Used effectively, dialogue beats can be story-changers, not only in filling out a scene but also in developing character. Michelle Barker show you how.

Work in Progress

with David Griffin Brown & Michelle Barker

Work in Progress

Omniscient POV should be an intentional choice that makes sense for the novel rather than a fallback because it seems “easier.”

Work in Progress

Work in Progress

Work in Progress

Work in Progress

Random Thoughts on Some Pretty Good Things

Ultraprocessed Fiction

Summers Are for Reading

When building a character, roles can be efficient shorthand—hard-boiled detective, dutiful nurse—but the best characterizations require going deeper.

A friendly primer on passwords, passkeys and backups

Why Rejection Isn't the Worst Thing (even though it feels like it is)

Withholding information can create a satisfying read that allows readers to participate in the fictional dream, or it might frustrate them.

Writers Who Walk

The Hidden Costs of Using AI

Read Your Work Out Loud

If you’ve ever felt stuck, unmotivated, or like it’s too late to reach your potential, you need to hear this conversation.

ALT: a man with glasses says use your creativity

All aspects of a typical submission package are important to make a good first impression, but certain elements rise to the top.

All aspects of a typical submission package are important to make a good first impression, but certain elements rise to the top.

ALT: a man in a suit is standing in front of a building with a sign that says guinness

ALT: a cat is laying on the floor in front of a robotic vacuum cleaner .

Setting is important in any genre, but especially mysteries where it can limit suspects, suggest motives, provide clues, and shape the crime.

ALT: a poster for the la guarimba film festival

Intentionality is how you earn readers’ trust.

ALT: a person is writing in a notebook with a pen on top of it

Grafton straddles the two mystery worlds—noir and classic—to create something unique.