Goodreads asked R.E. Palmer:

What’s your advice for aspiring writers?

R.E. Palmer Learn about story structure and planning. I know Stephen King just sits down and writes as it comes into his head - but he's Stephen King! For the rest of us I think it's vital to have a plot split into four sections with plot points for each quarter that move your story on. I know many will say the planning and structure stage can stifle creativity, but I disagree. Once you have the framework for a workable story you can then set your imagination loose. It's like building your house first, and then painting it any colour you like.

And lastly, once you have your plot, characters and structure, don't wait for the ideas to come before you write. Set aside time and start writing. My best ideas come when I've got my head down and immersed in the story.

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