Neelakshi Singh, Author at Booked4Books

13 Jan

Breaking Grammar Rules: When and Why It Works in Fiction

Neelakshi Singh0 CommentsArticlesBreaking Grammar Rules

Dear reader, Let’s talk about grammar, the prim and proper part of the language. It’s your school teacher wagging a finger, the grammar police blowing a whistle, and the unwelcome party guest correcting your “me and my friends” to “my friends and I.” But when it comes to writing fiction, sometimes you’ve got to shove that grammar guide under the couch and let your sentences chill a little. Breaking grammar rules is like jaywalking in fiction,you’re not supposed to do it, but sometimes it gets you where you need to go faster, and with way more swag. Want your character…

31 Dec

Why Feedback Loops Are Crucial for Writers

Neelakshi SinghArticlesLoops Are Crucial

The thrill of creating something from nothing is thrilling. But, as every writer soon finds out, there’s a catch: the story you see in your head rarely matches what you put down on paper. This is where feedback loops come in, an important tool for writers that improves your writing and also acts as a reality check. Feedback loops are not only about fixing what’s broken, they’re also about growth. They challenge a writer to step outside their bubble of self-assurance and invite others into their creative world. When done right, they’re the difference between an amateur’s draft and a…

26 Dec

Govt lifts ban on ‘Satanic Verses’

Neelakshi SinghArticlesSatanic Verses

After a 36-year hiatus, Salman Rushdie’s The Satanic Verses has made its grand return to India, and it’s creating quite the stir. For those who missed the drama, this book was banned in 1988 by the Rajiv Gandhi government following protests from outraged Muslim groups who deemed it blasphemous. Rushdie’s creation has been described as "a work of art" by some, but a "fiery pit of controversy" by others. No surprise there—it was a little too much for people back in the day Now, after years of legal wrangling, the book is back in a very limited stock at Bahrisons…

24 Dec

The Author’s Guide to Visual Branding, One Post at a Time

Neelakshi SinghArticles

Creating your author brand on social media can be a lot like trying to make a cake with no recipe. You might get a masterpiece, or you might get a floury disaster. The good news? With the right visual branding strategies, you can create something that not only looks good but also makes your audience crave for more. Your book didn’t just happen—it’s the result of caffeine-filled nights, emotional breakdowns, and moments of pure inspiration. Sharing these moments humanizes you and makes readers root for your success. Show off your workspace! Whether it’s a Pinterest-perfect desk or a chaotic dining…

23 Dec

How to Write a Killer First Sentence for Any Genre

Neelakshi SinghArticles

Ohh the horrors of the first sentence. That little line of text is supposed to carry the weight of the world—or at least the weight of your entire story. It needs to pull readers in, set the tone, drop hints about the plot, and maybe make someone say, “Wow, I’m going to cancel my plans so I can read this.” No pressure, right? Writers stress over it, agonize about it, and sometimes even avoid writing their story altogether because they’re paralyzed by the pressure of starting it just right. Here’s the real secret: your first sentence is a work…

20 Dec

How to Transition Between Genres Without Losing Your Audience

Neelakshi SinghArticles

On one side, there’s the thrill of exploring new creative heights; on the other, the fear of leaving behind the readers who made you successful in the first place. The good news? Genre-hopping isn’t an impossible act. With planning and a hint of courage, you really can transition between genres without leaving your audience behind. First things first—if you’re thinking about a genre shift, consider whether a pen name might help. Contrary to popular belief, pen names aren’t about hiding and secret identities; they’re a practical marketing tactic. The goal? Segment your readers and make it easier for them to…

18 Dec

How to Start a Writing Blog That Gets an Audience

Neelakshi SinghArticles

So, you’ve decided to start a writing blog? Great! Welcome to the land of caffeine-filled late nights, grammar-induced existential crises, and the never-ending search for the perfect metaphor. But let’s be real—starting a writing blog isn’t just about slapping your thoughts onto a webpage. If you want readers to actually show up (and stay), you’ve got to approach this with a mix of strategy, creativity, and charm. Step 1: Nail Down Your Blog’s Purpose Before you even think about your blog's name or layout, let’s answer the big question: Why are you blogging? Are you here to share writing…

17 Dec

Is Your Novel Safe? A Guide to Copyright and Licensing for Authors

Neelakshi SinghArticles

It sounds like the legal version of a snooze button, but REALLY, once you understand this, it’ll feel like you’ve discovered the secret map of the publishing line. If you’re an aspiring author, chances are you’ve heard the word “copyright” tossed around a few times, and maybe, just maybe, you’ve wondered, “What does it actually mean for me?” Is it something you need to worry about? Does it mean someone is out there ready to steal your bookish masterpiece the moment it’s written? Should you be emailing your draft to yourself every night like some paranoid email hoarder? Spoiler: Not…

12 Dec

How to Make Quiet Moments Speak Volumes in Your Book

Neelakshi SinghArticlesQuiet Moments Speak Volumes

Oh yeah, the silent moments in fiction. The ones that make readers shudder, sigh, and giggle nervously while waiting for the next shoe to drop. We need to face it, silence isn’t nothingness; it’s a mix of unspoken conversations, awkward eye contact, and overthinking brains running wild. So, how do you write a moment where nobody’s saying anything, but it’s loud enough to Let’s dive in, shall we? Imagine a knight and a princess sitting in a quiet little diner after the most action packed rescue mission ever. He’s still got dragon soot in his hair, and she’s silently judging…

11 Dec

How to Use Beta Readers to Improve Your Work (Without Losing Your Mind)

Neelakshi SinghArticles

Beta readers really are like the fairy helpers of the book world. They take your pumpkin of a manuscript and help you turn it into a carriage apt for the publishing ball. But, like any magical process, there’s a little bit of planning and finesse involved. You can’t just wave your wand (or, in this case, your first draft) and expect big miracles. Beta reading is a collective collaborative effort, and getting the most out of it requires a bit of strategy. Start with a finished draft. And I mean finished. Beta readers aren’t mind readers, nor are they magicians…