Thursday Review—Getting Into Character by Brandilyn Collins

A review by Lynn H. Blackburn

I’m going to tell y’all something that I don’t make a habit of sharing. I wouldn’t even tell you, except, well, you’re writers.

So, I’m hoping you’ll get this.

Sometimes…

I stand in front of my mirror and act out my scenes.

Does anyone else do this? Anyone?

Why Blog—Define Your Audience

Today we’re continuing our Why Blog series. If you’ve missed the first post or the second one, take a moment and visit. Today we’re going to talk about defining your audience. This is vitally important to your blog’s viability.

A poorly targeted audience is a frequent reason for a blog’s lack of success.

The target of your blog may seem like an obvious thing, but I’m continually amazed at the number of writers who get off track here.

Common Misconception
I’m a writer, so my blog should target other writers.

Truth
Unless you’re teaching writers about craft your audience isn’t other writers.

The Fix
This goes back to the purpose of your blog. Many novelists use a blog to connect with their readers. If that is the purpose of yours then your audience is your reader—not other novelists.

So what does this look like in application?

For a suspense writer it would look like Brandilyn Collins site. She does a great job of connecting to her readers. She also has a site that targets other writers because she is a popular conference instructor and teaches others the craft.

Suppose you’re a freelance writer, then your site should showcase your work and connect you with the people you write for. My site, for instance, targets businesses who need someone to write web content. This provides me with the opportunity to teach writers the craft of writing for the Internet and proves my expertise to potential customers.

Now it’s your turn. What have you found that works to connect you with your audience? Have you seen some things (maybe tried some things) that haven’t worked? Let’s learn from each other.

Don't forget to join the conversation!
Blessings,
Edie

Thursday Review, Getting Into Character

Getting Into Character
by Brandilyn Collins

A lot of the manuscripts I come across as a freelance editor have similar problems—and similar characters. It takes work to write characters that come across as real and believable. One of the best resources for writers struggling with this is the book, Getting into Character, by Brandilyn Collins.

Her book offers a unique viewpoint—that of a method actor. She offers seven secrets she uses to bring her own fiction to life. Each section has an actor’s technique and novelists adaption. She breaks down the techniques needed to write believable characters, even when the writer is exploring situations outside their own personal experiences.

This book will benefit the novice writer, as well as the more experienced writer. My copy sits on the shelf above my desk, well-worn from repeated use. What have you found to help you build better characters? Leave a comment and let us know.

Don’t forget to join the conversation!
Blessings,
Edie