Category: Blog
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What Your Story May Be Missing: A deep-dive into story milestones
Do you ever wonder why some stories just work, while others do not? It may have something to do with what is called the “Story Milestones.” If you haven’t heard this term, don’t worry, because you’ve likely heard of some of its other names such as “story acts”, “story beats,” or “plot rise and fall.”…
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Book Review: Traitor’s Game Trilogy
This series came recommended to me from one of my students and now I want to share it with you. With forbidden magic, epic fights, and dangerous quests, this series has a lot to offer. Before we dive in to the review on the book, here is a reminder of how I rate what I…
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The Phoenix & The Wolf: A peek at chapter 1
Shooting the Gap Present Day Tucked behind a collection of massive boulders, Nienna Comstock twisted the dials of her spyglass, bringing a mounted patrol into focus. Her Skyspark would be faster to see what was happening, but the little ball of light was too conspicuous for this time of day. About half a mile from…
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A peek into 2026
This year will mark a new chapter for Vanessa Thurgood Books. My first series will be complete, secret projects will be revealed, and I will be attending a few conferences. Here’s a quick glimpse at what’s going to happen this year. I know this list may seem fairly short, but don’t worry. I still have…
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7 Plot Problems to Avoid to Create a Better Story
With Novel November coming to a close, it’s time to consider seven plot pitfalls that may be lurking in your manuscript. Rigid Planning One of the worst things you can do when plotting your outline is to over-plan. I am very much a plotter when it comes to writing, but I’ve also learned that I…
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Book Review: Two Weeks Notice
If you’ve ever considered quitting your nine-to-five job to pursue your dream business, Two Weeks Notice is a must read. Before we dive in to the review on the book, here is a reminder of how I rate what I read (these will be on a scale of 1-10, 1 being low, 10 being high):…