Ever finished a chapter, read it back, and realized the words on the page don't match the story in your head? There's a name for that. It's called the “taste gap,” and it often shows up among serious, lifelong readers. 

In this episode, I sit down with book coach and publishing strategist Gala Russ (who's written 15 novels) to talk about the taste gap, what a first draft is supposed to look like, and why messy writing is the whole point.

This one's for you if you've studied writing for years but still struggle to finish your first draft. Because the taste gap closes when you practice writing more than researching it.

Here’s what we talk about:

[04:41] Why no number of finished pages ever makes you feel like a real writer, and the loaded questions non-writers often ask that get inside your head. 

[13:55] What a real first draft actually looks like behind the scenes and why a scrappy, hodgepodge, messy manuscript is usually a good sign.[19:04] The taste gap explained: why being an avid reader who knows what ‘good’ is can make your own draft feel like the worst thing you've ever read.

[23:52] How to know when a book needs more revision, when it’s okay to walk away, and the sunk cost fallacy trap that keeps writers rewriting forever. 

[38:37] Why more craft books won't fix a stuck draft, the hidden blocks keeping writers frozen, and Gala's creative workaround for finding writing time in a busy life.

Here's what I want you to take away from this episode. The fact that you can read a great book, feel moved by it, then look at your own draft and feel like it's not measuring up, that is not a sign you're not meant to be a writer. It's a sign your taste has developed faster than your skills. And skills are built by writing, not by reading one more craft book.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Gala Russ Website 
• Gala Russ Instagram 
• Take Author Success Quiz (FREE)
• Sign Up For Notes To Novel 

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Discover why your first draft never matches the book in your head, what a messy draft is actually supposed to look like, and how to close the taste-skill gap by writing more instead of studying more, so you can overcome imposter syndrome and finally finish your draft. 

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You know that feeling when a scene isn't quite working, but you can't put your finger on why? Your pacing, dialogue, and structure all seem fine. And yet something is still off. Nine times out of ten, the culprit is POV.

In this episode, I'm walking you through the five most common point of view mistakes, what each one looks like on the page, why it pulls readers out of your story, and what to do if a POV mistake is hiding in your draft. 

The good news? It has nothing to do with your talent as a writer. I see these mistakes in the strongest of manuscripts. And every single one is fixable.

This is what I talk about: 

[02:27] Why head-hopping feels so disorienting to readers, and the simple scene-level rule that instantly creates cleaner, stronger POV. 

[07:11] The subtle "omniscience leak" that happens when your POV character knows things they realistically couldn't know in the moment.

[11:42] Why a POV character who only reports action—with no thought, reaction, or internal stakes—leaves readers feeling disconnected.

[17:13] How info-dumping and backstory disguised as thoughts can make scenes feel unnatural instead of emotionally immersive.

[22:00] The subtle voice drift that makes your POV character slowly stop sounding like themselves, and why this is the hardest mistake to catch.

These mistakes are fixable. Every single one. And once you know what to look for, you can write fiction so immersive that readers forget the real world exists until they reach the final page of your book. If that's the kind of story you want to write, this episode is for you. 

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Take Author Success Quiz (FREE)
• Get on the Notes to Novel Waitlist
• Ep. 90 - How to Choose the Best Point of View for Your Story
• Ep. 94 - How to Reveal Your Character's Inner Life on the Page
• Ep. 210 - 5 Tips To Write Multiple POV Novels Without Confusing Your Readers

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You know what your meet-cute looks like. You know there's a breakup coming. You can already feel the happily ever after. So why does everything in between feel impossible to write? 

That's exactly what we're digging into today. I'm joined by Kristina Stanley, CEO of Fictionary and author of the brand new Secrets to Writing Romance, for a masterclass on the lead-up and reaction scenes that hold every romance together. 

Kristina breaks down what to write before and after each key plot point, how your external plot does more work than you think, and how to give your characters real agency in the messy middle of Act 2. If you've been winging it between your big scenes and hoping for the best, this one's for you.

What You'll Learn:

[03:57] The 5 key scenes every romance novel is built around and the one non-negotiable rule that sets romance apart from every other genre.

[10:55] Why every key scene needs a lead-up and a reaction, and how those surrounding scenes are where your character's flaw, motivation, and growth actually live.

[21:42] When your meet-cute should actually happen in your romance novel and what the lead-up scene needs to do before your characters ever cross paths.

[29:30] How to give your characters real agency in the Messy Middle of Act 2 (even when your story doesn't have a strong external plot driving it forward).

[38:03] What to do after the climax, why the reaction to the HEA is trickier than it looks, and how epilogues can save you from cutting your ending too short.

And so much more…

Whether you're plotting your first romance novel or you're stuck somewhere in the middle of a draft, wondering why your story isn't clicking, this episode will give you a clear framework for what every scene between your key moments actually needs to do. 

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Kristina Stanley's Book | Secrets to Writing Romance
• Kristina Stanley Website
• Article | The 6 Key Scenes Every Romance Needs
• Take Author Success Quiz (FREE)

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You know what YA feels like when a book is doing it right. The voice pulls you in. The protagonist's world feels enormous and immediate. You finish the book before you remember to put it down. The hard part is being able to do that yourself—on the page, on purpose.

In this episode, I'm walking you through the five secrets that make YA fiction actually feel like YA—the specific craft moves you can use to write the kind of YA novel you love to read.

After ten years as a developmental editor and book coach—and over 1,000 writers through my Notes to Novel course alone—these five secrets are the patterns I find myself teaching over and over again. They're not vibes or instincts—they're learnable craft skills you can use on purpose in your own writing.

What You'll Learn:

• [02:06] What it actually takes to write a YA voice that feels like a teenager living an experience in real time—not an adult character looking back on it with hindsight.
• [07:11] Why peer relationships—not parents or mentors—are the engine of every YA novel that lands, and how to check whether you've accidentally given your adults too much of the wheel.
• [10:12] Why YA stakes feel huge even when the events look ordinary—and how to scale the emotional reality on the page to match what your teen protagonist is actually experiencing.
• [12:57] How to handle the big themes YA is known for—identity, grief, mental health, family—through scenes and character interiority instead of monologues and moralizing.
• [16:24] Why the best YA protagonists hold two contradictory things at once—and why resolving that contradiction too early in the book is what kills the engine of your story.

Whether you're sitting on a YA idea you haven't started yet, or you have a draft that's nearly there but doesn't quite feel right, this episode will give you the craft moves you need to write the kind of YA novel you love to read.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Join The Notes To Novel Waitlist 

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When Danyel's first draft started to feel off, she got up from her desk one night, grabbed butcher paper and sticky notes, and mapped out her entire story on the wall in her hallway. Within an hour, she could finally see what was working—and what wasn't.

This discovery changed everything about her novel-writing process. And now she helps other writers do the same.

Danyel is a Notes to Novel graduate and founder of Map Your Story Studios, where she helps fiction writers get their stories off the page and onto the wall so they can see the big picture, break through draft paralysis, and write with real momentum.

In this episode, she's breaking down exactly how story mapping works, why it gets writers unstuck, and how you can start today with less than $25 worth of supplies.

What You'll Learn: 

[03:00] What story mapping is, and why getting stuck on your novel is almost always a visibility problem, not a story problem.

[06:29] What Danyel's wall literally looks like: the color-coded sticky note system she uses to map every act, scene, conflict, and character arc at a glance.

[00:09:24] Exactly what to buy at Target (for $25 or less) to start mapping your story today—plus digital tool options if you'd rather work on a screen.

[14:45] What Danyel found on her wall that saved her from writing a whole section of her draft that would have fallen completely flat.

[17:18] The three sticky notes that give any writer, at any stage, a solid story foundation to start mapping their novel today.

Whether you're staring at a blank page with no idea where to start, three chapters in and losing the throughline, or three hundred pages deep into a draft that keeps going in circles, story mapping meets you exactly where you are.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Danyel Nicole's Website | Map Your Story Studios
• Danyel Nicole's Freebie | Map Your Story Guide
• Danyel Nicole's Instagram 
• Take Author Success Quiz
• Learn More About Notes To Novel

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If you've ever sat down to write a scene and ended up with three paragraphs of explanation before anything actually happens, you're not alone. Most writers don't info dump because they're bad at worldbuilding—they do it because they love the world they've built and want readers to experience every detail of it. But here's the thing: too much explanation too soon is usually what breaks immersion, not what protects it.

In this episode, I'm sharing 5 practical techniques for weaving worldbuilding into your story so readers experience your world naturally—without ever feeling like they're being taught about it. You'll learn how to tell which worldbuilding details have earned their place on the page, how to weave them into the scene instead of stopping the story to explain, how to adjust your approach based on whether your POV character is a native or a visitor to your world, and how to let the scene itself pull worldbuilding into the moment so it never feels forced.

You'll hear me talk about things like:

[02:30] How to tell whether a worldbuilding detail belongs on the page—or back in your notes.

[04:27] How to weave worldbuilding into action, sensory detail, and interiority so it never stops the story cold.

[08:08] Why the answer to "how much should I reveal?" is almost always less than you think, and later than you think.

[10:04] The difference between a character who's new to your world and one who's lived there their whole life—and how each one changes what you can explain naturally.

[12:40] How to use in-scene triggers so every worldbuilding detail feels pulled into the story instead of pushed in by the author.

The world in your head is alive. It has texture, history, and weight. These five techniques will help you bring that onto the page so readers feel it too—without you having to stop the story to explain it.

These techniques are hardest to apply when your story's foundation isn't solid yet. If that's the piece you've been missing, my Notes to Novel course is where to start. Click the link below to learn more and join the waitlist.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Join The Notes To Novel Waitlist

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Think about the last time you truly fell in love with a fictional character. Not just related to them—but actually stayed up past midnight because you needed to know they'd be okay. And then felt that strange grief when the story ended, because it meant leaving them behind.

That kind of love doesn't come from likability. It comes from investment. And those are two very different things. Most writing advice conflates them—which is part of why so many writers end up with characters that feel solid in theory but don't quite connect on the page.

In this episode, I'm breaking down the five elements that create real reader investment—whether you're building your first character from scratch or trying to figure out why a character you already love isn't landing the way you hoped.

You'll hear me talk about things like:

[03:25] Why a vague character goal like "she wants to be loved" isn't actually a goal—and what gives your story a spine instead.

[06:07] The difference between scale and personal stakes, and why raising the external stakes alone will never create the emotional weight you're looking for.

[09:32] What inner conflict actually is, why it's so often missing from character work, and how it turns an interesting character into someone readers can't stop thinking about.

[12:42] Why a character who only has things happen to them is hard to stay invested in—even when those things are terrible—and what agency really looks like on the page.

[15:32] How your character's history shapes everything she notices, assumes, and misreads—and why getting this right is what makes your protagonist feel like the only person who could tell this story.

If you've ever looked at a character you've spent months developing and thought, I know all the right pieces are here, but something still isn't clicking—this episode is for you. Because when all five of these elements are working together, readers don't just follow your character. They grieve when they have to leave them.

That reader is waiting for your character. Notes to Novel is the process that helps you build one she can't stop thinking about. Click the link below to learn more.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Click Here To Learn More About Notes To Novel

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Line editing is a stage in the revision process that can feel really confusing, especially if you're not sure how it's different from developmental editing, copy editing, or proofreading.

So in today's episode, I brought in two people who know this topic inside and out. Andrea and Michelle are the managing partners of Two Birds Author Services, and they've been editing fiction together since 2018. They've worked with many writers from my own community, and I've seen firsthand how their feedback helps authors not only polish their current manuscript but grow as writers for every book that comes after.

They break down exactly what line editing is, how to know when your manuscript is ready for it, what to look for when you're searching for an editor, and what the process typically looks like from start to finish. 

We also get into the most common sentence-level mistakes they see—things like clarity issues, weak word choices, and inconsistent rhythm—and how you can start addressing those in your own writing before you even hire an editor.

Here's what we cover:

[04:30] What line editing actually is, why it's not proofreading, and exactly where it fits in the novel revision process.

[07:07] How to find a line editor who's the right fit for your book and why always requesting a free sample edit before you commit is so important.

[17:05] Worried a line editor will change your voice? Here's how Andrea and Michelle make sure every suggestion stays true to your style.

[21:41] The three most common mistakes line editors catch in fiction manuscripts and how to start fixing them in your own writing.

[28:42] How sentence length and structure control your novel's pacing and why this matters more than most writers realize.

Whether you're getting ready to hand off your manuscript or just curious about what happens at this stage of the process, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence you need.

And if this episode got you thinking about where your manuscript actually stands before it gets to a line editor, my 5-Day Revision Accelerator is the perfect next step.

In just five days, you'll learn how to evaluate your manuscript, identify what's not working at the big-picture level, and walk away with a clear revision plan—so that when you do hand your manuscript off to a line editor, it's actually ready for that level of work. Sign up using the link below.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Sign Up For The Revision Accelerator
• Hot Words Checklist 
• Two Birds Author Services Website

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Where do you start? What do you fix first? And how do you know if anything you're changing is actually making your story better?

And at a certain point, it starts to feel like the problem might be your draft. But most of the time, it's not. It's the way you're approaching revision.

That's why in this episode, I'm walking you through the five most common revision mistakes I see, because chances are, at least one of them will tell you exactly where your revision is going sideways.

You'll hear me talk about things like:

[02:08] Why starting revisions without a clear target leads to endless changes, second-guessing, and a draft that never improves.

[06:52] The subtle mindset shift that separates drafting from revising and why staying in the wrong mode makes your story harder to evaluate.

[09:37] What most writers skip before they start editing, and how this leads to weeks of changes that don't actually fix anything.

[12:06] Why the order you revise matters more than how much time you put in, and the specific sequence that gets your revision on track.

[14:21] The tricky truth about feedback, when it helps, when it hurts, and why getting it too soon can leave you more stuck than before.

If you've been staring at your draft not knowing where to begin, or rewriting the same chapters, second-guessing every revision decision, or feeling like your draft is getting worse instead of better, this episode is for you.

And if you want help figuring out what your story needs and how to approach revision with a clear plan, my 5-Day Revision Accelerator is designed to do exactly that.

In just five days, you'll learn how to evaluate your manuscript, identify what's not working, and create a clear revision plan so you're not stuck second-guessing every change. Sign up using the link below.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Sign Up For The Revision Accelerator

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If you've finished your draft and you're thinking about querying literary agents, you've probably seen this advice: don't hire an editor before you query.

And while that's not wrong, it's also not the full picture.

Because the real issue isn't whether you hire an editor. It's whether you're solving the right problem in your manuscript.

In this episode, I'm breaking down what industry professionals actually mean when they give this advice, the different types of editing (and what each one really does), and how to tell whether your story is truly ready to query (or still needs deeper development).

We'll also talk about why so many writers get stuck in revision, what it looks like to revise with a clear plan instead of guessing, and how to tell if you're improving your sentences… or fixing your story.

This is what I talk about:

[00:47] Why the advice around hiring a book editor before querying is often misunderstood, and how it leads writers to focus on the wrong kind of editing.

[02:33] What literary agents are really evaluating when they read your manuscript—and why polished prose can't fix a story that isn't working.

[03:58] The difference between developmental editing, line editing, and copy editing, and why only one of these directly impacts whether your story works.

[07:45] The common revision trap writers fall into when they can't identify the real problem in their manuscript and how it leads to endless, unfocused rewriting.

[09:15] The 3 key questions to ask yourself before querying so you can tell whether your manuscript needs more polish—or deeper story development.

If you've been stuck wondering whether to hire a book editor or keep revising on your own, I hope this episode gives you the clarity you need to make a smarter decision.

And if you want help diagnosing what's actually not working in your manuscript, my 5-Day Revision Accelerator is designed to do exactly that.

In just five days, you'll identify your manuscript's biggest problems, prioritize what to fix, and walk away with a clear revision plan—so you can go into querying knowing your story is ready (not just hoping it is).

Sign up using the link below.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Sign Up For The Revision Accelerator

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Most writers go straight to the prose when their story isn't working. They tighten sentences, swap out words, and reread the same chapter over and over. And still, something feels off. But most first-draft problems don't occur at the sentence level. They occur at the story level.

In this episode, I share the 10 writing mistakes I see most often in manuscripts. Plus, I’ll give you the diagnostic question for each one so you can pinpoint what's holding your story back and know exactly where to start revising.

Here’s what I talk about:

[01:44] Why some stories start too early and how this common first draft mistake makes readers feel like the real story hasn't begun.

[05:59] The one question every strong story is built around, and how to tell if your manuscript is missing it.

[07:49] Why stories start to feel aimless when the protagonist doesn't have a clear, specific goal driving the action.

[12:10] Why tension collapses when your antagonist is weak or underdeveloped, even when they're present on the page.

[16:23] Why so many novels lose momentum in the middle, and the structural issue that usually causes it.

If you recognize some of these issues in your own manuscript, don't panic. Almost every first draft has a few of these problems. This is a normal part of the writing process.

Revision isn't just about making your sentences prettier; it's about strengthening the foundation of your story so readers can experience the tension, emotion, and meaning you intended. Once you clearly see what's happening in your manuscript, you can start fixing the right things in the right order.

That's exactly what The Revision Accelerator is designed to help you do. In just five days, you'll diagnose what's holding your story back, prioritize what to fix first, and walk away with a clear revision plan without the overwhelm. Click here to join us.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Sign Up For The Revision Accelerator to diagnose what's actually holding your story back.

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That's Jackie Henley's (pen name J.J. Henley) story, and I wanted to bring her onto the podcast because I know so many of you feel like life keeps getting in the way of writing your novel. Jackie's story is proof that it doesn't have to.

Jackie is a mom of two, a former teacher, and a long-time Bookstagrammer who spent years reviewing other people's stories before she finally decided to write one of her own. She went through my Notes to Novel program and finished her debut romantic suspense, writing most of it in small pockets of time between school drop-offs, swim lessons, and drive-through lines.

In this episode, she walks us through the whole journey, and I know you're going to find it incredibly inspiring.

Here's what we talk about:

[05:58] How beta reading a friend's novel made Jackie realize she could actually write her own and why seeing a story in its messy state changed her mindset entirely. 

[15:14] Why Jackie resisted calling her book a thriller with a romance subplot and the ‘aha’ moment that completely changed her mind on this. 

[23:07] How having a scene-by-scene outline made her 15-minute writing sessions low-stress, productive, and effective. 

[28:13] What happened when her son stopped sleeping, her writing windows disappeared, and her family was navigating one of the hardest seasons of their lives (and how she kept going anyway).

[38:30] Her honest take on self-publishing vs. traditional publishing, and what shifted her perspective entirely.

If you've been waiting for the right time to write your book, or if life keeps getting in the way and you're not sure you have enough time to actually finish, this one's for you.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Join The Notes To Novel Waitlist
• J.J. Henley / Jackie Henley on Instagram

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Book Marketing. These two words make most writers want to close their laptops and hide forever. But what if it didn't have to feel that way?

In this episode, I'm joined by award-winning science fiction and fantasy novelist and certified creativity coach Beth Barany to talk about what she calls heart-centered book marketing: A values-driven approach to promoting your story that actually feels aligned with who you are.

We break down how to market your book without feeling salesy, how to identify the core values behind your writing, and how to build meaningful reader relationships that energize you rather than drain you.

Here’s what we cover:

[04:35] What heart-centered book marketing actually means and how it differs from the traditional advice you'll find everywhere online.

[07:57] Why chasing other people's book marketing strategies leads to burnout, and a key question to ask yourself before adopting any tactic.

[11:01] How to uncover your core values as a writer and why your novel characters can actually help you do it.

[15:47] A real example of how Beth uses her values to choose her book marketing platforms, including a creative Reddit strategy she's currently exploring.

[22:18] Why you should ditch the "buy my book" approach and use your story's tropes to invite the right readers in instead.

[24:36] Why fangirling authors you love is the easiest free marketing strategy and how it can lead to real collaborations and unexpected opportunities.

Whether you're pre-launch, mid-series, or just exhausted by marketing advice that doesn't feel like you, this episode will give you a refreshing, permission-giving framework to promote your book in a way that's sustainable, authentic, and actually kind of fun.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Beth Barany Website
• Trust Your Creative Heart Roadmap Workbook 
• Beth Barany Instagram 
• Beth Barany Podcast 

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Writing a prologue feels like the right move until you're three drafts in and still not sure if it's actually helping your story or just sitting there, taking up space at the front of your book. And the tricky part is that it's not always easy to tell. Because sometimes the prologue isn't the problem. And sometimes it really is.

That's exactly what we're digging into in today's episode: I'm walking you through three signs that your prologue might not be doing what you think it is (and what to do instead) so your opening still grabs readers and pulls them straight into your story.

You'll hear me talk about things like:

[02:59] How prologues that deliver backstory or world-building can weaken your opening scene—and what readers actually need instead.

[06:10] Why a flash-forward prologue can release tension before it has time to build (and how to tell if your plot twist is losing impact).

[09:31] The subtle way a prologue can mask a weak first chapter—especially if your story starts too early.

[11:17] A simple reading test to determine whether your prologue is structurally necessary—or just informational.

[14:33] What it really means for a prologue to “earn its place” in your novel—and the mindset shift that makes the decision easier.

If you've been going back and forth on your prologue, this episode will give you the clarity to finally make the call. Because when your opening is working (like really working), you'll feel it. And so will your readers.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Ep. #215 - How to Write a Prologue Readers Won't Skip (& When to Start at Chapter One Instead)
• Ep. #190 - Novel Editing: 10 Steps to Editing Your First Draft
• Take the Author Success Quiz

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AI and creative writing are among the most debated topics in the publishing industry right now. Some writers are excited, while others are feeling cautious. And many are wondering what's actually true about AI, copyright law, idea theft, and querying agents.

In this episode, I sit down with award-winning novelist and technologist Ana Del Valle to unpack what AI really means for fiction writers. Ana is the founder of the AI Creative Writing Academy and host of The Novelist Studio podcast, bringing both tech expertise and creative insight to this conversation.

Here’s what we cover:

[02:54] How Ana’s background in tech and fiction collided when ChatGPT launched, and why she believes we're entering a new golden era of literature.

[05:56] The crucial difference between AI Assist and AI Generation, and why this distinction protects your voice, ownership, and copyright.

[11:55] The truth about whether ChatGPT can steal your story ideas, plus what those scary AI lawsuits actually mean for writers.

[14:38] How U.S. copyright law handles AI-created work, and why heavily editing AI-generated drafts can put writers in murky territory.

[21:01] Whether you need to disclose AI use when querying agents, and how traditional publishing is already integrating AI behind the scenes.

Whether you're AI-curious or AI-cautious, this episode will give you the clarity you need to make informed decisions about using AI in your writing process.

Tune in now.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Ana Del Valle Website
• ChatGPT for creative writers e-book
• Ana del Valle YouTube Channel 

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Scene structure doesn't have to be complicated. Sure, there are many methods out there, such as Story Grid's Five Commandments, Dwight Swain's Scene and Sequel, and James Scott Bell's LOCK system. And if you've tried learning from more than one method, it can feel like everyone's teaching something completely different. 

But the truth is, they're actually not. Because when you strip away the terminology, they're all pointing to the same core ideas.

In this episode, I'm breaking down those five core elements—the ones hiding inside every scene structure method you've ever heard of. Once you understand what they are, you can stop guessing and start writing scenes that actually move your story forward.

You’ll hear me talk about things like:

[05:18] Why your character needs a clear goal before the scene begins, and why it's so hard to fix later if you skip it.

[07:01] What separates real conflict from obstacles, and why your scene antagonist needs their own agenda.

[10:41] What actually creates a turning point in a scene, and why piling on tension alone won't get you there.

[12:39] Why your POV character must be the one making a high-stakes decision, and the reason reader investment dips when someone else chooses for them. 

[15:55] The consequences that follow your character's decision and how their specific reaction creates momentum in your next scene.

By the end of this episode, you'll have a clear framework you can apply to any scene you're writing or revising. And you can grab my free scene-structure guide from the links below to start applying it right away.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Click here to download the Scene Guide to write scenes that keep your readers glued to the page.

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Building a writing practice shouldn't feel like pushing a boulder uphill. But so many writers get stuck dealing with imposter syndrome, fighting writer's block, and wondering why their routine keeps falling apart.

That’s why in this episode, I sit down with Dr. Bailey Lang, a book coach, editor, and writer who specializes in helping authors build sustainable writing practices that actually work with their lives. With a background in Rhetoric and Writing Studies, she has spent years researching how writers get work done and what gets in the way.

Today, Dr. Bailey Lang shares the 8 Habits of Mind: curiosity, openness, engagement, creativity, persistence, responsibility, flexibility, and metacognition. These habits extend beyond managing impostor syndrome. They help you proactively create a writing practice that actually sticks.

Here's what we cover:

[06:49] How openness helps you experiment with your writing practice and find inspiration in unexpected places without forcing yourself into routines that don't fit.

[09:35] Why persistence is the habit Dr. Bailey Lang works on most with writers, and how to stick with your story during the messy middle when everything feels hard.

[13:31] The surprising resistance writers have to flexibility, and why rigid writing streaks might be sabotaging your practice instead of helping it.

[17:10] How to actually implement these writing habits without overwhelming yourself—starting with one habit, tracking it, and running small experiments.

[26:50] Why stories are the truest form of magic, and how these habits give you permission to tell the story you're meant to write.

Whether you're stuck, burnt out, or your writing practice isn't working the way you want it to, this episode will help you build a foundation that makes finishing your book feel possible and even enjoyable.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Dr. Bailey Lang Website
• Free email series: Learn the 8 habits of mind that can unlock your creativity and help you take your book from draft to done.
• 5 Writing Roadblocks Keeping You Stuck & How to Break Through 

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If your dialogue feels stiff or flat, even when the conversation itself seems clear, there’s usually a specific reason for that.

And it's not because you're bad at dialogue.

In most cases, it comes down to a few subtle craft issues that quietly pull readers out of the scene, even when the conversation itself seems realistic.

That's why in this episode, I’m breaking down five secrets that help your dialogue sound natural without copying real-life speech word-for-word. 

You'll learn how to spot what's weakening your dialogue and how to revise conversations so they're clearer, tighter, and more effective on the page.

In the episode, you’ll hear me talk about things like:

[02:02] The easy-to-miss dialogue habit that feels realistic but quietly drains tension, and why cutting it can immediately sharpen a scene.

[03:56] Why natural-sounding dialogue has little to do with real conversation, and what readers are actually expecting when they read a scene.

[06:06] The subtle reason conversations can feel like talking heads and how to anchor dialogue so scenes feel present and alive.

[09:03] A simple test that reveals whether your characters truly sound different or if they're all sharing the same voice on the page.

[11:09] What powerful dialogue rarely says outright, and how what's left unsaid keeps readers leaning in.

If dialogue has been one of those craft areas that feels slippery or hard to pin down, this episode will help you see it more clearly and revise with confidence instead of guesswork. Enjoy the episode!

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• 10 Steps To Editing Your Novel
• Take Author Success Quiz

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Morally gray characters are some of the most memorable in fiction. Think Cersei Lannister (Game of Thrones), Kaz Brekker (Six of Crows), Severus Snape (Harry Potter), or Amy Dunne (Gone Girl). These are the characters readers can't stop thinking about long after the book is finished.

But what actually makes them work? It's not randomness or shock value. And it's definitely not just "bad person with a sad backstory." It's intentional craft.

In this episode, I'm breaking down five tips for writing morally gray characters that feel authentic, nuanced, and impossible to look away from—whether you're writing fantasy, thriller, romance, or any other genre.

You'll hear me talk about things like:

• [02:45] What "morally gray" actually means and how it differs from the antihero—so you can stop conflating the two and start building true moral complexity.
• [04:25] How to create a character worldview that justifies their actions, including the role of backstory, goals, and the personal code that reveals what they truly value.
• [07:51] Why lose-lose dilemmas are essential for morally gray characters—and how to construct impossible choices that test your character and keep readers emotionally invested.
• [10:05] The importance of letting your character make questionable choices with real consequences—and why softening the gray undermines everything you've built.
• [12:50] How to keep readers invested in a morally gray character even when their choices are hard to stomach (hint: it's not about making them likable).
• [14:54] The redemption arc trap most writers fall into—and why the best morally gray characters don't get "fixed" by the end of the story.

If you've ever struggled to write a complex antagonist, a flawed protagonist, or a love interest readers can't quite root for but can't look away from either, this episode will give you the tools to craft morally gray characters with confidence and intention.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Learn more about Notes To Novel
• Take Author Success Quiz

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In this Student Spotlight episode, you’ll hear from five Notes to Novel students who entered the program actively writing, but couldn’t see why their drafts weren't working or how to fix them.

Each case study shows what changed once these writers had a clear process to follow—one that helped them turn their ideas into a story that works.

You’ll hear how confusion turned into clear decision-making, how outlines became practical tools for guiding the draft, and how stalled stories started moving forward once these writers understood what their stories actually needed.

Here’s what we cover: 

[03:00] How Maggie moved from self-doubt and “am I even a real writer?” thinking to confidently outlining a rich fantasy novel with a clear antagonist and story direction.

[07:00] How John spiced up the middle of his story by strengthening stakes, side characters, and theme, and learned to treat his outline as a flexible, living document.

[12:00] How Insa rebuilt her women’s fiction novel by clarifying genre, layering conflict into every scene, and writing over 15,000 words in just days after finishing Notes To Novel. 

[17:45] How Emily broke out of over-learning mode, found the missing middle of her story, and gained clarity on conflict, antagonists, and scene-level momentum.

[23:45] How Samantha uncovered the core misunderstanding holding her romance novels back and finally found a clear path to revising and finishing her draft.

Ready to finish your novel without second-guessing every word, sentence, or scene? Join Maggie, John, Insa, Emily, and Samantha, along with hundreds of other writers who've discovered that drafting doesn't have to feel hard. You just need the right roadmap.

Get on the waitlist for the next open enrollment of my Notes to Novel course and get my complete, step-by-step framework for writing a story that works. Doors open January 22nd until January 28th. Don't miss your chance to turn your ideas into a finished, easy-to-edit first draft you love. 

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Learn more about Notes to Novel
• Maggie Rose Instagram
• Emily S. Instagram

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You'll hear from writers who were buried in craft books, sitting on drafts that didn’t work, rewriting in circles, or unsure if they were “too far along” or “not far enough” to get help.  What changed was simple: they stopped guessing and started working with a clear framework they could trust.

If you’ve been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure what your next step should be, there’s a good chance you’ll hear your own experience reflected in this episode.

Here’s what we cover:

[04:01] How Carolyn went from a shaky first draft structure to confidently plotting a new novel with clear scenes, stakes, and forward momentum.

[07:42] How Hazel broke free from information overload and rebuilt her outline from the ground up with a clear theme and scene-level direction.

[11:20] How Josephine stopped over-learning, trusted one proven process, and moved from endless brainstorming to fast drafting with confidence.

[17:03] How Warren, a self-published author, fixed the middle of his story using key scenes, antagonists, and pinch points.

[19:49] How Rachel turned 130,000 words into a clear, pitchable 85,000-word story that she’s proud of and can explain with confidence.

Ready to finish your novel without second-guessing every word, sentence, or scene? Join Carolyn, Hazel, Josephine, Warren, Rachel, and hundreds of other writers who've discovered that drafting doesn't have to feel hard. You just need the right roadmap.

Get on the waitlist for the next open enrollment of my Notes to Novel course and get my complete, step-by-step framework for writing a story that works. Doors open January 22nd until January 28th. Don't miss your chance to turn your ideas into a finished, easy-to-edit first draft you love. 

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Join The Notes To Novel Waitlist
• Carolyn Freudenthal Website
• Hazel Dawson Instagram
• Josephine Noble Website
• Warren Dunn Website

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In this short bonus episode, I'm sharing three real case studies from past Notes to Novel students who were all stuck in different ways but wanted the same thing: to finish their first draft. 

You’ll hear how each writer went from stalled, inconsistent drafting to steady momentum once they stopped overthinking and started working with a clear story structure and scene-level direction. 

These aren't theories or abstract tips. They're real examples of what changes when writers have a proven process that they can trust.

Here’s what we cover:

[03:56] How Lindsay went from 25,000 words in six months to a 100,000-word draft after finding the missing piece that finally made her story flow.

[08:47] Why Alison kept putting finished drafts in a drawer, and the realization that finally explained why her scenes weren't working.

[10:40] How Sharon, a first-time novelist, set a realistic goal of 6,000 words per week and finished her entire first draft two days ahead of schedule, stress-free. 

[13:18] The drafting strategy that keeps you moving forward with confidence instead of second-guessing every scene you write

Ready to stop stalling and start finishing? Join Lindsay, Alison, Sharon, and hundreds of other writers who've discovered that drafting doesn't have to feel like a slog. You just need the right roadmap. 

Get on the waitlist for the next open enrollment of my Notes to Novel course and get my complete, step-by-step framework for writing a story that works. Doors open January 22nd—don't miss your chance to turn your ideas into a finished draft you're proud of.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Get on the Notes To Novel Waitlist

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Maybe you've started multiple books but never finished one. Maybe you sit down to write and have no idea what to work on. Or maybe you keep rewriting the same chapters over and over, hoping clarity will finally come.

Here's what I want you to know: this isn't a talent problem or a motivation problem. It's a process problem—and process problems are fixable.

In this episode, I'm walking you through five signs your writing process is broken, what's really causing all of them, and the one fix that will help you finish your novel.

This is what I talk about:

[02:13] Why you keep abandoning novels around the 20-30k word mark—and what's really happening when a new idea feels easier than finishing your current draft.

[04:30] The real reason you sit down to write and don't know what to work on, even when you've protected the time and eliminated distractions.

[06:53] How perfectionism disguises itself as productivity—and why rewriting the same chapters keeps you stuck instead of moving your draft forward.

[10:24] The difference between having a story idea and having a story that can support a full-length novel (hint: it comes down to knowing your ending).

[12:39] The one root cause behind all five signs—and how building a solid story foundation before you draft changes everything.

If you recognized yourself in any of these signs, stop blaming yourself and start looking at your foundation. The fix isn't more willpower or a better story idea—it's building a solid foundation before you draft.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Get on the Notes to Novel waitlist

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Poornika didn't have endless hours to write. She had two hours a night after work, some longer weekend sessions, and a chronic illness that sometimes forced her to step away completely. And yet, she finished her novel in 88 days—and went on to sign with her dream agent.

In today's episode, I'm sitting down with Poornika Kakkanaiah, a former Notes to Novel student, to talk about what made that kind of progress possible. Spoiler: it wasn't discipline or motivation. It was having a clear roadmap that eliminated decision fatigue and made every writing session count.

Poornika shares how she broke free from months of research paralysis, the outlining approach that gave her a scene-by-scene outline she trusted, and why setting a cut-bait date changed everything.

If you've ever felt like your day job makes finishing a novel impossible, this conversation will show you otherwise.

Here's what we cover:

[07:51] Why combining multiple plotting methods created confusion instead of clarity, and what she did instead

[10:45] How Poornika built a scene-by-scene outline she trusted—and the cut-bait date that forced her to start drafting

[11:27] The three strategies that made it possible to write 114,000 words in 88 days while working full-time

[37:50] What it was like to get "the call"—and why signing with her dream agent felt like everything finally clicking into place

[40:06] The truth about getting multiple offers of representation (and why one great fit is all you need)

If you're craving proof that it's possible to write a novel alongside a demanding job and real-life challenges, Poornika's story will show you exactly what that can look like.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Poornika Kakkanaiah on TikTok
• Poornika Kakkanaiah on Instagram
• Get on the Notes To Novel Waitlist 

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Maybe you squeeze writing into nights or weekends. You may start strong, then lose momentum when things don't go as planned. Or perhaps you keep telling yourself you’ll take your writing seriously when you have more time.

In this episode, I’m sharing five practical shifts to prioritize your novel and start making steady progress, even when your time is limited and unpredictable. 

These shifts help you simplify your writing process, reduce decision fatigue, and use the time you already have more effectively, so your draft keeps moving forward instead of wobbling every time life gets busy.

You’ll hear me talk about things like:

[02:40] Why jumping between plotting methods can quietly stall your draft, and what really helps move the needle. 

[04:30] How indecision eats up your writing time before you even start, and what to clarify before you sit down to write.

[06:33] The mistake most busy writers make when setting goals, and how to choose targets that actually fit your real life

[08:44] How to spot hidden pockets of writing time and why you need to protect them before your brain talks you out of it.

[10:50] Why isolation kills momentum, and how the right support system keeps you writing when motivation disappears.

[13:01] BONUS: Two real examples of busy writers who used the same approach, finished their drafts, and signed with agents.

And so much more…

You can finish your novel with a full, busy life. The time is already there. You just need a better plan. Listen in, choose one tip to try this week, and keep your first draft moving forward without waiting for perfect conditions.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Sign up for the Writer Breakthrough Bootcamp
• Get on the Notes to Novel Waitlist

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These are the lessons writers kept coming back to. The ones that helped them stop second-guessing, get unstuck in the middle, and finally make real progress on their drafts. 

In the episode, you’ll hear me talk about things like:

[07:30] Why perfectionism during drafting slows everything down, and what to do instead so you can keep moving forward.

[15:30] Why learning to write strong, focused scenes first makes plot structure clearer and helps your novel come together faster.

[18:30] How narrative drive works, why disconnected scenes stall your story, and the simple fix that creates clear cause-and-effect momentum.

[28:00] The real reason writers struggle to finish, and why process matters just as much as craft and mindset.

[31:00] Why following one complete writing method beats trying to combine multiple approaches, and how too much advice creates paralysis.

And so much more…

So grab your notebook, settle in, and let’s celebrate the writing advice that helped so many writers move closer to finishing their novel in 2025.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Click here to view the episode page with all the links.
• Get on the Notes to Novel waitlist!

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Between raising four kids, navigating pregnancy and newborn life, and juggling everything that comes with being a busy parent, Madi didn't exactly have ideal writing conditions. And yet, she finished her novel.

In today’s episode, I’m sitting down with Madi, a former Notes to Novel student, to talk about what it actually looked like to write a book in the middle of real life. She didn’t have unlimited time or perfect routines. What she had was a clear plan, realistic expectations, and a way to keep moving forward even when progress felt slow.

Madi shares the mindset shifts that helped her stop waiting for the right time, how outlining gave her momentum instead of boxing her in, and why having a process made it possible to pause without quitting when life demanded her attention.

If you’ve ever wanted to write and finish your novel but feel too busy right now, this conversation is for you.

Here’s what we cover:

[05:15] The mindset shift that helped Madi stop treating her novel like a hobby and start making real progress toward a finished draft

[09:00] How outlining gave Madi clarity and confidence without killing creativity or locking her into a rigid plot structure

[07:15] What writing a novel looked like during pregnancy, newborn life, and four kids—plus the simple routine that kept her moving forward

[14:50] The step-by-step editing process that turned Madi's first draft into a contest finalist manuscript without burnout

[24:15] How Madi went from querying literary agents to landing her dream agent at a top Christian Fiction agency

If you're craving proof that it's possible to write a novel alongside a full, busy life, Madi's story will show you exactly what that can look like.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Madi Unruh Instagram 
• Get on the Notes To Novel Waitlist 

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“I’m not ready yet” is one of the most common things I hear from writers. And on the surface, it makes sense. You want to feel prepared before starting something as big as writing a novel.

But not feeling ready usually has very little to do with knowledge. More often, the root cause is a lack of clarity. 

In this bonus episode, I’m sharing stories from three writers who spent months, and even years, stuck at the starting line because they didn't know how to move from idea to writing. 

You’ll hear about Tiara, who loved writing short stories but froze when she tried to write a novel. Jennifer, who dreamed about her YA fantasy for years but felt she needed more credentials before she could begin. And Sheila, a doctor and teacher who had read the books, taken the courses, and still couldn't put it all together.

None of them suddenly became more qualified. What changed was their process.

In this episode, you'll learn:

[04:00] How a short story writer overcame her fear of full-length novel projects by shifting her mindset around perfectionism and learning to trust a step-by-step approach.

[06:15] Why one aspiring author spent years frozen at chapter one and how a simple scene-by-scene roadmap helped her go from stuck to a complete first draft in just 90 days.

[08:30] How one writer learned to use genre to map out her story’s key scenes—and why this finally made everything click for her after bouncing between over-planning and under-planning for years.

If you’ve been telling yourself you're not ready, this episode will help you rethink that.

And if you want a clear, step-by-step path to help you finally start and finish your novel, you can get on the waitlist for the next round of Notes to Novel. Doors open January 22.

Your story doesn't need more prep work. It needs one clear direction. And I'll help you do that.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Get on the Notes to Novel waitlist
• Tiara Ito on Instagram
• Sheila Holmes on Instagram

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If you've ever tried to draft quickly and ended up with pages that feel unsalvageable, this episode will help you understand why that happens and what to do instead. 

You'll learn what makes fast drafting possible, how clarity speeds up your process, and why a little prep work often saves months of rewriting. You'll also hear how my writing students used this approach to finish their drafts with a lot less overwhelm. 

This is what I talk about:

[02:25] Why following common first-draft advice leads to writing that feels impossible to fix, and how this one shift saves months of frustration.

[03:50] The deeper reason you feel slow and stuck while drafting, even when you're writing regularly, and why fixing it builds intentional forward momentum.

[06:45] The story foundations most writers skip and how having them in place keeps you from second-guessing or rewriting the same chapters.

[08:50] How a simple, flexible roadmap gives you clarity, confidence, and momentum so you stop wandering through your first draft and start moving forward.

[09:25] What writing feels like when you’re no longer guessing and how this clarity helps you finish a stronger first draft.

Fast and good don't have to compete. With the proper prep work, you can draft briskly and end up with a story that works from beginning to end.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Get on the Notes to Novel waitlist!
• Take The Author Success Blueprint Quiz 
• 5 Writing Roadblocks Keeping You Stuck & How to Break Through

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So many writers get trapped in the feeling that they need more time, more research, or more clarity before they can truly start their first draft. And on the surface, that sounds reasonable. But most of the time, “I’m not ready yet” is a sign that you're scared to make the wrong choice, afraid to write something imperfect, or petrified you won't live up to your idea.

In today’s episode, I want to help you understand what's really underneath the “I’m not ready” feeling, how to recognize when planning has quietly turned into procrastination, and how small, low-pressure experiments can help you build momentum right now. My goal is to help you shift out of waiting mode and into action so your story can finally start taking shape.

This is what I talk about:

[02:30] The hidden fear driving “I'm not ready yet” and why it shows up for even the most motivated writers.

[03:15] How research becomes a safety blanket, and the mindset shift that moves you from learner to creator.

[04:45] The real reason clarity doesn’t arrive before you start writing and how drafting gives you the answers you’re looking for.

[07:45] Simple “safe to fail” experiments that lower the stakes and help you build confidence on the page

[09:35] How to tell whether you actually need more foundation work or you're using prep to avoid making decisions.

You don't need to feel ready to start writing your novel. You just need permission to begin, and that confidence can come from you today. Tune in and take the very first step toward finishing your first draft.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Get on the Notes to Novel waitlist!
• Take The Author Success Blueprint Quiz 
• 5 Writing Roadblocks Keeping You Stuck & How to Break Through

⭐ Follow & Review

If you loved this episode, please take a moment to follow the show and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your review will help other writers find this podcast and get the insights they need to finish their books. Thanks for tuning in to The Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast! See you next week!

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Feeling stuck writing your novel? You're not alone. Most writers think they're struggling because they don't have enough time, talent, or discipline. But more often than not, the real issue is actually mindset. In fact, it's the root cause of stuckness: rewriting the same chapters, second-guessing every decision, or trying to fix everything at once.

In this episode, I’m sharing three mindset shifts that'll ease the pressure you're putting on yourself, help you get clarity on your draft, and write forward instead of sideways.

You will hear me talk about things like:

[03:15] Why getting stuck on the first few chapters is more about how you're thinking than how you're writing, and what to pay attention to instead.

[06:45] How preparing, planning, and researching can quietly stall your first draft, and the moment you know it's time to switch into writing mode.

[12:05] The reason drafting feels overwhelming when you try to fix everything at once, and the reframe that makes finishing your story feel doable.

If you've been feeling pressure to get everything right before you can move forward, these shifts will help you see your draft in a much clearer and more manageable way. 

Your story doesn’t need perfection to grow; it's allowed to be messy while you figure things out.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Get on the Notes to Novel waitlist!
• Take The Author Success Blueprint Quiz 
• 5 Writing Roadblocks Keeping You Stuck & How to Break Through

⭐ Follow & Review

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Line editing can feel intimidating, especially if you're not sure where to begin or how to make meaningful improvements at the sentence level. And if you've ever tried refining lines before your scenes are clear and working, you know how frustrating the process can be.

In today’s episode, I’m joined by three brilliant book coaches and editors: Karyn Fischer, Alice Sudlow, and Julie Artz, who work with writers every day to help them strengthen their line-level craft. Along with their best tips, I’m also sharing two of my own favorite strategies so you can approach line editing without feeling overwhelmed or unsure of where to start.

Here's what we talk about: 

[03:00] Learn how dynamic verbs instantly energize your prose and why swapping out static wording is one of the fastest line editing wins.

[07:14] See how a simple clarity–flow–refinement order keeps your line edits focused and prevents the overwhelm that stops many writers in revision.

[11:40] Learn why understanding the true purpose of your scenes helps you make clearer sentence-level decisions.

[15:41] Explore how short, long, and mixed-length sentences shape pacing, emotion, and rhythm so your prose feels intentional instead of flat or repetitive.

[19:28] Five practical line editing tools, from reading aloud to spotting junk words, that help you tighten and strengthen your manuscript.

Whether you're revising a first draft or doing late-stage editing, these five tips will help you make intentional, powerful choices on every page.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Karyn Fischer Website
• Alice Sudlow Website
• Julie Artz Website

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In this episode, I’m joined by Shelby Leigh, bestselling author of four poetry books (with over 60,000 copies sold!) and the founder of Marketing by Shelby, where she's helped more than 8,000 authors and creatives learn how to market their books with ease.

Shelby and I talk about how to start building your author platform before your book launches, what to post when you don't have a book out yet, and how to market in a way that fits your personality (even if you’re introverted or allergic to salesy marketing).

Here’s what we cover:

[02:15] How Shelby went from anonymous poet to book marketing educator, and what helped her embrace book promotion as an introvert who once dreaded it.

[05:25] What an author platform actually includes (it’s more than social media!) and how early (or late) you should build one that works.

[12:30] The 3-Part “Show, Sell, Story Tell” content framework for sharing your work online without feeling pushy or performative.

[18:15] The most common author-platform mistakes writers make and the mindset shifts that turn confusing marketing into genuine reader connection.

[20:40] How to set up your first email list, plan a low-stress book launch, and keep growing your readership long after release week.

Whether you're preparing to publish or just starting your first draft, you'll discover simple, sustainable ways to market your book and connect with readers who'll love it.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Marketing By Shelby Website
• Grab Shelby’s Free List Growth Starter Kit

⭐ Follow & Review

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Writers often think suspense means withholding information, but what if the opposite were true?

In this episode, I'm joined by Daniel David Wallace, author, writing teacher, and founder of the annual Escape the Plot Forest Summit, to discuss why holding back details can leave readers confused or disconnected rather than curious.

Daniel explains how sharing the right information at the right time builds trust, deepens emotion, and makes every twist hit exactly the way you intended. 

Here’s what we cover:

[02:25] Why trying to keep readers guessing for too long kills tension, and what actually makes a mystery feel exciting instead of confusing.

[06:35] How the fear of being ‘too obvious’ causes writers to hide key details, and why showing your hand sooner can keep readers even more engaged.

[10:00] What The Hunger Games can teach us about foreshadowing in fiction through the famous berry scene.

[18:00] What it really means to treat your reader like a friend, and how building trust keeps people invested in your story from start to finish.

[20:00] Where writers go wrong with multi-POV—and why including more POVs isn't always the way to make your story clear to readers

If you've ever worried that giving too much away will ruin your story, this episode will change how you think about suspense, clarity, and reader trust.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Daniel David Wallace Website 
• The Character First Story Free Writing course

⭐ Follow & Review

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You're nearing the finish line of your first draft, or maybe you've just crossed it. Either way, the question is the same… what happens next? Should you send it to friends? Hire an editor? Bury it in a drawer? Everyone keeps mentioning “beta readers,” but what does that actually mean? And how do you find the right ones without losing your mind or your confidence?

In this episode, I’m breaking down the entire beta-reader process so you can take your book from first draft to ready-to-share with total clarity (and zero panic).

You’ll hear me talk about things like:

[01:45] What beta readers actually do (and what they don't), so you approach this next step with the right intentions to avoid disappointment. 

[02:55] The "blind spot” problem every author faces after finishing a draft, and how beta readers give you a fresh perspective when you're too close to your story. 

[05:15] Where to find reliable, genre-savvy beta readers that don’t ghost you and deliver quality feedback instead of vague opinions.

[09:25] How to set clear expectations before beta readers start so you get useful, specific notes instead of confusing contradictions.

[14:45] What to do after the feedback arrives: how to sort through conflicting opinions, decide what to keep, and turn it all into a calm, actionable revision plan.

Finishing your first draft is a huge accomplishment, but inviting beta readers in can feel like a whole new level of vulnerability. This episode will help you take that next step with composure so you can share your story, stay true to your vision, and come out the other side with a stronger manuscript and a clearer sense of direction.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• The Spun Yarn for beta readers
• Take the Author Success Blueprint Quiz to get personalized next steps for your writing, editing, and publishing journey.
• Ready to map out your complete editing journey from first draft to published novel? Get your step-by-step editing roadmap → here. 

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In this episode, I’m joined by Jamie Nash, screenwriter and author of Save the Cat! Writes Horror, the ultimate guide to creating “Monster in the House” stories that keep readers up at night.

With over 25 years of experience writing and teaching horror (including films like V/H/S/2 and Lovely Molly), Jamie shares how to craft terrifying tales using Blake Snyder’s iconic Save the Cat! framework. We talk about how structure, theme, and moral depth make stories truly scary and how to balance dread, scares, and gross-outs for maximum impact.

Whether you’re writing a slow-burn psychological thriller or a relentless survival horror, this episode will show you how to use the Save the Cat! framework to make every scream count.

[03:45] What makes a novel truly horror and how to tell if your story actually fits this genre (before you waste time writing the wrong one).

[05:58] The three ingredients every unforgettable horror story needs and why missing even one can ruin your scare factor.

[18:24] How to use Save the Cat! beats to build tension and fear so your story feels cohesive and terrifying, not random and rushed.

[24:11] The two main types of horror pacing, and which one to choose to keep your readers gripped. 

[32:53] Why passive heroes kill good horror and how to turn your protagonist into the story’s fiercest weapon.

[36:32] The difference between dread, scares, and gross outs, and why dread flags (red flags that signal unease) are the true engine of horror.

If you’ve ever wondered how to write horror that lingers long after the last page, this conversation with Jamie Nash is your masterclass in scarecraft.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Jamie Nash Website 
• Save the Cat! Writes Horror
• Save the Cat! website

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Have you ever felt like your story just isn't clicking, no matter how much effort you've put into it? Maybe you've polished your prose, developed your characters, and built an intriguing world—but something still feels off.

In this episode, I sat down with Kristina Stanley—award-winning author, fiction editor, and founder of Fictionary—to uncover the structural secrets that transform good stories into unforgettable ones.

Here's what we discussed:

• [03:15] Why your beautifully written novel might feel "stuck" despite compelling characters—and the structural secret that transforms wandering manuscripts into page-turners
• [05:45] The five essential scenes that form every successful novel's backbone, including the exact percentages where they should appear in your manuscript
• [23:45] Why the midpoint is where most novels soar or lose their way—and how to create the shift that keeps readers hooked through Act Two
• [30:30] Plot Point 2's dual purpose that most writers miss: combining your darkest moment with the crucial information needed for the climax
• [34:30] How to craft climaxes that satisfy readers by answering your story's central question (not just adding exciting action scenes)

Plus, Kristina shares her "story test" for evaluating your manuscript and explains why fixing structure before polishing prose will save you months of revision time.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Fictionary.co
• Grab Fictionary’s course, An Insider's View of Story Editing, for FREE here (a $39 value)

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Prologues are one of the most debated topics in fiction. Some literary agents warn against them, some readers skip them altogether, and yet many of the most beloved bestselling novels begin with one. The real question is this: Does your story need a prologue, or will Chapter One carry the weight on its own?

In this episode, I'm breaking down when a prologue truly adds value, when it works against you, and how to write a prologue that pulls readers in instead of pushing them away. If you've been second-guessing whether your book needs a prologue, this conversation will provide a clear way forward and the confidence to know you're making the right decision for your story.

Here’s what you’ll hear inside the episode:

[02:05] Why most prologues fall flat and the single question that tells you if yours is worth keeping.

[03:30] The five types of prologues that actually work (with bestselling examples you’ve probably read and loved) and how to know which one, if any, your book actually needs.

[08:40] Why Brandon Sanderson’s prologue in The Way of Kings is a masterclass in hooking readers and setting the stage for an epic story

[11:45] The three key ingredients every strong prologue requires if you want readers to become immersed from the first page and keep turning the pages.

[14:50] Actionable tips to help you create intrigue, build tension, and leave readers desperate to turn the page into Chapter One.

By the end of this episode, you won't be stuck second-guessing your beginning anymore. You'll know whether your novel needs a prologue or if Chapter One is the stronger start (and you’ll understand why). That way, instead of circling back to rework your first pages again and again, you can move forward with confidence, knowing your story is starting exactly where it’s meant to.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Take the Author Success Blueprint Quiz to get personalized next steps for your writing, editing, and publishing journey
• Grab my free Novel Writing Roadmap, a simple, step-by-step plan to help you trust your story, remove the guesswork, and actually finish your first draft.

⭐ Follow & Review

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Writing diverse characters can feel intimidating. You want to include different voices in your story, but worry about misrepresenting them. This leads many writers to either avoid diversity altogether or fall into the trap of over-explaining everything for a mainstream gaze, thereby diluting the power of their story.

In this episode, I sit down with Tiffany Grimes, founder of Burgeon Design and Editorial and an MFA-trained editor who specializes in amplifying marginalized voices. After recognizing areas for growth in her own feedback, Tiffany has spent years helping writers shed performative expectations and write with radical honesty.

Here's what we cover:

[05:40] Tiffany's vulnerable experience writing about a Vietnamese character and learning she wasn't the right person to tell that story.

[10:06] The core framework that separates writing "about" a community versus writing "to" your community from the inside.

[18:48] Why you should give yourself permission to write the stereotype first in early drafts.

[20:24] How Jesinia (a deaf character in the Fourth Wing) shows why trusting your audience creates better representation.

[21:20] The protection question that helps you identify when you're diluting your story for mainstream audiences.

[26:53] Understanding emotional clarity and how readers' experience goes deeper than just character representation.

Whether you're writing characters from your own experience or exploring different perspectives, this conversation offers compassionate guidance for creating authentic, powerful stories that honor both your characters and your readers.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Tiffany Grimes Website
• Free Workbook: Breaking Mindset Barriers and Setting Intentional Goals

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Finishing a first draft is an incredible milestone, but what comes next can feel overwhelming. If you're staring at your messy pages and wondering how to even begin editing, you're not alone. The good news is that there is a way to move forward without spiraling into revision confusion or self-doubt.

In this episode, I've invited five fiction writing coaches to share their best tips for tackling your messy first draft. These strategies will help you gain clarity, cut through the overwhelm, and make real progress toward a publishing-ready manuscript.

Here's what you'll learn:

[02:05] A clever mindset trick that exposes what's really on your pages and why changing your font is editing gold.

[07:30] Why putting your finished first draft away for a little while is the secret to finding your story's true purpose.

[16:45] How two simple "If Only" statements reveal exactly what's missing from your protagonist's journey and plot structure.

[12:35] The "one element at a time" editing method that stops you from drowning in overwhelming revisions and actually makes progress.

[22:30] Why your climactic scene holds all the revision answers and how to mine it for the characters, skills, and growth your story needs.

Tune in to learn how to edit your messy first draft with confidence, simplicity, and ease so you can finally move closer to the finished book you've been dreaming about.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Monica Cox’s Website
• Erin Halden’s Website
• Nita Collins’s Website 
• Elyse Seal’s Website
• Ayesha Ali’s Website 
• Ready to edit your novel? Grab my FREE DIY Editing Roadmap: 10 Steps To Editing Your Novel that’ll help you turn your messy first draft into a publish-ready manuscript without the overwhelm and wasted effort.

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Marketing your book can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. With the right tools—like AI—you can turn it into a streamlined, even fun, part of your creative process.

In this episode, I’m breaking down five beginner-friendly ways AI can help you market your book and connect with readers, all while keeping your voice authentic and your time focused on writing.

Tune in to learn:

• [03:30] How to use AI to craft an author website that feels personal, professional, and uniquely YOU—even if tech isn’t your thing.
• [05:40] The exact prompts to create a welcome email sequence that turns casual subscribers into loyal fans.
• [08:40] How AI can help you brainstorm and batch-create social media content that connects with readers (without the overwhelm).
• [10:55] A step-by-step process for using AI to write a book description that hooks readers and drives sales.
• [13:00] How to leverage AI to draft personalized podcast pitches that get you booked on shows your readers already love.

Whether you’re just starting to write or gearing up to publish, these AI strategies will help you market your book with ease and confidence. Tune in now and start using AI to connect with readers today!

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Get 5 free AI prompts to simplify your book marketing and connect with readers faster—download now!
• Ep. 106 - 5 Steps to Building Your Author Platform
• Ep. 107 - Email List Building Essentials For Authors

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Romantasy is everywhere right now, and for good reason—it’s the perfect mix of swoony romance, epic fantasy, and unforgettable characters. But if you’ve ever thought, “How do I even start writing Romantasy?” you’re not alone. With so much hype around the genre, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the tropes, rules, and expectations.

That’s why I sat down with Jenna Moreci, an award-winning and Amazon bestselling author, to break down her best tips from her upcoming book, How to Write Romantasy. Whether you’re plotting your first fantasy romance or trying to figure out how to balance magic and intimacy, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you avoid the most common mistakes, create power couples readers can't stop rooting for, and write the Romantasy you’ve been dreaming of.

Here’s what we talk about: 

[07:31] How to approach popular tropes like ‘shadow daddies’ in a way that feels unique to your story, rather than copying and pasting.

[11:42] The 3-part chemistry framework that helps your characters belong together and saves you from endless rewrites.

[17:00] Why emotional intimacy is the real secret weapon in Romantasy, plus the five types of scenes you can’t skip.

[22:25] Smut, spice, or sweet? The surprising truth about writing intimate scenes and why they don’t have to be “super steamy” to hook readers.

[32:28] Why writing Romantasy should be fun and the mindset shift that makes the whole process more enjoyable.

If you've been wondering how to write Romantasy or you're plotting your first fantasy romance, this episode is your ultimate guide to balancing fantasy, romance, reader expectations, and earning those five-star reviews.

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🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Pre-Order How to Write Romantasy
• Get a FREE Digital Workbook With Proof of Preorder Here
• YouTube: Writing With Jenna Moreci
• Ep. 182- Writing Romantasy: How to Balance Fantasy Elements and Romance in Your Novel

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Have you ever wondered if you could write a multi-POV story like The Girl on the Train? Or how about The Six of Crows?

The kind that pulls you into multiple characters' worlds so completely that you feel like you know each one personally?

Writing a multiple-POV novel can create incredible depth and complexity when done correctly. But it can also turn your story into a confusing mess if you don't know the essential multi-POV techniques.

Whether you're considering writing your first multiple POV story or you're curious about what makes some multi-perspective novels so captivating (while others fall flat), this episode will spill it all.

Tune in to discover:

[02:50] The truth about how many POV characters your story actually needs.

[04:35] The easiest way to make each character's voice so different that readers never get confused about who's speaking.

[06:40] Why 'head-hopping' is the fastest way to lose readers, and the simple rule that prevents it every time.

[08:00] The one question that reveals whether showing the same scene twice will captivate readers or kill your pacing.

[09:00] The secret to balancing page time so that readers stay equally invested in every character's journey.

Whether you're trying to decide if multiple POVs are right for your story or you're already knee-deep in a multi-POV manuscript and feeling overwhelmed, this episode will give you everything you need to approach it with confidence.

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🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Ep. #90 - How to Choose the Best POV For Your Novel
• Ep. #196 - The Pros and Cons of Writing A Novel With Multiple Points of View

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Most fiction writers struggle with novel revision because they jump straight into editing their manuscript after finishing their first draft. This approach leads to endless rewrites, overwhelming confusion, and stories that get stuck in endless Chapter 1 revisions, never reaching completion.

Developmental editor Alice Sudlow joins me to share her systematic approach to story editing, which helps writers overcome these revision challenges.

Her revision framework eliminates the guesswork from the editing process, so writers avoid common mistakes that can keep manuscripts stuck in development.

Here's what we cover:

[08:11] Why taking a 4-week break after finishing your first draft gives your mind the mental shift needed for effective manuscript revision.

[10:26] How to create an outline of your completed draft without making changes, yet (the crucial step that reveals your story's true structure.)

[14:38] The fundamental questions that uncover the hidden keys in your story and transform good ideas into compelling narratives that readers can't put down.

[17:46] Why developmental editing is where the real magic happens in fiction writing and how to fall in love with the revision process.

[38:01] How to escape the endless rewriting cycle that traps writers in Chapter 1 forever and finally complete your novel revisions.

Whether you're a first-time novelist struggling with how to edit your manuscript or an experienced writer looking for a better revision strategy, this episode provides the framework you need to turn your draft into a story that agents and readers will love.

Tune in now.

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🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Grab Alice’s FREE Roadmap to a Revision That Actually Works
• Your Next Draft Podcast (Hosted by Alice Sudlow)
• Alice Sudlow’s Website 

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In this episode, I’m sharing real, inspiring stories from fiction writers who went from stuck and overwhelmed to finishing their novels using the exact framework I teach in Notes to Novel.

You’ll hear from fantasy writers, contemporary fiction authors, and more—writers who were trapped in endless rewrites, drowning in revision loops, or paralyzed by perfectionism. They all discovered that finishing a novel isn’t about working harder—it’s about having the right process.

Here’s what you’ll learn from their breakthroughs:

• [02:25] How Jennifer broke free from a 3-year struggle with the same manuscript by treating her outline as a flexible “map” instead of a rigid plan.
• [06:30] Why Nefer finally escaped a 5-year line editing loop by focusing on story structure before prose—and how this one shift transformed her writing process.
• [10:25] How Tiara went from writing 2,000-word short stories to completing an 80,000-word novel without feeling overwhelmed—by breaking it into manageable scenes.
• [14:00] The moment Jen realized she didn’t need an MFA to write fiction—just a clear strategy—and finished her first draft in 90 days after spending 2 years stuck on 10 pages.
• [16:55] How Sheila used genre frameworks to outline a 4-book series AND a standalone novel after spinning her wheels despite reading every craft book out there.

Whether you’re stuck rewriting Chapter 1, have abandoned manuscripts piling up, or feel paralyzed by novel structure, these writers prove that finishing your book is possible—even with a busy life and no formal creative writing training.

Ready to make your own breakthrough? Enrollment for Notes to Novel closes on August 28th, and we won’t open again until next year. Head to savannahgilbo.com/notes-to-novel to learn more and join the program that’s helped over 800 writers make real progress on their books.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Learn more about Notes to Novel
• Jennifer Landers on Instagram
• Nefer Doane’s website and Instagram
• Tiara Ito’s website and Instagram
• Sheila Holmes on Instagram

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Tune in to learn:

• [02:40] Why beautiful prose isn’t enough to get published—and the real reason agents reject manuscripts
• [03:45] The 5 essential elements every successful novel needs to hook agents and readers
• [04:15] How to create characters readers care about—even if they’re not “likable”
• [05:20] Why stakes and conflict are the backbone of every compelling story (and how to get them right)
• [08:25] The secret to crafting an emotional journey that keeps readers turning pages 

If you’ve been focusing on perfecting your prose but struggling to create a story that works—or if you’ve faced rejection despite positive feedback on your writing style—this episode will transform how you approach novel writing and the publishing process.

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🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Ready to finally write the novel you’ve been dreaming of? Join Notes to Novel—my 8-week live coaching program where I’ll guide you step-by-step to craft a compelling story agents request, and readers devour. Enrollment is open now, but doors close soon—grab your spot today!

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Today I'm chatting with Gina Elizabeth, indie fantasy romance author of the Bonded in Blood series (and Notes to Novel graduate!), about her transformation from someone who couldn't finish a book to a published author of multiple books.

In this episode, you'll hear us talk about things like:

• [04:00] Why she couldn't get past chapter 6 for two decades—and the surprising tool she didn't even know existed that changed everything
• [09:15] How learning to outline a novel actually freed Gina’s creativity instead of stifling it (plus why her outline felt "chaotic and crazy" but worked anyway)
• [10:50] What happened when I suggested Gina cut 20% of her draft (and how she turned those cut scenes into a prequel novella that readers love)
• [20:30] The "write forward" technique that helped Gina overcome writer's block and finish her first draft in 6-12 months
• [25:00] A behind-the-scenes look at Gina’s marketing plans, including what’s working so far and what she still plans to do before book 2’s release

If you're tired of abandoned manuscripts and ready to finally finish your novel, Gina's journey from 20 years of false starts to published author proves it's never too late to learn how. Press play to discover the exact strategies that helped her break through the chapter six curse for good.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Hunted (Bonded By Blood) by Gina Elizabeth
• Hide: A Bonded In Blood Novella by Gina Elizabeth
• Gina Elizabeth on Instagram
• Gina Elizabeth’s Website
• Join the Notes to Novel waitlist

⭐ Follow & Review

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If you're a pantser convinced that outlining will ruin your creative process, or you've been discovery writing through multiple unfinished manuscripts, this episode will change how you think about story structure.

You'll hear from three committed pantsers who thought outlining meant creative death. Katherine could sprint to 50k words in three weeks but spent a year editing manuscripts she'd abandon. Bree followed "only see as far as your headlights" advice for a decade, stuck on the same 25 pages. Casey watched her stories die in the middle with no way forward.

Their discoveries transformed their entire approach to storytelling—proving that the right structure actually amplifies creativity instead of stifling it.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• [03:15] How a discovery writer transformed 7 abandoned manuscripts into a polished novel by creating a "flexible outline" while drafting—eliminating 9 months of developmental editing
• [4:50] The simple daily practice of checking scenes for goal, motivation, and conflict that turned a chronic underwriter's 50k-word sprint into a robust 72k-word draft
• [08:45] Why the common pantser advice to "only see as far as your headlights" kept one writer stuck on the same 25 pages for a decade (and what finally freed her)
• [09:25]  How understanding genre expectations finally helped a pantser break through the dreaded middle of her novel where stories kept dying
• [11:20] Why "pantsing with direction" gives discovery writers the best of both worlds—creative spontaneity with a clear story roadmap to reach "The End"

If you're ready to find the perfect balance between structure and creativity—and want the complete framework these writers used to finish their novels—join the waitlist for the next open enrollment of my Notes to Novel course. Don’t miss your chance to turn your ideas into a finished draft you’re proud of!

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Grab this free guide to see how real writers (like you!) pushed past the most common writing roadblocks to finish their novels: 5 Writing Roadblocks Keeping You Stuck & How to Break Through
• Katherine Varley on Instagram
• Bree Cox on Instagram
• Casey Drillette on Instagram

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You've been told that outlining kills creativity. That real writers don't need structure. That planning your novel will turn it into a formulaic mess. But what if everything you believe about story structure is wrong?

In this episode, I'm revealing why the writers who resist structure often end up trapped in the smallest creative box of all—and how embracing the right kind of framework can actually set your imagination free.

Tune in to hear me talk about:

• [02:00] The romantic myth of the "pure" creative process and why the image of writers channeling pure inspiration without planning is actually sabotaging your novel writing journey
• [02:22] What really happens when you try to "just write" without structure (and the predictable pattern that traps pantsers: from magical first chapters to tangled plots to endless rewrites of your opening pages)
• [04:34] Why constraints breed creativity—and how having boundaries actually pushes you past the obvious into innovative storytelling
• [05:43] The 5 hidden costs of avoiding story structure (aka what you're really sacrificing when you resist novel outlining)
• [08:27] Why understanding story beats and plot points doesn't make your writing formulaic and how it actually makes your story more powerful

Plus, I share real examples of writers who went from structure-phobic to finishing their first novels in record time—including one creative writing student who completed 114,000 words in just 88 days after finally embracing the outlining process!

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Read the full blog post here
• Join the Notes to Novel waitlist

⭐ Follow & Review

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Today I'm chatting with Neroli Lacey, author of The Perfumer's Secret (a Pulitzer Prize Finalist, International Book Awards Winner, and National Indie Excellence Award Winner), about how focusing on implementation over information finally helped her transform her messy manuscript into an award-winning Women’s Fiction novel.

In this episode, you'll hear us talk about things like:

• [05:55] Why owning "every craft book imaginable" and studying with top editors still left her with an unfinished novel (and the overwhelm that comes from trying to follow multiple systems at once)
• [07:30] The three foundational shifts that moved Neroli from scattered studying to focused execution—and finally finishing her first draft
• [10:55]  Why she chose hybrid publishing over traditional (and what that two-year process actually looked like)
• [13:50] How a self-proclaimed introvert built a 3,000-person newsletter by focusing on book recommendations instead of writing updates
• [22:40] Neroli’s advice for aspiring authors who are working on finishing their first book—"You don't have to know what you're doing—you take the first step and the path appears."

If you've been collecting craft books but struggling to finish your novel, Neroli's story will resonate. Press play to discover why implementation beats accumulation every time!

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Neroli Lacey’s website
• Neroli Lacey on Instagram
• Grab a FREE copy of Neroli’s book here!
• Buy The Perfumer’s Secret by Neroli Lacey
• Sue Campbell for book marketing
• Join the Notes to Novel waitlist

⭐ Follow & Review

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"I need to get this right before I move on" keeps aspiring authors stuck forever. But here's what I've discovered... Perfectionism isn't about having high standards. It's about fear. Fear of judgment, failure, or not being "good enough."

In this episode, you'll hear from three reformed perfectionists who broke free from the endless editing trap and finished their novels. Meet Pornika, who delayed starting for months thinking she needed every detail figured out first. Amy, working on her eighth novel but never finishing because she'd spend weeks perfecting each chapter. And Kara, who wrote 100,000 words but got overwhelmed trying to fix its problems.

None of them lowered their standards. Instead, they discovered something far more powerful: how to write messy and make real progress.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• [03:10] How a corporate finance professional went from months of planning paralysis to 114k words in 88 days using the fast drafting technique that changed everything
• [05:15] Why a writer starting her eighth novel finally broke her pattern of endless chapter editing and discovered the foundational skills that put her "in the power seat"
• [06:00] Why understanding theme, genre conventions, and scene structure actually makes writing easier and more enjoyable, not more restrictive
• [07:30] The "magical revisions" technique that lets you keep moving forward without getting bogged down in details you haven't figured out yet
• [09:00] The structural breakthrough that helped one writer transform a problematic 100k-word manuscript into a publishable novel
• [15:00] How to shift from perfectionist paralysis to forward momentum without sacrificing the quality you care about

Ready to stop polishing and start finishing? Join Poornika, Amy, Kara, and hundreds of other reformed perfectionists who've discovered that messy first drafts lead to better novels. Get on the waitlist for the next open enrollment of my Notes to Novel course and get my complete, step-by-step framework for writing a story that works. Don’t miss your chance to turn your ideas into a finished draft you’re proud of!

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Grab my free guide to see how real writers (like you!) pushed past these roadblocks to finish their novels: 5 Writing Roadblocks Keeping You Stuck & How to Break Through
• Poornika Kakkanaiah Instagram
• Ami Blackford Instagram
• Kara Kentley Instagram

⭐ Follow & Review

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You know that browser folder labeled "Writing Advice"? The one with 147 articles about plot structure and 83 posts on character development? Yeah, that one. What if I told you it's actually keeping you stuck?

In this episode, I'm exposing the "writing advice trap" that catches even the most dedicated writers. After helping hundreds of writers finish their novels, I've discovered why the most knowledgeable writers often write the least (and what you can do differently starting today). 

Tune in to hear me talk about:

• [00:52] Why writers who read the most writing advice often can't finish their novels (the pattern that surprised me)
• [01:53] How to stop rewriting Chapter One forever (and what broke the cycle for a writer stuck for 5 years
• [03:44] Save the Cat vs Hero's Journey vs Story Grid (and why contradictory writing advice is keeping you stuck
• [08:16] The 3 things successful writers do differently to actually finish their first draft
• [12:20] How to choose a writing method and stick with it (plus the one question that changes everything)

The truth? Any complete system works better than ten partial systems. You don't need the "perfect" method. You need to pick one and follow it all the way through.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Read the full blog post here
• Get your free First Draft Roadmap
• Join the Notes to Novel waitlist

⭐ Follow & Review

If you loved this episode, please take a moment to follow the show and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your review will help other writers find this podcast and get the insights they need to finish their books. Thanks for tuning in to The Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast! See you next week!

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Today I'm chatting with Kara Kentley, contemporary romance author of Another Summer and a Notes to Novel graduate, about how learning genre expectations finally helped her finish the book she'd been struggling with for years.

In this episode, you'll hear us talk about things like:

• [07:46] Why her 95,000-word draft had a "sagging middle" that lost readers halfway through (and the two-timeline problem making it worse)
• [11:55] How choosing one timeline and adding dual POV transformed her confused manuscript into a cohesive story
• [15:05] The relief she felt discovering romance novels have specific beats that happen in order—and how this became her roadmap
• [20”15] Kara’s nightmare writing conference experience (and what she learned about starting your book in the right place)
• [35:35] What happened when she launched without reviews or marketing—and still became #1 in her category for two weeks

If you've been struggling to finish your romance novel or any manuscript with structural problems, Kara's journey from pantsed chaos to organized success proves that the right framework can set you free. Press play to discover how romance structure could be the missing piece you need to finally type "The End."

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Kara Kentley’s website
• Buy Another Summer by Kara Kentley
• Join the Notes to Novel waitlist
• The Complete Writer's Guide to Heroes and Heroines: Sixteen Master Archetypes by Tami D. Cowden, Caro LaFever, & Sue Viders
• Travis Baldree’s article
• I Need A Book Cover

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"I don't have time to write" might be the most common excuse that stops aspiring authors before they even start. But here’s what I’ve learned after working with hundreds of writers… It’s not about how much time you have that matters. It’s about what you do with your limited time that counts.

In this episode, you'll hear from three busy writers who had every legitimate reason to put their writing dreams on hold—yet didn't. Meet Maddie, a mom of four kids aged one to six who wrote her first draft while juggling pregnancy, a newborn, and a copywriting career. Rhonda, a clinical pharmacist who transitioned from competing in 14-hour triathlons to writing an 80,000-word manuscript. And Mark, a former college administrator, worried it was too late in life to learn how to write a novel. 

None of them found magical extra hours in their day. Instead, they discovered something far more powerful: how to make their limited writing time more effective.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• [03:00] How a mom of four young children completed her first draft in just six months of actual writing time, including taking a year-long break for pregnancy and a newborn, without losing momentum
• [06:25] Why one debut author discovered that following a proven framework didn't create a cookie-cutter novel—it actually freed him to be more creative and original
• [09:35] The mindset shift that helped a 45-year-old clinical pharmacist transition from grueling 14-hour triathlons to completing her first 80,000-word novel
• [13:20] Why having limited writing time can actually make you a more effective writer, when you know exactly what to write in each session

Ready to stop using "no time" as your excuse? Join Maddie, Rhonda, Mark, and hundreds of other busy writers who've discovered that you don't need more hours—you need a better plan. Get on the waitlist for the next open enrollment of my Notes to Novel course and get my complete, step-by-step framework for writing a story that works. Don’t miss your chance to turn your ideas into a finished draft you’re proud of!

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Grab this free guide to discover how busy writers (with kids, jobs, and real lives!) find time to write consistently and finish their novels: 5 Time Management Strategies to Help You Write Your Novel
• Madi Unruh Instagram
• Mark Mrozinski Instagram

⭐ Follow & Review

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Why does finding time to write feel impossible sometimes? We blame our busy schedules (and yes, that's definitely part of it). But there's something else lurking beneath the surface that stops your writing progress dead in its tracks. And it has a way of making you feel like you're failing at this whole writing thing. Which is so not true.

In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on why "finding time" is actually making it HARDER to write your novel. Plus, I'm sharing 3 powerful mindset shifts and practical strategies to finally break free from this trap so you can finish your novel with the life you're actually living.

You'll hear me talk about things like:

[02:45] Why the writers who complain most about "no time" often spend hours on writing-related activities (just not actual writing)

[03:15] The hidden truth about "not enough time" that's actually keeping you stuck (hint: it's not what you think)

[05:15] How decision paralysis can waste your precious writing time—and the simple fix that takes 2 minutes

[06:10] Why some writers accomplish more in 20 minutes than others do in 2 hours

[07:25] The mindset shift that transforms time from your enemy into your creative ally (and 3 practical strategies to implement these shifts starting today)

Your story deserves to be told. Not someday when you have "more time." Not eventually when life calms down. But now, with the life you're actually living. The time is already there—you just need to see it differently.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Grab the free Time Management Guide here!
• Join the Notes to Novel waitlist

⭐ Follow & Review

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Every writer knows that soul-crushing feeling of being completely stuck. Not just procrastinating or battling writer's block, but that specific paralysis where you love your story idea, want to write, but have absolutely no idea how to move forward. 

In this episode, you'll hear from three writers who faced this exact challenge in very different ways. Kelsey wrote 11,000 words of an adult fantasy novel before hitting a wall with no idea what should happen next. Liya spent eight years starting and stopping the same young adult series, never making it past the first few chapters. And Danyel loved her idea, but kept running into structural problems she couldn’t solve. 

What they discovered transformed not just their current projects, but their entire approach to storytelling—and their breakthroughs reveal exactly what might be missing from your own writing process.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• [05:05] The surprising way that reducing from two point-of-view characters to one solved major structural problems and created more mystery and page-turning tension in a thriller
• [08:00] Why having a flexible outline is like "someone turning on the lights and handing you a map"—and how it can make writing feel fun and exciting again instead of wandering in the dark
• [11:05] How understanding the crucial difference between scenes and chapters unlocked eight years of frustration for one writer and completely transformed her approach to story structure
• [14:15] Why being stuck isn't about lacking talent—it's simply an indication that you're missing a foundational piece of your story

If you’re ready for your breakthrough moment—and want my complete, step-by-step framework for writing a story that works—join the waitlist for the next open enrollment of my Notes to Novel course. Don’t miss your chance to turn your ideas into a finished draft you’re proud of!

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Grab this free guide to see how real writers (like you!) pushed past the most common writing roadblocks to finish their novels: 5 Writing Roadblocks Keeping You Stuck & How to Break Through
• Danyel Nicole Instagram
• Kelsey Evans Instagram
• Liya Grey Instagram

⭐ Follow & Review

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If you've been dreaming about writing a novel but find yourself starting and stopping, getting stuck in the middle, or just staring at a blank page wondering where to even begin, you're not alone.

Here's what I've noticed after working with hundreds of writers: the ones who actually finish their novels aren't more talented or creative than you. They've just learned to navigate around five specific roadblocks that trap everyone else in an endless cycle of starting and stopping.

In this episode, I'm breaking down exactly what those writing roadblocks are and how you can sidestep them to break free from the cycle that keeps so many writers trapped.

This is what I talk about: 

[03:00] The planning trap that leaves writers lost in the "saggy middle" with no clue how to move forward (and why even a simple roadmap changes everything).

[04:50] Why chasing the perfect first sentence is killing your momentum and what successful authors do instead when they sit down to write.

[00:00] How consuming endless writing advice keeps you from actually writing and the one thing you need to focus on to finally make progress.

[06:35] Why trying to write your novel completely alone makes everything ten times harder, and what kind of support actually helps you finish.

[08:10] The fundamental difference between writers who finish and those who don't (and it's probably not what you're expecting).

If you've been stuck in the start-and-stop cycle or wondering if you'll ever actually finish your novel, this episode reveals precisely how to join the small percentage of writers who actually make it to The End.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Want my complete, step-by-step framework for writing a story that works? Join the waitlist for the next open enrollment of my Notes to Novel course. Don’t miss your chance to turn your ideas into a finished draft you’re proud of!
• Grab this free guide to see how real writers (like you!) pushed past the most common writing roadblocks to finish their novels: 5 Writing Roadblocks Keeping You Stuck & How to Break Through

⭐ Follow & Review

If you loved this episode, please take a moment to follow the show and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your review will help other writers find this podcast and get the insights they need to finish their books. Thanks for tuning in to The Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast! See you next week!

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You've created characters with compelling backstories, but somehow, they still feel... flat. They move through your plot but don't feel like real people.

Here's the thing: character development is what makes readers fall in love with your story, not just read it. But it's also one of the trickiest parts of fiction writing.

That’s why today, I'm sharing five books that have completely transformed my approach to character development. And they've also helped hundreds of my students create characters readers are totally invested in. 

You'll hear me talk about things like:

[01:17] Why most characters feel flat even when they have clear goals and motivations (and which book can help you unlock the missing piece)

[06:22] My favorite resource for understanding character arcs, whether you’re writing a positive arc, a negative arc, or a flat one

[08:16] Which book can help you understand your villain's emotional wounds—and why this might be more important than perfecting your protagonist's backstory

[10:35] A book that’ll help you make readers feel your character's emotions without ever naming a single feeling on the page

[00:00] My go-to resource for learning how to marry your plot with your characters (this one’s especially good for pantsers who want a little more structure!)

If your characters feel static despite having detailed backstories, or if you're struggling to show meaningful character growth throughout your story, this episode will give you the exact resources you need to create characters readers will never forget.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Join the waitlist for my Notes to Novel course
• Want me to send you this list of recommendations? Click here!

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Receiving your first book review can be both thrilling and terrifying at the same time. Whether it's a glowing five-star love letter or a brutal one-star takedown, reader reviews can send even the most confident authors into an emotional tailspin.

I recently sat down with book coaches Emily Golden and Rachel May of Golden May Editing to discuss the challenge of negative reviews. Between their own publishing experiences and years of guiding clients through review season, they know exactly what separates thriving authors from those who let negative feedback derail their dreams.

Tune in to hear us talk about things like:

[03:45] Why book reviews feel so much more intense than beta reader feedback (and the one key difference that changes everything).

[08:25] How to separate your novel from your identity so criticism doesn't feel like a personal attack on your self-worth.

[11:05] Why trying to "toughen up" actually makes book reviews hurt worse (and what to do instead when they sting).

[35:35] The simple boundary you can set with ARC readers to avoid getting ambushed by negative reviews.

[40:25] Why we obsess over one-star reviews but barely notice five-star ones (and how to flip this script).

[41:45] Whether you should let reviews influence your future writing decisions, and a brilliant way to use feedback as data, not direction.

Whether you're approaching your first book launch or struggling with review anxiety, this episode offers practical strategies to navigate both praise and criticism.

⭐ Follow & Review

If you loved this episode, please take a moment to follow the show and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your review will help other writers find this podcast and get the insights they need to finish their books. Thanks for tuning in to The Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast! See you next week!

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Anti-Hustle Writing Life Masterclass 
• Golden May Editing Website  
• Story Magic Podcast

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Have you ever written what you thought was a brilliantly mysterious scene, only to have readers say they were completely lost? Or maybe you've struggled with knowing how much information to reveal and when?

Here's what most writers don't realize: there's a fine line between being mysterious and being vague. And the writers who master evoking curiosity without being vague or confusing are the ones who create truly compelling fiction.

In this episode, you'll hear me talk about things like:

• [02:35] Why most writers mistake withholding information for creating mystery—and the simple test to tell if you're being mysterious or just vague
• [03:20] The movie trailer analogy that'll completely change how you think about revealing information to readers
• [6:55] How to give readers the essential context they need to stay grounded in your story without giving everything away
• [8:25] Why the missing information must matter deeply to your protagonist—and how to tie your mysteries to what characters desperately want
• [10:30] How to deliver information that keeps readers engaged and wanting more (without just withholding everything)
• [11:50] The one question that determines whether you're creating compelling mystery or confusing noise, plus how to apply this across every genre

Whether you're writing romance, fantasy, thrillers, or any other type of fiction, this episode will help you create the kind of curiosity and tension that keeps readers glued to the page instead of accidentally driving them away.

⭐ Follow & Review

If you loved this episode, please take a moment to follow the show and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your review will help other writers find this podcast and get the insights they need to finish their books. Thanks for tuning in to The Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast! See you next week!

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Want my entire step-by-step process for brainstorming, outlining, and writing your first draft? Click here to learn more about my Notes to Novel program.

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Are multiple point-of-view characters right for your story? 

Will they create the kind of depth that keeps readers hooked, or will they just leave you with a tangled mess of voices that never quite click together?

Writing a multi-POV novel is one of the most challenging approaches to storytelling. When done well, it creates a rich, immersive experience that readers absolutely love. But when done poorly, it can completely derail your entire manuscript.

In today's episode, I'll explain what it means to write a multiple-point-of-view novel, how it differs from other narrative approaches, and if it's the right choice for your story.

You'll hear me talk about things like:

[03:05] Why most writers confuse multiple POV with omniscient POV and how this one mistake can sabotage your entire story.

[04:50] The surprising way multiple perspectives create story depth that makes readers think about your book long after finishing it (think Game of Thrones level complexity).

[07:15] My favorite "secret weapon" technique that uses contrasting viewpoints to create those jaw-dropping "aha" moments readers can't stop talking about.

[11:00] The #1 challenge that kills most multi-POV novels before they're even finished (hint: it's not plot structure, and it's definitely not what you think).

[15:25] Five make-or-break questions to ask yourself before committing to multiple POVs (because choosing the wrong narrative approach can derail months of hard work.)

If you've been wondering whether your story needs different character perspectives or if you're already writing from multiple points of view but feel overwhelmed by the nuances, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence you need to move forward.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Ep. #90 - How to Choose the Best POV For Your Novel

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Ever wonder why some writers seem to improve rapidly while others stay stuck for years, despite writing every single day? 🤔

The difference isn't talent or luck—it's deliberate practice.

Most aspiring novelists think that accumulating word count is the path to improvement. But here's the truth: without targeted practice and expert feedback, you might be reinforcing bad habits rather than developing good ones.

Tim Grahl is the CEO of Story Grid, author of six books, and has analyzed over 2,000 scenes from aspiring writers. What he's discovered about skill development might completely change how you approach your writing journey.

In this episode, you'll hear us talk about things like:

• [24:45] Why most writers don't improve even when they write every day—and the missing piece that separates writers who progress from those who stay stuck
• [02:11] The surprising shift Story Grid made from teaching big-picture structure to focusing on scene-level fundamentals instead
• [10:02] The 3-step framework for creating a deliberate writing practice that builds real skills instead of just word count
• [15:16] The three most common scene-writing mistakes that kill narrative momentum—and how to avoid them
• [24:27] Why getting expert feedback (not just writing in isolation) is the crucial element most writers miss

Whether you're staring at your first blank page or you've got a drawer full of unfinished manuscripts, this episode will show you exactly how to break the cycle of starting and stopping and finally make meaningful progress on your writing!

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Story Grid’s Scene Checklist (Free Resource)

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Most first-time authors don't realize just how many decisions the self-publishing process involves. From choosing file formats and pricing strategies to designing covers and optimizing metadata—every choice you make directly impacts your book's success in the marketplace.

This is exactly why having a roadmap to follow before diving into self-publishing is so crucial. Just as you wouldn't build a house without blueprints, you shouldn't publish your novel without a clear plan of action. 

That's exactly what I'm providing in this episode—a comprehensive 10-step guide that will transform your manuscript into a professionally published book readers will discover and enjoy.

You’ll hear me talk about things like:

• [02:42] The critical mindset shift most first-time authors fail to make—and why adopting a publisher’s mindset is key to your self-publishing success
• [06:04] How to build out your publishing team (including why skimping on professional editing is the costliest mistake you can make)
• [11:51] Why you should start building your author platform and growing your email list now—even if your book isn’t entirely ready to publish just yet
• [21:19] How to decide which distribution channel is best for you and your book (and why this choice impacts everything from your marketing to sales)
• [25:49] How to develop a flexible pricing strategy that positions your novel correctly in the market while maximizing your revenue and/or reach

Whether you’ve already set your sights on self-publishing or if you’ve been researching self-publishing only to feel more confused than ever, this episode will give you the clear, strategic roadmap you need to confidently self-publish your novel like a pro!

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Your Self-Publishing Roadmap: 10 Steps To Self-Publishing a Novel (Free Guide)
• Ep. #83 - What Kind of Editor Do You Need For Your Book?
• Ep. #106 - 5 Steps To Building Your Author Platform
• Ep. #107 - Email List Building Essentials For Authors
• Ep. 163 - How To Find & Work With A Book Cover Designer

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Are you curious about how dictation can improve your health and mobility, enhance your natural storytelling flow, and revolutionize your time management—even if you've tried and failed at it before? Well, then, you'll love this episode with Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer.

Sarah is an author who's published 19 books—11 of which she wrote entirely through dictation. She now teaches other writers how to do the same so that they can write faster, spend less time sitting at their computers, and overcome perfectionism that stops them from getting words on the page.

Be sure to tune in. You'll hear us talk about things like:

[03:33] Why Sarah failed at dictation for years and the surprising mindset shift that made everything click into place.  

[06:40] The 3 unexpected benefits of dictation that have nothing to do with writing speed but will change how you think about it.

[09:14] How Sarah captured 1,200 words in just 20 minutes while washing dishes (the scene that would've been lost forever).

[15:48] Why your brain freezes when you try to dictate your fiction and exactly how to create those missing neural pathways.

[25:43] The dead-simple "open bracket" trick for adding quick notes mid-sentence without breaking your creative flow.

[31:40] The surprisingly simple text message exercise that retrains your brain for dictation even if you had trouble with it before. 

Whether battling perfectionism, dealing with chronic pain, or just curious about dictation for writers, this episode gives you the practical steps to get started without expensive dictation software or complicated equipment.

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🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Check out Sarah’s Dictation + Scrivener Power Combo Mini-Course and use code FWME to get $50 off your purchase.
• Dictation For Authors Quickstart Guide (Free)

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Congratulations, you finished your first draft! …But now what? If you're feeling stuck or overwhelmed as you dive into editing your messy first draft, you're so not alone. 

As a developmental editor, I've reviewed hundreds of first drafts, and I've noticed that most new writers struggle with the same core issues—problems that have nothing to do with your writing talent, but everything to do with fundamental story principles.

In this episode, I’m sharing the 5 most common big-picture mistakes I see writers make in their first drafts (and exactly what you can do to fix them). 

You'll hear me talk about things like:

• [00:00] How to figure out if your story starts in the right place (and the one simple question that can help you find the perfect spot to begin your first chapter)
• [00:00] The difference between meaningful conflict vs. random plot events—and why your protagonist’s transformation depends on this key storytelling element
• [00:00] How to fix weak narrative drive (aka the dreaded "so what?" problem that causes readers to abandon books), and how to create seamless scene-to-scene connections
• [00:00] Character development strategies for increasing emotional stakes in your novel without resorting to melodramatic plot twists or artificial tension
• [00:00] The one mistake that might make readers feel cheated at the end of your novel (even if they can't explain why), and how to fix it

If you've finished your first draft but feel something's not quite working, or if you're struggling to revise a manuscript that just doesn't seem to come together, this episode will give you the clarity and direction you need to transform your story!

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Novel Editing Roadmap: 10 Steps To Editing Your First Draft (Free Guide)
• Ep. #13 - 5 Things That Kill Narrative Drive (& How To Fix It)
• Ep. #18 - 5 Mistakes Writers Make In Their Opening Pages
• Ep. #118 - How To Find The Major Dramatic Question Of Your Story
• Ep. #145 - How To Develop Your Character’s Backstory
• Ep. #149 - 5 Questions To Develop Better Antagonists
• Want my entire step-by-step process for brainstorming, outlining, and writing your first draft? Click here to learn more about my Notes to Novel program.

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Ever found yourself staring at a blinking cursor, excited about your story idea but utterly confused about how to describe its genre? 😩 

This kind of uncertainty isn't just frustrating. It can have serious consequences for your writing, editing, and publishing journey.

Here’s what you need to know: There are actually five different layers of genre that work together to describe your unique story. Think of this as your story's "genre DNA"—a description that gives readers a comprehensive picture of your work.

Tune into this episode to learn:

• [02:22] How to determine if your novel is commercial, literary, or upmarket fiction—and why this positioning matters when writing, editing, and publishing
• [05:21] Why your story's time period affects everything from research requirements to character development (and what this means for fantasy authors whose stories often take place in their own temporal contexts)
• [07:32] How to select the appropriate age category for your target readers and why this critical decision shapes your word count, content, and marketing options
• [11:30] The different reality settings available for your story world and practical ways to manage worldbuilding without getting overwhelmed
• [18:15] How your story’s content genre can serve as your writing roadmap by defining the emotional experience readers expect from a story like yours

Whether you're drafting your first novel or preparing to query agents, this episode will help you define your story's genre so you can write with direction, revise with purpose, and market your book with confidence.

⭐ Follow & Review

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🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Ep. #2 - How To Choose The Right Genre For Your Story
• Free Worksheet: Discover Your Story’s Unique Genre DNA

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But now you're staring at your manuscript, wondering, "What next?" 

Maybe you've tried jumping straight into revisions only to find yourself overwhelmed, confused, or just plain stuck. Or maybe you’re just avoiding it altogether.

If your excitement about finishing your draft has given way to editing anxiety, you're not alone. Every author—even the most seasoned professionals—reaches this crossroads, where the path forward seems foggy at best.

Tune in to learn the exact novel editing framework that has helped my clients and students transform their messy drafts into completed manuscripts.

You’ll hear me talk about things like:

• [06:21] The game-changing approach to organizing your editing notes that’ll prevent months of wasted time and getting stuck in "revision loops"
• [07:17] How mapping what you actually wrote (not what you intended to write) can expose the hidden strengths and weaknesses of your manuscript
• [10:05] The #1 mistake first-time novelists make when editing their messy first drafts (and how to avoid falling into this all too common trap)
• [16:05] The four-category sorting system that helps you prioritize feedback and make confident decisions about which changes to implement
• [23:22] How your publishing path impacts your editing to-do list (and which steps to take if you’re self-publishing or traditional publishing)

If you've finally finished your first draft but find yourself paralyzed by the editing process, or if you've been revising the same chapters for months without making real progress, this episode gives you the clear, structured approach you need.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Novel Editing Roadmap: 10 Steps To Editing Your First Draft (Free Guide)
• Want my entire step-by-step process for brainstorming, outlining, and writing your first draft? Click here to learn more about my Notes to Novel program.

⭐ Follow & Review

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Are you stuck with half-finished manuscripts or endlessly revising the same chapters? Does your story refuse to translate from your imagination to the page the way you envision it?

You're not alone. The very perfectionism that drives you to write can become the biggest obstacle to finishing your novel.

In this episode, Cheryl Arko shares her transformative journey from decades of false starts to published author at 72, revealing the exact strategies that helped her finally complete her science fiction novel after years of struggle.

Tune in to hear:

• [14:31] The reverse outlining technique that revealed why Cheryl’s scenes weren't working (and exactly how to fix them)
  
  
• [17:47] How entering a writing competition boosted her confidence and validated her manuscript's potential (and earned her a finalist spot!)
  
  
• [20:39] The two-phase writing approach that freed Cheryl from perfectionism paralysis (and helped her make twice the progress in half the time)
  
  
• [29:35] How developing her antagonist into a more three-dimensional character solved plot problems Cheryl had been stuck on for months
  
  
• [35:01] The practical reasons Cheryl chose self-publishing at 72 (and how to decide what's right for you based on your timeline and goals)

If you've ever abandoned a manuscript or worried it's too late to realize your writing dreams, this episode proves that with the right approach, you can finally type "The End" on your novel—no matter your age or how long you've been trying.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Cheryl Arko’s website
• Buy Cheryl’s book on Amazon
• Ep. #40 - How to Write a Well-Structured Scene

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Also, if you haven't done so already, make sure you're following the podcast! I'll be adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed, and if you're not following the show, there's a good chance you'll miss them. Click here to follow now!

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Picture this: You sit down with a fresh cup of coffee, open your laptop to write your novel, and then that voice of doubt creeps in: "This is terrible. You don't know what you're doing." And then you're staring at a blinking cursor, completely frozen.

Sound familiar?

If you're nodding your head, you're not alone. Whether you're just starting your first novel or you've been trying to finish that draft for months (or years!), these mental roadblocks aren't signs of failure—they're normal challenges every writer faces.

Tune in to this episode to hear five proven mindset strategies from professional book coaches and editors who have helped countless first-time novelists overcome writer's block, self-doubt, and procrastination to finally type "The End" on their first drafts.

• [02:11] The surprising mindset shift that turns "This writing is terrible" into productive writing sessions
• [08:41] How to carve out writing time that actually works (without quitting your day job or neglecting your family)
• [14:43] Why waiting to "feel inspired" is killing your novel—and the counterintuitive approach that actually works
• [20:12] The five simple questions that can rescue your story when you're stuck in the dreaded "middle slump"
• [27:08] How strategic "neglect" might be the missing ingredient to finally type "The End" on your manuscript

If you're an aspiring author who is writing your first draft, or if you've started multiple manuscripts but keep getting stuck in the middle, this episode's for you!

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Get on the waitlist for my Notes to Novel course!
• Candace Coakley’s website and Instagram
• Sam Henke’s website and Instagram
• Jenny Luke’s website and Instagram
• Karla Diaz’s website and Instagram
• Sam Cameron’s website and Instagram

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Also, if you haven't done so already, make sure you're following the podcast! I'll be adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed, and if you're not following the show, there's a good chance you'll miss them. Click here to follow now!

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Ever gasped out loud while reading a thriller? That moment when everything flips upside down and you think, "I should have seen it coming!" 😱

That's the power of a well-crafted plot twist.

Creating these goosebump-inducing moments isn't magic—it's a skill that any writer can master, even if you’re just starting out. And who better to learn from than someone whose superpower is brainstorming plot twists?

Samantha Skal is the director of Thriller Fest, the co-founder of Shadows and Secrets Writing Retreats (held in Salem’s most haunted hotel!), and a certified Author Accelerator book coach specializing in mystery, thriller, and suspense. So to say she knows a thing or two about crafting plot twists would be an understatement.

In the episode, you’ll hear us talk about things like:

• [04:45] The difference between using red herrings in mysteries and thrillers(and why mixing them up might be killing your story's suspense)
• [07:11] Why "playing fair" with readers is the cardinal rule of plot twist writing—and how breaking it turns clever twists into manipulative disappointments
• [15:12] Why starting with your villain (not your protagonist) is the secret to crafting plot twists that are surprising yet inevitable
• [24:00] How your character's personal baggage can become your most powerful tool for misdirecting readers (without feeling manipulative)
• [40:45] The counterintuitive reason why vague storytelling kills suspense—and what to do instead to create maximum tension

Whether you're excited to start your first novel or stuck somewhere in the middle of a manuscript, wondering how to surprise your readers, this episode will help you craft plot twists that feel both surprising and inevitable. 

⭐ Rate + Review + Follow on Apple Podcasts

"I love the Fiction Writing Made Easy podcast!" ← If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing this show! Your rating and review will help other writers find this podcast, and they're also super fun for me to read. Just click here, scroll all the way to the bottom, tap five stars to rate the show, and then select "Write a Review." Be sure to let me know your favorite episodes, too! 

Also, if you haven't done so already, make sure you're following the podcast! I'll be adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed, and if you're not following the show, there's a good chance you'll miss them. Click here to follow now!

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Samantha Skal’s website
• Shadows & Secrets Retreats
• Freebie: 17 Thriller Twist Ideas to Jumpstart Your Brainstorming

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Something I've discovered after working with hundreds of writers is that finishing a novel requires more than just talent or a great idea. It takes the right mindset, practical tools, and a strategic approach that keeps you moving forward even when inspiration fades.

Tune in to learn the exact novel-writing framework that has helped my clients and students transform their ideas into completed manuscripts, with a special focus on the foundational elements that make stories truly resonate with readers.

You’ll hear me talk about things like:

• [02:10] The #1 reason most first-time novelists abandon their manuscripts (spoiler alert: it's not writer's block)
• [13:25] Why understanding your protagonist's inner obstacle is the key to creating a page-turning novel
• [20:20] The simple 3-part story structure that successful authors use to prevent getting stuck in the dreaded "murky middle"
• [26:45] Which writing routines actually work for busy people (and why marathon writing sessions might be sabotaging your progress)
• [30:20] The psychological trick that transforms "someday" writers into authors who actually finish their first draft
• [32:50] Episode recap and final thoughts

If you've been dreaming about becoming an author but find yourself staring at a blank page or blinking cursor, or if you've started multiple manuscripts only to abandon them when the going gets tough, then this episode is for you!

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Your First Draft Roadmap: 10 Steps To Writing a Novel (Free Guide)
• Want my entire step-by-step process for brainstorming, outlining, and writing your first draft? Click here to learn more about my Notes to Novel program.

⭐ Rate + Review + Follow on Apple Podcasts

"I love the Fiction Writing Made Easy podcast!" ← If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing this show! Your rating and review will help other writers find this podcast, and they're also super fun for me to read. Just click here, scroll all the way to the bottom, tap five stars to rate the show, and then select "Write a Review." Be sure to let me know your favorite episodes, too! 

Also, if you haven't done so already, make sure you're following the podcast! I'll be adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed, and if you're not following the show, there's a good chance you'll miss them. Click here to follow now!

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In today’s episode, we’re going behind the scenes of Angela Haas’s journey to hear how she self-published not one but two books in the last six months—one’s that’s a really fun space opera and the other that’s a romantic comedy. You’ll hear about her experience working with book editors, how she approaches the writing process as a die-hard pantser, and what made her choose self-publishing for all three of her books.

In the episode, you’ll hear us talk about things like:

• [06:50] What happened when Angela submitted her outline for feedback in an online writing course (it wasn’t mine!) and got negative feedback from the instructor who called her space opera story “spoofy”
• [13:45] How understanding this one writing technique (spoiler alert: it’s “show, don’t tell") helped improve the quality of Angela’s manuscripts, and what exactly made this tricky concept finally make sense
• [15:05] What made Angela (a die-hard pantser) finally embrace outlining—and what her unique approach to outlining looks like (spoiler alert: it’s flexible and creative, something all pantsers would love!)
• [17:45] What happened when Angela hired an editor who started re-writing passages from her story (and why this almost made her give up on writing altogether)
• [20:10] Why Angela decided to self-publish both of her books—including what she learned from researching traditional publishing and indie publishing and the factors that made her choose self-publishing

If you’re an aspiring author who dreams of self-publishing a novel to have more control over the creative process, you’re going to love this episode!

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Angela Haas’s Website
• Angela Haas on Instagram
• Angela Haas’s Books
• The Author Next Door Show

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Also, if you haven't done so already, make sure you're following the podcast! I'll be adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed, and if you're not following the show, there's a good chance you'll miss them. Click here to follow now!

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Tune in to this episode to learn the essential elements that make dual timeline novels work, common mistakes to avoid, and practical writing strategies you can use to write a dual timeline story that truly resonates with readers.

In this episode, I cover things like:

• [03:00] The difference between true dual timeline stories and stories that use flashbacks to convey backstory—and why this distinction is so important
• [08:45] Two proven methods for arranging the chapters in your dual timeline novel, including the most common approach that works for all genres
• [11:25] Why creating a connection between timelines is so critical—and 5 specific ways to create meaningful connections between your timelines
• [18:00] How to keep readers engaged in your story no matter which timeline they’re in (and what to do if one of your timelines falls flat)
• [25:55] Final thoughts and episode recap

If you want to write a novel that has more than one timeline—or if you’re editing a novel with dual timelines—this is an episode you won’t want to miss!

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Click here to get instant access to our deep dive into The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab to see how a dual timeline novel works!

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"I love the Fiction Writing Made Easy podcast!" ← If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing this show! Your rating and review will help other writers find this podcast, and they're also super fun for me to read. Just click here, scroll all the way to the bottom, tap five stars to rate the show, and then select "Write a Review." Be sure to let me know your favorite episodes, too! 

Also, if you haven't done so already, make sure you're following the podcast! I'll be adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed, and if you're not following the show, there's a good chance you'll miss them. Click here to follow now!

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Either way, you’re going to love this episode with Michael Jamin. Michael is a TV writer turned author who just published his collection of personal essays, A Paper Orchestra, in 2023. Since then, his book has won a Reedsy Discovery Editor’s Choice Award and has been named one of Vulture’s “Best Comedy Books of 2024.”

Michael’s many credits include writing for King of the Hill, Beavis and Butt-Head, Just Shoot Me, Wilfred, Maron, Rules of Engagement, Out of Practice, Brickleberry, and Tacoma FD. And in this episode, he’s sharing what it was like making the switch from writing for TV to writing his first book.

In the episode, you’ll hear us talk about things like:

• [03:53] What it was like making the switch from writing for TV to writing his debut memoir—including how Michael’s background in TV both helped and hindered his memoir-writing
• [12:13] The two main reasons Michael’s book died on submission—despite having an agent who loved his book (spoiler alert: it came down to not having a platform and his manuscript lacking a throughline)
• [14:52] Why Michael decided to self-publish, plus what he learned while researching the differences between traditional and indie publishing
• [18:08] How Michael built his audience on Instagram to almost 200k followers by being authentic and sharing his knowledge
• [24:17] Michael's two cents on writing comedy, including some of the most common mistakes writers make when trying to write comedy

Even if you can’t relate to Michael’s TV background, you’ll still get a ton of value from this episode. He knows what it’s like to struggle through your first book—and he’s a great example of what happens if you don’t give up!

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• A Paper Orchestra by Michael Jamin
• Michael Jamin’s Website & Instagram
• How my self-published book became one of Vulture's "Best Comedy Books of 2024"
• What The Hell Is Michael Jamin Talking About?
• Unwritten by Michael Jamin

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Also, if you haven't done so already, make sure you're following the podcast! I'll be adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed, and if you're not following the show, there's a good chance you'll miss them. Click here to follow now!

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