Deborah: You’ve judged romance writing contests for different organizations. What mistakes do you see writers making over and over again?
SW: Flat, ordinary writing and a lack of global knowledge. Often, the emotions don’t ring true or fail to grow from an authentic place, and the conflict is missing. And maybe this is just me, but I’m a stickler for style and usage. Language is our only tool for telling a story, and too many emerging writers don’t take the time to hone their craft in this area. It’s inexcusable.
[I must have been in a mood when I answered that one.]
What about you? What are some of your Pet Peeves of Prose?
