyone agrees, however, and the cost of something is almost always decided by the customer. Authors need to consider, honestly and truthfully, what their book is worth to the reader in order to set the price.

In this episode, Ley and Leigh discuss different methods for determining the cost and profit balances, along with those common for major self-publishing outlets.

First aired December 17, 2020.

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The specifics of a genre can be difficult to determine at times. You may know your book is fantasy, but what kind of fantasy? What kind of Young Adult novel did you just write? Knowing the subgenre can make sure you reach the right kind of audience. The ones that will like and enjoy your book.

First aired December 14, 2020.

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One question we encounter a lot is about how to keep a reader interested in a story. What devices can be used to make the reader turn the page, or say “just one more chapter” over and over? One that many authors turn to is the cliffhanger. Unfortunately, it’s not as easy as saying “to be continued.”

While there are times that a cliffhanger is the perfect device, it can also create more frustration for the reader than curiosity. It comes down to when and how they’re used. Listen to this episode for an explanation of different kinds of cliffhangers and where they can be used best.

First aired December 10, 2020.

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All authors want to make some kind of impact on their readers through their words. Even books written for pure entertainment need to have some kind of influence, even if it’s just for a few laughs. Accomplishing that task, however, is no easy feat.

The question we wish to answer is how to make a book have that kind of lingering impact on a reader. While no genre is the same – and no book, for that matter – there are elements that can be used across any writing. It starts with connection. Listen to the episode for more on how to create that link between your readers and your book that will leave an impression with them that lasts beyond the final words of the book.

First aired December 6, 2020.

The post S17E2 – What Makes a Book Impactful and Unforgettable? appeared first on Writing Roots.

The whole purpose of Writing Roots is to help authors achieve their goals. To help them write and to be published, if that is their wish. Along the way, though, writers often find stumbling blocks and no good resource to turn to for answers. That’s why in December, we want to answer your questions. We see and hear the same questions time and time again. This month, we are giving you the answers.

December’s first question is about appearances. There’s a balance for describing characters and scenes that can be difficult to achieve. You want to give the readers enough to have a clear image in their minds without overwhelming them with unnecessary and boring details. This episode breaks down when and how to describe characters and scene in not only the first book, but in the sequels.

First aired December 3, 2020.

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There are some things that can help any author simply write, no matter the genre. We’re sharing with you this month tricks of the writing trade. Especially during November, which is National Novel Writing Month, writers everywhere need all the help they can get to hit that 50,000 word count goal. That includes things like how to write right, filling the middle bits of a book, and making sure to also highlight supporting characters.

It’s time for the end. Protagonists bask in the glory of hard-earned victories, but even with that satisfaction, the ends of books can fall flat. One solution is to give the other characters victories of their own. Many readers find their favorite characters are not the main ones who are the focus of the story, but the supporting cast there to bolster the protagonist and add a little joviality. Listen to this episode to learn how and why those in the supporting cast deserve a moment in the spotlight at the end.

First aired November 30, 2020.

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