When to use them, how to use them – and when they become a problem

How to reverse-outline your novel

How to get your manuscript over the line

When coincidence and wish fulfilment cover for bad plotting

But here's how to fix it

(Even When Lots Is Happening)

And how to fix it

Five specific problem areas you’ll want to check before you query

Why you can’t just plonk a twist on the end of your novel and hope for the best

Here’s why – and how traditional publishing decides what to publish

The three most common reasons I turn down manuscripts – and how to fix the underlying problems

What agents’ responses can tell you about where your manuscript needs work

How to Make Sure Your Subplot Isn’t Just an Add-on

But you are wrong if you think you don’t need to edit it

The best plot in the world won’t work if your protagonist isn’t ready

How to diagnose a sticky middle – and how to fix it

It’s not just for fantasy

It just makes sense

Wherever you are in the writing process

Or how to hoodwink your reader

And how to do it

How to plan a novel without tying yourself down

And those that don’t

If you want to write a novel this year, let’s get it done!

And planning to write your novel in 2026!

And a competition for paid subscribers

And why I don’t give feedback, by a literary agent

On writer’s block, getting stuck, and finding a way forward

And getting past the dreaded blank page!

Adding layers, not confusion

Why plot twists fall flat

Spoiler alert: there is no silver bullet

When, Why and How to Do It

That will make agents sit up and take notice

The building blocks of a book

Even if You're a Pantser

On word count and knowing when your book is finished

Finding the right idea – and the right way in

Or how to test your plot (plus a special discount on annual subscriptions!)

How to choose the right POV and narrative perspective for your book

But here’s how to make me read on

Plus, some news from me!

The Ampersand Agency has appointed Katie Blagden and Abigail Fenton as new literary agents to work alongside founder Peter Buckman, Jamie Cowen and Anne-Marie Doulton.

How to write dialogue so readers will listen

At least it might help to tell yourself that…

Less string-pulling, more rounded characters

Here’s how the editorial process works