How to Create Believable Characters: What Writers Can Learn from Training a Puppy

From Edie: Struggling to create believable characters? Discover how understanding motivation—through an unexpected lesson from training a puppy—can help writers craft deeper, more realistic fiction.

How to Create Believable Characters: What Writers Can Learn from Training a Puppy

by Beth K. Vogt @BethVogt

My husband, Rob, and I have a new puppy.

Now you’re thinking, “Beth, what does a puppy have to do with writing?”

Writing Conference Checklist Part 1: How to Prepare and Maximize Your Conference Experience

From Edie: Get ready for your next writing conference with this practical checklist. Learn how to prepare, plan, and position yourself to make the most of every opportunity.

Writing Conference Checklist Part 1: How to Prepare and Maximize Your Conference Experience

by Lilka Raphael @Lilka_Raphael

“Develop a passion for learning. If you do, you will never cease to grow.” - Anthony J. D’Angelo

Writers Conference Season is underway. It’s that most wonderful time of year where opportunities knock and aspiring dreams can come true. Attending conferences is an enjoyable approach to learn more about the craft, hang out with other authors, and make meaningful connections. Attending conferences requires a substantial investment of time and money. That said, these tips can make your next conference your best conference.

How to Use a Semicolon Correctly: A Simple Guide for Writers (and Why It Still Matters)

From Edie: Confused about semicolons? Learn how to use a semicolon correctly with simple rules and examples—and discover why this punctuation mark still matters for writers today.

How to Use a Semicolon Correctly: A Simple Guide for Writers (and Why It Still Matters)

By Julie Lavender @JLavenderWrites

It’s endangered; it might possibly disappear altogether in the next handful of years. 

Do you know what “it” is? 

It is the SEMI-COLON.

Copyright Myths for Writers: What You Can (and Can’t) Legally Use Online in 2026

From Edie: Confused about copyright? Learn what writers can legally use online—including images, lyrics, blog content, and AI—so you can avoid common mistakes and protect your work.

Copyright Myths for Writers: What You Can (and Can’t) Legally Use Online in 2026

By Edie Melson @EdieMelson

Lately, I’ve seen a lot of discussion about copyright issues. Specifically, what is legal to use on a blog, social media, or in a book. 

First, I want to state right up front that I am NOT a lawyer and none of what I’ve said constitutes legal advice. My goal is simply to share what I’ve learned about being responsible online.

That said, I’ll also include updated resources at the end so you can dig deeper for yourself.

Publishing Paths for Writers: What Is Boutique Independent Publishing?

From Edie: Discover what boutique independent publishing is and how it compares to other publishing paths. Learn how this model gives authors full ownership, professional support, and long-term control of their work.

Publishing Paths for Writers: What Is Boutique Independent Publishing?

by PeggySueWells @PeggySueWells

Writers today have more publishing options than at any point in history, and that abundance can be both exciting and confusing. With so many paths available, many writers ask the same question: Which option actually serves the author’s goals and protects the work?

One option that is gaining attention among professional authors is boutique independent publishing. Understanding how it works can help you decide if this path fits your goals.

How Writers Overcome Creative Slumps: Find Writing Motivation When You Feel Stuck

From Edie: Struggling with a creative slump? Discover how writers can find motivation, overcome discouragement, and move forward with renewed focus and faith when writing feels stuck.

How Writers Overcome Creative Slumps: Find Writing Motivation When You Feel Stuck

by Ginny Cruz

Do you ever get stuck in the doldrums? If you have a competitive spirit, as I do, you may have experienced periods of feeling sluggish and unmotivated when goals have not been achieved or when you are waiting. 

As Christians, we know we should neither wallow in self-pity nor allow ourselves to feel sad when things do not go our way. Scripture is clear: we are to accept all things—even the gray days—as part of God’s plan for our lives. But if I’m honest, when the creative winds die and forward momentum stalls, I often become dispirited. 

Jesus the Word of God, The Power of Resurrection for Writers

From Edie: Discover how the resurrection of Jesus brings hope, healing, and new life to writers. Learn how to rise from creative darkness and trust God with your words and calling.

Jesus the Word of God: The Power of Resurrection for Writers

by Audrey Frank @AudreyCFrank

He is not here, for he has been raised, just as he said. Come and see the place where he was lying. Then go quickly and tell his disciples, ‘He has been raised from the dead. He is going ahead of you into Galilee. You will see him there.’ Listen, I have told you!” So they left the tomb quickly, with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. But Jesus met them, saying, “Greetings!” They came to him, held on to his feet and worshiped him. Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee. They will see me there” (Matthew 28:6-10, NET)

Jesus the Word of God speaks to writers through Resurrection.