Rachael

I’m a sci-fi author from Northern Ireland. My debut novel, Edge of Heaven, was shortlisted for the Arthur C Clarke Award and the ESFS Award for Best Work of Fiction. The sequel, On the Brink, was longlisted for the BSFA Award for Best Novel. I’ve been writing since I was old enough to hold a pen, published since 2003, and helping emerging authors find their creative path for almost a decade as a writing tutor and mentor.

scrivener, plottr, writing tools

Scrivener vs. Plottr: how to choose the right tool for your writing process

Scrivener vs. Plottr: How to choose the right novel writing software for your process Are you wrestling with which novel writing software to choose? I’ve been a professional author for more than 20 years, and I have some thoughts… You’re probably familiar with the buzz around Scrivener and Plottr. (Others are available, but these are

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How to find and fix a plot hole in your narrative

How to Find and Fix Plot Holes Before They Derail Your Story

How to Find and Fix Plot Holes (Before they derail your story) Much like the Spanish Inquisition, nobody expects a plot hole. They’re sneaky like that. There you are, happily crafting away at your story, and all of a sudden it hits you: this part of your narrative… just doesn’t logically work. You’ve got yourself

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Foreshadowing - planting narrative seeds for a satisfying payoff

Foreshadowing: Planting Narrative Seeds for a Satisfying Payoff

Foreshadowing: Planting Narrative Seeds for a Satisfying Payoff Foreshadowing is a powerful literary device that allows create anticipation and tension by hinting at future narrative events. By strategically planting seeds throughout a narrative, authors can build intrigue, heighten suspense, and even improve plot cohesion. All of these factors help create a satisfying payoff in your

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What is the three act structure in storytelling

What’s the 3-Act Structure in Storytelling?

What’s the 3-Act Structure And How Can It Help with Plotting a Novel or Short Story? The 3-act structure is a foundational storytelling framework that’s been used for centuries across various mediums, including literature, theatre, and film. This structure provides a clear roadmap for writers, helping them to organize their thoughts, develop character arcs, and

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