MICHAEL R. FRENCH
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The Tail or the Dog?

4/19/2023

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The relationship between characters and plot in any novel is pivotal and tricky. A story is often  plot driven but what I remember most when I finish a satisfying read are the characters. Of  course, good plots make characters memorable—how they get in and out of jams, express or  repress their emotions, and make sacrifices—but down deep I just like who they are above and  beyond what they do. They may start out as the “tail” but they end up as the “dog". ​


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The Awkward Art of Asking for Reviews

4/15/2023

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Dear Fellow Author,
​

If you’re thinking of asking for reviews from friends and acquaintances you respect and trust, and who know a few things about writing and storytelling, here are ten points you might consider:

1. If friends give you an enthusiastic "yes, of course I'll review your book," best they know the length of your book. If possible, set a soft time goal that's both comfortable for author and reviewer. 
​

2. Sometimes the best thing a would-be reviewer can do is be straight with the author. An upfront "I wish it were otherwise, but I can't help you" is far better than an endless protraction of good intentions.


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    MRF Blog

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Michael R. French graduated from Stanford University where he was an English major, focusing on creative writing, and studied under Wallace Stegner.  He received a Master's degree in journalism from Northwestern University.   He later served in the United States Army before marrying Patricia Goodkind, an educator and entrepreneur,  and starting a family.  ​
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