Fiction Writing Made Easy

“It's the inciting incident, the turning point, the crisis moment, the climax, and the resolution, and each scene really needs to have that to move the story forward.” - Fern Bernstein In today's episode, I’m sitting down for a conversation with Fern Bernstein to talk about her debut novel, Staunch: The Edie's of Grey Gardens. Here’s a preview of what’s included: [01:44] Savannah reads the back cover of Staunch: The Edie's of Grey Gardens to get context for today’s discussion. [12:14] The history and unanswered questions around the Edie’s, how they inspired Fern’s book, and the character work and story structure Fern worked through with Savannah about these wonderful women of Grey Gardens, East Hampton, New York. [21:11] Going through the outline, having consecutive drafts, and the balancing act of taking the reader through a particular emotional journey through two different timelines. [32:37] How beta readers impacted Fern’s opinion of her writing and being open to feedback and constructive criticism as a writer. Links mentioned in this episode: Fern Bernstein's WebsiteFern Bernstein's Amazon PageFern Bernstein on InstagramFern Bernstein on FacebookGrey Gardens Podcast With Fern BernsteinMah Jongg Mondays PodcastFern Bernstein on XGrey Gardens (movie)The Spun YarnSupport the showIf you enjoyed this episode of the Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast, please rate, review, and follow this show! Follow me on Instagram @savannah.gilbo

“Every story has one main question that it raises in the beginning and answers by the end.” - Savannah Gilbo In this latest podcast episode, we'll explore a fundamental element of storytelling: the Major Dramatic Question (MDQ). From the outset of your story, readers should be gripped by this central question. Here’s a preview of what’s included: [01:31] Savannah talks about why the major dramatic question (MDQ) of a story is a helpful question for writers and how you can find the MDQ of your story. [04:27] What's going to help you write a story that's full of narrative drive (the thing that keeps readers turning the pages)? [08:12] Once you know your story's Major Dramatic Question (MDQ), what do you do with it? [09:44] How your story’s MDQ can help during the publishing process and can pique a potential reader's interest. Links mentioned in this episode: Episode #2: How to Choose the Best Genre for Your StoryThe Fourth Wing by Rebecca YarrosNotes to Novel CourseUgly Love by Colleen HooverYellow Face by R. F. Kuang Support the showIf you enjoyed this episode of the Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast, please rate, review, and follow this show! Follow me on Instagram @savannah.gilbo

“As I kid I was like, I would love to get paid to read.” - Julie Taylor In today’s episode, I’m sitting down to chat with Julie Taylor, Chief Operating Officer at The Spun Yarn - a company that offers paid beta reading and sensitivity reading services to authors. Here’s a preview of what’s included: [06:15] How does The Spun Yarn create a perfect matching system between its authors and its beta readers? [15:37] When would an author need this type of service? How is it different than working with an editor? [31:14] The beta-readers-questioning-method and thinking process. [47:28] Making changes throughout the years thanks to feedback given by both authors and beta readers. Links mentioned in this episode: The Spun Yarn websiteThe Spun Yarn on FacebookThe Spun Yarn on LinkedInThe Spun Yarn on X Support the showIf you enjoyed this episode of the Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast, please rate, review, and follow this show! Follow me on Instagram @savannah.gilbo

“In every story, you want to have that internal change because, without internal change, there is no character change.” - Savannah Gilbo In today’s episode, both Abigail K. Perry and I talk about the intriguing world of "Anxious People" by Frederick Backman. Buckle up, because this first chapter exploration is different from any other you've encountered before. Here’s a preview of what’s included: [05:08] Chapter summary: an unnamed narrator describes a plot involving idiots, bad decisions, and a hostage drama. The narrator outlines key events and this summary stands out because it reveals what appears to be the story's conclusion, offering a unique approach. [16:14] Macro analysis: the challenge of categorizing this book within a specific content genre due to its unique blend of elements and how labeling it solely as a crime story might not align with the reader's expectations. [41:30] Micro analysis: highlighting the importance of identifying character motivations and understanding the events that propel the story forward, even in the absence of a traditional scene. [47:37] Final thoughts: the concept of turning points within the narrative structure and dissecting the crucial moments that force characters into dilemmas. Links mentioned in this episode: "Anxious People" by Frederick Backman“Anxious People” on NetflixEpisode #113” First Chapter Analysis: The Magicians by Lev GrossmanHamilton The MusicalHarry Potter Book SeriesLit Match: Hosted by Abigail K. Perry Support the showIf you enjoyed this episode of the Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast, please rate, review, and follow this show! Follow me on Instagram @savannah.gilbo

“I tried to ignore it, but when inspiration strikes, sometimes the inspiration keeps striking, and it just didn't want to go.” - Anne Mortensen In today’s episode, I’m sitting down with Anne Mortensen to talk through what it was like to write, edit, and publish not one, but two of her books. You'll also get an exclusive look at her experience working alongside a developmental editor and book coach (that's me!) to bring her stories to life. Here’s a preview of what’s included: [02:05] Anne introduces herself, talks about her background, and lets us know what kind of books she writes. [04:44] A quick highlight reel of Anne’s books and writing journey. [08:34] Where the inspiration for her novel, The Arcadian Match came from. [11:03] Working on getting to the essence of the book's characters. [14:40] How much of the external plot changed from the first draft to after Anne met her character? [18:21] While pressure testing the outline, does Anne remember having any moments where something clicked? [22:09] What was it like for Anne to go back to her first book after working on her second book and hitting a roadblock? [27:30] Is the coaching experience the best? If so, why? [29:54] What was Anne’s relationship with feedback before coaching? [32:20] What would Anne say to other writers who are afraid of the feedback of others? [35:46] How long did it take to get a first draft done for “Arcadian Match”? [37:21] Is Anne working on her third book now? [40:24] How to deal with challenges and never give up? [41:38] What are the things Anne sees that make the writers she works with successful and other writers not? [43:21] Parting words of wisdom from Anne. If you enjoyed this episode of the Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast, please rate, review, and follow this show! Links mentioned in this episode: savannahgilbo.comAnne Mortensen's websiteThe Arcadian MatchThe Truth EffectSupport the showIf you enjoyed this episode of the Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast, please rate, review, and follow this show! Follow me on Instagram @savannah.gilbo

“Dialogue is a form of action. We can utilize what's happening around the dialogue to assist what's being said.” - Savannah Gilbo Today, I'm thrilled to talk about the intricate art of dialogue with you once more. We're going to explore three common pitfalls that often lurk in dialogue and learning how to navigate these challenges can truly elevate your storytelling. Here’s a preview of what’s included: [02:34] Savannah explains the meaning of attributions and what to do when you doubt if something being said is clear to the reader. [06:55] Reading a snippet from “Mockingjay” by Suzanne Collins and why it is a great example of keeping attributions simple. [11:27] Why asking rhetorical questions undermines the emotional potential of your scenes. [14:15] The value of not including too much backstory or too much information in your dialogue. Links mentioned in this episode: Episode #104: 10 Tips For Writing Better DialogueThe Hunger Games Series (Book 3): Mockingjay by Suzanne CollinsThe Unmaking of June Farrow by Adrienne YoungDivine Rivals by Rebecca Ross Support the showIf you enjoyed this episode of the Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast, please rate, review, and follow this show! Follow me on Instagram @savannah.gilbo

“I feel that emotional connection, the emotional struggles here are going to be a big gameplay in how the story is executed.” - Abigail K. Perry Magic has always fascinated us, hasn't it? The mere thought of a world where the impossible becomes possible, where spells are cast, and extraordinary adventures unfold, has captivated readers for generations. In the realm of adult fantasy novels, one name stands out – Lev Grossman and his masterpiece, "The Magicians." Today, both Abigail K. Perry, host of the LitMatch podcast, and I embark on a magical yet realistic journey as we unravel the intricacies of the first chapter. Here’s a preview of what’s included: [06:17] Abigail gives a summary of The Magicians by Lev Grossman [21:51] A macro analysis of the first chapter using 7 key questions from Paula Munier's book The Writer’s Guide to Beginnings [58:40] A micro analysis of the scene within the chapter using the "5 Commandments of Storytelling" from The Story Grid [01:20] Final thoughts on analyzing chapters and scenes Links mentioned in this episode: The Magicians by Lev GrossmanLitMatch podcastSupport the showIf you enjoyed this episode of the Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast, please rate, review, and follow this show! Follow me on Instagram @savannah.gilbo

You need to get readers asking questions to hook them into your story, but you don’t want them asking the wrong questions or being so confused that they stop reading altogether. In this episode, I share 5 questions your readers should never have to ask—here's a preview of what's included: [01:58] Who is this person? [03:35] Where is the scene taking place? [04:50] Who else is in the scene? [06:15] What's the point of this? [07:55] Why should I care? [10:25] Final thoughts and episode recap Links Mentioned in the Episode: Ep. 10 - How to Create Memorable Characters Using HooksSupport the showIf you enjoyed this episode of the Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast, please rate, review, and follow this show! Follow me on Instagram @savannah.gilbo

This episode is a recording of a LIVE masterclass I just did, and I wanted to give you an exclusive audio peek into what it was all about. Enjoy this audio, but hurry, it's only live for 48 hours! In this audio, you'll hear what’s *actually* necessary to brainstorm, outline, and write a novel—even if you've never written a novel before. Specifically, you will learn things like: How your story's genre can provide the framework for your entire story A small but mighty mindset shift that will transform the way you look at writing a novelHow creating a well-structured (yet flexible!) outline can help you make twice the progress in half the timeThe secret to following through and finishing your draftHow the link between your protagonist and antagonist that can make or break your storyMy Notes to Novel course is officially OPEN for enrollment until October 12th at midnight PT! Click here to learn more and to join me for this LIVE 8-week experience! Support the showWant to support the Fic

In today’s episode, I’m sitting down with Edward J. Cembal to talk through what it was like to write, edit, and publish his debut novel, The Monsters In Our Shadows. Here’s a preview of what’s included: [04:00] A quick introduction to Edward J. Cembal (including a timeline of his writing, editing, and publishing journey) as well as a summary of his debut dystopian novel, The Monsters In Our Shadows [09:00] Edward describes what it’s like working with a book coach, an editor, and beta readers—including what it’s like receiving feedback from different sources [22:00] What it’s like to dig deep and put your “blood on the page” in terms of writing a protagonist who shares some of your own inner struggles—and how Edward feels now that he’s gone through that process [28:00] Edward shares how his novel accidentally ended up in Hollywood—and how this totally uprooted his plans to self-publish (but why he self-published anyway) Links mentioned in this episode: Edward J. Cembal’s websiteEdward J. Cembal on InstagramThe Monsters In Our ShadowsRichard LJoenesAndrew LoweRachel Cone-GorhamWango FilmsClick here to read all about it and join the waitlist.Support the showIf you enjoyed this episode of the Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast, please rate, review, and follow this show! Follow me on Instagram @savannah.gilbo

In today’s episode, I’m sharing my thoughts on writing courses—including 5 things that make a fiction writing course worth your time and money. Here’s a preview of what’s included: [02:15] A good writing course should provide you with more than just “tactics and templates.” It should move you beyond just learning and get you into action. [04:45] A good writing course should provide you with a community of like-minded writers who share similar goals and access to a mentor who can support you. [08:05] A good writing course should feel like a “HECK YES!” And if it doesn't, then it's probably a heck no—and that's okay! Trust your gut on this decision. [09:15] My two cents re: the question, "Can you learn to write a book from all the free resources online and/or in craft books?" (Spoiler alert: YES, you can!) 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 go in and 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 what your favorite part of the episode was, 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! Links mentioned in this episode: Click here to add your name to the waitlist!Support the showIf you enjoyed this episode of the Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast, please rate, review, and follow this show! Follow me on Instagram @savannah.gilbo

In today’s episode, I’m sharing 5 of the most common “scene level” issues to look for when editing your draft. Here’s a preview of what’s included: [02:44] Issue #1: The scene isn’t properly structured and it feels flat. [03:59] Issue #2: The POV character doesn’t have enough agency. [05:57] Issue #3: There’s too much extra stuff crowding the scene. [07:50] Issue #4: There’s not enough interiority on the page. [09:35] Issue #5: The POV is inconsistent (aka there's head hopping) [11:22] Final thoughts and episode recap. 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 go in and 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 what your favorite part of the episode was, 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! Links mentioned in this episode: The 5-Day Unlock Your Story:Ep. 40 - How to Write a Well-Structured SceneEp. 43 - 10 Tips For Writing Better ScenesEp. 63 - Don’t Start A Scene Without These 3 ThingsEp. 74 - When Should You Write in Scene vs. Summary?Ep. 94 - How to Reveal Your Character’s Inner Life on the PageSupport the showIf you enjoyed this episode of the Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast, please rate, review, and follow this show! Follow me on Instagram @savannah.gilbo

In today’s episode, I’m sharing one of my favorite mindset tips—and it all has to do with your ability (and willingness) to start from scratch. I call it strengthening your capacity for zero. Here’s a preview of what’s included: [01:25] Your capacity for zero describes how willing you are to start over if something you’re outlining or writing doesn’t work. [04:45] What happened when I told one of the writers I work with that she had to start over after writing a 40,000-word first draft [11:00] How to strengthen your capacity for zero (including some question prompts to get you started thinking about your current capacity for zero) [12:25] Final thoughts and episode recap. 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 go in and 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 what your favorite part of the episode was, 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! Links mentioned in this episode: Ep. 71 - Student Spotlight: How She Wrote a Novel in 6 Months (and Landed an Agent 10 Months Later) with Stefanie MedrekFREE RESOURCE: Need help getting started with your story? This workbook will help you flesh out the foundational elements of your story so you can start writing with confidence and ease. Get your free copy here → Support the showIf you enjoyed this episode of the Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast, please rate, review, and follow this show! Follow me on Instagram @savannah.gilbo

In today’s episode, I’m sharing 3 steps to help you get started with list building. Here’s a preview of what’s included: [1:45] Having an email list is one of the best ways to build relationships with your readers over time. It’s what helps keep you top of mind the next time readers are looking for a new book to read, or a book to share with their friends and family. [3:15] Step 1: Define your target audience of readers. These are the people who will buy your book, leave you positive reviews, and recommend it to all their friends. It’s who all your marketing efforts need to speak to! [5:35] Step 2: Start generating leads for your list by offering a freebie (or lead magnet) in exchange for email addresses. You could offer things like sample chapters, book club questions, free ebooks, character interviews, and more. [9:30] Step 3: Develop your content strategy so that you can stay in communication with your subscribers and build that “know, like, and trust” factor before you write and sell your next book. Don’t overcomplicate this step! [12:25] Final thoughts and episode recap. 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 go in and 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 what your favorite part of the episode was, 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! Links mentioned in this episode: Ep. 106 - 5 Steps to Building Your Author Platform FREE RESOURCE: Need help getting started with your story? This workbook will help you flesh out the foundational elements of your story so you can start writing with confidence and ease. Get your free copy here → Support the showIf you enjoyed this episode of the Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast, please rate, review, and follow this show! Follow me on Instagram @savannah.gilbo

In today’s episode, I’m sharing 5 steps to building an author platform. Here’s a preview of what’s included: [00:59] Your author platform is the foundation for all your future book marketing efforts. You can start building it no matter where you’re at in the writing process! [02:07] Step 1: Define your target audience of readers [03:15] Step 2: Design your unique author brand [06:10] Step 3: Create your author website [07:49] Step 4: Setup your email list [09:51] Step 5: Develop your communication strategy [15:42] Final thoughts and episode recap. 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 go in and 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 what your favorite part of the episode was, 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! Links mentioned in this episode: Ep. 4 - How to Identify Your Story’s Ideal ReaderFREE RESOURCE: Need help getting started with your story? This workbook will help you flesh out the foundational elements of your story so you can start writing with confidence and ease. Get your free copy here → Support the showIf you enjoyed this episode of the Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast, please rate, review, and follow this show! Follow me on Instagram @savannah.gilbo

In today’s episode, Abigail K. Perry and I take a deep dive into the first chapter of Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus. Here’s a preview of what we talk about: [03:17] A very quick summary of the first two chapters [06:30] Our analysis of the scene/s within the first two chapters using the "5 Commandments of Storytelling" from The Story Grid [25:11] Final thoughts and episode recap 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 go in and 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 what your favorite part of the episode was, 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! Links mentioned in this episode: Click here to learn more!Click here to check out the LitMatch Podcast with Abigail Perry! her websiteon Instagram @abigailkperry.FREE TRAINING: 5 Secrets to Help You Start and Finish Your Novel. Register here for instant access to the free video training! Support the showIf you enjoyed this episode of the Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast, please rate, review, and follow this show! Follow me on Instagram @savannah.gilbo

In today’s episode, I’m sharing my top 10 tips for writing stronger, more impactful dialogue in your novel. Here’s a preview of what’s included: [02:00] Tip #1: Make sure your dialogue serves a purpose in the overarching story. [03:00] Tip #2: Think of your dialogue as action vs. exposition (or active vs. passive). [06:09] Tip #3: Get clear on each character’s goal and motivation within a scene. [07:43] Tip #4: Make sure your dialogue is ripe with conflict and tension. [10:02] Tip #5: Check that your dialogue sounds right for your genre and tone. [11:15] Tip #6: Ensure each character has a unique and rich vocabulary. [13:13] Tip #7: Curate your dialogue to show readers only what they need to see. [14:30] Tip #8: Keep your dialogue short and to the point. [16:16] Tip #9: Aim to have your dialogue do more than one thing—and include subtext. [18:19] Tip #10: Use dialogue to help you control your story’s pacing. [20:17] Final thoughts and episode recap. 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 go in and 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 what your favorite part of the episode was, 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! Links mentioned in this episode: Ep. 92 - The 5 Functions of Dialogue in Your StoryFREE RESOURCE: Need help getting started with your story? This workbook will help you flesh out the foundational elements of your story so you can start writing with confidence and ease. Get your free copy here → Support the showIf you enjoyed this episode of the Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast, please rate, review, and follow this show! Follow me on Instagram @savannah.gilbo

In today’s episode, I’m covering the conventions of the morality genre using the movie A Man Called Otto as an example. Here’s a preview of what’s included: [05:09] The protagonist starts the story at their worst (with a "wrong" moral compass) [06:40] The antagonist pressures the protagonist to face their bad behavior/wrongdoing [07:54] The protagonist is haunted by their past mistakes or selfish behavior [09:09] A character who represents the consequences of the protagonist’s wrongdoing [10:20] At least one mentor figure who helps the protagonist see right from wrong [11:13] External conflict that pits the protagonist's goals against the needs of others [12:53] A foil character who positively or negatively demonstrates different behavior [14:24] The protagonist gets help from unexpected sources [15:23] The setting must offer the protagonist opportunities to be selfish or altruistic [16:49] The end of the story is often bittersweet [18:04] Final thoughts and episode recap. 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 go in and 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 what your favorite part of the episode was, 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! Links mentioned in this episode: Ep. 72 - The 6 Key Scenes Every Morality Story NeedsEpisode Freebie: Morality Genre Cheat SheetFREE RESOURCE: Need help getting started with your story? This workbook will help you flesh out the foundational elements of your story so you can start writing with confidence and ease. Get your free copy here → Support the showIf you enjoyed this episode of the Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast, please rate, review, and follow this show! Follow me on Instagram @savannah.gilbo

In today’s episode, I’m sharing the 3 most common interiority mistakes I see writers make, as well as how to fix them. Here’s a preview of what’s included: [03:20] Mistake 1: The “too passive” protagonist. Your protagonist should always crave agency, even if they can't physically take action. [06:17] Mistake 2: The protagonist whose always present. Real people think about the past and future while making decisions. Your characters should too! [09:12] Mistake 3: The protagonist knows what the author knows. It's important to separate the character's knowledge from the author's so the reader can properly immerse themselves in the story. [13:00] Final thoughts and episode recap. 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 go in and 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 what your favorite part of the episode was, 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! Links mentioned in this episode: Ep. 7 - 5 Questions to Help You Write Better CharactersEp. 82 - Show, Don't Tell: What This Advice Really MeansEp. 94 - How to Reveal Your Character’s Inner Life on the PageFREE RESOURCE: Need help getting started with your story? This workbook will help you flesh out the foundational elements of your story so you can start writing with confidence and ease. Get your free copy here → Support the showIf you enjoyed this episode of the Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast, please rate, review, and follow this show! Follow me on Instagram @savannah.gilbo

In today’s episode, Abigail K. Perry and I take a deep dive into the first chapter of Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt. Here’s a preview of what we talk about: [05:38] A very quick summary of the first chapter [13:37] A macro analysis of the first chapter using 7 key questions from Paula Munier's book The Writer’s Guide to Beginnings [43:08] A micro analysis of the scene within the chapter using the "5 Commandments of Storytelling" from The Story Grid [52:50] Final thoughts and episode recap 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 go in and 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 what your favorite part of the episode was, 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! Links mentioned in this episode: Click here to learn more!Click here to check out the LitMatch Podcast with Abigail Perry! her websiteon Instagram @abigailkperry.FREE TRAINING: 5 Secrets to Help You Start and Finish Your Novel. Register here for instant access to the free video training! Support the showIf you enjoyed this episode of the Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast, please rate, review, and follow this show! Follow me on Instagram @savannah.gilbo