Hi Reader!
How was your October?
October was a busy month for me! I managed to proofread a 90,000-word fiction book and 3 non-fiction books and edit and critique 10 poems plus write 3 blog posts! ๐ฎ
My family and I visited a pumpkin patch that we've been going to ever since my daughter was a toddler (she's 17 now). We had a lot of fun on the hay ride, playing games, taking fall photos, and picking a pumpkin from the patch. Do you go to pumpkin patches?
This Month's Writing Tip
Should you use passive voice in fiction writing?
First of all, what is passive voice?
Passive voice is a grammatical structure that simply reverses typical sentence structures. It makes the subject (or person) receive the action instead of doing the action, like in active voice.
Advantages of using passive voice:
- It draws attention to the subject (person or object) receiving the action, which can be helpful when stressing a change or impact on a character or setting.
- It creates a sense of detachment which might be more desirable in certain narrative situations.
- It can add variety to the narrative.
When it's ok to use passive voice:
- To create a sense of mystery.
- To shift focus.
- Expressing passivity or helplessness.
- To emphasize the object of a sentence.
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New Posts on the Blog
โThe Proofreaderโs Toolkit: 6 Must-Have Resources for Accuracy and Efficiencyโ
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Tool of the Month
*affiliate link
If you are as crazy busy as I am, then having a calendar system in place for the whole family is a must. Cozi is a family organizer. Not only can you keep up with schedules such as doctor's appointments, your family can add to or create shopping lists. It's a perfect way to keep Christmas gift lists and ideas all together in one place, too!
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This Month's Writing Prompt
A character finds an old brass key in a pile of fallen leaves while doing their final yard cleanup of autumn. The key is warm to the touch despite the chilly air and has an unusual symbol etched into it that seems to change slightly every time they look away. As evening approaches and the early November darkness creeps in, they notice a faint glow coming from the keyhole of their garden shed - a keyhole they've never noticed before.
This Month's Featured Author
Last month I interviewed author Desiree Taylor. Desiree is the author of Created to Relate: Living Beyond Religion, which was inspired by concern for her daughter's future.
Her books can be found at Barnes & Noble and on her website.
Read her interview here.
Would you like to be featured in my new series, "Questions With an Author"?
If so, respond to this email and let me know! I'll send you the questions, you answer them and send them back, and you'll be featured in one of my posts!
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Need help with your manuscript?
Did you know that literary agents reject 90% of manuscripts? One of those reasons is poor writing quality.
Grammar errors, typos, and inconsistencies make your book look unprofessional. Sadly, nobody likes to read a book full of errors because it's too distracting.
No matter which type of publishing you choose - traditional or self - hiring a professional proofreader will help ensure your work is polished and ready for bookshelves.
To learn more about what proofreading involves, check out my services page. When you're ready for a proofreader, I would love to chat!
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See you next month!
Michelle
"God has given each of you a gift. Use it to help each other. This will show Godโs loving-favor." 1 Peter 4:10
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