All you have to do is read one book by James Scott Bell and you know why Publishers Weekly calls him "A master of the cliffhanger, creating scene after scene of mounting suspense and revelation."
In addition to writing compelling fiction, James is an excellent writing instructor. So this week, instead of having to listen to me, you get to benefit from his expertise! Here are three ways to glean good stuff from author James Scott Bell:
- James' website has lots of great information for writers. Just click on Writers Page for a listing. His article on dialogue is excellent.
- His books, Revision and Self-Editing and Plot & Structure, both by Writer's Digest Books, are excellent resources for any writer.
- This link will take you to (most of) "Seven Tools for Talk: How to Create Authentic Dialogue," from the book, The Complete Handbook of Novel Writing, a compilation of articles and interviews from Writer's Digest magazine, books, and annuals.
Thanks to James Bell for permission to link to his great stuff! (Hope to see you again real soon–perhaps at a writer's conference?)
So there you have it. Short and sweet–and full of meat! Hey, I think I'll teach you all about poetry next time! 
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Opportunities will return next month…I promise!
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Do you feel like I do right now? Are you frustrated that you rush and hurry and never seem to get a handle on life? I know I'm called to do what I'm doing, but so much of the time I feel totally inept and unqualified, dashing around and accomplishing little. If you're feeling some of these same frustrations, I hope you'll join me this week in meditating on these encouraging words from Paul:
God is working in you to help you want to do and be able to do what pleases him. Philippians 2:13
I pray God's blessing on the work of your hands and your hearts.
Vonda
