Jim Carnes
asked
Michael J. Sullivan:
Hey, so I've been trying to write a novel for quite a while but I get stuck on technical details like not knowing how the people in my story get water since I put them on a mountain surrounded by desert. Research hasn't helped so far. Do you ever have problems like that? How do you resolve them?
Michael J. Sullivan
On one hand, you might be over thinking the details. Sometimes you have to let the story flow. As long as you don't deny them a chance to sleep or eat and drink for super long periods, readers will let you slide. Just think of how many bullets six-shooters used to fire (more than six) but no one cared. On the other hand...don't stick your characters in a desert without water and you don't have that problem. :)
Try outlining in advance then plan for these things and you should be able to avoid the big problems, then don't sweat the little ones.
Try outlining in advance then plan for these things and you should be able to avoid the big problems, then don't sweat the little ones.
More Answered Questions
Christy
asked
Michael J. Sullivan:
This is kind of a question, and I really don't know where else to put it or if I should, but you're an author that interacts frequently, consistently, and well with your readers (me included) https://kimharrison.wordpress.com/2015/10/12/you-only-hurt-the-one-you-love/ Is there anyway that people who don't hugely use social media can help besides just buy a couple of books and tell a few friends that you know of?
Dan
asked
Michael J. Sullivan:
My question is this. Why have you done this to me Michael? I had a lineup of books to go through that had been set for a few months. Then I had to go and listen to your shorts on Audible. Now I'm downloading a Theft of Swords on there as we speak, set to go through. Now You've added another minimum 6 books to the top of my reading list. Thank you.
Alex
asked
Michael J. Sullivan:
I know that the Riyira Revelations were all completed before you started publishing them, and you've said that really helped you make sure the overall story arc fit well and each book built on the last. How do has it changed the writing process for you to write the Riyira Chronicles or Hollow World without being able to hold them back?
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