Banter with Banks

Writing the “Wrong” Book Anyway
Writing the “Wrong” Book Anyway
Magic. Time travel. A 750-page timeline. This is the story I can’t stop writing, even though I have been warned that it might be a mistake. Read more...
What Makes a Character Choice Feel Earned?
What Makes a Character Choice Feel Earned?
A character’s choices do not need to be perfect, logical, or even likable to keep readers invested—but they do need to feel earned. This post explores how emotionally grounded decisions... Read more...
What Is a Sticky Sentence? How Glue Words Can Weaken Your Prose
What Is a Sticky Sentence? How Glue Words Can Weaken Your Prose
Sticky sentences are not a sign that you are a bad writer. They are a normal part of drafting. Most of us use extra words when we are still discovering... Read more...
Line Editing: How Language Shapes the Reader’s Experience
Line Editing: How Language Shapes the Reader’s Experience
A strong story is not only about what happens. It is also about how the reader experiences what happens. Line editing looks closely at clarity, flow, rhythm, word choice, emotional... Read more...
Emotional Truth: Why Readers Need More Than Plot to Care
A story can have an exciting premise, beautiful sentences, and a perfectly mapped plot—but if the emotions do not feel true, readers will struggle to connect. Emotional truth is what turns plot movement into meaning. It helps readers feel the cost of what is happening, understand why choices matter, and stay invested in the characters long after the scene ends. Read more...
Self-Editing Your Manuscript (And Why Outside Feedback Still Matters)
Self-Editing Your Manuscript (And Why Outside Feedback Still Matters)
Learning to self-edit will strengthen your manuscript and your confidence as a writer — but lasting improvement comes from understanding how your story is experienced by others. This guide shares... Read more...
Technology, Trust, and the Future of Editing
Technology, Trust, and the Future of Editing
As the writing community wrestles with AI’s growing presence, the conversation often lacks nuance. In this post, I explore why today’s AI debate feels strikingly similar to the fear surrounding... Read more...
Storytelling vs. Story Showing: Is “Show, Don’t Tell” Always Right
Storytelling vs. Story Showing: Is “Show, Don’t Tell” Always Right
Understanding when to show and when to tell is less about following rules and more about creating the right reader experience. Learn how to balance immersion with momentum so your... Read more...
Why Feedback Matters More Than Perfect Prose
Why Feedback Matters More Than Perfect Prose
Many writers spend months polishing sentences before seeking feedback on their story. While strong prose is important, focusing too early on wording can sometimes hide larger structural issues. A beautifully... Read more...
Understanding Story Editing, Line Editing, and Proofreading
Editing is not one single step — it is a layered process. This guide explains the purpose of each type of editing so you can confidently choose the support that will have the greatest impact on your story. Read more...
Which Edit Do I Need?
Every manuscript needs different support depending on where you are in the writing process. Use this guide to identify which type of editing will help you move forward with clarity and confidence. Read more...
What Working With an Editor Looks Like
What Working With an Editor Looks Like
Working with an editor should feel collaborative, supportive, and focused on helping your story reach its full potential. Whether this is your first manuscript or your fifth, understanding the process... Read more...
Why I Created Narrative Compass
Why I Created Narrative Compass
Every story begins with an idea that refuses to leave you alone. Sometimes it arrives as a single scene you can’t stop replaying. Sometimes it’s a character voice that keeps... Read more...