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Learn how to ask for beta reader feedback the right way—with example questions, a checklist, and tips to get constructive, useful responses.

You can write 100,000 words and still feel like a fraud. Imposter syndrome hits differently when you’re unpublished—no contract, no cover, no external validation. Just you, your manuscript, and the question: “Am I even allowed to call myself a writer?” This is what I’ve learned about doubt, identity, and continuing anyway.

When I first started writing Kaelyn, I thought I was writing a strong, capable female lead. What I didn’t realise was that I’d made her weak in the wrong way—indecisive, passive, and hard to love. This is the story of how Kaelyn changed, how her character arc evolved draft by draft, and what I learned about writing a memorable FMC who earns her strength instead of being handed it.

Author of Project Eden & Vestige of the Crown Australian indie author, mum of four girls, and certified chaos goblin. E. C. Cardey has two books out in the world. Project Eden, a slow burn, dystopian adventure, set in the beautiful coastal Australian bush, and Vestige of the Crown, an epic fantasy adventure that will have you on the edge of your seat from start to end. Did I mention she's also bouncing between six WIPs at the moment? About the Author Author - E. C. Cardey O

An honest look at querying anxiety, submitting too early, and the quiet truth every unpublished author needs to hear.

This is the first year I’ve chosen a word to guide me. And it feels like the right place to begin. This is the year I build slowly, intentionally, and with care.

Author of Still Waters Run Deep MG Hunt is a fantasy author, based in Melbourne/Naarm, Australia.  Her debut novel Still Waters Run Deep  is a tale of elemental magic and mystery, drawing readers into a richly imagined universe filled with vivid characters and captivating adventures. About the Author Author - MG Hunt In her personal life, MG Hunt is a graphic designer and illustrator. She enjoys creating art and visual representations of her written work. She also is the hos

Author of The Girl Who Swam Between Worlds C. M. Koch spends majority of her writing time either staring at a blank page or doing literally anything other than writing, claiming, ‘At least I’m being productive!’ (News flash, C, that doesn’t make the procrastination any better). But during the rare moments that words are actually flowing through her veins, it’s as if her fingers can weave magical threads that craft enchanting worlds, captivating stories, and emotionally traum

Author of Dark Sands J.S. Harman is a fresh voice in accessible sci-fi, blending survival, adventure, and existential themes with classic tropes. His stories fuse introspection, action, and mystery to explore the human experience. About the Author Author - J. S. Harman J. S. Harman is a new voice in the world of accessible Science Fiction. Specialising in tales of survival, adventure and existentialism, Harman's work melds classic science fiction tropes with explorations of

Writing a novel can be an exciting adventure, but it also comes with its challenges. After spending countless months crafting and polishing my manuscript, I faced the essential step of seeking feedback. Although the idea of making significant changes felt intimidating, I discovered that embracing this process was not just necessary – it was rewarding. In this post, I will share my experiences and insights on finding the courage to rewrite your novel in response to feedback. T

Writing a book is often seen as a glamorous pursuit, but it can be an exhausting adventure filled with doubts and frustrations. As a first-time author, I've learned that mistakes are not only inevitable but essential for growth. In this post, I want to share my experiences and insights on the challenges of being a first-time author and why it's completely okay to stumble along the way. The Pressure to Be Perfect (not just first-time authors) When I first decided to write my b

As an aspiring author in Australia, you may find yourself wondering about the best route to take regarding your manuscript. Should you venture into self-publishing, or should you take a chance with traditional publishers? Each path has its unique advantages and challenges. Understanding the difference is key to making an informed choice. In this blog post, I will explore the pros and cons of both self-publishing and traditional publishing, specifically tailored for Aussie ind

Author of Midnight Gate (Book One: The Cursed of Veligrad) If you like your fantasy dark, romantic, and dripping with Slavic lore, meet this month’s spellbinding indie author: S. K. Stapar.  Her debut novel Midnight Gate  opens the door to a world of cursed magic, political danger, and enemies-to-lovers tension so thick you could cut it with a dagger. About the Author Author - S. K. Stapar S. K. Stapar  is an adult romantasy author specialising in cursed magic, gripping secre

If you’ve ever caught yourself scribbling random lines on scraps of paper, napkins, or the back of receipts, then you’ll know where I’m coming from. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been writing. Sometimes it was how I saw the world, other times it was conversations between characters who, until that very moment, didn’t even exist. Does that make me a little crazy? Maybe. But honestly—if this is what crazy feels like, sign me up for the funny farm, because I love  it. I wa

Hello, dear readers! I’m Tegan Fairley — Aussie fantasy author, caffeine enthusiast, and occasional chaos gremlin — and I’m so glad you’ve found your way here. This is my website: a cozy little nook where you’ll find blogs, short stories, and behind-the-scenes peeks  at the wild adventure that is writing my debut fantasy novel, Bloomed  (out in 2025!). Think of this as your escape hatch from Monday blues, daily to-do lists, and whatever else life throws at you. My constant st