Melissa Delport's Blog, page 3

Foreshadowing refers to subtle clues, hints, symbols, events, dialogue, actions, or descriptions that prepare the reader for something that will occur subsequently in the plot. It builds anticipation and hooks the reader, so they want to read more to see if their predictions come true. Foreshadowing sets reader expectations so the narrative threads tie together neatly rather than appearing random.

Characters drive your plot and can make or break a reader’s connection to your story. As an avid reader who doesn’t easily DNF, nothing will have me setting aside a book faster than failing to develop a connection to the character/s. To write exceptional main characters, you must have a good understanding of the different character archetypes: maiden, mother, warrior, sage, rebel, lover, queen, mystic, huntress & femme fatale.

Less than a year since her debut medical thriller, Double Edged, launched with Kwela Books, Marina Auer is already gearing up for her next release. Melissa Delport sits down with the author to find out more about her publication journey.

When it comes to book writing software, there are so many tools available today that it can be difficult to know where to start. Scouring through Word processors and specialized writing software can be hugely overwhelming and make one crave the simplicity of the typewriter. Having written 28 books, I can tell you which writing software I've found worth the price tag.

Have you ever spent ten minutes staring at a blank page... or started a new paragraph and had no idea what to write? Writer's Block is one of the most frustrating phenomena an author can face. The inability to write, especially when under a deadline, can have far-reaching consequences and negatively impact your career. Fortunately, there are things you can do to snap out of this frustrated state of mind.

My mid-year book check-in as we head into the second half of 2024.

Ten fun facts about book 1 of The Legacy Trilogy that you may or may not have known.

A few of my favorite WW2 fiction books.

The most common mistakes that new authors make, and how to avoid them.

Are you also behind on your reading challenge? You're not alone. Here are a few highly anticipated reads that should help you smash those reading goals!