Fiction Writing Made Easy | Top Creative Writing Podcast for Fiction Writers & Writing Tips

Abigail K. Perry, a developmental editor and host of Lit Match, joins the discussion to dissect the captivating first chapter of Diana Gabaldon's 'Outlander.' They explore how Gabaldon sets up relationship tension and critical story peaks. Key topics include the importance of foreshadowing and detailed character development in historical fiction. The conversation also covers the emotional complexities of Claire's love triangle, highlighting how to convey natural relationship dynamics and maintain reader engagement through nuanced character choices.

Struggling with writer's block? Discover that talent isn't the issue—it's an imbalance of three essential pillars! Learn the secret roadmap to escape endless planning loops and avoid wasting time on perfection. Uncover the most overlooked aspect of drafting your novel, crucial for overcoming self-doubt. Plus, understand why even elegant prose won't save your story if key elements are missing. This is the breakthrough every writer has been waiting for!

See how Notes to Novel™ helped these five writers go from a blank page to a story that works (without the overwhelm).With Notes to Novel™ (season 6) right around the corner, I'm bringing you something incredibly special today. I'm chatting with five amazing writers from season 5 about their experience inside the course.And let me tell you, they're in the trenches right now, actively working on their novels. Some have finished their outlines, while others are deep in the drafting phase, and one has already completed her manuscript!This is what we talk about: [02:55] How Katherine finished the “cleanest draft” she’s ever written (at 72k words) in only 3 months—and then went on to edit that same draft in just 8 weeks[09:47] How the Notes to Novel framework helped Kay stay focused on what *really* mattered in her story (and avoid chasing every new shiny object idea that popped into her head)[15:27] What happened when I suggested one of my students, Danyel, eliminate one of her two point-of-view characters during one of our live Q&A calls[21:35] How Harlow used her genre’s key scenes to create an outline (and why this made outlining much more approachable)[27:47] And finally, how Madi wrote her first draft in 6 months (despite being a super busy mom of four)—plus her thoughts on the overall vibe and atmosphere of the group coaching aspectSo, if you’re feeling stuck, flustered, or unsure about your writing process, these 5 Notes to Novel students show you what's possible when you have the right tools and support. Enjoy the episode!🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:Get on the Notes to Novel™ waitlist Katherine Varley’s website and ThreadsKay Aprea’s InstagramDanyel Nicole’s website and InstagramHarlow Black’s InstagramMadison Unruh’s Instagram⭐ 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! Support the show👉 Looking for a transcript? If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, scroll down below the episode player until you see the transcript.

Feeling stuck on your novel? Uncover the sneaky productivity block that's making you feel like a failure. Discover a chunking method to tackle overwhelm and transform your writing sessions. Beware the editing habit that derails your momentum. Learn how to reward yourself guilt-free to make writing a fun endeavor. Plus, tap into an energy-mapping trick to optimize your creative flow and get more done in less time. 2025 could be the year your novel comes to life!

Discover the top writing tips that can transform your storytelling. Learn how to create sizzling character chemistry and unforgettable antagonists. Uncover strategies to break free from writer's block and harness the power of the writing community. Delve into how to master narrative perspective and construct immersive worlds. Explore the dynamics of character relationships and the importance of feedback for growth in your writing journey. These insights will help elevate your craft to new heights!

Feeling anxious about revising your first draft? You're not alone! Discover why embracing the chaos of a 'hot mess' draft is key to the process. Learn how to choose the right feedback partners and manage emotional responses to critiques. A unique 3-step revision process will help shift your perspective, plus tips for focusing on your individual journey instead of comparing yourself to others. With practical strategies, turn revision fear into excitement and make your story a must-read!

Get a behind-the-scenes look at the life of a developmental editor and book coach. Discover the challenges and triumphs of recording an audiobook while maintaining vocal health. Learn about the unique paths two aspiring authors—one in romance, the other in sci-fi—took in their writing journeys. Delve into insights from coaching sessions that help writers gain confidence and turn ideas into outlines. Plus, hear about the interesting results from an annual listener survey shaping future content!

In this engaging discussion, Isobelle Lans, a UK-based author and writing coach, shares her expertise on mastering tone and mood in storytelling. She clarifies the crucial difference between these elements and their impact on genre. Isobelle delves into four practical techniques to create emotional depth, emphasizing the importance of internal dialogue and setting. Listeners discover how precise word choices and intentional sentence structure can enhance their narrative's emotional resonance, keeping readers deeply engaged throughout the story.

Nicole Meier, an author and developmental editor with four published novels, shares her insights on navigating the publishing landscape. She breaks down the pros and cons of traditional, self-publishing, hybrid, and small press routes to help authors make informed choices. The conversation highlights common pitfalls to avoid and discusses how definitions of success can evolve over a writer's career. Meier emphasizes the importance of patience in the writing process and offers tips on building a strong author platform.

Explore unique strategies tailored for neurodivergent writers to harness their natural energy cycles and tackle creative challenges. Discover the importance of personalized writing rhythms and realistic goal-setting. Learn how to navigate demand avoidance and reframe pressure around deadlines for greater freedom. Uncover the benefits of accountability partners who celebrate progress in their own terms. Plus, practical time management techniques like the Pomodoro method to make the writing process less daunting.