Episodios
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In this episode, I discusses the pros and cons of using multiple points of view (POVs) in writing.
Point of view (POV) is the narrative perspective that guides the reader through the story. Multiple POVs can add depth and complexity to a story, but they also come with potential pitfalls. Pitfalls of multiple POVs include character chaos, plot complexity, and reader overwhelm. Start with one additional POV before diving into multiple POVs. Exercises like character journals, dialogue-only scenes, and POV shifts can help in distinguishing character voices and maintaining distinct perspectives.00:00 Introduction and Background
03:27 The Allure of Multiple POVs
05:05 Pitfalls of POV Polygamy
06:30 Maintaining Character Voice in Third Person
11:33 Exercises to Hone Your Skills
12:53 It's Your Turn
15:48 Deciding Whether to Use Multiple POVs
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Creating a realistic and relatable main character is crucial for a good romance novel. This involves giving them a history, their own journey, a job, relationships with others, physical flaws, strength, failure, sexuality, and the spotlight. These elements help readers understand and bond with the main character, making the story more engaging and resonant.
Takeaways
A main character's history, beliefs, and actions should be influenced by their past experiences. Main characters should have their own journey and not solely exist to fall in love with the love interest. Giving main characters a job helps build their sense of self and adds depth to their story. Main characters' relationships with others can illuminate their lives and provide support and growth. Physical flaws make main characters more realistic and relatable. Strength should be tempered with vulnerability to create a well-rounded main character. Failure is relatable and can lead to character growth and redemption. Sexuality is an important aspect of a romance novel's main character. The main character should be at the center of the story and constantly involved in the plot. Creating a realistic and relatable main character is essential for reader engagement and resonance. -
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Do you feel stuck in a rut with your writing? Do you struggle to even sit down to write? Does the blank page seem to loom over you like a cloud, leaving you feeling overwhelmed, uninspired, and heading for Netflix?
Don’t worry, you’re not alone!
Many writers experience this same struggle (me included). Whether you’re working on a novel or just trying to write an article, finding the motivation to get started—or keep going—can be difficult. Fortunately, there are a few strategies that can help keep your writing motivation high.
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In this episode, I’ll be talking to author and teacher Elisabeth Sharp McKetta.
Elisabeth is the author of 13 books, including “She Never Told Me About the Ocean," "Ark," and "Edit Your Life: A Handbook for Living with Intention in a Messy World.”
We’ll delve into the importance of creativity, mental health, and the practice of writing, but Elisabeth also shares her experiences living in a tiny house with her family, emphasising how the simplicity and minimalism of small spaces can enhance focus and creativity.
Elisabeth provides insights into her writing process, the importance that therapeutic first drafts, and the joy of discovering deeper connections and themes.
And this episode highlights the importance of editing one's life to make room for creativity, the value of indulgence in writing practices, and the significance of understanding one's personal connection to their work.
Elisabeth's wisdom and experiences offer valuable lessons for writers and creatives looking for more time for their craft.
And if you’d like to know more, Elisabeth also delivered the TEDxBoise talk “Edit Your Life Like a Poem,” further showcasing her expertise and passion for intentional living and creativity.
Elisabeth's Website: https://elisabethsharpmcketta.com/
Elisabeth's TEDxBoise Talk: https://youtu.be/-ZXHIrZMeCQ?si=dnWkEmZWVrkl7sv3
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In this episode of Master Fiction Writing, I sit down with the remarkable Becca Puglisi, co-author of the bestselling series from Writers Helping Writers. Join us as Becca takes us on a journey from the inception of the first book to the expansion of the series, sharing invaluable insights into the art of character development along the way.
Discover the inspiration behind the 'Emotion Thesaurus' and how it has become an essential tool for writers worldwide. Becca delves into the challenges and triumphs of creating the series, the collaborative process with co-author Angela Ackerman, and how feedback from the writing community has shaped their work.
And don't forget the very latest book in the series - 'The Emotion Amplifier Thesaurus: A Writer’s Guide to Character Stress and Volatility'!
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Unlock the secrets of writing compelling paragraphs that captivate your readers!
In this episode post, you'll learn how to create vivid imagery, build emotional resonance, and master pacing for maximum impact.
Whether you're just starting your writing journey or refining your craft, discover practical tips and exercises to elevate your storytelling.
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As creative writers, each sentence we craft serves our story. But how do we elevate our writing from good to unforgettable? It all starts with mastering the art of sentence construction.
This episode dives into the essentials of crafting powerful, impactful sentences. Whether you're just beginning your writing journey or looking to refine your skills, this article is packed with insights and exercises that will transform your approach to writing.
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In this episode, we plunge headfirst into the tumultuous world of writing myths and the harsh self-criticisms that writers often battle. Why do writers sabotage their own success? Is it easier to believe in fallacies than to face the hard truths? We're dissecting these questions and more!
We’ll unravel common misconceptions about the writing process, from the myth of waiting for inspiration to strike, to the pitfalls of chasing a perfect first draft.
Prepare to be challenged and enlightened!
If you want to work with me, you can book a free, 20-minute discovery call here: https://calendly.com/stuartwakefield/book-coaching-discovery-call
If you want to work with a different book coach, there's a fantastic online database of certified book coaches here: https://www.authoraccelerator.com/matchme
For a crash course on the nine Muses, check out this video! https://youtu.be/eTckaxEhC5U
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📚 Unlock the Secrets of Compelling Character Backstories! 📚
Crafting captivating characters is the cornerstone of great storytelling. Dive into the art of character development in this latest episode! Learn how to infuse depth and authenticity into your narratives by mastering the art of crafting compelling backstories.
Discover techniques to seamlessly integrate backstory into your storytelling, avoiding common pitfalls like info dumping and irrelevance. From engaging dialogue to powerful flashbacks, explore the tools that bring characters to life and drive your plot forward.
Striking a balance between revealing backstory and maintaining narrative focus is key to captivating your audience.
Explore further with the online course, Emotional Echoes: The Art of Character Backstory, to master these storytelling techniques. Unlock the secrets for just $47!
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In this episode, I'm delighted to be interviewing Margaret McNellis, a historical fiction writer with whom I've had the pleasure of working on two of her books: Daughter of the Seven Hills (due for publication on 21st May 2024) and Hearts of Iron & Gold.
We talk about all things historical fiction, from the challenges of research to wearing funny hats.
Oh, and we talk about what it's like to be coached!
You can find Margaret's site here: https://mcnelliswrites.com/
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In this special episode, I have the unique pleasure of sharing my own journey and insights as the author of "The Writer's Shield: Building Emotional Resilience for Writers." This is a deep dive into the heart of emotional resilience, a topic I am passionately dedicated to, especially in the context of the challenges that we, as writers, face.
During this interview, I open up about my personal experiences and the critical moments that led me to write "The Writer's Shield." I discuss the concept of emotional resilience for writers, shedding light on the strategies and tools that have been instrumental in my own journey and can support others in theirs. This episode is a candid look at the struggles with rejection, criticism, writer's block, and impostor syndrome, and how to emerge stronger from these experiences.
I also share tips on maintaining a healthy work-life balance, cultivating a positive mindset, and building the inner strength needed to navigate the ups and downs of a writing career. My aim is to provide listeners with practical, real-world advice that can be applied to their writing and personal lives.
As a special offer to my listeners, I encourage you to sign up for my mailing list. By joining, you'll receive regular updates filled with valuable content and resources tailored for writers. Plus, as a token of my appreciation, you'll receive a free copy of my book "The Writer's Shield: Building Emotional Resilience for Writers." This book is a culmination of my experiences and learnings, and I'm excited to share it with you. Sign up today to start fortifying your emotional resilience on your writing journey! https://www.thebookcoach.co/
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Welcome back to another episode of "Master Fiction Writing" with me, your host, Stuart Wakefield, an Author Accelerator Certified book coach dedicated to helping you navigate the intricacies of crafting compelling fiction. Today's episode dives deep into the art of creating authentic characters through the power of dialogue.
Have you ever read a book where every character sounded exactly the same? Or watched a movie where the dialogue felt flat and unconvincing? In this episode, we'll explore how to avoid these common pitfalls by utilising character-specific language. This powerful technique involves tailoring vocabulary, syntax, and even the rhythm of speech to align with each character's unique background, education, and personality.
Join me as how we can use dialogue to breathe life into our characters. Whether it’s the refined articulation of a seasoned academic, the vibrant slang of a spirited teenager, or the concise pragmatism of a no-nonsense professional, you’ll learn how to give each of your characters a distinct and believable voice.
Plus, I'll share practical tips and exercises that you can apply to your own writing. By the end of this episode, you’ll be equipped with the skills to create a rich tapestry of voices in your narratives, making your characters stand out and speak directly to the hearts of your readers.
Don't miss this journey into the heart of character development! Tune in to "Master Fiction Writing" and transform the way you write dialogue. Remember, in fiction, every word speaks volumes about your characters. Let's make sure they're saying the right things!
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Join me and let's explore a range of transformative practices and exercises designed to elevate your writing journey. I'll talk about setting DREAM goals, the power of a grateful writing mindset, and the importance of regular reflection and adaptation in your craft. Whether you're looking to overcome a creative block, refine your skills, or simply find new ways to invigorate your writing practice, this episode is packed with insights and practical advice.
Perfect for both budding and experienced writers, this episode promises to leave you feeling motivated and equipped with new tools to make this year your most productive and creative yet. Tune in, and let's embark on this journey to make your writing aspirations a reality!
#WritingTips #CreativeJourney #WritersCommunity #UnlockYourPotential 🎧✍️📚
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Join me in this enlightening episode of Master Fiction Writing, where we dive into the art of managing multiple writing projects without losing your mind or your creative spark. Hosted by me, Stuart Wakefield, an Author Accelerator Certified book coach, this episode is a treasure trove of insights and practical advice for writers at all stages.
We start by exploring the common challenges writers face when juggling various projects, from deadline pressures to creative fatigue. Then, we move on to the crucial task of setting priorities and goals, offering you tangible methods to navigate the often overwhelming writing landscape.
But that's not all! We delve into effective time management strategies specifically tailored for writers, helping you maximize your productivity while maintaining your creative flow. Discover the wonders of the Pomodoro Technique, time blocking, and the Eisenhower Matrix, and learn how to apply them to your writing routine.
No episode on time management would be complete without discussing organizational tools and resources. We cover everything from project management software and writing apps to the more traditional methods like notebooks and calendars, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your style.
Most importantly, we address the critical issue of maintaining your creative energy and avoiding burnout. Learn the importance of taking breaks, balancing your writing life with personal time, and setting realistic expectations to keep the joy in your writing journey.
Whether you’re a seasoned author or just starting out, "Balancing Multiple Projects: Time Management for Writers" is packed with actionable advice, encouraging words, and a friendly voice to guide you through the complexities of managing multiple writing endeavors.
Tune in to Master Fiction Writing for an episode that promises to leave you feeling inspired, organized, and ready to tackle your writing projects with renewed vigor and clarity.
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Letting your characters' words reveal their traits and emotions, instead of explaining them in the narrative, is an art - and one that many writers overlook.
"Show, don't tell" is a fundamental principle in writing, especially when it comes to dialogue. It means allowing the reader to deduce character traits and emotions from what the characters say and do, rather than directly informing them through narrative exposition. This approach draws readers deeper into the story, making them active participants in understanding and connecting with the characters.
And for dialogue? Well, that's what we'll cover in this episode!
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In this scintillating episode of Master Fiction Writing, we're delving deep into the art of creating sexual tension that will leave your readers on the edge of their seats, yearning for more.
Whether you're a budding writer looking to infuse passion into your storytelling or a dedicated fan eager to dissect your favorite romantic narratives, this episode promises to be an enlightening and seductive journey through the art of crafting sexual tension.
Tune in, and get ready to turn up the heat in your own stories!
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Today's episode is all about the spine-tingling magic that keeps readers flipping page after page — romantic tension.
While sexual tension is a sizzling game of "will they or won't they get intimate?", romantic tension is a more profound, heart-pounding game of "will they or won't they end up together?" It's that underlying question, the heartbeat of every romance novel, and what makes readers invest in the characters and their love journey.
In this episode, we'll break down the elements that contribute to romantic tension. We'll discuss the importance of believability, what makes the romance truly captivating, and the nuances that separate romantic tension from its steamier cousin, sexual tension.
Whether you're a seasoned romance writer or just getting started, we'll provide insights and tips on ensuring your story is bursting with the tension that readers crave. We’ll also touch on the role of dynamic characters, and why romantic tension is non-negotiable in a good romance novel.
So, grab your pen and notebook and let’s dive into the world of heartbeats, hesitant glances, and the thrilling unknowns of romantic tension!
Have you ever wondered how to create characters that feel like real people with rich histories?In my new course, "Emotional Echoes: The Art of Character Backstory", you'll discover the power of linking backstory to desires, forging connections that propel your characters through the plot. You'll learn how to expertly unveil their pasts, layering emotions and experiences to create truly three-dimensional individuals.
Find out more here.
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In this episode, we're delving into the heart of what makes unconventional protagonists so captivating: their diversity.
We'll explore how characters from different backgrounds, races, genders, and orientations have redefined heroism and left an indelible mark on literature. From classics to contemporary novels, we'll showcase characters who have shattered the mould and inspired readers around the world.
But it's not just about celebrating; it's about empowering writers too. I'll share practical tips on how to craft diverse and authentic characters in your own stories. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting your literary journey, you won't want to miss this insightful episode.
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🎙️ Welcome to another episode of "Master Fiction Writing," the podcast where we explore the art of storytelling from every angle. I'm your host, Stuart, and in today's episode, we're diving deep into the enchanting world of symbolism in fiction.
📚 Join me as we unravel the mysteries behind symbols – those hidden keys that unlock layers of meaning within stories. As an Author Accelerator Certified book coach, I've helped countless writers shape their narratives into powerful tales that resonate. Today, I'm here to guide you through the magic of symbolism and how it can breathe life into your writing.
🔮 We'll journey through the significance of symbols, transcending their literal definitions to reveal the profound emotions and ideas they represent. From the elusive green light in "The Great Gatsby" to the innocence embodied by the mockingbird in "To Kill a Mockingbird," we'll uncover how masterful authors have harnessed symbols to elevate their narratives.
🌟 But this isn't just an exploration of the classics – it's a practical guide for writers like you. I'll offer actionable advice on choosing symbols thoughtfully, maintaining consistency, balancing subtlety with clarity, and engaging readers' interpretations. By the end of this episode, you'll be armed with the tools to infuse your stories with symbolism that resonates long after the last word is read.
🎭 Symbols are the heartbeat of storytelling, and in this episode, we'll show you how to wield them as instruments of depth and resonance. So, whether you're a seasoned author seeking fresh insights or an aspiring writer taking your first steps, tune in and join the conversation as we uncover the enduring allure of hidden meanings in literature.
🖋️ Ready to unleash the power of symbolism in your stories? Stick around for the practical exercises that will ignite your creative fire and empower you to embark on your own symbolic journey.
Hit that subscribe button to stay up-to-date with "Master Fiction Writing" because every story is waiting to be uncovered!
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Have you ever marveled at an actor's meticulous preparation for a role? The depth, the dedication, the transformation—it’s truly art in motion. Now, what if writers could harness that same dedication in their editing process?
Join us as we unveil the second part of our deep dive into a revolutionary method of editing a novel—one that draws inspiration from the world of theatre. 🎭
Discover the 7-step journey, from "Character Study" to "Polishing the Performance", that borrows from an actor's toolkit but is tailored for writers. Today, we're diving deep into the steps of Blocking, Improvisation, Feedback, and Polishing the Performance. Whether you're an experienced novelist or just getting started, these insights will transform your editing game.
📖 Unravel the art of setting description, the magic of free writing, the value of constructive criticism, and the importance of a final polish.
Ready to reimagine your editing process and craft a manuscript that's truly stage-worthy? Grab your pen, put on your director's hat, and let's dive in! 🎬
Happy listening, and remember, in the theatre of writing, every word sets the stage! 🌟
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