I just finished writing and editing my first novel and was all ready to send it off to the publisher with 3 weeks to spare on my deadline. I decided to sit down and just take a quick full read of the manuscript in paper form before I sent it off. Nearly breaking down in tears as I started the sixteenth chapter. Why because I had inadvertently changed the gender of a horse. Minor detail? Perhaps, but I know that I as a reader would have picked up on calling a stallion and she. So back to the computer to try and search out by hand every time the stallion was referenced in the manuscript.
After sharing this story with a cohort of mine, they suggested I take a look at WriteItNow. WriteItNow is a software program for novel writing. I sat down ready to tear it apart being an old fashioned writer and still using pen to paper for the most part. Much to my surprise, however, I found that the software was simple to use and had some wonderful options.
It allows you to have a character sketch on each character including the option to create links between characters, in addition to adding those links to events that happen in the story. Being able to create each part of the story prior to sitting down to write out the dialogue is amazing. It allows you to enter each event that happens, with the ability built in to change dates, create time lines and move from event to chapter easily. No more little yellow stickies to hide the computer screen!
The program also allows you to check the readability of each chapter as it is written. Thus ensuring every chapter stays consistent. It will do all of the normal spell check and grammar checks as well. I have not even mentioned the add-ons that come with the program that assist the writer in creating more believable characters. It also has a built in submission program to keep track of submissions to publishers/editors.
The cost of the program is relatively minimal compared to the benefits of such a program and the amount of time that it will save you. As I said, I sat down to play with it and within 3 hours had the outline of events created and a majority of the character sketches completed for my next novel.
It is definitely worth checking out. http://www.ravensheadservices.com/index.php
Writers' Tricks of the Trade is like the appetizer table at a writers' buffet, filled with tips, techniques and tricks. Written in easy-to-read prose. Available in paperback, eBook and Kindle from multiple sellers
This book is for all first responders (law enforcement, fire, or other emergency personnel) who are or want to be supervisors in their agencies. It goes through all facets of being a good supervisor.
Being a supervisor in any occupation is
