Ink Editorial Blog
Welcome to the Ink Editorial blog — a resource for writers at every stage of the journey. Here you’ll find practical advice on manuscript assessments, developmental editing, line and copy editing, submission packages, query letters, synopses, and the publishing process. Each article is written by Tom Witcomb, a former literary agent and Big-5 editor, to help you improve your craft, prepare for submission, and give your book the best possible chance in today’s competitive market.
Why Some Manuscripts Get Stuck in the “Messy Middle” (and How to Fix It)
The middle of a novel is where many stories lose momentum. Learn why manuscripts stall in the “messy middle” — and how to fix pacing, subplots, and stakes to carry your draft through.