Story Works Round Table

conversations about craft

for writers and readers curious about writers

SWRT 307 | From Lightning Strike to Novel with Ben Hawken

SWRT 307 | From Lightning Strike to Novel with Ben Hawken

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn sit down with Ben Hawken, author of the new novel “Chandelier.” Ben shares his remarkable journey from a career in marketing and speech writing to writing his debut book. Learn how he balanced life, work, and writing to achieve his creative dreams. Ben offers insights into story structure, the art of dialogue, and practical tips for aspiring writers. Whether you’re looking to start your own writing journey or curious about the creative process, this episode is packed with inspiration and advice. Tune in now to hear Ben’s story and get motivated to pursue your own creative passions!

SWRT 306 | The Revision Mindset

SWRT 306 | The Revision Mindset

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn delve into the often daunting world of revision. Join them as they explore the mindset shifts necessary to tackle revisions without feeling overwhelmed. They discuss the importance of understanding that revision doesn’t mean starting from scratch but rather making thoughtful adjustments to enhance your story. They share personal struggles and breakthroughs with revision, offering valuable insights and practical tips for writers facing similar challenges. Tune in to learn how to approach your manuscript with confidence and a clear plan, transforming the revision process into a manageable and even enjoyable part of your writing journey.

SWRT 181 | When to Kill a Story

SWRT 181 | When to Kill a Story

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Robert are joined by writer Carlee Tressel to discuss the death…or possible resuscitation…of book projects. Is resting it enough? Why is it so hard to let go? When should you hang on?

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SWRT 178 | Writing with the End in Mind

SWRT 178 | Writing with the End in Mind

We sit down at the Story Works Round Table to ponder the pros and cons of writing with your climax in mind before you begin. Can you use your ending like a guiding light without spoiling the fun of exploring your first draft?

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SWRT 177 | The Role of Agency in Reader Satisfaction

SWRT 177 | The Role of Agency in Reader Satisfaction

This week on the Story Works Round Table podcast, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert discuss the ways in which character agency is relevant to the whole of your story and the ways in which how well you handle agency could determine how much readers like your book.
#authortube #fiction #writing

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SWRT 176 | Continuity

Why is continuity so important? And what opportunities does it present you as an author? How can continuity be tracked through your manuscript? And what should you track? What things within your manuscript help maintain continuity?

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SWRT 175 | Balance Restored

What does it mean to restore balance at the end of your book? Do you always have to wrap everything up with a bow? How do we feel about leaving things open-ended? And how can you restore balance without a happily ever after?

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SWRT 174 | Balance Tipping Points

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida, Robert, and Kathryn talk about too much of a good thing. When do you tip the balance from just enough, to too much or too little?

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SWRT 173 | Character Agency in Memoir

SWRT 173 | Character Agency in Memoir

How has Molly’s arc evolved over the course of her storytelling? And how does she craft agency into her own story? How many ways has she had to approach the same topics? And is it okay to leave the actual abuse off the page in an abuse narrative?

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