Welcome to the Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple Podcast! The show that’s all about how to brainstorm, write, edit, publish, and sell a powerful speculative fiction novel… and maybe just change the world too. I'm your host, Heather Davis. I’m a seasoned book coach, developmental editor, and fellow storyteller. In my work with writers, I always see the same problems and roadblocks standing in their way and preventing them from achieving their dream of becoming a published author. So it’s my mission to be 100% real about what it takes to craft a cohesive and unforgettable speculative fiction novel. I’ll share the same tips, tricks, and techniques that I use with my own clients in order to help you write the best novel you’re capable of writing. In my under-30-minute episodes, I’ll get right to the heart of the problem without wasting your valuable time. I’ll give concrete, actionable ways to address that problem that won’t leave you feeling overwhelmed or ready to give up. (That means that most of my episodes come with handy workbooks that you can grab for free right in my show notes!) But let’s be clear on one thing. Writing a good speculative fiction novel—you know, one that other people actually want to read it—is probably that hardest personal project you’ll ever willingly undertake. So this podcast doesn't downplay that hard work and promise that you’ll write a bestseller in 30 days or 6 months. (I personally don’t believe that good novels are written that way.) Instead, this podcast embraces the hard, messy, and frustrating work that goes in to writing a great novel. My goal is to help you write a novel that you're proud of—one that holds together, one that makes people think, and one that makes readers want to read your work and buy your books again and again. From character arc to plot structure, from deep level worldbuilding to developing a kick-ass magic system, from honing your authorly voice to identifying your genre, from building an email list to hiring an editor, we’re gonna to cover it all. So if that sounds like something that would be helpful to you in your writing journey, please take a second to follow or subscribe to the show. It would mean the world to me and it’s a really easy way to show your support and to make sure there are many more episodes to come! Until next time, keep writing, keep dreaming, and remember: the world needs your stories right now, so don't you dare give up on your novel or yourself! See ya soon!
Hey, Storyteller! Send me a text message! I'd really love to hear what you think of the podcast! :-)Click HERE to find Comp Titles Crash Course!$97 for limited time!Comp titles--they might be one of the most dreaded topics in the writing world. After all, most of us are writing novels that feel unique, so trying to find a novel “like” ours is a nearly impossible feat. In fact… It's a frustrating, overwhelming task that makes us feel more than a little salty. But, the truth is, comp titles are a necessary evil. And if you give yourself the time, space, and tools to do the work properly, they can actually be fun to find.In today's episode you'll learn: The 6 key steps to finding perfect-fit comp titles for your novelWhen to start looking for comp titlesWhy you’re making finding comp titles hard than it needs to beWhere to look for comp titles What books to avoid when looking for comp titlesAnd so much more
8/22/24 • 14:10
Hey, Storyteller! Send me a text message! I'd really love to hear what you think of the podcast! :-)The opening scene of your novel is arguably the most crucial part of your book. If it doesn’t capture readers' curiosity and imagination, they won’t keep reading. No wonder the opening scene is notoriously hard to write!But don’t worry—I’m here to help simplify and clarify the progress!In this episode, you’ll discover:5 Essential Questions you MUST answer when writing your opening sceneWhether backstory and context are essential or just a recipe for info dumpingWhy character flaws and problems are key to an engaging opening sceneAnd so much more...Sign up for my FREE Mini Course: ✨4 Secrets To Crafting a Powerful Character Arc for Your Protagonist✨👉resources.manyworldswriting.com/5XyYsI
8/8/24 • 09:58
Hey, Storyteller! Send me a text message! I'd really love to hear what you think of the podcast! :-)Writer's block is one of the most challenging hurdles an author can encounter. It has the power to derail brilliant stories and thwart dreams of becoming a published author. But fear not—there are effective strategies to combat this creativity killer and keep your writing journey on course.In this episode, we'll delve into practical, actionable steps to limit and conquer writer’s block. Whether you're struggling to get started, stuck in the middle of a project, or facing a blank page, I've got you covered. In this episode you’ll learn:The 9 powerful tricks that can help you overcome writer’s block and maintain your creative flowThe most foundational layer of your novel that might be missing, and how addressing it can reignite your inspirationThe common issues that cause writer’s block and how to tackle them head-onAnd so much more…Finding the Point of your novel: Click HERE for Episode 1Click HERE for the FREE Episode 1 workbook
8/1/24 • 16:30
Hey, Storyteller! Send me a text message! I'd really love to hear what you think of the podcast! :-) Most writers understand that creating a character with no flaws is a huge turnoff to readers because it’s hard to feel connected to someone who is perfect and does everything right. But how do you give your protagonist flaws that feel real and authentic instead of superficially layered on? Worry no more! In this episode, we'll dive deep into exactly how to uncover and develop your protagonist's flaws so readers will be hooked.In this episode you’ll learn:The 4 steps to writing a flawed protagonistThe 3 foundational elements that must be in place before you uncover your protagonist's flawsHow character arc is pivotal to authentic flawsAnd so much more…Click HERE for Episode 1 Click HERE for the FREE Episode 1 workbook
7/25/24 • 16:43
Hey, Storyteller! Send me a text message! I'd really love to hear what you think of the podcast! :-)The biggest obstacles writers face are overcoming procrastination and avoiding the dreaded writer’s block. In fact, these obstacles are what stand between them and finishing their novel. But what many writers don’t realize is that the key to conquering these obstacles is developing a consistent writing habit that will keep their creative juices flowing.So, how can a writer actually create a writing habit that will help them through the highs and lows of writing and revise a novel that captivates readers?Well, get ready to learn exactly the steps to take to make a productive writing habit a reality this year! In this episode you’ll learn:The 6 steps that you need to take to establish your own writing habitWhy writing every day is key to long term successThe number 1 key to sticking to your writing routineAnd so much more…🌟 Powerful Writers, Magical Novels Group Mentorship Program 🌟Are you ready to finally write your novel in a growth-oriented mentorship program? Join a group where a certified book coach (that's me) will help you craft your novel from character arcs and plot development to building your author platform. You'll receive extensive 1:1 feedback in a supportive community.Sign up for a free mentorship chat now and discover if this program is the right fit for you! Book your mentorship chat hereWho should sign up for a free chat?Any writer who:👉 Wants to write a powerful novel👉 Believes in diversity and inclusion👉 Wants support, encouragement, and accountability👉 Knows that writing a great novel takes time and skill👉 Wants to stop cobbling information together from all over the internet and instead get everything they need in one place👉 Is looking for the right mentor to guide their journey👉 Is ready to get serious about writing their novel now
7/18/24 • 10:06
Hey, Storyteller! Send me a text message! I'd really love to hear what you think of the podcast! :-)Writing a speculative fiction novel that resonates with readers is tough work. Many writers feel they're doing something wrong when it takes time to create a draft that feels solid and ready to stand on its own two shaky legs.In fact, one of the very first questions most writers ask me before we start working together is some version of: "How long will it take for me to finish my novel?"If you're one of those writers, great! I'm going to answer all of your questions by walking you through the process as it typically unfolds with the writers I work with! In this episode you’ll learn:The general timeline for writing a debut novel--especially if you’re looking to write an emotionally powerful one. How many drafts it typically takes to write a solid manuscript.What happens at each phase of the drafting.And so much more…🌟 Powerful Writers, Magical Novels Group Mentorship Program 🌟Are you ready to finally write your novel in a growth-oriented mentorship program? Join a group where a certified book coach (that's me) will help you craft your novel from character arcs and plot development to building your author platform. You'll receive extensive 1:1 feedback in a supportive community.Sign up for a free mentorship chat now and discover if this program is the right fit for you!Book your mentorship chat here: https://heatherdavisbookcoachingservices.as.me/Mentorship Who should sign up for a free chat?Any writer who:👉 Wants to write a powerful novel👉 Believes in diversity and inclusion👉 Wants support, encouragement, and accountability👉 Knows that writing a great novel takes time and skill👉 Wants to stop cobbling information together from all over the internet and instead get everything they need in one place👉 Is looking for the right mentor to guide their journey👉 Is ready to get serious about writing their novel now
7/10/24 • 14:25
Hey, Storyteller! Send me a text message! I'd really love to hear what you think of the podcast! :-)Many writers want to include more LGBTQ+ characters in their novels, but they’re afraid of getting it wrong and doing more harm than good. If you’re one of those writers, this podcast episode is for you! My friend and colleague, Sam Cameron, explains exactly how every writer can feel empowered to write more inclusive stories.🌟Take Sam Cameron’s quiz and find out if your manuscript is LGBTQ+ inclusive🌟 https://truantpen.com/lgbtq In this episode you’ll learn:The 4 steps you should take to ensure your LGBTQ+ characters are represented in a way that supports and uplifts the communityWhether the advice "write what you know" is really the best policyThe 3 most harmful tropes to avoidNovels that you can "study" to see LGBTQ+ characters represented wellAnd so much more…🌟 Powerful Writers, Magical Novels Group Mentorship Program 🌟Are you ready to finally write your novel in a growth oriented mentorship program where a certified book coach (that's me) will help you craft your novel from the character arc and plot all the way through building your author platform? A group where you'll get lots of 1:1 feedback? Sign up for a mentorship chat now and let's find out if the program is right for you!https://heatherdavisbookcoachingservices.as.me/MentorshipWho should sign up for a free chat?Any writer who:👉 Wants to write a powerful novel👉 Believes in diversity and inclusion👉 Wants support, encouragement, and accountability👉 Knows that writing a great novel takes time and skill👉 Wants to stop cobbling information together from all over the internet and instead get everything they need in one place👉 Wants to find the right mentor to guide their journey👉 Wants to get down to business writing their novel now
6/20/24 • 53:34
Hey, Storyteller! Send me a text message! I'd really love to hear what you think of the podcast! :-)→Sign up for my free workshop Create a Dynamic Character Arc For Your Protagonist. This workshop, which includes live coaching, will help you develop the foundation elements of your novel and bridge the gap between plot and character arc! https://resources.manyworldswriting.com/workshop You might have heard of Goal, Motivation, Stakes, and Conflict, but do you know how to use them to create narrative drive in your novel?In this episode you’ll learn:The Goal, Motivation, Stakes, and Conflict Chain, and how to use it to create narrative driveWhy your protagonist must have a clear, concrete, and tangible goal from page oneHigh versus low stakes novels and how to make either interesting to readersThe 5 questions to ask yourself to create narrative driveWhy you need a ticking clockAnd so much more…
6/13/24 • 22:28
Hey, Storyteller! Send me a text message! I'd really love to hear what you think of the podcast! :-)Snag my FREE workbook: resources.manyworldswriting.com/AIEveryone in the writing world is talking about AI, but should you really buy into the buzz?In this episode I’m going to explore what it’s okay to use AI for in your writing and what I believe you should never use AI for. In this episode you’ll learn:3 tasks it’s okay to use AI for.3 tasks you should NEVER outsource to AI2 main benefits of using AI in your writing5 dangers of letting AI have too big a hand in your work And so much more…Don’t forget to give my Author Accelerator book coaching friends a quick hello! These ladies are brilliant! Ivy Dally https://www.bookboundcoaching.com/ Katie Wall https://www.craftbetterbooks.com/
5/9/24 • 24:24
Hey, Storyteller! Send me a text message! I'd really love to hear what you think of the podcast! :-)Snag my FREE workbook: resources.manyworldswriting.com/edit Almost every writer wants to get better at self-editing their work. But how? And which techniques improve your work the most dramatically?In this episode I’m going to talk about the self-editing hacks that will help you rapidly improve your work as you write and edit. In this episode you’ll learn:The 8 self-editing hacks that can rapidly improve your prose.How to use paragraphing for style, emphasis, and pacing. Tips on developing your writing Voice. And so much more…
5/2/24 • 25:16
Hey, Storyteller! Send me a text message! I'd really love to hear what you think of the podcast! :-)Snag my FREE workbook: https://resources.manyworldswriting.com/truth Ever wondered why your favorite novels feel so authentic and cohesive? It’s not about all the surface level editing you’ve been driving yourself crazy with. Instead, it’s about the deeper stuff. The bones of the narrative. In this episode I’m going to talk about the subtle parts of writing a great novel so that you’re focusing your energy in the right places as you write and revise. In this episode you’ll learn:The truth about what a story really is and what it’s not.How transformation is at the very core of impactful narratives.The basics of character arc developmentAnd so much more…
4/25/24 • 23:08
Hey, Storyteller! Send me a text message! I'd really love to hear what you think of the podcast! :-)Snag my FREE workbook: resources.manyworldswriting.com/magic Ever wondered how to create an interesting and compelling magic system that readers will love? In this episode I’m breaking down exactly how to create a magic system that works. In this episode you’ll learn:The crucial importance of weaving an engaging magic system into your fantasy world.Differentiating between soft and hard magic systems, and knowing which to employ for maximum impact.A comprehensive 7-step guide to fashioning a magic system that is both intricate and internally consistent.Witness the creation of a magic system through a detailed example, illuminating every facet of the creative process.
3/28/24 • 22:45
Hey, Storyteller! Send me a text message! I'd really love to hear what you think of the podcast! :-)Snag my FREE interiority workbook: https://resources.manyworldswriting.com/interiority Have you ever wondered how to ensure your readers are so engrossed in your protagonist that they can put your novel down?In this episode I'm peeling back the layers of protagonist interiority and revealing how to create your protagonist's inner world and make your novel unputdownable.In this episode you’ll learn:What interiority isThe 9 ways interiority manifests in novelsWhy you need to add interiority to your novelHow to get interiority onto the page in your scenesHow to balance your narrative with the right amount of interiority And so much more!
3/21/24 • 24:10
Hey, Storyteller! Send me a text message! I'd really love to hear what you think of the podcast! :-)What makes a protagonist memorable and unique? What makes readers fall in love with them enough to follow them around for 300-500 pages? Knowing the answers to those questions is the difference between creating a flat, dull protagonist and having a magnetic protagonist that readers can’t get enough of! In this episode you’ll learn:Why every novel is actually character drivenHow character arc must be thoroughly considered when getting to know your protagonistThe 7 questions you must ask yourself about your protagonist to make them magnetic to readersAnd so much more! Snag my FREE protagonist workbook: https://manyworldswriting.com/protagonist Join the Many Worlds Writing Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1012106499677937/?mibextid=oMANbw
3/7/24 • 17:18
Hey, Storyteller! Send me a text message! I'd really love to hear what you think of the podcast! :-)If you're a writer, you've likely encountered the timeless advice: "Show Don't Tell." While intended to enhance scene creation by encouraging vivid depiction over mere narration, this guidance has been misunderstood, leading to detrimental effects on otherwise strong novels. If you've questioned the validity of this advice, stay tuned as I debunk misconceptions and provide practical strategies to reignite the potency and depth of your scenes. In this episode you’ll learn:Showing vs. telling on the pageWhy balancing both creates stronger, more meaningful storytellingMastering the art of crafting scenes that skillfully blend showing and telling. If you’re ready to learn more about the art of showing and telling, snag my FREE workbook: https://www.manyworldswriting.com/showandtell Join the Many Worlds Writing Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1012106499677937/?mibextid=oMANbw
2/29/24 • 08:17
Hey, Storyteller! Send me a text message! I'd really love to hear what you think of the podcast! :-)The most important skill you can have as a writer is the ability to write a compelling scene, but it’s a skill that few writers have actually mastered. So in this episode we are going to do a deep dive into scene structure and learn:1) How to know if an event in your novel actually needs to be a scene2) the structure of a great scene3) the 6 elements you should add to every scene to make them vibrant and irresistible to readers4) how to expand a summary into a full scene. If you’re ready to learn all about how kick*ss scenes are actually written, snag my FREE workbook: https://www.manyworldswriting.com/scene Are you ready for an affordable mentorship program that will help you write a powerful speculative fiction novel? Fill out an application to my Powerful Writers, Powerful Novels Mentorship Program: manyworldswriting.com/mentorship Join the Many Worlds Writing Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1012106499677937/?mibextid=oMANbw
2/22/24 • 42:23
Hey, Storyteller! Send me a text message! I'd really love to hear what you think of the podcast! :-)The most important skill you can have as a writer is the ability to write a great scene... but, unfortunately, it’s a skill that few writers have actually mastered.You need to understand: 1) What a scene is. 2) Whether a given event in your novel needs to be a scene. 3) The structure of a great scene. If you’re ready to learn all about how kick*ss scenes are actually written, snag my FREE workbook: https://www.manyworldswriting.com/scene Are you ready for an affordable mentorship program that will help you write a powerful speculative fiction novel? Fill out an application to my Powerful Writers, Powerful Novels Mentorship Program: https://manyworldswriting.com/mentorship Join the Many Worlds Writing Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1012106499677937/?mibextid=oMANbw
2/8/24 • 36:02
Hey, Storyteller! Send me a text message! I'd really love to hear what you think of the podcast! :-)Backstory is an essential part of every novel. Without it, your protagonist doesn’t have a meaningful character arc and your story lacks depth. But writers are (understandably) scared to put backstory in their novel because they’re afraid of info dumping. Well, there is a way to strike a perfect balance. You CAN include valuable backstory AND avoid info dumping. Grab my FREE checklist right here and learn the 5 principles of highly effective backstory: https://www.manyworldswriting.com/backstory Are you ready for an affordable mentorship program that will help you write a powerful speculative fiction novel? Fill out an application to my Powerful Writers, Powerful Novels Mentorship Program: manyworldswriting.com/mentorship Join the Many Worlds Writing Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1012106499677937/?mibextid=oMANbw
1/25/24 • 18:54
Hey, Storyteller! Send me a text message! I'd really love to hear what you think of the podcast! :-)Criticism is one of the hardest things for writers to process and it sometimes leads to writers giving up on the craft or refusing to share their work with the world. If you’re ready explore the 7 key understandings that will help you reframe criticism for a healthier relationship with it, access the FREE workbook right here: https://www.manyworldswriting.com/handlingcriticism Are you ready for an affordable mentorship program that will help you write a powerful speculative fiction novel? Fill out an application to my Powerful Writers, Powerful Novels Mentorship Program:https://www.manyworldswriting.com/mentorship Join the Many Worlds Writing Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1012106499677937/?mibextid=oMANbw
1/18/24 • 23:55
Hey, Storyteller! Send me a text message! I'd really love to hear what you think of the podcast! :-)Nothing grabs readers’ attention like dialogue. That’s why it’s absolutely imperative to make sure that the dialogue in your novel is serving the story and making readers hungry for more. Ready to learn more about dialogue? Don’t forget to access the FREE dialogue checklist right here: https://www.manyworldswriting.com/dialoguechecklist If you’re ready to REALLY understand all the ins and outs of great dialogue, grab my Dynamic Dialogue COURSE right here: https://www.manyworldswriting.com/dialogue Are you ready for an affordable mentorship program that will help you write a powerful speculative fiction novel? Fill out an application to my Powerful Writers, Powerful Novels Mentorship Program: https://www.manyworldswriting.com/mentorship Join the Many Worlds Writing Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1012106499677937/?mibextid=oMANbw
1/10/24 • 22:28
Hey, Storyteller! Send me a text message! I'd really love to hear what you think of the podcast! :-)Spoiler alert—there’s a whole lot more to POV than just first person, second person, and third person. There are actually 4 layers that you need to master if you want readers and agents to love your novel! So if you’re ready to master POV in 2024, dive into the episode and don’t forget to access the FREE workbook right here: https://www.manyworldswriting.com/POV Wait... are you ready to really take your writing to the next level in 2024? Are you ready for an affordable mentorship program that will help you write a powerful speculative fiction novel? If so, fill out an application to my Powerful Writers, Powerful Novels Mentorship Program and get on the waitlist:manyworldswriting.com/mentorship Join the Many Worlds Writing Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1012106499677937/?mibextid=oMANbw
1/3/24 • 17:57
Hey, Storyteller! Send me a text message! I'd really love to hear what you think of the podcast! :-) 📘Access the FREE workbook right here: https://www.manyworldswriting.com/better📘 ✨Fill out an application to my Powerful Writers, Powerful Novels Mentorship Program:manyworldswriting.com/mentorship ✨ Join the Many Worlds Writing Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1012106499677937/?mibextid=oMANbw Do you want to hone your writing skills so you can finally tell the powerful story that’s been living in your mind for so long? Well, my friend, as we bust into 2024, I’ve decided to share my 7 best methods for doing just that! Let's make this year the one where you write your novel. I know you can do it!
12/27/23 • 18:49
Hey, Storyteller! Send me a text message! I'd really love to hear what you think of the podcast! :-)Are you overwhelmed and frustrated by the complexity of worldbuilding for your fantasy and science fiction novel? Are things getting too complicated, too bloated, and too scattered? Are you worried that all those complex worldbuilding documents you found on Google aren’t really serving the core of the story you want to tell? Well, guess what? I’ve simplified the entire process! In this episode, you’ll learn the 7 secret principles of worldbuilding! Access the FREE workbook right here: https://www.manyworldswriting.com/world Join the Many Worlds Writing Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1012106499677937/?mibextid=oMANbw
12/20/23 • 19:42
Hey, Storyteller! Send me a text message! I'd really love to hear what you think of the podcast! :-)Access the FREE workbook right here: https://www.manyworldswriting.com/likable Are you worried that your protagonist might not be likable? Often as writers, we love our protagonists deeply, but readers might not be able to connect with them, which could sabotage your entire novel! In this episode, learn the 4 keys to making any protagonist likable so readers will want to keep on reading! Join the Many Worlds Writing Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1012106499677937/?mibextid=oMANbw
12/10/23 • 14:15
Hey, Storyteller! Send me a text message! I'd really love to hear what you think of the podcast! :-)Access the FREE workbook right here: https://www.manyworldswriting.com/storytelling Ever found yourself wondering if your novel might be missing a key ingredient, one that could keep readers and agents from fully connecting with your story?It's a common concern among writers – that sense that something's absent, leaving us scratching our heads in frustration. But fear not! This episode is here to shed light on that elusive, often unnoticed element in your novel. Join us as we uncover what many writers overlook, helping you bridge the gap and enhance your storytelling. Join the Many Worlds Writing Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1012106499677937/?mibextid=oMANbw
12/10/23 • 14:07
Hey, Storyteller! Send me a text message! I'd really love to hear what you think of the podcast! :-)Access the FREE workbook right here: https://www.manyworldswriting.com/point Are you worried that something important is missing from your novel?Something that might lock readers and agents out of the narrative and prevent them from falling in love with your work? Often, we writers recognize that something is missing, but we have no idea what. It’s frustrating, and we wish we could just magically know what that missing thing is. Well, you’re in luck! In this episode, you’ll learn about the crucial aspect of your novel that most writers don’t even know they’re missing! Join the Many Worlds Writing Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1012106499677937/?mibextid=oMANbw
12/10/23 • 15:53
Hey, Storyteller! Send me a text message! I'd really love to hear what you think of the podcast! :-) Welcome to the Many Worlds Writing Podcast! The show that’s all about how to brainstorm, write, edit, publish, and sell a powerful speculative fiction novel… and maybe just change the world too.
11/25/23 • 02:35
