I would be terribly ungrateful if I didn't give credit where credit is due. No one just becomes an author. Something or someone must inspire them. In my experience, I have gained a lot from other writers. When I first started writing, I would read books that I really liked over and over to get ideas of writing styles, among other things. And while it's better to have your own style, it was a place to start and over time I have developed my own style. Still, without reading, I never would have gained a better understanding of how things should be done or what I like verses what I don't. I have also done a lot of research; among which is visiting author's websites. Of course, the sites I am most likely to visit are the author's whose books I love. And it is always nice to see a few helpful hints now and again. So I am working on compiling some things to give any of you aspiring authors/writers some help. Watch for this section to grow and change!
Create A Plot Clinic - This is an interesting pdf file that you may find helpful. It discusses various aspects of not only how to write a good plot but how to develop it.
Characters - These are a few things I like to keep in mind when thinking up my characters
Words to Avoid or watch for overuse - These are just a few things to think about and keep in mind. You'd be surprised how much we use them in regular speech.
Another great writer who has a lot of good tips on her site is Maria V. Snyder.
