Story Works Round Table

conversations about craft

for writers and readers curious about writers

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 305 | Navigating the Feedback Landscape: A Writer’s Guide

SWRT 305 | Navigating the Feedback Landscape: A Writer’s Guide

Feedback is an essential part of the writing journey, but it can also be one of the most challenging aspects to navigate. In this week’s episode of Story Works Round Table, Kathryn and Alida delve into the intricacies of receiving and giving feedback, offering valuable insights and practical advice for writers at all stages of their careers. One of the key takeaways from the episode is the importance of discerning useful feedback from less helpful critiques. Not all feedback is created equal, and it’s crucial to find critique partners who understand your goals and can provide constructive criticism that aligns with your vision.

SWRT 166 | Time

When should you think about time as a writer? And what can you do with time? We talk about expanding, compression, jumping, and even framing your story with time. It all comes down to being aware and careful with how you use time in your story.

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SWRT 165 | Writing Memoir with Mag Dimond part 2

SWRT 165 | Writing Memoir with Mag Dimond part 2

How does Mag view the Hero’s Journey in relation to our lives? Has she always been observant? Why does she explore the themes of love and death? And must they be viewed together in order to be understood? We wrap up talking about the spirituality of creativity.

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SWRT 163 | Titles

Why are titles so important to think about? How do they help with genre targeting, or getting your reader to pick up your book? Should your title say something about your book? And how memorable do you want it to be? We dive into how to explore your title, and where to get started!

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SWRT 162 | Dual POV in Romance

SWRT 162 | Dual POV in Romance

Do you need a dual POV in a romance novel? How do you distinguish between the POV’s? And how important is that internal journey in these stories? We talk about the struggles of writing an intimate internal journey from a point of view different from your own, and even get a laugh talking feelings with Robert.

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SWRT 161 | Grants for Writers

SWRT 161 | Grants for Writers

What is a grant? And what can they do for you as a writer? What is the process of application? And what can the funds be used for? Susan leads us through the entire process from application to acceptance for a grant, including giving her experience as both a judge, and recipient.

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SWRT 160 | Paranormal Romance

SWRT 160 | Paranormal Romance

What defines paranormal romance? And what flavor does Frances write? How do you weave paranormal elements into your overall plot? And how important is the setting and research to Frances’s work? We dive into the importance of the romantic elements, and the choices you will need to make if you choose to write in the paranormal romance genre.

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SWRT 159 | Flawed Heroes

How do you create a competent character who still has to grow? How do you utilize motivation to create plausibility? And how do you develop flaws that help your character keep their competence?

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SWRT 158 | Read Like a Writer

Do we always read like a writer? What happens when we slow down and pay attention to the books we are reading? Does reading like a writer destroy your ability to read for enjoyment? We dig into our current reads and how our reading benefits our writing.

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