Barnaby Taylor Author, Fiction, VIRO, Writing

Four Kids, One Apocalypse: VIRO – A Heart-Racing Adventure of Hope and Survival

The VIRO book series has been taking the world by storm ever since its debut on Amazon, captivating readers with its riveting plot and complex characters. With the recent launch of their brand new book covers, fans of the series have even more to look forward to. The cutting-edge technology of artificial intelligence was harnessed to create these covers, resulting in a stunning visual representation of the series’ essence. The new covers are sure to catch the eye of both longtime fans and newcomers to the series alike, beckoning them to delve into the captivating world of VIRO once more. From the vivid colours to the intricate designs, each cover is a masterpiece in its own right, showcasing the immense talent of the designers behind them. So if you’re looking for an exciting new read with a fresh look to match, look no further than the VIRO series and its stunning new book covers.

As a viral pandemic turns the world into bloodthirsty creatures, a boy with special needs looks for his missing mum.

Imagine a country broken by a virus. Society falls apart. Nothing works now. Nobody knows what has happened. There are no answers.

No knowledge.

No rules.

No science.

No God.

The only truth now is the desperate fight for survival. Imagine all of this seen through the eyes of a boy with special needs.

Jake wakes one morning to find his life is broken. His mum has gone missing. The world has fallen apart. Determined to find her, Jake is forced to comes to terms with what has happened to the world. Confronted by the horror, he initially struggles to make sense of everything.

Helped by the new friends he makes, Ellis, kind and resourceful, and the twins, Amber and Abe, Jake starts to develop his independence. Forced to confront the apparent difference defined by his special needs, Jake realises that this difference doesn’t matter anymore. This gives him the strength to keep going.

As they fight for survival, the four kids meet a wide range of other people also battling to stay alive and with each encounter Jake and his new friends learn a little bit more about themselves and each other. Ultimately, Jake’s story is one of hope and determination in the face of complete and utter devastation.

The VIRO series has received glowing reviews from readers worldwide. One reviewer wrote, ‘Capturing the voice of a young character with special needs, Taylor’s story of a group of young people coping with a world disintegrating in front of them; with the loss of structure and trust, and with betrayal by the adults who should be protecting them is both uplifting and horrifying. Do not be fooled by the simple language of the narrator: there are hard questions asked and realistic, unsentimental consequences to the apocalypse confronting the children, and an ending that you are unlikely to forget easily.’

Another reviewer said, ‘Barnaby Taylor has a daring and rich imagination that transports you to new adventures in a re-imagined world, that are vividly written with a fresh and vibrant use of language. […] Barnaby can really write an action packed scene with fear inspiring characters such as the Tall Man. Baxter the dog who accompanies the children gives the story the delightful twist of feeling like an apocalyptic Famous Five. Genius.’

An apocalyptic Famous Five?

And yet another said, ‘The writing style is beautifully compelling, and after the first couple of pages, I couldn’t put it down. The author very skillfully creates a world and characters through deceptively simple prose that draws the reader right in. It is a fascinating blend of one-after-the-other edge-of-the seat scares, alongside a haunting narrative about what it is to be human.’

‘Barnaby Taylor, the author of the VIRO series, is an exciting and passionate writer who has created a story with real depth of meaning behind it. His characters are relatable and engaging, and his stories have a strong visual sensibility. VIRO I and II would translate superbly to television and cinema. With his fresh take on the zombie genre, Taylor has breathed new life into a well-trodden genre. Whether you’re a fan of zombie stories or not, the VIRO series is sure to captivate and enthrall you.‘

In conclusion, if you haven’t already read the VIRO series, now is the perfect time to start. With the brand new set of book covers developed through AI, the books offer a fresh, new look for readers old and new. The story of Jake and his friends is one of hope and determination in the face of complete and utter devastation. The VIRO series has received glowing reviews from readers worldwide, and it’s easy to see why. The writing style is beautifully compelling, and the characters are relatable and engaging. So, what are you waiting for? Grab a copy of the VIRO series today and join Jake and his friends on their journey of survival and discovery.

So, whether you’re a fan of post-apocalyptic fiction or just looking for a new series to dive into, we invite you to give the VIRO series a try. And don’t forget to share your thoughts and recommendations with your friends and family.

In conclusion, the new AI-generated book covers for the VIRO series are a stunning visual representation of an already incredible story. So, what are you waiting for? Pick up a copy of the VIRO series today and join Jake, Ellis, Amber, Abe, and the rest of the gang on their journey to find hope in the face of destruction.

And remember, sharing is caring. If you love the VIRO series be sure to spread the word and introduce even more readers to this unforgettable world. Let’s make sure the VIRO series gets the attention it deserves. Happy reading!

Dear Writing Friends,

As a writer, it can sometimes be difficult to find the support and encouragement we need to keep going. That’s why it’s so important to connect with others who share our passion and can offer valuable feedback and advice. Leaving a comment is a great way to start a conversation and connect with other writers who are on a similar journey.

By sharing our experiences, challenges, and successes, we can learn from each other and grow as writers. We can offer encouragement and support when someone is struggling, and celebrate each other’s achievements when they reach a milestone.

Furthermore, starting a conversation can help to hold us accountable to our writing goals. When we share our progress with others, we are more likely to stay committed to our writing and make meaningful progress towards our goals.

Finally, leaving a comment and starting a conversation is an excellent way to build community and find the support and encouragement we need to keep writing. So why not take a moment to share your thoughts and connect with other writers today?

Also, as a thank you for reading this post I have created two free books for you to download. How to Journal is a handy guide to journaling and I hope it helps you get started. How to Unlock Your Curiosity will help you develop your creativity. You can find both free books at the top of the page.

Good luck with your writing,

Barnaby

Barnaby Taylor Author, Fiction

What Makes a Good Novel Protagonist? Tips and Techniques for Crafting a Compelling Lead Character

A good protagonist is a crucial element of any successful novel, and choosing the right protagonist can make all the difference in the success of your story. So what makes a good protagonist? Here are a few things to consider:

Relatability: A good protagonist should be relatable to the reader. This doesn’t mean they have to be exactly like the reader, but they should have characteristics or experiences that the reader can relate to.

Complexity: A good protagonist should be complex and well-rounded. They should have flaws and weaknesses as well as strengths and positive qualities.

Growth: A good protagonist should undergo some sort of growth or change throughout the course of the novel. This could be a physical journey or a personal transformation, but it’s important for the protagonist to evolve and develop as a character.

Agency: A good protagonist should have agency and be proactive in driving the story forward. They should make choices and take action that shape the course of the story.

Unique: A good protagonist should be unique and stand out in some way. They should have qualities or characteristics that make them distinct and memorable.

By considering these factors, you can create a compelling and well-rounded protagonist for your novel. Just remember to give your protagonist the depth and complexity they deserve, and they will be a crucial element of your story’s success.

Barnaby Taylor Author, Fiction

Find Your Fiction Focus: What Type of Novel Should You Write?

If you’re thinking about writing a novel, you may be wondering what type of novel you should write. Here are a few things to consider when choosing the genre and theme of your novel:

Your interests: Consider what interests you and what you enjoy reading. If you love science fiction, for example, you may want to write a science fiction novel. If you’re more interested in historical fiction, you may want to consider writing a historical novel.

Your audience: Think about who you’re writing for and what sort of novel they might enjoy. If you’re writing for young adults, for example, you may want to write a young adult novel. If you’re writing for a general audience, you may want to consider a more broad genre, such as literary fiction or mystery.

Your strengths: Consider what you’re good at and what you’re comfortable writing about. If you’re skilled at creating complex characters, for example, you may want to write a character-driven novel. If you excel at crafting intricate plot twists, you may want to write a mystery or thriller.

Your goals: Think about what you want to achieve with your novel. If you want to write a best-seller, for example, you may want to choose a popular genre like romance or fantasy. If you want to write a more literary novel, you may want to consider a genre like literary fiction or historical fiction.

By considering your interests, audience, strengths, and goals, you can choose the genre and theme of your novel that is right for you. Just remember to have fun and enjoy the writing process!

Barnaby Taylor Author, Fiction

Find Your Voice and Tell Your Story: Why You Should Write a Novel

Writing a novel can be a challenging and rewarding experience, but it’s not for everyone. If you’re considering writing a novel, here are a few reasons why it might be a good idea:

1. Self-expression: Writing a novel can be a great way to express yourself and share your thoughts, ideas, and stories with the world. It can be a powerful way to communicate and connect with others.

2. Personal growth: Writing a novel can be a challenging and rewarding process that requires a lot of hard work and dedication. It can help you grow as a person and develop new skills, such as problem-solving, organisation, and creativity.

3. Professional growth: If you’re a writer, writing a novel can be a great way to advance your career and gain recognition in the publishing industry. A well-written novel can open doors to new opportunities and help you establish yourself as a professional writer.

4. Sense of accomplishment: Writing a novel can be a daunting task, but completing it can give you a sense of accomplishment and pride that can last a lifetime. It can be a rewarding way to test your limits and see what you’re capable of achieving.

5. Creative outlet: Writing a novel can be a great way to tap into your creativity and explore new ideas. It can be a fun and enjoyable way to express yourself and explore your imagination.

If you’re considering writing a novel, these are a few reasons why it might be a good idea. Just remember to be prepared for the challenges and hard work that come with writing a novel, and enjoy the process!

Barnaby Taylor Author, Fiction

From Confusion to Clarity: How to Use (or Avoid) Multiple Points of View in Your Novel

Using multiple points of view (POV) in a novel can be a powerful tool for adding depth and complexity to your story, but it’s important to use it carefully in order to be effective. Here are some tips for using multiple POVs in a novel:

When to use multiple POVs:

To explore multiple characters: Using multiple POVs can be a useful tool for exploring the inner thoughts and emotions of multiple characters. This can add depth and complexity to your story and help the reader understand each character’s motivations and desires.

To reveal different perspectives: Multiple POVs can be used to reveal different perspectives on the same events or situations. This can add tension and conflict to your story and help the reader understand different viewpoints.

To create suspense: Multiple POVs can be used to create suspense by revealing different pieces of information at different times. This can keep the reader guessing and increase the tension in your story.

When to avoid multiple POVs:

If it’s confusing: If using multiple POVs is confusing for the reader or disrupts the flow of the story, it’s best to avoid it. Make sure each character’s POV is clearly distinguishable and serves a clear purpose in the story.

If it’s unnecessary: If using multiple POVs doesn’t add anything to your story or serves no purpose, it’s best to avoid it. Use multiple POVs only if they enhance your story and add depth and complexity.

If it’s overwhelming: If using multiple POVs becomes overwhelming for the reader or you as the writer, it’s best to avoid it. Make sure you can handle juggling multiple characters and their viewpoints before attempting to use multiple POVs in your novel.

By following these tips, you can use multiple POVs effectively in your novel to add depth and complexity and create tension. Just make sure to use them sparingly and only if they serve a clear purpose in your story, and avoid them if they are confusing, unnecessary, or overwhelming.

Barnaby Taylor Author, Fiction, Writing

Make Your Novel More Memorable with Stream of Consciousness: 5 Tips for Effective Storytelling

Stream of consciousness is a writing technique that aims to replicate the flow of a character’s thoughts and emotions in real-time. It can be a powerful tool for adding depth and complexity to a novel, but it must be used carefully in order to be effective. Here are five tips for using stream of consciousness in a novel:

1. Use it sparingly: Stream of consciousness can be a useful tool, but it’s important to use it sparingly. Too much stream of consciousness can be confusing and disrupt the flow of the story.

2. Make it authentic: To be effective, the stream of consciousness must feel authentic to the character. Consider the character’s personality, thoughts, and emotions when crafting their stream of consciousness.

3. Use it to reveal character: Stream of consciousness can be a useful tool for revealing a character’s inner thoughts and emotions. Use it to give the reader insight into a character’s personality and motivations.

4. Use it to create tension: Stream of consciousness can be used to create tension by revealing a character’s inner turmoil or conflict. Use it to create suspense and keep the reader on the edge of their seat.

5. Use it to add depth and complexity: Stream of consciousness can help add depth and complexity to your story by providing insight into a character’s thoughts and emotions. Use it to give the reader a deeper understanding of the character and the story.

By following these tips, you can use stream of consciousness effectively in your novel to add depth and complexity and create tension. Just remember to use it sparingly, make it authentic, use it to reveal character, use it to create tension, and use it to add depth and complexity, and you’ll be well on your way to using stream of consciousness to improve your storytelling.

Barnaby Taylor Author, Fiction

Discover the Benefits of Keeping a Journal as a Writer: Insights and Inspiration Await

As an author, it can be helpful to keep a journal to help you stay organised, track your ideas, and reflect on your writing process. Here are some benefits of keeping a journal as an author:

Organise your ideas: A journal can be a useful tool for organising your ideas and keeping track of your writing projects. Use it to jot down ideas, brainstorm, and outline your stories.

Reflect on your writing process: Keeping a journal can help you reflect on your writing process and identify areas for improvement. Use it to write about your writing goals, challenges, and successes.

Improve your creativity: Writing in a journal can help stimulate your creativity and inspire new ideas. Use it as a place to explore your ideas and experiment with different writing styles and techniques.

Record your progress: A journal can be a useful tool for tracking your progress and seeing how far you’ve come. Use it to record your writing goals and milestones, and look back on your journey as an author.

Process your emotions: Writing can be a emotional process, and a journal can be a helpful outlet for processing your feelings. Use it to write about your struggles, fears, and triumphs as an author.

By keeping a journal, you can stay organised, reflect on your writing process, improve your creativity, track your progress, and process your emotions. Whether you’re just starting out as an author or you’re a seasoned pro, a journal can be a valuable tool for your writing journey.

Barnaby Taylor Author, Fiction

10 Strategies for Writing a Children’s Book That Will Delight and Engage Young Readers

Writing a children’s book can be a rewarding and challenging experience. Whether you’re a seasoned author or a newcomer to the world of children’s literature, here are ten tips to help you craft a successful children’s book:

1. Know your audience: It’s important to have a clear understanding of your target audience when writing a children’s book. Consider the age range, interests, and reading level of your readers when crafting your story.

2. Keep it simple: Children’s books should be simple and easy to understand, with clear and concise language. Avoid using complex words or concepts that may be beyond the understanding of your young readers.

3. Use illustrations: Illustrations are an important part of any children’s book, as they help bring the story to life and engage young readers. Consider working with an illustrator to bring your story to life.

4. Use repetition: Repetition is a useful tool for children’s books, as it helps reinforce concepts and ideas and makes the story easier to remember.

5. Use rhythm and rhyme: Rhythm and rhyme can help make a children’s book more engaging and memorable. Consider incorporating these elements into your story to help keep your young readers interested.

6. Tell a good story: At its core, a children’s book should be a good story that captures the imagination and interest of young readers. Consider using a compelling plot, well-developed characters, and a satisfying resolution to craft a successful story.

7. Keep it age-appropriate: Children’s books should be appropriate for the age range of the intended audience. Consider the themes and content of your story and make sure it is suitable for your young readers.

8. Use strong themes: Children’s books often explore themes that are important to young readers, such as friendship, family, and self-discovery. Consider incorporating these themes into your story to add depth and meaning.

9. Use humour: Humour can be a powerful tool for engaging young readers and making a story more memorable. Consider incorporating funny moments or characters into your story to add levity and keep your young readers smiling.

10. Edit, edit, edit: A good children’s book requires careful editing to ensure that it is clear, concise, and age-appropriate. Consider working with an editor to help polish your story and make it the best it can be.

By following these tips, you can craft a successful and engaging children’s book that will capture the imagination of young readers. Just remember to know your audience, keep it simple, use illustrations, use repetition, use rhythm and rhyme, tell a good story, keep it age-appropriate, use strong themes, use humour, and edit, edit, edit, and you’ll be well on your way to writing a children’s book that young readers will love.

Barnaby Taylor Author, Fiction

Make Your Novel More Memorable with Flashbacks: 5 Tips for Effective Storytelling

Flashbacks can be a powerful tool for adding depth and complexity to a novel, but they must be used carefully in order to be effective. Here are five tips for using flashbacks in a novel:

Use flashbacks sparingly: Flashbacks can be a useful tool, but it’s important to use them sparingly. Too many flashbacks can disrupt the flow of the story and confuse the reader.

Make the transition smooth: When introducing a flashback, it’s important to make the transition smooth and seamless. A jarring or abrupt transition can pull the reader out of the story.

Use flashbacks to reveal important information: Flashbacks can be a useful tool for revealing important information about a character or event that is relevant to the present-day story.

Use flashbacks to add depth and complexity: Flashbacks can help add depth and complexity to your story by providing insight into a character’s past and how it has shaped their present.

Use flashbacks to create tension: Flashbacks can be used to create tension by revealing a character’s past actions or secrets that have consequences in the present.

By following these tips, you can use flashbacks effectively in your novel to add depth and complexity and create tension. Just remember to use them sparingly, make the transition smooth, and use them to reveal important information, add depth and complexity, and create tension, and you’ll be well on your way to using flashbacks to improve your storytelling.

Barnaby Taylor Author, Fiction

10 Strategies for Writing a Melodrama That Will Leave a Lasting Impression on Your Audience

Melodrama is a genre of fiction that is characterized by exaggerated emotions, extravagant characters, and a focus on romance and personal relationships. If you’re interested in writing melodrama, here are some top tips to help you craft a compelling story:

Emphasize emotion: Melodrama is all about emotion, so be sure to emphasize the feelings and experiences of your characters. Use descriptive language and sensory details to help the reader feel the full range of emotions that your characters are experiencing.

Develop your characters: Melodrama often features larger-than-life characters, so be sure to take the time to develop them fully. Consider their motivations, desires, and flaws to make them more believable and relatable.

Create tension and conflict: Tension and conflict are essential for any good story, and melodrama is no exception. Consider introducing obstacles and conflicts that your characters must overcome in order to create a sense of drama and suspense.

Use dialogue to reveal character: In melodrama, the way characters speak can reveal a lot about their personality and motivations. Pay attention to the words they use and how they say them to help build their character and create tension.

Pay attention to pacing: Melodrama often moves quickly, with a lot of twists and turns. Pay attention to the pacing of your story to keep the reader engaged and on the edge of their seat.

Don’t be afraid to go over-the-top: Melodrama is known for its extravagant characters and situations, so don’t be afraid to go over-the-top in your writing. Just be sure to strike a balance and avoid becoming too unbelievable.

Explore themes: Melodrama often explores themes of love, jealousy, betrayal, and redemption. Consider incorporating these themes into your story to add depth and meaning.

By following these tips, you can craft a compelling and engaging melodrama that will keep readers hooked from beginning to end. Just remember to emphasise emotion, develop your characters, create tension and conflict, use dialogue to reveal character, pay attention to pacing, and explore themes, and you’ll be well on your way to writing a successful melodrama.