Archive - Wild Writing with Sanjida

Part 1: Why agents love stories inspired by fairy tales

Understanding why fairy tales resonate—and how this helps you write fiction editors want

Jul 14 •

Two suspense techniques agents look for

How to make your novel a page-turner that publishers can't resist

Jul 13 •

21:53

How do you create a story agents can't resist?

Turn everyday moments into compelling fiction

Jul 7 •

Ask Me Anything about writing, getting an agent & getting published

...although I'm also happy to discuss coffee, keeping chickens, and the mixed blessings of owning a Springer Spaniel

Jul 2 •

June 2025

Your publisher wants you to create greater emotional depth. How do you do it?

'It would probably be more hurtful if it was a beautiful day and we were standing in sunshine with rainy hearts.’

Jun 30 •

Your editor wants you to create a meaningful connection with your reader. What do you do?

Leitmotifs can thread deeper meaning into your story

Jun 23 •

Act II - or how to deal with a saggy middle

Three ways to stop the the middle of your novel from losing pace

Jun 15 •

17:59

Red Herrings: How to mislead your readers

False clues, fake suspects and clever misdirection can keep your readers guessing until the final page

Jun 9 •

What it's really like to be a writer

What happens when your book doesn't sell

Jun 2 •

May 2025

How to write dialogue that feels real and grips your reader

"When I think of my wife, I always think of the back of her head. I picture cracking her lovely skull, unspooling her brain, trying to get answers…

May 26 •

You wouldn't build a house without a plan, why do the same with your novel?

May 18 •

22:00

Like a coach and horses: How plot and character work together to drive your story

How to find the right balance so it won't be a bumpy ride...

May 11 •

#nojs-banner { position: fixed; bottom: 0; left: 0; padding: 16px 16px 16px 32px; width: 100%; box-sizing: border-box; background: red; color: white; font-family: -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol"; font-size: 13px; line-height: 13px; } #nojs-banner a { color: inherit; text-decoration: underline; } This site requires JavaScript to run correctly. Please turn on JavaScript or unblock scripts