Writing Caroline Barnhill Writing Caroline Barnhill

Why Your Non-Fiction Book Needs a Story Arc (Even If It's Not a Story)

Most non-fiction authors approach their books like textbooks: organize information logically, present facts clearly, and hope readers will absorb the knowledge. But here's what successful non-fiction authors know: information without transformation is just data. Readers don't want to learn facts—they want to change their lives.

This is why your non-fiction book needs a story arc, even if you're not telling a story. The most compelling non-fiction books take readers on a journey from problem to solution, from confusion to clarity, from where they are to where they want to be.

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Writing Caroline Barnhill Writing Caroline Barnhill

5 Editing Mistakes That Scream 'Amateur' to Readers

Professional editing is invisible. When done well, readers focus on your story, your characters, and your ideas without noticing the craft behind the words. But when editing goes wrong—or doesn't happen at all—readers immediately sense something's off, even if they can't articulate exactly what bothers them.

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Writing, Publishing Caroline Barnhill Writing, Publishing Caroline Barnhill

Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing: A 2025 Reality Check

The publishing landscape has changed dramatically over the past decade. What once seemed like a clear choice between the "legitimate" path of traditional publishing and the "fallback" option of self-publishing has evolved into two equally viable but fundamentally different business models. In 2025, the question isn't which path is better—it's which path is better for you and your specific goals.

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Writing Caroline Barnhill Writing Caroline Barnhill

The 7 Most Common Plot Holes in Fiction (And How to Fix Them)

Every fiction writer has been there: you're deep into your story, the characters are coming alive, and then suddenly you realize something doesn't add up. Your protagonist somehow knew information they shouldn't have, or a character disappeared for fifty pages without explanation. Welcome to the world of plot holes—those pesky gaps in logic that can pull readers right out of your carefully crafted story.

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Writing, 2025 Planner Challenge Caroline Barnhill Writing, 2025 Planner Challenge Caroline Barnhill

March 2025 Writing Challenge

Welcome to March, Writers!
This month, we’re focusing on one of the most essential elements of a successful writing life: consistency. Whether you’re working on your first novel, blogging, or writing short stories, creating a sustainable writing habit is key to making progress. Writing isn’t just about inspiration—it’s about showing up, even when motivation wanes.

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Writing, 2025 Planner Challenge Caroline Barnhill Writing, 2025 Planner Challenge Caroline Barnhill

February 2025 Writing Challenge

Welcome to February, Writers!

This month, we’re stepping outside the familiar and diving into the playful side of creativity. Writing is often about discipline, structure, and finding your niche—but creativity thrives on exploration. February is your invitation to experiment, take risks, and rediscover the joy of creative play. By pushing beyond your usual writing style and comfort zone, you’ll unlock new perspectives and tools that will make your work richer and more dynamic.

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Writing, 2025 Planner Challenge Caroline Barnhill Writing, 2025 Planner Challenge Caroline Barnhill

January 2025 Writing Challenge

A new year brings a clean slate—an opportunity to reflect, redefine, and set the tone for the writer you want to become. Before diving into word counts and project deadlines, take a step back and reconnect with what truly drives your creativity. This month is about more than just setting goals; it’s about rediscovering your passion, clarifying your values, and envisioning the writing life you want to create in 2025.

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Writing, 2025 Planner Challenge Caroline Barnhill Writing, 2025 Planner Challenge Caroline Barnhill

December 2024 Writing Challenge

As the year draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to reflect on who you’ve been, both as a person and as a writer, over the past 12 months. December offers a rare opportunity to pause and take stock of your journey, honoring the successes, learning from the challenges, and gently letting go of anything that no longer serves you. It’s not just about closing a chapter; it’s about preparing yourself for the next one with intention and purpose.

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Writing Caroline Barnhill Writing Caroline Barnhill

Exploring Narrative Point of View: A Guide to Literary Perspectives

The art of storytelling is a multifaceted craft that involves carefully chosen words, imaginative plots, and the nuanced lens through which the story is presented. One crucial element that shapes the reader's experience is the narrative point of view. It determines who is telling the story and how much insight the audience gains into the characters and events. In this guide, we will delve into the various narrative perspectives, exploring their impact on storytelling and the unique nuances each brings to a narrative.

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Writing, Publishing Caroline Barnhill Writing, Publishing Caroline Barnhill

Self Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing

Embarking on the journey of publishing your manuscript is like setting sail on a vast and uncharted sea. As a writer, the decision of whether to opt for self-publishing or traditional publishing is a crucial crossroads that demands careful consideration. In this article, we'll explore both avenues, guiding you through the decision-making process.

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