Tag: books

WordSmith Musings, Writing

Author Spotlight: Ally Carter

Rachel Smith

Ally Carter is a fantastic author who has written some of my favorite series. I longed to be a Gallagher Girl or travel to Embassy Row or maybe even try stealing my own Monet (kidding). Still, she knows how to weave a story together, creating suspense and thrills within each novel and throughout the whole… Continue reading Author Spotlight: Ally Carter

Tips and Tricks, WordSmith Musings, Writing

How to Write a Magic System

Rachel Smith

Writing a magic system can be fun, interesting, and challenging at times. Each magic system will have its own rules, patterns, quirks, and exceptions. A reader might never know all of them, but it is essential for the author to know each and every one so they can write from a place of knowledge, understanding, and authority.

Tips and Tricks, Writing

Quick Tip #11

Rachel Smith

Writing a villain? Within the first meeting, include these three things to make them terrifying but utterly compelling to readers. A dangerous or “evil” conviction they hold and why Something they have lost as a result Something/someone they love (not obsessed, that’s different) or care about deeply (people are generally best but it still works… Continue reading Quick Tip #11

Prompts, Writing

Story Prompt #17

Rachel Smith

Long ago, two kingdoms reigned. One was full of snow and ice, the other full of flowers and sunlight. The people were distant from one another. But, on the border of the two kingdoms, things were just a little bit different... Please use this story prompt and photo to inspire your own creative short story.… Continue reading Story Prompt #17