For Writers

Welcome to the enchanting realm of Writerland, where fiction, nonfiction, and poetry come alive. Step into our mystical cave, nestled high in the mountains—a sanctuary where writers find solace, inspiration, and the opportunity to rejuvenate their craft.

Hey, I’m Darlene. I’ve been inspiring writers and creators since 2009. I’ve also been writing for way longer. One of the key things I’ve learned on the path is that we don’t have to travel it alone.

I’m here to support you in your writing journey! What follows are some of my favorite tips and tricks to help you in your search for an authentic writing life. Please share these resources with other writers – we’re stronger together!

Writerland: A Closer Look

Just like the diverse caves found around the world, the Writerland cave is a treasure trove of wonders. Imagine stalagmites and stalactites, ancient drawings, and shimmering waterfalls. Within its depths, you’ll discover a place to escape from the demands of reality and immerse yourself in the art of storytelling.

Eagles soar above the Cave, where the Muse resides. It may be a challenging hike, but once you reach your destination, you can crawl into the cave and find yourself next to a pool of molten chocolate, surrounded by fruit trees and the enchanting fairy knoll. Where will your imagination take you?

Hey, writer.

I’m thrilled that you’ve found your way here.

I’ve walked the path you’re on. I’ve been the writer who scribbles in the margins of a notebook, stealing precious moments to put words on paper.

If you’re here, it means you’re eager to elevate your craft and connect with fellow writers across different levels. Let me share a bit about myself: I’m a writer through and through, with a lifelong passion for crafting stories in various genres.

Whenever you find yourself dangling at the end of your writer’s rope, the Writerland cave is here to restore your creative powers. Treat it as a haven for meditation and focused writing practice. If our vision of the Writing Cave doesn’t resonate with you, feel free to create your own space. Build a garden, a hiking trail, or even a tropical beach with swaying coconut and banana trees.

This corner of the Writer’s Cave is dedicated to you, the writer seeking a quiet nook to explore tools, articles, and more. Here, I delve into the intricacies of the writing craft, sharing my experiences and insights. Join me for a cup of coffee or tea, as we welcome writers of all levels. And if you stick around until the end of this page, you’ll uncover a secret surprise.

I’ve encountered many teachers and writers throughout my journey, but the ones who truly resonated with me were the ones who taught from a place of personal experience—they were writers who write. And that’s exactly what I bring to the table—I practice what I teach.

In this Writer’s Cave, I’ll be curating a collection of valuable tools to aid fellow writers. Expect to find a rich assortment of essays penned by myself and guest bloggers. And in due time, I’ll be offering workshops both online and in person.

I’m also available as a writing coach, teacher, and inspirational speaker. If you’re interested in booking me for an event, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

So, welcome to Writerland. Take a deep breath, soak in the magic of this space, and join me on this incredible journey of storytelling and growth. Together, we’ll unlock the secrets of our craft and empower each other to reach new heights.

Start by Discovering Your Writer’s Path.

Then check out the writing fun below.

Books

Step into the world of literary transformation with A Novel Approach for Writers, your trusted companion on the journey to elevate your craft.

Get inspired with 1,001 Plots to Get You Started, your key to brainstorming and crafting captivating stories.

Coming in 2025: Bookdragon’s Guide to Fantasy, a guide for readers and writers to ignite your imagination.

Explore DarWrites: Writing Prompts, designed exclusively to fuel your creativity. Grab your writer’s notebook and favorite pen and let the inspiration flow.

Are you ready to embark on an intergalactic odyssey of boundless imagination? Welcome to “How to Write Stellar Sc-Fi,” your essential companion for aspiring spacefarers and seasoned cosmic voyagers alike. 

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The Writer’s Planner is your passport to a year of creative mastery.

Workshops

Right now, I’m in writer mode but stay tuned for more creative workshops. Check out my workshop list for future workshops and to see ones I’ve given in the past. You can also subscribe to my blog and get updates about writing and cool tips and tricks like the ones featured here.

If you’re interested in booking me to facilitate a workshop, please Contact me. I specialize in craft workshops for writers and entrepreneurial workshops. I’m a digital nomad who loves to travel and give workshops.

Inspiration

Welcome to my curated collection of writing prompts! Whether you’re crafting a sci-fi epic, a heartwarming romance, or a spine-chilling mystery, our prompts cover a range of genres to suit every writer’s taste. Let these prompts be your muse as you embark on exciting literary adventures. Ready to start writing? Click [here] to explore writing prompts now and begin your next literary journey!

DarWrites Guide to Crafting Your Own Writer’s Retreat

Are you in need of a writer’s getaway? 

I’ve crafted a do-it-yourself writing adventure for you. There are three tiers: Savvy Scribber’s Sanctuary ($), Cozy Cabin Haven ($$), and Luxe Literary Oasis ($$$). Part of the fun of crafting your own literary haven is determining what goals you want to achieve. Set your writing goals high and let’s craft an adventure worthy of your writing!

The Writer Reset

Explore the Writer’s Toolkit

10 Best Books on Writing: A Writer’s Essential Booklist

20 Prompts to Imagine Your Ideal Writing Career

Bridging the Gap: A Journey of Dreams and Growth for Writers

Discover the Ultimate 48-Hour Check-In Tool for Writers

Top 10 Things to Ignite Writing Creativity

Wordsmith’s Library: Crafting Your Literary Toolbox

Writing Toolbox: 20 Questions to Ask Yourself and Your Writing

A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to Writing

3 Awful Truths About Being a Beginning Writer

Tips for Writers

How to Support Your Writer

On Writing a First-Draft Novel

A Peek Inside a Writer’s Journal

The Post-MFA Rambling

Tips on Writing a Non-Linear Narrative

Top 10 Reasons to take the Anthropology, Archaeology & Romance Writer Workshop

The Writing Process in Supposedly Three Steps

Writing Toolbox: 20 Questions to Ask Yourself and Your Writing

A Writer’s Wish List 2017

DarWrites Writing Prompts Book 1

Surprise! Here’s a Writing Prompt

Writing Prompts

How to Start a Writing Conversation: Advice from 3 Writers

Top 10 Things to Ignite Writing Creativity

Upcoming Additions

Nature’s Muse: Writing Prompts for Your Trailside Adventures

The Resilient Writer: 10 Habits to Thrive in the Creative Journey

Writer’s Wilderness Escapes: Three Unique Adventures for Inspired Writing

DIY Exploratory Writing Games Workshop

Dive into Doodling: Enhance Your Writing with Visual Storytelling

Want to freelance?

How to Start Freelance Writing, Part 1: My Story

How to Start Freelance Writing Part 2: The Plan

How to Start Freelance Writing Part 3: The Website

Fantastic Guest Bloggers Who Want You to Write

A. R. DeClerck | The Writer’s Zen

Tameri Etherton | Interview and Update

DL Fowler | Do You Write for Readers?

JC Hay | Piercing the Shadows of Cyberpunk

Stacey Oberle | Breaking the Rules

Alexandra Panic | Mamma Writes: On Writing and Teaching Creative Writing

Cynthia Sax | Insights For New Writers

Chris Weigand | Don’t Melt

Chris Weigand | Stacey Oberle | Darlene Reilley | How to Start a Writing Conversation: Advice from 3 Writers

Stephen Zimmer | Rayden Valkyrie: Behind the Scenes

Writer Fun and Projects

How to Knit a Writer’s Plot Bunny

How to Start a Writing Conversation: Advice from 3 Writers

Surprise! Here’s a Writing Prompt

Writer Resources

Writer Affirmations

Writer Affirmations