Words to avoid in your writing by Janice Seagraves

 I've posted before about avoiding certain words, as they can make your work sound passive.

Readers don't like passive writing. That sort of writing pushes the reader back a step, and there is less immersion in your story. 

And we want our readers to get lost in our books, right?

Here's a new list, but with the caveat that if your sentence doesn't sound right without this word, please leave it in. 

Feels, felt: this is a biggie. Nothing pushes the reader back, than telling what it feels like. Drop the feels/felt and use the sensation itself.  "The garment had points on the shoulders and felt sharp." Better: "The garment had points on the shoulders and stung her fingertips. She jerked her hand away with a hiss."

Seems: I use this too often myself.

Slightly: something is, or it's not.

Almost: something is, or it's not. 

A little: something is, or it is not.

Somewhat: something is, or it's not. 

And the one I use too often myself, So.

 I hope that helps you in your writing journey.

Please check out my most recent release:

Alien Rescuers

Chronicles of Arcon Book 9

by

Janice Seagraves

Genre/s

Fiction, Action and Adventure, Dark, Romance, Science Fiction

Publish Date

December 24, 2024

Amazon.com: Alien Rescuers: Chronicles of Arcon eBook : Seagraves, Janice: Kindle Store

Alien Rescuers by Janice Seagraves | eBook | Barnes & Noble®

Alien RescuersChronicles of Arcon Book 9

The night before he’s to be sold in a slave auction, the Arcon, Saber Daystar, is rescued by the human, Mouse, an independent scrappy thief.
Zinnia Field, a.k.a. Mouse, needs the hunky Arcon’s remarkable night-sight to help her steal information on where her mentor is being held prisoner.
As they race to the rescue, will the sparks that fly between them get in the way of the rescue attempt?

Reviews Of The Book On BooksShelf

Exciting Sci-Fi Romance with Action & Heart

Alien Rescuers by Janice Seagraves is a thrilling blend of action, romance, and adventure. Saber, a noble Arcon warrior, and Mouse, a fearless human thief, make an unlikely yet captivating duo. Their chemistry is electric, the world-building immersive, and the action nonstop. Fast-paced, witty, and full of heart—this is a must-read for sci-fi romance fans!

4.9 stars