

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

8 snips
Jul 14, 2020 • 18min
#17: The 6 Scenes Every Horror Novel Needs
Exploring the key scenes every horror novel needs, from life and death stakes to facing monsters. Discover how obligatory scenes drive the protagonist's journey and evoke emotions. Learn about crucial moments like the monster's attack and the protagonist's reflection for a thrilling narrative.

Jul 7, 2020 • 20min
#16: Conventions vs. Tropes: What's the Difference?
Exploring the difference between genre conventions and tropes in storytelling. Understand why genre conventions are crucial for reader satisfaction while tropes offer creative flexibility. Avoid common mistakes of ignoring conventions and including tropes without purpose. Find the balance between meeting expectations and adding a unique twist to your story.

36 snips
Jun 23, 2020 • 17min
#15: How to Figure Out the Shape of Your Story
Learn how different genres pose specific story questions, with examples from action, romance, and mystery genres. Explore the significance of global inciting incidents and climaxes in shaping the narrative. Discover how to craft a structural roadmap for your story by defining the central story question and genre.

15 snips
Jun 16, 2020 • 16min
#14: How to Handle Character Backstory in Your Novel
Learn how to handle character backstory in your novel effectively by only including relevant information triggered by the present moment, avoiding info-dumping, and showing how the backstory impacts the character. Discover the importance of weaving character histories in a way that engages readers without overwhelming them, using practical tips and a Harry Potter example to illustrate impact.

15 snips
Jun 9, 2020 • 14min
#13: 5 Things That Kill Narrative Drive (and How to Fix it)
An exploration of 5 narrative drive killers in storytelling, such as excessive backstory, lack of cause and effect, false mystery, cheap surprises, and coincidences. Tips on how to fix mistakes, including asking 10 key questions to enhance narrative flow. Practical worksheets provided for writers to improve their storytelling skills.

31 snips
Jun 2, 2020 • 13min
#12: 3 Ways to Create Narrative Drive in Your Story
Discover the three methods for creating narrative drive in your story - mystery, dramatic irony, and suspense. Learn how these methods evoke curiosity and concern in readers by controlling information and keeping them engaged. Understand the impact of narrative drive on reader engagement and curiosity. Explore how suspense, in particular, gives readers the same information as the characters, evoking both curiosity and concern.

4 snips
May 19, 2020 • 16min
#11: 10 Tips for Writing Better Love Triangles
The podcast discusses 10 tips for writing better love triangles in fiction. It explores examples from popular books, emphasizes the importance of developing all three characters and making both suitors believable choices. It advises against dragging out the protagonist's decision and encourages insight into the protagonist's choice. The podcast also highlights the need to establish stakes, avoid neglecting the rest of the story, and have a solid reason for including a love triangle. It concludes by mentioning the importance of exploring internal and external conflict in the love triangle.

29 snips
May 12, 2020 • 18min
#10: How to Create Memorable Characters Using Hooks
Learn how to create unique and memorable characters using 'hooks'. Topics include using accents, physical features, body language, strengths and weaknesses, roles, connections, emotional states, and concealing clues.

24 snips
May 5, 2020 • 16min
#9: Value Shifts: The Quickest Way to Determine if a Scene Works
Learn how value shifts can help you create impactful scenes and a better story outline. Discover the main value at stake in different genres and how to turn low impact scenes into meaningful ones. Explore the importance of internal and external changes in scenes and how value shifts can help weed out unproductive scenes. Dive into next level value shifts to create a compelling story that keeps readers engaged.

Apr 21, 2020 • 19min
#8: 7 Secrets to Success That Every Writer Should Know
Learn the 7 secrets to success for writers including courage, confidence, clarity, consistency, continuing education, and community. Setting clear goals and finding motivation are vital for successful writing. Connect with like-minded writers and commit to achieving your goals to enhance your writing skills and create a more fulfilling writing life.


