Phil Parker7 minThe Travis M Riddle InterviewWe interview Travis M Riddle, the Texan fantasy author who describes himself as "absolutely unmarketable" because of his original style.
Phil Parker7 minExploring the Tropes: #3 - You can do magic!How will magic work in my story? Magic is a standard trope and we need ingredients which makes that system real.
Phil Parker6 minWriting 101: Character ConsequencesThis post explores the impact of the consequences of a key characteristic on a person and how it influences them and the story.
Phil Parker2 minYou know you're in an alien invasion story when...A light-hearted opportunity to post ideas about how we might recognise an alien invasion. Tweet ideas at https://twitter.com/PhilSpeculates
Phil Parker4 minExploring the Tropes: #2 Creating characters with faultsAristotle invented the term 'hamartia' to mean 'tragic flaws' in a character. I explore how certain 'flaws' can support speculative fiction.
Phil Parker7 minWriting 101: Character tropesUsing Role Playing Game characters, here are suggestions on how you might build your own characters, with examples from books I've read
Phil Parker4 minHow not to lose the plot!Here are some ingredients of narrative design to help you organise the structure and plot of your story.
Phil Parker4 minMaguffins for speculative fictionA maguffin is a narrative device that drives the story. Here are some examples used in speculative fiction to give you inspiration.
Phil Parker5 minWriting 101: The Hero's JourneyThis is for anyone planning to write a novel in the speculative genre, The Hero's Journey is a great framework in which to set your story.
Phil Parker2 minYou know you're in an urban fantasy when...How do you know you're in an urban fantasy. I've started off the list, now you can add to it!
Phil Parker4 minWorldbuilding: 5 foundations5 factors that enhance worldbuilding for speculative writers
Phil Parker4 minExploring the Tropes: #1 - Unrealiable NarratorsUnreliable narrators are a common trope in literature. In this post we illustrate how you might want to use them in your stories.
Phil Parker2 minThe benefits of collaborationThis is for anyone planning to write a novel in the speculative genre, The Hero's Journey is a great framework in which to set your story.
Phil Parker4 minInside the brain of planners and 'pantsers'Writers who are planners or "pantsers", this article explains how your brain works when you're writing. It might help the process too!
Phil Parker5 minRethinking the writing careerThanks to author Phil Williams for his insights on making a career as a writer. Find out more about Phil - www.phil-williams.co.uk
Phil Parker3 minHow to edit your workProfessional editor Jess Lawrence offers some great tips and insights about editing your work. Find out more: https://www.jesslawrence.co.uk
Phil Parker3 minAre you a planner or 'pantser'?There are two types of writer - the planner and the "pantser" who cannot plan, they make it up as they go along. Which are you?
Phil Parker3 minAre writers born or made?Are writers born with the need to tell stories or is it something which manifests as you grow up, driven by life experiences?
Phil Parker5 minMarketing and the AuthorSome tips and advice for writers who want to learn more about promoting their work
Phil Parker4 minEngaging characters engage audiencesThe most successful books are the ones with the characters that reach out to you and engage you in their adventures.
