Tighten your writing by Barbara Edwards

Today I have a special guest, Barbara Edwards. Barbara is a talented author who has generously agreed to share some of her knowledge with us. And I personally want to thank her; this post has been very useful to me as I work on my editing.


Rewrites are a vital part of the editing process. I’m constantly learning new methods from more experienced writers although I’ve published six books. I’ve found certain things that help me to tighten my story.
I studied Jayne Anne Krentz’s way of describing her hero after being knocked over by her intro line that ‘In the door stood two junk yard dogs, one was a man.’ It’s been a few years since I read this and I’m sure I misquoted, but close enough for my explanation.

In the book she goes on to say he’s strong, loyal, protective. I realized that this was a technique many authors use to keep their hero in character.
For example, if you say your hero moved like a jungle cat, then it is wise to carry on the tagging with graceful, lithe, strong or other tags that keep that idea simmering throughout the book. I noticed many new authors don’t take advantage of this tool to strengthen their character and the readers interest.

In my book Ancient Blood, I used not only my hero’s name, Cole, but his description as a werewolf to make his character more appealing. His teeth parted in a ferocious grin, he growled, he is strong. His hair is black as coal.
Try making a list of descriptive words and sprinkle them through your work. Cat-like can bring sleek, purred, stroked. Use your creative talent to add more.

Excerpt from my new release Ancient Curse:
Evil never dies. And this time it wants Rainie Gamble. More than her life, it wants her soul.
The artifacts she handles come from every era and she can read their past with a touch. After her Father’s deceit, she’d lost her beloved career until Thomas hired her to inventory his new estate. She is acutely aware these items ooze evil. Her attraction to Thomas grows despite her resolve to never trust again.
Thomas Broquette needed Rainie for more than her psychic ability. She could bring her father into his reach and Thomas needed him to return the stolen paintings in Mason’s estate. He needs Rainie’s help to destroy the evil things Mason left behind. Then he realizes he needs her for much, much more.
She needs to trust him despite his lie. Their love is her only hope of survival. 

Please visit, friend or follow me. I love to hear from readers Author Website: http://barbaraedwards.net
Blog Site: http://barbaraedwardscomments.wordpress.com
 

Available at The Wild Rose Press  

The Wild Rose Press offers its books in multiple formats for your convenience. 

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