Writing Fiction Better

Transitioning from non-fiction to fiction writing is REALLY hard. So hard, that many who attempt it roll back to what they know and delete fiction writer off their bio. Two different writing styles … two different animals.

Nonfiction is more get to the problem and offer solutions. Fiction writing is complex.
Every scene and every interaction is essential to move the story forward. With the “showing” style of writing, the reader drops into the character’s skin and experience what they are going through and what they are thinking. Emotions, the sensory experiences your writing delivers along with sights, smells and sounds … everything integrates together to connect the story to the reader.

Your writing to do: practice and embrace the art of “showing” as much as you can in every chapter. Verbs are your friends.

One of my favorite tools is WordHippo.com. Drop in a regular action word—such as walk or walked—your brain, eyes, and writing fingers will be noodled to open up. The engagement factor for readers becomes a plus for you, the storyteller.

Verb
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Past tense for to be in motion by moving one’s feet in a slow and alternative manner

To have escorted or conducted someone to someplace …

Don’t overlook the Noun options … easily used as verbs—sometimes with a little tweaking—when your sentences flow.

Your words always matter. Finding and using ones that are more interesting and imaginative are a win for you, the writer … and for your growing reader fans.

Dr. Judith Briles is a book publishing expert and coach. Often, she must roll up her writing sleeves and become a Book Doctor, juicing up storylines and author words. She empowers authors and works directly with authors who want to be seriously successful and has been writing about and conducting workshops on publishing since the ’80s. Judith is the author of 48 books and 60 book awards including Author YOU: Creating and Building Your Author and Book Platforms, Snappy Sassy Salty: Success for Authors and Writers, and How to Create a Million Dollar Speech. Her personal memoir When God Says NO-Revealing the YES When Adversity and Loss Are Present is a #1 bestseller on Amazon and her historical fiction debut The Secret Journey and The Secret Hamlet. The Secret Rise, book 3 and her first cookbook, Cooking with Judith will be published in 2025. Collectively, her books have earned over 50 book awards. Judith speaks throughout the year at publishing conferences.