Words Deferred is a blog about writing fiction, in all of its myriad forms.
What am I doing here? I’m reviewing books and giving away my story ideas! But that’s not all…
In 2024 and 2026 I’ve done what I like to call a Year of Short Stories. I spend 52 weeks writing sci-fi and fantasy stories and submitting them to publications. I write weekly updates to discuss my progress, as well as the ins and outs of writing and submitting short fiction in these markets. Read the kickoff, or see all the posts.
Previously, I spent almost two years writing Razor Mountain, a novel that I updated here twice per month. I documented the entire process, from ideas and outlining to the cover design and back-cover blurb to the chapters themselves. You can read all of it on my Razor Mountain landing page.
If you’d rather read some of my free microfiction or hundred-word drabbles, check out the Fiction section.
If you’re looking for something else, use the search, categories and tags in the sidebar, or check out my most recent posts below.
Fifteen Years — The Story Idea Vault
It’s a common misconception that a great idea makes a great story. The truth is that most great stories come down to execution. A great idea with poor execution rarely works, but a great writer can breathe new life into even the most tired tropes. Like any writer, I have…
Week 20 — Year of Short Stories 2026
2026 is another year of short stories. In this weekly series, I track my short story writing, from idea and draft to submission. This is the week of May 18 – 24. Stats Submissions and Responses I had one story come back to me this past week—a form rejection for…
Ted Lasso and Using Tropes Effectively
I’ve been rewatching Ted Lasso recently, and while there are many things to appreciate about the writing on that show, I found myself impressed by the tropes. Rebecca is the tough female boss, Higgins is her bumbling sidekick. Jamie is the fantastic young athlete who only cares about himself, and…
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Words Deferred 