Tell me your opinion on this

Kia ora, I’m heading away this weekend, so I’m getting my gear together. Snacks are a key part of the day walk and tramping experience.  My go-tos: One Square Meal bars (apricot or cranberry) and Whittaker’s Peanut Slabs. But I’ve got to tell you: I can’t do scroggin. Even if I lace it with M&Ms.Continue reading “Tell me your opinion on this”

I’m so inspired

Kia ora, A few weeks ago I sent an edit back to a new writer. I always find this to be a nail-biting experience. Will they like my edits? Will they find my suggestions helpful? Have I caught everything I can? My main goal is always to help writers bring out the best in theirContinue reading “I’m so inspired”

Celebrating writing wins

Last week I wrapped up a copyedit for a local writer. This was our fourth time working together. His first book all those years ago was great – strong opening chapter, well paced narrative, realistic characterisation. Even with that solid foundation, I made a lot of edits. He’d done all that solid work, so IContinue reading “Celebrating writing wins”

Cosy season & a question for you

Kia ora, I’ve had a busy week so far. Here’s a round up: Okay, over to you. What’s one thing you’re excited about as the seasons change? Reply and let me know! Until next time, stay warm (or cool, if you’re in the northern hemisphere). Deborah PS: Last week I finished reading What Happens ifContinue reading “Cosy season & a question for you”

Writing a travel memoir can be cathartic

The travel and adventure genre has many sub genres, and one of the most challenging to write is memoir. Writing a memoir can be a kind of therapy or catharsis, and writing a memoir set around a trip you took adds another layer of complexity.

When the words won’t come easily

Kia ora Some days the words flow so smoothly that you’re convinced you can smash out your first draft by the end of the week. Some days the words come as easily as picking your way through a field of nettles. Or gorse. Or cow pats. (We’ve all been there.) When the words aren’t coming,Continue reading “When the words won’t come easily”

How to include flashbacks in your writing

Flashbacks send readers back in time to events that happened outside your story’s “present”. Knowing how to nudge your readers in the right direction will keep readers engaged, instead of having them go “huh?”

Quick writing wisdom: 3 tips

Kia ora, I missed writing last week’s email. I was on a tight deadline for my current edit, but it’s under control and I’m back in action. This week I want to give you three tips for your adventure writing. Do get help with your self-publishing project. You don’t have to do it all yourself.Continue reading “Quick writing wisdom: 3 tips”

Aligning our values

Kia ora, When it comes to working with writers, my biggest value is trust. You need to trust me with your manuscript, story, and vision. Sharing your work with someone can be a vulnerable experience, and that trust is not something I take lightly. That’s why I always ask to see your manuscript before weContinue reading “Aligning our values”