News, Insights, and New Resources for Authors Considering Self-Publishing
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How Ten Bestselling Authors Introduce Their Protagonists in First-Person Narratives A guide for novelists of all genres
[by Ross Browne]
I’ve been editing novels for more than 30 years, and one thing that still fascinates me to no end is the art and craft of introducing (and cultivating quick engagement with) viewpoint characters when writing in the first person.
Like many readers, I enjoy first-person narratives because of […]
In Praise of Literary Writing
An editor's primer on the unique allure of literary fiction—and what it takes to write it well
[by Gregory Collins]
The lines are blurry and the exceptions are many, but if literary writing tends to emphasize character and realism while genre writing tends to emphasize plot and tropes, then I trace my interest in literary writing to my childhood and adolescence in Kenya, east Africa. My parents—and grandparents and great grandparents—were missionaries there and […]
PATHS TO PUBLISHING: A Decision Guide on Traditional and Independent Publishing Options for 2025
[by Ross Browne and John Robert Marlow]
Publishing has changed a lot in the 45 years since The Editorial Department opened its doors—and not necessarily for the better, in the eyes of many. But it’s nonetheless an exciting time to be a writer, in large part because when it comes to getting published, you have more […]
EDITOR’S EAVESDROP: Award-Winning Bestselling Author Joe Ide Dishes Truth on Getting Traditionally Published (And making a living as a novelist!)
[by Ross Browne]
Joe Ide is a brilliant, critically acclaimed author. He also turns out to be a refreshingly straight shooter on what aspiring writers need to know about the business of publishing and how to maximize their chances of making a successful career out […]
How P.J. Vernon Delivers Fresh, Distinctive Characterization in Mystery Fiction
[by Ross Browne]
When You Find Me was, without a doubt, one of the most pleasant literary surprises I’ve had in a long time. It’s a debut novel that got a warm reception from readers and critics alike, and with good reason. It’s a Southern gothic-style thriller with an inventive […]