clairecherryedits

Writing Tips: When Actions Overlap

What is false simultaneity and how do I avoid it in my writing?

How do the books we read in school shape us?

Here’s a short extract from Reading Lessons by Carol Atherton – a reflection on the books we studied at school and the way they quietly shape us. And now I’m going to be nosy: – Are there school books that still echo in your mind or your writing? – Have you ever revisited one andContinue reading “How do the books we read in school shape us?”

Is it obtainable or attainable?

When Etc. Should Be ‘Et Cetera’ — With Special Reference to Fictional Dialogue

Wondering when to use et cetera instead of the abbreviation etc. in your writing? Especially in fictional dialogue, getting this small detail right can make a big difference in authenticity and flow. Learn why et cetera should always be written in full when characters say it, and avoid common styling mistakes that can pull readers out of the story. Perfect tips for writers who want polished, professional fiction!

Stories from the North – A Night Out with the Cumbrian Book Crowd

A joyful reflection on the Lakeland Book of the Year Awards 2025 — celebrating Cumbrian writers, books about Cumbria, and the region’s rich literary community. Highlights include local authors, publishing diversity, and the importance of nurturing young creative voices.

What a first draft can teach you that a published book can’t. (A writing coaching win!)

Discover how using an unedited manuscript in a writing coaching session helped a client spot craft techniques and grow as a fantasy writer.

Let’s Talk Editing – What Every Indie Author Should Know: Join us on Zoom, June 8th 2025

An invitation to join Claire and Vicky for a chat about all things editing (for indie authors)

The Cook and the Cupboard: Lorrie Moore’s metaphor on writing from life’s ingredients

See what Lorrie Moore thinks when people ask if fiction is autobiographical.

Dialogue tags versus action beats

Learn the difference between dialogue tags and action beats and how to punctuate them.

Recognize ideas “when they show up”.

From Stephen King’s On Writing. Let’s get one thing clear right now, shall we? There is no Idea Dump, no Story Central, no Island of the Buried Bestsellers; good story ideas seem to come quite literally from nowhere, sailing at you right out of the empty sky: two previously unrelated ideas come together and makeContinue reading “Recognize ideas “when they show up”.”