Goodreads asked Ross Ritchell:

What’s your advice for aspiring writers?

Ross Ritchell Learn to see doubt and fear as assets and not detriments. Doubt can be your best editing tool, which is imperative for aspiring writers to harness. You need to be your own best, and worst, critic or others won't waste their time on your work. If something doesn't work or fit, cut immediately. Don't be married to you "genius" because none of us are that brilliant. Beyond that, believe in yourself (corny but true) and read as much as possible. Pay attention to how authors make you feel the way they do, whether good or bad. Learn to read with your ears. Listen to how sentences sound and work, then you can start finding your way and inspiration. Writing is fun, a great deal of fun, but it can be incredibly intimidating and frustrating. Use that to break through psychological blocks, increase self-esteem, and ultimately get the words on the page.

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