How writers can write complicated plots
Writing a complicated plot doesn't have to mean drowning in chaos. Hugo and Nebula Award-winner David D. Levine breaks down his unique "beads on a string" framework — a practical way to map cause and effect, manage multiple storylines, and decide what order to put scenes on the page. Whether you're a plotter or a pantser, these tips will help you take control of even the most tangled story.
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Using conflict story beats for maximum impact
Conflict in fiction is more than fistfights and villains. It lives in every scene, shapes every character, and keeps readers invested from page one to the last.
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Small-town settings to anchor your story
Bestselling legal thriller author Robin James shares her proven strategies for building small-town settings that feel like living, breathing characters in your fiction.
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Weaving historical research into a novel
Alessandra Torre talks with bestselling Historical Romance author Audrey Harrison about conducting research for your novel - and how to turn that research into stories that readers will love.
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How to add humor to your novel
New York Times bestselling author Lucy Score discusses how she adds humor to her work – and share tips on how you can do the same for your own writing.
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Should you write in multiple POVs?
Bestselling thriller author Melissa F. Miller discusses writing in multiple third person POVs.
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Myths, fantasy and dark anti-heroes
Romantasy author Scarlett St. Clair, author of NYT bestseller "A Touch of Chaos" on writing dark anti-heroes
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Writing as a hybrid author
Alessandra Torre and USA Today bestselling author Xio Axelrod discuss the benefits of being both self-published and traditionally published.
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When authors pivot to a new genre
Wall Street Journal bestselling author Jeff Wheeler discusses switching from writing in the fantasy genre to writing action thrillers.
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How to incorporate your life into your novel’s characters
Authors Alessandra Torre and Mary Carroll Moore discuss how writers can incorporate themselves into their characters. Mary Carroll shares how she incorporated some of her own life experiences into her new book, "A Woman’s Guide to Search and Rescue."
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Novel research: How much is too much?
April White discusses how to write and research in an age when representation and diversity are so important in our stories.
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Crafting themes to inspire
Author Jessica Flory discusses how to choose a relatable theme that will resonate with readers and how to use character arcs to bring out theme in a novel.
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