Sustaining Tension in Fiction
Michael Coffino shows how to keep your readers glued to the page by cranking up the tension. From cliffhangers to character conflict, he shares tips every writer can put to work right away.

Michael Coffino shows how to keep your readers glued to the page by cranking up the tension. From cliffhangers to character conflict, he shares tips every writer can put to work right away.

Every book starts with an idea, but some ideas keep growing long after the first chapter is written. Cliff Beach thought he was just telling his story in Side Hustle & Flow, but that one book opened the door to a trilogy, a platform, and a movement. In this piece, he shares how listening to readers, experimenting with formats, and showing up with consistency turned a single passion project into something much bigger

Writers approach storytelling in different ways. Some carefully outline every twist, while others dive right in and see where the words take them. Author JL Askew explores the highs and hazards of writing “by the seat of your pants,” and the surprises it can bring — and why pacing is the heartbeat of every great thriller.

What keeps a writer coming back to the blank page, book after book? Randy Overbeck shares the real reason he writes—and it goes far beyond plot twists.

With a focused plan and a clear outline, Dan Rice shows how to turn the drafting stage into a fast, efficient process while still delivering a strong, polished story.

Thinking about entering the Reader Views Literary Awards? Submitting your book early can offer real advantages—from faster review turnaround to earlier exposure and more time to use your evaluation feedback. This article highlights how early entry can enhance your overall experience, with insights from authors who’ve already been through the process. If you’re planning to…

Author Karin Adams shares a powerful reframing strategy for writers stuck in the pressure of perfection. In her blog post, she reveals how shifting your focus from product to process can boost creativity, ease writer’s block, and restore joy to your writing life. With relatable examples and actionable advice, Karin shows how even small steps—like refining a character or writing just 500 words—can keep your novel moving forward.

Award-winning novelist Nancy G. West shares the candid advice she gave a fellow writer: what really happens after you finish your first novel—and how to decide the right publishing path for you.

Acclaimed author and spiritual teacher Christian de la Huerta shares how he overcame a paralyzing case of writer’s block—not with big breakthroughs, but with tiny, consistent steps. From fear-driven procrastination to deadline panic, he walks us through how shifting your mindset and breaking down the task can get you writing again.

Today, award-winning author Jo-Ann Vega takes the pulse of the indie author landscape—and the results are both encouraging and eye-opening. Drawing from recent 2024–2025 survey data, she breaks down what’s working, what’s not, and where self-publishing is heading next. From marketing myths to money realities, it’s a must-read for anyone navigating the indie space.