Besides the mistakes that are pointed out, I love the way readers become involved with the characters. When readers start asking about character motivations instead of concentrating on the special effects, it means you're connecting with them on a personal level.

Don't try to write to the trend of the moment.

I've been writing full-time since 1978.

I hear entire symphonies, oratorios, in my head, but I can't write a note.

Spontaneity is one of the joys of existence, especially if you prepare for it in advance.

Keep writing. Try to do a little bit every day, even if the result looks like crap. Getting from page four to page five is more important than spending three weeks getting page four perfect.

How much research I have to do depends on the nature of the story. For fantasy, none at all.