KN Magazine: Articles
Literary Alchemy: The Ticking Clock
A ticking clock can turn an ordinary scene into a pulse-pounding race against time. In this installment of Literary Alchemy, Chrissy Hicks explores how deadlines—whether explosive, subtle, or psychological—heighten tension, sharpen character development, and eliminate the dreaded muddy middle. From 24 to The Woman in Cabin 10 and The Da Vinci Code, this craft article shows writers how urgency transforms plot momentum and emotional stakes.
Writing Historical Fiction
Historical fiction demands more than dates and dusty facts—it requires knowing how to transform real events into compelling narrative. In this practical craft article, James L. Hill explores three major approaches to historical fiction, from time-period-based storytelling to alternative history, and explains how much research each truly requires. Whether anchoring your story in the Battle of Trenton or rewriting the fate of the American Revolution, Hill shows how to balance accuracy, imagination, and storytelling power.
Show Don’t Tell
“Show, don’t tell” is one of the most powerful tools in a writer’s toolkit. Learn how to paint vivid scenes that draw readers in and avoid the pitfalls of flat, uninspired prose.
Punctuation Is Power - Part 4: Finding your style: Free your mind and readers will follow
Finding your writing style is less about following rules and more about practicing until your voice emerges. Learn how punctuation, revision, and rhythm can help shape a voice readers will follow.
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