Write what you read

It's the oldest trick in the book of writing. READ. A lot. Read the books you want to write, and don't just read them, but figure out how to do some sort of osmosis to absorb all their magic to make your books better too.

Read with a critical eye for your own writing, by asking yourself questions about the book that has completely captivated you:

• Who is your favorite character? Why?

• What is your favorite scene?

• What conflict kept you most engaged?

• Are there any scenes or parts that lagged? Characters you weren't invested in? Why?

• What plot points were you most obsessed with?

• What can't you stop thinking about once the book ended?

Reading "for work" is the best part of writing "work". You get to do something you love to get better at something else you love, while learning about books that are killing it in your preferred writing genre.

And since the holidays are approaching or already here if you're celebrating "Let's circle back in January" season, then it's the perfect time to make some hot chocolate and settle in for cozy reading time.

I've read some really fun books lately, that are slightly outside my fantasy genre. But I was specifically looking for multiple POV books done super well to help with NIGHT SOIREE being a multiple POV novel.

Cannot recommend enough THE GOD OF THE WOODS by Liz Moore and HOMECOMING by Kate Morton. If you're into mysteries with a multi-generational and time jumping component, then read these ASAP.

Also, even though I already bought multiple copies, I'm finally jumping back into CARAVAL to read Stephanie Garber's Christmas Novella SPECTACTULAR.

Would love to hear what you're reading lately! And what books have helped you tap into your best writing!