by Jim
Got an idea for a good story? Got 12? I know I do… or did when I first started out. My ideas have ground to a halt recently with the publication of the 4th Drakin novel. Do you plan on writing stories around these? If yes, I’d say STOP and read what I’m about to tell you before writing a single word (or another … Read More Creating an Open World: A Path to Publishing #Writing #Advice #Fantasy
by Jim
Hi Jim, I have a problem I was hoping you could help me with a rather… sensitive issue. I’ve written a book that deals with a lot of cultural issues. I’ve gone to great lengths to keep my writing as inoffensive as possible, as I want people from all walks of life to be able to read it, enjoy it, and maybe find themselves … Read More Audience/Reader Sensitivity #Writing #Author #Advice
by Jim
You have a great blog. Would you like to share your story on “What You Blog About” what motivated you to start this blog? –whatyoublogabout Hello, A good question. Well honestly, I have to admit that my initial reasons were not as altruistic as one might think. I’d gone through site after site looking for good ways to advertise your writing. My books weren’t … Read More Blogging Motivations #Writing #Author #Advice
by Jim
Hi Jim, I’ve been following your blog for a little while now and was hoping I could get some advice from you. I was wondering if you could tell me what kind of character you like more, a dynamic or static character. I’m creating one right now for my story and am having trouble coming up with ideas. Thanks, Thomas Hi Thomas, I’m afraid … Read More Static vs. Dynamic Characters #Writing #Author #Advice
by Jim
So this isn’t going to be one of my typical Q&A posts. I’ll get back to those later. This is likely about to be little more than an editorial rant, if anything. Let’s get started… So I just finished playing Mass Effect 3. … and already half of my readers probably know what this is going to be about. I love the series. … Read More All Build Up, No Payoff: The Problem with Open Endings #Writing #Author #Advice
by Jim
Hi Jim, I was hoping you could give me some advice on actually finding time to write. I work full time and have a family. I literally have no time to write at all. I saw on your bio that you also have kids. Do you also have another job or are you a full time writer? Thanks, David Hi David, I may … Read More Finding Time in No Time. #Writing #Author #Advice
by Jim
Okay, so it looks like I’m still getting a lot of publishing questions. These are recurrent questions I get on a regular basis, and while I want to try to respond to everyone who reaches out to me, I don’t want my blog becoming redundant. So I think I’m going to repost this on a weekly basis from now on to help people navigate … Read More The Ins and Outs of Publishing, A Directory of Advice. #Writing #Author #Advice
by Jim
Hi Jim, I’m currently writing a sci-fi fantasy novel. Right now, I’m in the process of coming up with characters and want to add a non-humanoid to the cast. Admittedly, I’m having trouble making him relatable. I really love this character and want people to enjoy him. This isn’t going to come out right, but how do I make him more human… without making him … Read More Bringing out Humanity in Non-Human Characters #Writing #Author #Advice
by Jim
Hi Jim, I have a rather unique issue. I’m trying to write a story dealing with my grandfather. Let me give you some background. My parents immigrated here from Germany, I’m a 1st Generation American. My grandfather was part of the North African Campaign during World War 2. He was a member of the Afrika Korps. My story is partially fiction given that I … Read More Telling a Story vs. Glorification #Writing #Author #Advice
by Jim
Hi Jim, I’ve been writing for years and have a book series out that I’m completely finished with. I’ve moved onto other stories, but one of my friends and a fellow writer wants to write a sequel to the series. He has a really great idea for a story set in the world I created, with both my characters and some new ones. While … Read More Writing Advice: Granting Someone Else ‘Godhood’ #Writing #Author #Advice
by Jim
How do you focus on one project at a time? My problem is I’ll be really into writing for one novel and I’m in it but then I lose my inspiration for it and I get inspired to do something different and I get into that but then I get inspired to do something else and it continues on where it feels really difficult … Read More To Focus or Let Inspiration Roam Free #Writing #Author #Advice
by Jim
Hi all!! I just wanted to stop by quickly to wish everyone here a very happy New Year’s! From my family to all of you and yours, I sincerely hope and wish that you all find fulfillment and success in the coming year! 2021 has been no less trying than 2020, so let us take some time to reflect upon those who cannot be … Read More Happy New Years!!! #Writing #Author #Advice
James Harringtons Creative Work 