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Welcome to Ella Quince's...

The Blue Quill

A Writing Reference for Fanfiction Writers, Beta-readers and Editors

Here are a few informal guidelines for cleaning up the most common writing errors that plague fan fiction stories on-line. I've deliberately avoided technical language and instead concentrated on writing memorable examples of how to do things right.

I hope both writers and their beta readers will use this site to help them polish their sagas. Writing fan fiction is a labor of love, open to anyone with enthusiasm and computer access, so there are no editorial standards that must be met before posting a story on the web. However, just a little effort in copy-editing a first draft can make a writer's finished offering shine brighter and keep the attention of readers who wince, or even recoil, when they encounter glaring errors.

Warning! This is a subtext-friendly writing reference, with slightly suggestive — but not overly graphic — writing examples based on Xena: Warrior Princess. If you are distressed by the implication that Xena and Gabrielle could be more than "just" friends, then I suggest you look for a standard grammar manual.

Many thanks to all the generous and supportive readers who have convinced me that The Blue Quill continues to be a useful reference. Please rest assured that Ella Quince will remain online for years to come!