We’re excited to welcome author Nadine Gonzalez to the Write for Harlequin blog! She started her first novel while in law school and her modern romances reflect the vibrance of Miami and its unique mix of cultures. Below are some tips curated by Nadine for writers looking to develop their voice.
Finding your voice as a writer is a journey to self-acceptance. The process can take years, but here are five tips that may help:
- Workshop your manuscript. Attend a writer’s workshop or swap chapters with fellow writers. Seek honest and unfiltered feedback. Identify your strengths and focus on what “works.”
- Read your work aloud. Alternatively, use text-to-speech software and let an AI read it to you. Pay attention to the rhythm of your sentences.
- Read across genres. Mine other genres for tricks that can be applied to your own.
- Broaden your vocabulary. Play with words to breathe life into the narrative.
- Be consistent. Maintain your tone and tempo throughout the story.
- Mix it up. Pull references from classic literature and film, but also the popular culture of the day.
- Bonus tip: Tighten dialogue. If a line of dialogue doesn’t contribute much, delete it.
I hope these tips help. Good luck and happy writing!
Comments ( 7 )
I spent the entire shutdown working. Had no time to wind down. I didn’t see my son much when school shutdown. My one co worker was told to stay home for 3 weeks so I picked up her hours. This year has been really crappy.
Ugh, Janell. Here’s hoping the rest of your summer is better.
Thanks for the info, Carol! Everyone is different in how they deal with the shutdown! I stay at home all the time since I don’t work so I haven’t been too effected but my shopping and errands sure have been effected!
Valri, I’ve been doing most of my shopping online. My local Target is still low on some items – mostly cleaning supplies. Grocery store is pretty much back to normal. Most of the dining in our town is outdoor. I can’t imagine have school-age kids!
Wow–getting your creative process on track must have been daunting–especially with “extra-large dog” glad to have you home. You don’t like coffee–I love coffee and have enjoyed my fortifying 2 cups in the morning even more than usual! How as COVID affected your story lines and characterizations? Best Wishes for all releases!
Interesting question, Virginia. You’ll have to tell me if the tone of my “COVID” books changed any! LOL
Life has changed so much! My dad passed Feb 2. The assisted living facility my folks were at went into hardcore lockdown the beginning of March. Mom couldn’t leave her apartment for 4 months! She was on the third floor, Will be 89 in two months & doesn’t use the phone. My husband and I remodeled the lower level completely and moved her in with us July 1. What a life change and difficult transition for the 3 of us! But we’re working thru it!