These are resources I’ve found to be helpful and fun. Feel free to contact me with any questions or if you have any issues!
Please note that some of these links are affiliate links which means that if you purchase something through it I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These are all resources I truly believe are great which is why I choose to be affiliated with them. Please check out my site policy or contact me if you have any questions!
Website Building:
Bluehost
- Bluehost is where I pay to host my blog and they’ve been great to work with and very affordable, which is important to me. So if you’re thinking about setting up a website or blog, I’d recommend you check them out! You can find my guide on how to set up a website here. And if you’d like to hear more about my personal experiences with Bluehost or have questions, feel free to to send me a note anytime.
Online Resources:
DIY MFA
- Write more, write better, write smarter. This site is packed with resources, info, and community for writers.
Fiction University
- This site contains a wealth of information and experienced advice. Whatever your question is, there are probably answers to be found here!
Habitica
- This is a cool (and free!) site you can use to set personal goals, create digital “to do” lists, receive digital rewards, and more. You can even make or join a “party” of other habiticans and complete quests for even more rewards and accountability.
Helping Authors Become Writers
- Educational and sound advice for novice and experienced writers alike. From outlining to digging deeper into character development, there’s something here for every occasion.
Mythcreants
- Helpful advice, entertaining examples, and plenty of geekiness and sass. This site frequently uses books and movies to provide examples which can be fun but watch out for spoilers. There’s extra content for you if you’re into gaming as well!
Nanowrimo
- I love that NaNoWriMo encourages writers to actually write. Plus accountability! Encouragement! Shiny badges and word trackers!
The cool thing is you can utilize their writing resources, forums, and pep talks even if you don’t choose to take part in their November writing challenge so definitely check it out. It’s all free! And you’re welcome to add me as a buddy (Bethy Rose) if you want to to start November off with a friend!
Nathan Bransford
- Nathan used to be a literary agent and now he helps authors with writing, editing, publishing, you name it. Super helpful, super relevant, definitely worth checking out.
Reedsy
- Writing, publishing, marketing, connecting with professionals, formatting your own ebook, free eclasses, short story contests- there is SO MUCH to be found here so poke around.
My Pinterest Boards
- Because of course you should see what I’m up to! 🙂
My Pinterest boards contain links to even more writing resources, story inspiration, and fun writing charts. You’ll also find boards for recipes I like, random things that make me happy, and a disproportionately high number of pictures of mugs and cool doors.
To Read:
The Elements of Style by Strunk and White
This is a little book that can have a huge impact on our writing, offering advice that holds true over time. I’ve had it on my shelf for a while now and have found it useful. It’s a classic for a reason!
On Writing Well by William Zinsser
This book is great for fiction and non-fiction writers alike. It’s a pleasure to read and it provides solid advice that can improve our writing no matter the subject.
The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles by Steven Pressfield
This book inspired me to go and write on multiple occasions which makes it a success in my opinion! This is a quick read, a manifesto of sorts for those who create, challenging us to move forward past anything keeping us from achieving our dreams. Highly recommended for anyone wanting to move toward their goals.
Structuring Your Novel: Essential Keys for Writing an Outstanding Story by K.M. Weiland
This book does a great job teaching the solid foundations of storytelling. Whether you’re a plotter, a pantser, or somewhere in between, understanding a novel’s structure can help us build a strong story.
Self-Editing For Fiction Writers: How to Edit Yourself Into Print by Renni Browne and Dave King
Filled with examples and explanations, this book is approachable, informative, and interesting. Definitely a good read for anyone wanting to improve their writing as well as their editing game.
Zen in the Art of Writing: Essays on Creativity by Ray Bradbury
These essays are filled with observations and enthusiasm regarding writing, creating, and living with passion. I really loved reading about Bradbury’s experiences and felt inspired to write more after reading this book. The essays definitely provide encouragement and guidance for any writer.
On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Steven King
This book is both entertaining and instructional, providing personal experiences and advice from one of the writing legends of our time. A truly great read!
Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life by Anne Lamott
This book reads like stories and instructions from your best writing teacher. I already am planning to reread it with a notebook in hand to take notes and see where the muse will take me! I know it won’t leave me disappointed.
The Art of War for Writers: Fiction Writing Strategies, Tactics, and Exercises by James Scott Bell
So much inspiration, wisdom, and practical how-to advice packed into this book’s short chapters.
Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon
This book is almost deceptively deep- it contains so many gems of creative genius while reading like a fun and funny note from a friend. While you’re at it, pick up Austin Kleon’s other books Show Your Work and Keep Going.
Hooked by Les Edgerton
Excellent and engaging, this book addresses how to catch and keep our readers’ interest.
Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy by David D. Burns M.D.
We should all practice caring for ourselves and practicing wellness. This is an evidenced based book that helps us address anxiety and depression in our lives and learn healthy ways of thinking and living.
Note that this is not a substitute for attending therapy or taking prescribed medications.
You won’t regret the time it takes to work through this, and while you’re at it, share it with a friend. Highly recommended.
That’s it for now! Feel free to send any suggestions my way if you’ve found a great resource that you’d like to share. And as always, happy writing! 🙂