Author:

I’m Maria Acosta Ramirez, a lifelong reader and story nerd who has devoured more than 5,000 books and still thinks there’s nothing better than discovering a character who feels real enough to step off the page. I believe in honesty, curiosity, and the messy joy of the creative process. When I’m not buried in a book or coaxing writers through their first drafts, you can usually find me talking about why reader engagement matters, experimenting with new ways to make writing fun, or questioning every “rule” of storytelling to see if it actually serves the story. I approach writing and life the same way: with compassion, curiosity, and a little bit of rebellion. I believe that writing should be a conversation between creator and reader, and that growth comes from asking better questions — not chasing perfection.

The Energy It Takes to Write: The truth about the creative well

Writing isn’t just about words; it’s an intricate dance of mental, emotional, and social energies. Each story drains us differently, leaving creative wells dry. To flourish, we must consciously refill these resources. Embrace solitude, engage in simple tasks, and journal to process feelings. Tailor your replenishment strategies for true artistic vitality. Continue Reading The Energy…
Doubt vs Confidence: What I’ve Learned From Going After What I Want

The author shares a personal journey of grappling with doubt in writing and life, recognizing that courage is essential to overcoming these obstacles. By acknowledging accomplishments and challenging conditioned beliefs, they highlight the importance of support in nurturing dreams. As a coach, they aim to empower fellow writers to embrace their creativity. Continue Reading Doubt…
Rediscover Your Writing Spark: The Hard Truth About Writers Mindset

The author reflects on the challenge of maintaining motivation in writing, emphasizing that it’s not just about daily consistency but also about connection and intention. To engage readers, writers must step into their characters’ minds, creating an immersive experience that transcends their own lives. Finding personal triggers and comfortable writing times can help reignite that…
Exposition vs Show Don’t Tell: You’re Playing The Trick Backwards

Exposition in writing should act as a magic trick, subtly providing background and context without halting the narrative. Many writers overload their readers with excessive details, causing disinterest. Striking a balance between “show” and “tell” is essential; both techniques work together, rather than oppose each other. Key details, such as emotions and character relationships, should…
Purple Prose Isn’t Pretty, It’s Distracting

The author reflects on a memorable beta reading experience marked by an overwhelming presence of purple prose, notably illustrated by an absurd simile about an “asthmatic walrus.” This style of writing, which prioritizes complex language over clarity, ultimately confuses readers rather than engaging them. The piece outlines characteristics of purple prose, such as excessive modifiers,…
Your Genre Is A Promise To Your Reader

Writers often mislabel their work, believing it fits a certain genre, which can lead to reader disappointment. Genre serves as the foundational promise of a story, guiding expectations. For example, a dystopian tale marketed as a romance can confuse audiences. A four-step diagnostic approach helps authors identify their true genre: define the A-plot, determine the…
Perfectionism Is Not A Strategy

Let’s get one thing straight right now. As a beta reader, I don’t expect your draft to be perfect. In fact, if you send me something you claim is perfect, my internal alarms don’t just go off, they scream, siren-like, through the halls of my editorial mind. Why? Because that’s not what a beta draft…
Your Setting Isn’t A HookH

The post discusses the common mistake of writers focusing on atmospheric descriptions without connecting them to characters’ emotions and actions, which fails to engage readers. While world-building is important, it must serve the narrative by reflecting character struggles and conflicts, turning mere decoration into meaningful tension. Effective storytelling requires readers to bond with characters who…
Welcome To Maria’s Corner!

Maria Acosta Ramirez, founder of MAR Literary Services, aims to empower authors through guidance, craft tips, and resources. With a Bachelor of Arts in English and experience in various literary forms, she offers insights into the writing process and practical strategies to help writers realize their stories’ potential for greatness. Continue Reading Welcome To Maria’s…