

Fiction Writing Made Easy | Top Creative Writing Podcast for Fiction Writers & Writing Tips
Savannah Gilbo
Fiction Writing Made Easy is your go-to podcast for practical, no-fluff tips on how to write, edit, and publish a novel—from first draft to finished book. Hosted by developmental editor and book coach Savannah Gilbo, this show breaks down the fiction writing process into clear, actionable steps so you can finally make progress on your manuscript.Whether you're a first-time author or a seasoned writer looking to sharpen your skills, each episode offers insights on novel writing, story structure, character development, world-building, editing, and publishing. Savannah also shares mindset tips, writing routines, and revision strategies to help you stay motivated and finish your novel with confidence.If you're asking these questions, you're in the right place:How do I write a novel without experience?What’s the best way to structure a story that works?How do I develop strong characters and build immersive worlds?How do I edit or revise my first draft?When is my book ready to publish?What are my self-publishing and traditional publishing options?New episodes drop weekly to help you write a novel you're proud of—and get it into readers’ hands.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 19, 2021 • 13min
#36: What is a Book Coach?
Learn about the benefits of working with a book coach and how they can guide you through the writing process. Discover tips for choosing the right coach based on your needs and preferences. Find out how to assess a coach's experience, website, and personality to ensure they are the right fit for your project.

9 snips
Jan 12, 2021 • 15min
#35: 3 Reasons Why You're Not Writing
This podcast discusses 3 reasons why writers struggle with writing: too much busywork, giving themselves too much time, and avoiding failure. It emphasizes the importance of managing mindset, setting deadlines, embracing imperfection, and overcoming fear to make progress in writing.

Jan 5, 2021 • 22min
#34: How to Plan Your Writing Projects for the New Year
Learn how to strategically plan your writing projects for the new year with practical tips on setting achievable goals, reflecting on past experiences, and breaking down big projects into actionable steps. Discover the importance of scheduling, prioritizing non-negotiables, and balancing excitement with overwhelm in your writing journey.

Dec 15, 2020 • 18min
#33: 5 Takeaways From Coaching Writers in 2020
Learn how to write a novel in 90 days by outlining and pressure testing your story. Focus on character arcs, scene structure, and the magic of the second draft. Embrace imperfections, finish your first draft, and unlock new ideas for your story.

Dec 1, 2020 • 17min
#32: How to Start Editing Your NaNowriMo Draft
Learn how to effectively edit your messy first draft from NaNoWriMo with tips on taking breaks, reading your draft with an editor's perspective, creating a revision plan, and getting feedback from beta readers or editors. Explore the essential steps and strategies for refining your manuscript and crafting engaging stories through character development, plot structure, and thematic resonance.

19 snips
Nov 24, 2020 • 13min
#31: The 6 Scenes Every Thriller Novel Needs
Discover the essential key scenes every thriller novel needs, from the moment a crime is discovered to the protagonist's confrontation with the antagonist. Learn how to engage readers emotionally and craft a story that delivers the thrill they crave.

Nov 17, 2020 • 13min
#30: 4 Reasons Why You Need a Target Word Count
Explore the reasons why having a target word count is crucial for your writing journey. From realistic writing schedules to effective outlining and editing, setting a target word count can greatly benefit your novel. Learn why it's essential for successful manuscript submissions and publishing your work.

Nov 3, 2020 • 19min
#29: Horror Genre Conventions
Exploring the unique elements of horror novels and genre conventions. Discussing character roles, settings, and events specific to horror. Emphasizing the importance of creating suspense and engaging readers through monstrous antagonists, claustrophobic settings, and sin-driven narratives. Exploring key elements like shapeshifter characters, suspenseful storytelling techniques, and deceptive endings for captivating audiences.

17 snips
Oct 27, 2020 • 15min
#28: Red Herrings: How to Mislead and Surprise Readers
Learn how to mislead and surprise readers using red herrings in fiction writing. Explore examples from Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. Tips include incorporating red herrings organically, giving innocent characters motives, means, and opportunity, and diverting attention from true clues. Discover strategies for engaging readers with subtle surprises in storytelling.

Oct 21, 2020 • 15min
#27: The 6 Scenes Every Performance Story Needs
Learn about the key scenes that every performance story needs, including challenges faced by the protagonist, failed initial plans, commitment to a big event, and overcoming defeat. Discover how these scenes create emotional experiences and drive the narrative forward, using 'The Karate Kid' as a reference for illustration and inspiration.


