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Here you'll find a collection of tips, tricks, and advice from our writing community, just for you.

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Dear Auntie DD

Dear Auntie DD, I run an adorable bakery in a small Southern town where everyone knows each other. Every morning, this hot fireman comes in and orders a muffin. How can I let him know I’m interested without, like, the whole town knowing? Sincerely,Really bad at flirting Dear RBAF, First,…
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Writing Routines and Schedules and Processes, Oh My!

Welcome to the section of the blog where the delightful Dirty Discourse writers tell you all about their writing routines, schedules and processes – or lack thereof – in the hopes of helping you find the thing that works for you! First up we have Calista Jayne! I’ll be honest—I…
A cartoon of a woman sat at a desk typing furiously on a typewriter as pages flow out of it, with the words "Gwen Hayes * HOW TO WRITE KISSING BOOKS * " at the bottom

Romancing the Beat – Answering Your Questions

By Gwen Hayes Welcome to a new feature on the Dirty Discourse blog all about your questions about Romancing the Beat by Gwen Hayes. I am Gwen Hayes and I approve this message. I get a lot of frequently asked questions…but I’m happy to put yours into the hat as…
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How To Publish Your Book – Without Spending Any Money – Part 2

By Word Ninja Part 2: Craft​ In a previous post, I wrote about how to create seed money for publishing the novel of your heart by first producing a prequel. In this article, I’ll cover how to develop your craft so you can write the best book you can—without spending…
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You Can’t Edit A Blank Page

By M Alice A LIST OF THE THINGS I DON’T NEED TO DO TODAY 1. Procrastination. Writing is a lot of fun. Until you actually start. Then it’s haaard. Looking stuff up on the internet is a lot easier and way more fun. The idea that I have crackles in my…
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Dear Auntie DD…

Dear Auntie DD, My chaperone is busy playing whist and a charming gentleman that I’ve never met before has just invited me to take a turn on the terrace with him. What are the chances that we’ll be spotted by the Ton’s biggest gossip and be forced to get engaged…
A typewriter with a sheet of paper loaded, next to a stack of books

6 Ways To Get Over A Writing Slump

By Calista Jayne Are you stuck? Writer’s block has plagued authors since the beginning of time (give or take a few years), and it will continue to plague them into the future. But just because you’re stuck in a slump doesn’t mean you have to stay there! Here are some…
A stack of books with a piggy bank on top and a hand dropping a coin in, against a green background

How To Publish Your Book – Without Spending Any Money – Part 1

By Word Ninja Part 1: Strategy​ Every day on social media, I see aspiring indie authors complain about how expensive it is to publish a book. But it doesn’t have to be. Once you’re earning enough to afford a good editor and a good cover designer—then absolutely, spend the money. But…
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How To Get Your Work Working

By Ewrither Try this: Make it easier to write Writing takes effort. Pressing your butt into the chair then pressing keys takes mental effort.You don’t need much to make the effort worthwhile and productive: You, a comfortable writing position, a tool (pen, keyboard or dictation device) and time. Simple devices…
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The Importance of Finding Your Writing Community

By HJ Perry 15 years ago I subscribed to all the writing magazines, attended many writer-focused events and joined every writing group I could find in real life and online. Some writing “communities” felt like businesses that saw me as a customer. Some were intimidating—filled with “expert” writers where I…

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