The Merry Writer Podcast

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Last week, we talked about stretching your word count, but what if you go over your word count? It’s not always easy to cut words and certain scenes. This week, we discuss various ways you can make your manuscript shorter. In this episode, we cover: Knowing what readers need to know Avoiding repetition Using stronger vocabulary Watching for filler words As alwa

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Are you an underwriter? Do you often struggle to get your word count up? Then you might enjoy this episode where we discuss what you can do to boost those word counts! As always, thanks for listening, and let us know your thoughts on this topic in the comments below. WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THE SHOW? Want to be a guest on The Merry Writer Podcast? If you would like

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Writing for children is an art form all on its own. While it has the same pieces as any novel, children’s books are unique and serves a different purpose for its age group. This week, Darlene Foster joins us to discuss why writing for children is so important. In this episode, we cover: Typical themes in children’s books How to make these stories age appropri

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Do you suffer from perfection? Is it hard to let your manuscript see the light of day because it's not yet "perfect?" Are you striving to be the best beyond all measure? Well, stop it! In today's episode, we are talking about that insidious condition known as Perfectionism and ways we have been dealing with it and things you can try. What we cover: Done is better

EPISODE SHOW NOTES If you're a writer, then you probably have a website, right? Right? And if you have a website, then you might also have a blog. A blog is a great way to keep your website looking active and updated. This week, Ari and Rachel discuss content writers can share on their blog. In this episode, we cover: Types of blog posts Niche(s) Consistency As always, thanks for l

EPISODE SHOW NOTES In this week's episode, we (try) to discuss the difference between cliches and tropes. I say try, because apparently it was a crazy day for both of us, so if you made it through to the end, good on yer! As always, thanks for listening, and let us know your thoughts on this topic in the comments below. WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THE SHOW? Want to be a guest on The Merr

EPISODE SHOW NOTES One big decision all writers face is the matter of publishing: traditional or self? It's not an easy choice, which is why Ari and Rachel are joined on the podcast this week by Wendy Simpson who discusses what the traditional publishing industry is really like. In this episode, we cover: The main benefits of traditional publishing Benefits of having an agent What

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Motivation can be pretty elusive and if you are hoping to find some behind the fridge, we can guarantee it's not hiding there. If you struggle with feeling motivated to write, then check out today's episode. What we cover: Give yourself cues Know what comes next Think small Spark some joy Use what inspires you Get a positive read Step away from social media As al

EPISODE SHOW NOTES When was the last time you went to your library? If it's been a couple of months, go ahead and plan a trip there. Libraries are useful for everyone for a number of reasons, but writers can get a lot out of it. This week, Ari and Rachel discuss how writers can use their local libraries. In this episode, we cover: The library environment Events from the library Res

EPISODE SHOW NOTES Let's throw in a quick disclaimer - we are not talking about THAT kind of pleasure - this episode topic is NOT about reading erotica. So get your mind out of the gutter! :p In today's show, we are talking about reading for fun and touch on why some readers may not be doing that as much as well as why it's important to take the time to read just for the pleasure o