Trevor Wiltzen's Blog

July 20, 2025

How to Format a Print-Ready Book in Microsoft Word for Mac (Step-by-Step for Self-Publishing Authors)

So you’ve finally finished your manuscript — after months (maybe even years) of polishing every word — and now it’s time to turn it into a print-ready book file you can upload to Amazon KDP, IngramSpark, or any print-on-demand (POD) platform.

In this tutorial, I’ll walk you through exactly how to format your book in Microsoft Word for Mac or PC, from setting margins and fonts to creating a professional-looking title page, headers, and more. Whether you’re preparing for paperback or eBook distribu...

 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on July 20, 2025 10:15

July 13, 2025

How to Use Subplots to Fix a Flat Plot and Add Depth to Your Story

How to Fix a Flat Plot and Add Depth: The Power of Subplots

Have you ever had a fantastic story idea, sat down to write it, only to discover your first draft feels… flat? Maybe the plot seems thin, or worse, your story feels too short. If that sounds familiar, don’t worry—you’re not alone.

The solution isn’t padding or filler. It’s subplots.

Why Subplots Are Your Secret Weapon

Subplots do way more than just bulk up your word count. They add depth, build on your themes, increase emotional tension, an...

 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on July 13, 2025 05:18

July 4, 2025

How to Write Vivid Story Settings That Bring Scenes to Life

If you want to write vivid story settings that truly captivate readers, you’ve come to the right place. Great scene descriptions do more than paint a picture—they immerse readers in the moment using sensory details, atmosphere, and subtle storytelling techniques. Whether your setting needs to feel eerie, nostalgic, or hopeful, mastering immersive setting descriptions can transform your writing and keep your audience hooked.

Why Boring Settings Lose Your Readers

Have you ever written a setting desc...

 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on July 04, 2025 06:10

Unlock the Secret to Stunning Settings

Want to bring your settings to life in your writing? In this video, we’ll dive deep into the art of showing rather than telling your readers about the world your characters inhabit. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced writer, mastering this technique can take your storytelling to the next level.

You’ll learn how to:

✅ Use sensory details to create immersive, engaging settings

✅ Layer descriptions with deeper meaning and atmosphere

✅ Show emotions through the environment and characters' r...

 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on July 04, 2025 06:10

June 26, 2025

The best writers break the rules

Some writing rules are made to be broken.

In this video, you'll learn which common writing rules you can (and should) break to write with more style, clarity, and confidence. These are the rules your teachers drilled into you — and why ignoring them can actually make your writing better.

Perfect for: ✔️ Beginner writers ✔️ Bloggers ✔️ Fiction authors ✔️ DIY writing fans

👉 You’ll discover:

Why starting sentences with “and” or “but” improves flow

How sentence fragments can add impact - When it’s ok...

1 like ·   •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on June 26, 2025 12:24

January 16, 2025

Secure and Run a Successful BookBub Featured Deal (It’s Easy)

If you're an author or author-publisher looking to give your book a significant sales boost, regardless of how long it’s been published already, securing a BookBub Featured Deal can do the trick. With millions of readers subscribed to Bookbub’s email lists, BookBub is one of the most effective marketing platforms for promoting books. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to get and run a BookBub Featured Deal effectively.

Step 1: Understand What BookBub Is Looking For

BookBub is selective about the ...

 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on January 16, 2025 09:48

August 14, 2023

Haunting Pasts Wins for Best Suspense and Best Mystery!

Thanks to my readers, Haunting Pasts has won several international awards for Best Suspense and Best Mystery, including:

Winner of the Pinn...

2 likes ·   •  1 comment  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on August 14, 2023 13:25

April 15, 2023

Haunting Pasts Now Available

Limited time left on NetGalley so get your copy today (use the link on my profile)

https://bit.ly/NetgalleywidgetforHaun...

2 likes ·   •  1 comment  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on April 15, 2023 17:14

January 14, 2023

Blue River Boys Mystery Reviews

Mabel Davison Family Mystery Blue River Post Your Review Below

To my fantastic E-newsletter members, please post your review of the Mabel Family Mystery short story titled The Blue River Boys Mystery in the comment section below. I...

1 like ·   •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on January 14, 2023 09:47

Monsters in the Room Reviews

Post Your Review Below

To my fantastic E-newsletter members, please post your review of the Mabel Family Mystery short story titled the Blue River Boys Adventure in the comment se...

1 like ·   •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on January 14, 2023 09:47