by Erick Mertz | Aug 4, 2026 | Editing
My career has come with unexpected privileges. I get to meet manuscripts at a fascinating point in their lives. With historical fiction being so hot lately, I get a first hand look at what part of our past people want to talk about. When a manuscript reaches my desk,... 
by Erick Mertz | Apr 1, 2025 | Ghostwriting
When writing fiction, understanding the genre tropes and how they work is crucial. Whether you’re crafting a thrilling murder mystery, a swoon-worthy romance, or a sprawling fantasy epic, genre tropes help define the expectations of your ideal readers. But what... 
by Erick Mertz | Mar 20, 2025 | Ghostwriting
One of the most crucial steps in building a successful writing career is finding your ideal reader. This moment can be transformative, taking a writer from the depths of uncertainty to unprecedented confidence. Whether you’re an aspiring novelist or a memoirist,... 
by Erick Mertz | Oct 7, 2024 | Ghostwriting
Fiction writing is a powerful way to share stories that captivate readers, stir emotions, and transport them to new worlds. However, not all novels succeed in keeping the reader engaged. Sometimes, despite a writer’s best intentions, a novel can fall flat by failing...