Avsnitt
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Would you believe me if I said social media could make you a better writer? If you’re shaking your head NO, you’ll want to check out this episode.
[02:26] What led Lara to specialize in social media marketing for authors, and how she can help you find your target audience of readers online [06:09] How writers often have a negative perception of social media—it’s either a necessary evil to help them promote their books, or it’s a time suck that threatens their writing (and sometimes their mental health)[07:34] Unexpected ways social media can increase your creativity, inspiration, passion, and motivation (along with some practical examples so you can put these things into practice, too)[17:35] How to conduct actionable market research using social media—think getting reader input and feedback, sensitivity awareness, and things like that[29:51] A few different ways you can use social media to find the community, accountability, and support you need to finish your book[32:56] How to use social media intentionally to maintain your boundaries and focus on what matters most—writing your book!
My guest, Lara Ferrari, is an Instagram marketing specialist who has helped hundreds of writers grow engaged communities of readers online (and have FUN while doing it).
In this episode, she’s sharing how you can use social media to increase your creativity and motivation, get reader input and feedback, do market research, and find the accountability and support you need to become a better writer.
In the episode, you’ll hear us talk about things like:If you’ve ever felt unsure about social media, or if social media consistently feels like something that’s just too hard to tackle, you’re going to LOVE this episode with Lara!
Lara Ferrari’s InstagramGrab Lara’s Instagram Glow Up Guide here!
⭐ 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:Click here to learn more about my book, The Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide to Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, and claim your gifts with purchase!
👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.
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Earlier this year, I published my first book, The Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide to Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone—and I learned soooo much about book marketing.
Tune into this episode to hear the ten surprising lessons I learned from my first book launch, including things like:
[03:10] What I learned about asking for Amazon reviews—and how asking for favors was the most uncomfortable part of the book launch process for me[04:30] A look behind the scenes at my marketing plan, including how I balanced things like social media, emailing my list, and working with ARC Readers and influencers[07:50] What moved the needle for me and made it possible for my book to become an Amazon bestseller and the #1 New Release in the category[12:00] The hardest part of the book launch for me emotionally—and how I dealt with people who didn’t show up for me like they said they would[15:30] Why it’s important to celebrate after publishing a book (and what my celebration looked like—spoiler alert: it was very low-key but still fun!)If you want a peek behind the scenes to hear what worked, what didn’t work, what I’m glad I did, and what I’d do differently next time, you’re going to love this episode!
⭐ 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:
Ep. #107 - List Building Essentials For AuthorsGrab a copy of my new book, The Story Grid Masterwork Guide To Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (and then claim your bonuses) here!Leave a review for my book on AmazonClick here to learn more about my book, The Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide to Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, and claim your gifts with purchase!
👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.
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Saknas det avsnitt?
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Do you ever wish you could see a behind-the-scenes look at how other people write?
In this episode, you’ll get to hear directly from five of my Notes to Novel students as they share how they brainstormed, outlined, and wrote their books inside the Notes to Novel course. I asked each of them to share the biggest thing that helped them get to “The End” of their drafts, and that’s exactly what they’re sharing with you today.
In the episode, you’ll hear things like:
[01:50] How fast drafting and using placeholders for pending details helped Poornika finish a 114,000-word draft in only 88 days [04:50] How Alison learned to embrace scene structure (and what this did in terms of her ability to write a first draft)[07:40] How a small mindset shift around outlining gave Mark a framework to develop his ideas (without stifling his creativity or ability to have fun)[12:10] How Sharon’s critique group noticed an improvement in her writing after she learned how to write a well-structured scene[16:30] How Rhonda defeated her inner critic that used to tell her she was too old to write—and how she finished an 80,000-word first draftTrust me when I say that you will find these writers’ stories so inspirational! I had so much fun putting together this episode and can’t wait to share their insights with you!
⭐ 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:
Poornika Kakkanaiah’s website and InstagramAlison Ten Cate’s InstagramSharon England’s InstagramMark Mrozinski’s website and InstagramClick here to learn more about my book, The Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide to Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, and claim your gifts with purchase!
👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.
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As someone who’s worked with hundreds of authors, I see people making the same mistakes over and over and over again. Mistakes that are easily avoidable once you know they’re mistakes.
[01:27] Why waiting until you feel more “ready” to write is actually one of the worst things you can do (and spoiler alert: you will never feel ready!)[06:18] Why most writing groups don’t work (even if they’re full of well-meaning members)—and how to find the right writing group for you[09:16] Why writing and revising at the same time is not the best thing to do (and what you should start doing instead to make progress on your book)[20:30] The problem with popular writing methods—and why they can do more harm than good, especially if you’re brand new to writing[24:59] My thoughts on investing in your craft, including when (and how) you should invest both your time and money based on where you’re at in the process[28:26] Episode recap and final thoughts
In this episode, I’m sharing some of these mistakes. Specifically, the 10 things that will NOT make you a better writer—and oh boy is it a juicy episode! In it, you’ll hear me talk about:So, tune in and let me help you avoid making some of the most common mistakes writers make—and let’s make this the year you finish (or publish!) your book.
⭐ 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:
Notes to NovelThe Spun YarnClick here to learn more about my book, The Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide to Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, and claim your gifts with purchase!
👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.
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“I think your story has a genre identity crisis. That’s probably why you’re not getting responses from agents.” ← That’s what I told my new friend, Jac Sahlin, about the duology she’s currently querying.
[04:59] Jac’s thoughts about what it was like to get feedback from a book coach—and how it was different than getting feedback when she was taking creative writing courses in college[08:32] My process for analyzing Jac’s query and first five pages, including where I start and what literary agents are looking for in a query package[15:41] The difference between writing women’s fiction and romance—and why this matters both when writing a draft and querying agents[31:25] Jac’s big a-ha moments about which genre she wants her story to fit into (and spoiler alert: she followed her gut and chose romance![01:03] Episode recap and final thoughts
Tune into this episode to hear Jac and I talk through her query letter and first five pages—and to hear my thoughts on why she hasn’t received any requests from agents. Although Jac isn’t technically a client of mine, our conversation will give you a peek behind the scenes into what it’s like working with a book coach!
In the episode, you’ll hear us talk about things like:If you want my help with your story, the doors to my Notes to Novel group coaching program are opening soon! Click here to get on the waitlist.
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:
Book Talk for BookTok podcastBook Talk for BookTok on InstagramClick here to learn more about my book, The Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide to Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, and claim your gifts with purchase!
👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.
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“How many scenes are in the Diagon Alley chapter of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone?” Believe it or not, this is one of the most frequently asked questions I get from writers when they hear I’ve written a book breaking apart this mega best seller scene by scene.
[04:21] How to analyze your scenes from three different perspectives—the reader’s perspective, the character’s perspective, and the author’s perspective[11:33] A quick trick for determining if your scenes work (and how to identify which areas of your scenes need work once you’ve written them)[20:12] Why we chose to analyze this chapter as one 6,500-word-long scene versus a bunch of smaller scenes (and how the structure of this scene works)[23:12] The purpose of the smaller moments within the scene that are arguably significant (and move the scene) forward but aren’t technically “scenes”[41:14] Our final thoughts on writing a scene like Diagon Alley
And it’s a valid question! This chapter was the hardest chapter for us to analyze when putting together The Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide to Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.
But this week, Abigail K. Perry and I have an answer for you! Tune into this week’s episode to hear us take a deep dive into the structure of Chapter 5, “Diagon Alley,”—including how many scenes we see in this chapter.
In the episode, you’ll hear us talk about things like:If you like this episode, you’ll LOVE my book, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone: A Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide. Click here to pre-order a copy and get access to a collection of bonuses in addition to a copy of the book.
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:
Pre-order my new book, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone: A Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide, and get a handful of special bonuses!Watch the video interview on Story Grid’s YouTube channelClick here to learn more about my book, The Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide to Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, and claim your gifts with purchase!
👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.
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How did Rowling deliver on the life-and-death stakes an action story requires, but in a way appropriate for middle-grade readers? How did she consistently weave together the external plot and Harry’s character arc in such a way that they’re inseparable?
02:26] The structure of the beginning hook—aka how Rowling introduced us to Harry and immersed us in his world before sending him to Hogwarts. [10:08] How the middle build-up leads to the all-important midpoint moment. What will Harry do now that his life’s been threatened by a teacher?[22:56] How the middle breakdown brings Harry to an all-time low—and why this is critical in terms of Harry’s growth and ability to defeat Voldemort[27:57] The structure of the ending payoff—aka how Rowling continued to raise the stakes and delivered an awesome Hero At The Mercy Of The Villain scene[32:25] And so much more…
Tune into this episode to hear Abigail K. Perry and I talk through the plot structure of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone using the Story Grid’s Five Commandments of Storytelling. Yep, we’ve broken down the beginning, middle, and end of the first Harry Potter book so you don’t have to. Cool, right?
You’ll hear us talk about things like:If you like this episode, you’ll LOVE my book, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone: A Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide. Click here to pre-order a copy and get access to a collection of bonuses in addition to a copy of the book.
Pre-order my new book, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone: A Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide, and get a handful of special bonuses!Watch the video interview on Story Grid’s YouTube channel
⭐ 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:Click here to learn more about my book, The Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide to Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, and claim your gifts with purchase!
👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.
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Rowling is a master at weaving the external plot with Harry’s internal character arc—and using the external plot events to help Harry grow and change.
Pre-order my new book, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone: A Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide, and get a handful of special bonuses!The Story Grid: What Good Editors Know by Shawn CoyneAction Story: The Primal Genre by Shawn Coyne
In this episode, you’ll hear Abigail K. Perry and I talk through the big-picture plot structure of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone using the Story Grid’s Five Commandments of Storytelling. We’ll also discuss how this story fits in the Action Genre Framework and how Rowling adapted that framework to suit a middle-grade audience.
⭐ 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:Click here to learn more about my book, The Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide to Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, and claim your gifts with purchase!
👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.
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J.K. Rowling is the master of layering things within her scenes. She’s also fantastic at raising the stakes from scene to scene, too. But how does she do it
Tune into this episode to hear Abigail K. Perry and I talk to Tim Grahl (the CEO of Story Grid) about what it was like to study Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone—what we learned from J.K. Rowling about writing scenes and so much more.
⭐ 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!
Pre-order my new book, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone: A Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide, and get a handful of special bonuses!Watch the video interview on Story Grid’s YouTube channel
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:Click here to learn more about my book, The Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide to Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, and claim your gifts with purchase!
👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.
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Ever wonder how Rowling created such a fantastic, three-dimensional story world for her Harry Potter series?
[02:38] How Rowling built a fantastic story world ripe for life and death conflicts (but in a way that’s age-appropriate for middle-grade readers)[04:39] How Rowling focused on fleshing out the world-building details that mattered for book one—and introduced them to readers right alongside Harry[08:18] How to think about your own world-building (spoiler alert: you don’t need to have everything figured out or perfectly mapped in your early drafts!)[12:43] How Rowling made every detail of her world count—and how she used those details to hide important plot clues and encourage character development[16:27] And so much more…
That’s exactly what you’ll hear in this week’s brand-new podcast episode! Join me, Abigail K. Perry, and Tim Grahl, as we discuss the world-building in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone—and what we learned from our analysis of this mega best seller.
You’ll hear us talk about things like:
If you like this episode, you’ll LOVE my book, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone: A Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide. Click here to pre-order a copy and get access to a collection of bonuses in addition to a copy of the book.
⭐ 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:
Pre-order my new book, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone: A Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide, and get a handful of special bonuses!Watch the video interview on Story Grid’s YouTube channelClick here to learn more about my book, The Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide to Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, and claim your gifts with purchase!
👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.
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Plot catalysts make it difficult for a character to achieve their goals. If you’re writing an Action story, there are three main plot catalysts you’ll want to include in your book—a speech in praise of the villain, a deadline or ticking clock, and one or more set-piece action sequences.
Tune into this episode to hear a sneak peek from my new book, The Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide to Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, and hear how Rowling used plot catalysts to keep readers engaged.
⭐ 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:
Pre-order a copy of my book, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone: A Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide, and get a handful of special bonuses!Click here to learn more about my book, The Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide to Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, and claim your gifts with purchase!
👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.
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Ever wonder how Rowling created such a wonderful cast of quirky and relatable characters in the Harry Potter series?
If so, tune into this episode to hear Abigail K. Perry, Tim Grahl, and me talk about the characters in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.
You’ll hear us talk about things like:
[02:32] How to think about the number of characters you include in your story (and what we can learn from the characters Rowling highlighted in book one)[09:17] How to write a dynamic cast of characters that can help your protagonist grow and change (and, in Harry’s case, aid or harm his ability to survive)[09:49] Why Rowling layered the forces of antagonism Harry faces in this first book (and why this was necessary based on his age and skill level)[17:07] How point of view choice affects our interpretation of the events in the story—and influences whether we classify certain characters as “good” or “evil”[20:26] And so much more…If you like this episode, you’ll LOVE my book, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone: A Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide. Click here to pre-order a copy and get access to a collection of bonuses in addition to a copy of the book.
⭐ 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:
re-order my new book, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone: A Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide, and get a handful of special bonuses!Watch the video interview on Story Grid’s YouTube channelClick here to learn more about my book, The Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide to Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, and claim your gifts with purchase!
👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.
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What made Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone a worldwide bestseller? Why does this story still resonate with readers almost thirty years later?
And why did Abigail and I agree to spend so much time dissecting every single scene and page to find out how and why it works?!
Tune into this episode to hear Abigail K. Perry and I talk to Tim Grahl (the CEO of Story Grid) about what it was like to study Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone—why we chose this book, what we learned from our analysis, and so much more.
⭐ 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:
Pre-order my new book, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone: A Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide, and get a handful of special bonuses!Watch the video interview on Story Grid’s YouTube channelClick here to learn more about my book, The Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide to Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, and claim your gifts with purchase!
👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.
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Ever wish you could understand exactly what makes your favorite stories so lovable? Me too! So much so that I deconstructed every single scene in the first Harry Potter book to see how and why it worked.
And today, I’m super excited to share with you that my brand-new book, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone: A Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide, is officially available for pre-order right now!
Tune into this episode to hear me talk about things like:
[03:25] What’s inside the book and how it’s structured (spoiler: it’s a writer’s companion guide to the first Harry Potter book that examines every single scene)
[06:00] Who this book is for (another spoiler: it’s for anyone who wants to learn how to write like Rowling, whether you’re writing fantasy or not)
[07:15] All the JUICY details about the pre-order bonuses I’m giving away—bonuses so good they’re worth paying for (but yours free with purchase)
[10:00] Behind-the-scenes insight into why pre-orders are so important (hint: I want to deconstruct the whole Harry Potter series and need your help!)Click here to pre-order your copy of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone: A Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide, and you’ll also get access to a collection of bonuses in addition to a copy of the book as soon as it’s available on July 31st, 2024.
Thank you so much for being on this journey with me! Your support means the world to me, and I can’t thank you enough. I’m sooo excited to hear your thoughts on this book, so please tag me on Instagram (@savannah.gilbo) when you get your copy!
⭐ 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:
Pre-order my new book, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone: A Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide, and get a handful of special bonuses!Click here to learn more about my book, The Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide to Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, and claim your gifts with purchase!
👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.
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Antagonists can make or break a story—both for the writer and the reader.
Writers who don’t spend time developing their antagonists tend to write drafts that fall apart in the middle. Anyone who reads a story with a weak or unconvincing protagonist is unlikely to finish it.
So, how do we go about making our antagonists just as compelling as our protagonists? How do we write an antagonist with impact?
In this episode, I’m sharing five questions that will help you create a compelling, genre-appropriate antagonist who will provide the central conflict in your novel.
In the episode, you’ll learn things like:
[02:25] What does it mean to write “an antagonist?” Plus, my thoughts on the common misconception that antagonists are always “bad guys”[04:11] Tips for fleshing out your antagonist’s goal, motivation, and plans—aka THE KEY to writing a solid antagonist (and avoiding a middle that sags)[13:47] An easy way to determine what’s at stake for your antagonist should they succeed or fail in accomplishing their goal (hint: it’s related to your genre!)[19:26] How to determine the thematic significance of your antagonist (and how identifying this will help you write a more cohesive and impactful story)[23:09] Episode recap and final thoughtsIf you’ve ever had trouble fleshing out your story’s antagonist, or if you’ve ever written a draft that falls apart in the middle, this is the episode for you!
⭐ 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:
Ep. 131 - 5 Steps To Start Planning Your Book SeriesEp. 145 - How To Develop Your Character's BackstoryPre-order my new book, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone: A Story Grid Masterwork Analysis GuideClick here to learn more about my book, The Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide to Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, and claim your gifts with purchase!
👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.
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“Never wonder if readers will love your story again.” This is exactly what Theodora Taylor teaches you how to do in her book 7 FIGURE FICTION: How to Use Universal Fantasy to SELL Your Books to ANYONE.
[04:52] How Theodora discovered Universal Fantasy in a Facebook ads class—and how this immediately resulted in an increase in book sales[09:05] How Universal Fantasy can be the missing link between your book and the right kind of readers who will love it just as much as you do[13:33] An example of a Universal Fantasy from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast (and also how this relates to the fixer-upper trope)[16:33] What Cinderella, Harry Potter, and Mark Watney have in common (spoiler alert: they’re all the same Universal Fantasy: the Suffering Cinderella!)[20:05] How Universal Fantasy can help you “butter up” your settings, characters, and dialogue—and write the most DELICIOUS stories possible[35:12] How Universal Fantasy can help you write your back cover copy, find accurate comp titles, and write query letters that agents will love
Despite writing fiction in a niche genre (interracial romance), Theodora Taylor has grown a fanbase of rabid readers and fans through the power of something she calls Universal Fantasy—aka “the ingredients you need to write DELICIOUS stories!”
In this episode, Theodora Taylor shares how she discovered Universal Fantasy, and how she uses it to codify what works (or doesn’t work) in her own writing. She gives examples from popular books and movies, and even shares how you can use Universal Fantasy in your back cover copy, query letters, and more.
In the episode, you’ll hear us talk about things like:If you’ve ever wondered how some books feel like they’re made with magic (or some kind of special secret sauce), you’re going to love this episode with Theodora Taylor!
⭐ 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:
Theodora Taylor’s Website7 FIGURE FICTION: How to Use Universal Fantasy to SELL Your Books to ANYONE by Theodora TaylorTheodora Taylor’s FictionClick here to learn more about my book, The Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide to Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, and claim your gifts with purchase!
👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.
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Want a peek behind the scenes into my work week? 👀
[05:07] A behind-the-scenes look at the making of this podcast—how (and why) I batch script and record multiple episodes at a time[09::07] What it was like to work through the copy edits on my new book, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone: A Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide[13:15] How I manage my energy and mental health when I have a week full of live videos that require lots of extroverting (and why this is so important)[18:10] A preview of some of the marketing plans for my upcoming book release in July (including how I’m thinking about my ARC Team & Street Team)[27:55] Some client wins, including a book cover reveal, a revise and resubmit (R&R) request, and how one writer is stuck choosing between two agents
In this episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes and sharing what I do as a developmental editor and book coach.
I’ll talk through the projects I’m working on, what I’m excited (or not excited) about, what’s coming up in the next few weeks, what I learn from the writers I work with, and basically anything else that happens during the week!
Tune into the episode to hear me talk about things like:Thanks for coming on this journey with me, and I hope you enjoy this peek behind the scenes! See you next week!
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!
Click here to get on the waitlist for my new book, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone: A Story Grid Masterwork Analysis GuideAuthor Accelerator’s Book Coach Certification ProgramJust Food For Dogs
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:Click here to learn more about my book, The Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide to Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, and claim your gifts with purchase!
👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.
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If you’ve ever felt frustrated with your progress (or lack of progress), it’s probably time to take a step back from your writing and consider your mindset.
[03:18] How April’s mindfulness practice helped her go from struggling to write her novel to getting an agent, selling her book, and winning awards[07:20] What you can do in just 5-10 minutes per day to develop your own mindfulness practice—and how this can help you be a more focused writer[10:20] How to identify the root cause of your writer’s block (and why this is so important in terms of your ability to banish writer’s block for good)[12:54] Why understanding your emotions (and sitting with them even if they’re uncomfortable) is the key to writing characters that are rich and engaging[20:19] April’s favorite tip for editing your own work more effectively (and how it’s not just about “taking time and space away from your draft”)[29:35] Why it’s important to be kind and compassionate to yourself so that you don’t get burned out or end up feeling so discouraged that you quit writing
To help you do just that, I’m sharing a conversation in today’s podcast episode with April Dávila, an award-winning author, speaker, and writing coach who specializes in teaching writers to integrate mediation into their writing practice.
Tune into this episode to hear us talk about how integrating mindfulness in her writing practice helped April push past writer’s block, write fewer drafts, craft more compelling characters, and so much more.
In the episode, you’ll hear us talk about things like:This is a super fun episode with my guest, April Dávila, and I can’t wait for you to hear her top 6 ways mindfulness can make you a happier and more productive writer.
Click here to listen!
⭐ 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!
April Dávila on InstagramApril Dávila WebsiteEp. 88 - Perfectionism vs. Procrastination: What's REALLY Going On?Ep. 123 - How To Overcome The 5 Types Of Imposter Syndrome
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:Click here to learn more about my book, The Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide to Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, and claim your gifts with purchase!
👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.
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Crafting compelling backstories for your fictional characters is critical to developing a cohesive story, but it’s sometimes easier said than done.
There are endless options when it comes to which details you can include in your character’s backstory, and what you do include will influence everything that happens in your story—from the plot events to your character’s motivations to your own ability to manage the thematic subtext of your story on a scene-by-scene-basis.
In this episode, I’m going to walk you through how to develop your character’s backstory in three steps, including things like:
[04:12] How to uncover your character’s wounding event that gives rise to a specific fear (or inner obstacle) that haunts them in the present-day[06:57] A framework to help you crystalize your character’s inner obstacle—and why doing this work helps you establish where their character arc starts[09:31] How your character’s backstory can help inform your plot (and help you create meaningful conflict to help them grow and change)[12:55] An exploration of Simon Basset’s backstory and character arc (from the first Bridgerton book, The Duke & I)[17:42] Episode recap and final thoughtsDeveloping your character’s backstory before you start writing can help you develop your theme, craft your plot, build your story world, and so much more. That being said, there’s no “right” or “wrong” time to flesh out your character’s backstory. Do whatever works best for you and your process!
Click here to listen!
⭐ 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:
Ep. 14 - How to Handle Character Backstory in Your NovelThe Emotional Wound Thesaurus: A Writer's Guide to Psychological Trauma by Angela Ackerman and Becca PuglisiClick here to learn more about my book, The Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide to Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, and claim your gifts with purchase!
👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.
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Have you ever heard someone say that the only difference between a published author and an unpublished author is that the published author never gave up?
I wholeheartedly believe this, and my guest today proves it’s true.
Savannah Carlisle writes heartwarming romance novels that transport readers to fun and quirky small towns where friends feel like family. And her debut novel, The Library of Second Chances, is officially available for purchase as of May 2024.
Tune into this episode to hear us talk about her path to publication—from writing the first draft of this story to breaking up with her agent to working with a developmental editor and #kisspitch mentor to ultimately finding a home at her dream publisher.
In the episode, we talk about things like:
[09:47] How Savannah pulled inspiration from her real-life, You’ve Got Mail, and her dream publisher’s wishlist to write The Library of Second Chances
[11:37] Why Savannah broke up with her agent (and how, in hindsight, this was one of the best decisions Savannah’s made in terms of her writing)
[14:10] The biggest takeaway Savannah had from working with a developmental editor (me!)—and how this still informs her writing today
[16:10] What it was like to work with Jessica Lepe, a #kisspitch mentor and author, who just finished querying a similar story based on You’ve Got Mail
[22:35] How Savannah found her dream publisher as an un-agented author at Harpeth Road (and why she went this route versus self-publishing)
[25:50] What it was like to find her current agent—and why she believes having an agent is important (even though she’s a lawyer herself)
⭐ 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:
Savannah Carlisle’s WebsiteSavannah Carlisle on InstagramThe Library of Second Chances by Savannah CarlisleJessica Lepe’s WebsiteThe Manuscript AcademyEp. 40 - How to Write a Well-Structured SceneClick here to learn more about my book, The Story Grid Masterwork Analysis Guide to Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, and claim your gifts with purchase!
👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.
- Visa fler
