Tag: writing

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‘Good’ Writing.

Hi Jim, I was wondering if you could tell me what makes up a good fantasy story? Thanks, Sarah. Ahem… Hi Sarah, That is such a subjective… subject… that I’m not sure I can give you a definitive answer, but not for not trying. So I’m going to give you a few suggestions based on what I’ve seen work effectively. Anti-Hero. Include an antihero … Read More ‘Good’ Writing.

Musical Inspiration

Need a good song to listen to when writing either a victory, royalty entering the room, or a new order taking over in the ashes of an oppressive power? Well normally the metal head in me would recommend Dragonforce… literally anything Dragonforce, but today I’m doing something a little different: If the sheer sound of this doesn’t send chills down your spine, take your … Read More Musical Inspiration

For the Kids!

Hi All, As most of you know, I am very much so a big child care and protection advocate. I’ve spent a lot of time working with children and though I don’t lay that aspect on in my novels (I don’t like preaching at people), I still like to try to raise awareness for different issues where possible. As the Holiday season comes to … Read More For the Kids!

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Writing on High

Hi Jim, I often find myself writing a great deal when I’ve either had a lot to drink or right after smoking weed. Do you find either helps or do you know of anything else that helps spark your creativity? You don’t have to openly admit to anything illegal, but I read a while back that some of Stephen King’s best work was done … Read More Writing on High

Another Song Added to the Writing List:

I’ve listened to this song for a long time. I love Edguy. Often I find myself listening just to the end where the music drops off and all we hear are the incredible metal harmony! Readers, Do you have a question about writing, publishing, my stories, etc? Please feel free to post a comment or email me. jimthewritingwizard@gmail.com I’ll use those comments to select … Read More Another Song Added to the Writing List:

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Where do we go from here?

I understand that this may be hard to talk about and if it is too soon, please feel free to skip today’s posting. I won’t blame you. However, with the initial shock of Carrie’s departure slowly sinking in, Star Wars fans have been wondering in the backs of their minds… Where the heck do we go from here??? How does this change the story … Read More Where do we go from here?

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Meaningful Quote

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about the election, regressive politics, and the continuous WAVE of people who have asked me to address my own political beliefs, which I have responded to en mas. And I think filmmaker and (ironically enough) known feminist Joss Whedon put it best: “I’ve said before, when you declare yourself politically, you destroy yourself artistically… Because suddenly that’s the … Read More Meaningful Quote

Another Song Added To My Writing Playlist

I love Battle Beast. They’re a very 80s-style Heavy Metal Band with a very distinct sound. You really hear their full capabilities here: I WANT THE WOOOOORRRRLD!!! Oh Hell Yes!!! Readers, Do you have a question about writing, publishing, my stories, etc? Please feel free to post a comment or email me. jimthewritingwizard@gmail.com I’ll use those comments to select my next blog post. I … Read More Another Song Added To My Writing Playlist

New Musical Inspiration From an ‘Old Friend.’

A lot of writers have a playlist of music to help them write and I am no exception. The tempo and mood of the music help them describe and convey emotion as we write what we hear. The lyrics guide us on the direction of the plot, the chorus gives us strength to continue, and the changeup inspires the story climax! With this in … Read More New Musical Inspiration From an ‘Old Friend.’

Does a Bad Guy Have To Be Evil?

I’ve heard this one before and the best answer I can give is… no. The bad guy or villain in a story does not necessarily have to be evil at all. When Chancellor Palpatine said that goodness is a point of view in Revenge of the Sith, despite how self-serving his remark was, he was actually right on many different levels. There are actual … Read More Does a Bad Guy Have To Be Evil?

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New Book Announcement!!

Hi All, So I know its been some time since my last update and/or check-in. I wanted to announce that a new book is on its way. That’s right, book 2 of The Vengeance Doctrine is currently being written. Obviously this far out, I’m not going to give any time frame (only 50 pages in!!!), but I can give you the current working title: … Read More New Book Announcement!!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!

To all my N. American readers!!! To the rest of my readers, I wish you peace, love, and understanding… as well as hopefully a good fantasy novel! Now if you’ll excuse me, Black Friday sales start at midnight. Time to suit up for battle! Oh yeah, I’m ready! Watch yourselves, soccer moms! Readers, Do you have a question about writing, publishing, my stories, etc? … Read More HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!