Struggling with how to fix flat scenes or improve character-driven scenes in your novel? This podcast for fantasy writers offers expert writing tips for fiction authors, including how to craft writing realistic character reactions and anchor every chapter with a strong scene core event. We cover essential tools for self-editing characters, enhancing story structure and character roles, and mastering how to balance dialogue and action. Whether you’re deep into fantasy novel editing or looking for book editing for indie authors, this episode helps you write scenes that truly resonate.In this podcast for fantasy authors, we explore how to self-edit stagnant scenes and breathe life into every chapter. Join developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and author Addy Dulac filling in for Agnes Wolfe with Authors’ Alcove as they unpack what scene stagnation looks like, why it’s a problem, and how to fix it through better structure and variety. Addy DuLac is a published author of interracial historical romance, known for One Season with the Duke and the Troublemakers Trilogy, a series blending humor, heart, and heat.From writing character-driven scenes to managing scene transitions and avoiding dialogue-heavy lulls, this episode offers scene-level editing tools to help writers refine their storytelling. Whether you're polishing a first draft or prepping for publication, these tips will help ensure your scenes keep readers engaged.You’ll learn:-How to recognize when a scene has gone flat-The difference between slow pacing and stagnation-Tips to strengthen scenes through setting, agency, and tension-How to choose the right fix for your stagnant scene-When to slim down dialogue or break up exposition-How scene type variety and POV rotation keep stories freshRecommended Resources-Need a Developmental Editor? hartboundediting.com

In this podcast for fantasy authors, we cover story consistency editing, building character-driven scenes, and crafting the perfect scene core event. Learn practical tips for self-editing characters, improving fantasy novel editing, and aligning story structure and character roles. If you're focused on writing strong story beats, how to write strong scenes, or how to edit your book yourself, this podcast for fantasy writers is for you.Want to improve your character development in fantasy writing? In this episode, developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] joins fantasy author Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] to explore how to build compelling, consistent characters that don’t fall flat.They share how to spot inconsistencies in character behavior, what makes a character feel two-dimensional, and ways to make your cast more distinct—without resorting to extreme traits or stereotypes. Whether you’re editing your first draft or refining your final manuscript, this episode will help you bring your characters to life in a meaningful, grounded way.In this episode, we learned:-How to define your characters through character statements-Ways to check for and fix character flatness-Tips for writing believable dialogue and distinct voices-Techniques for avoiding trope fatigue while still honoring genre-How to use role, reaction, and motivation to create differentiation

Looking for developmental editing for characters? In this episode, we discuss editing characters for depth, creating unique supporting characters, and making characters distinct. So whether you're working on character voice development, defining character agency in storytelling, or improving character arcs, this episode will help you apply strong story structure and character roles to your fantasy novel. It's packed with practical insights for anyone learning how to edit your book yourself or aiming to become what makes a good writer great.Want to improve your character development in fantasy writing? In this episode, developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] joins fantasy author Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] to explore how to build compelling, consistent characters that don’t fall flat.They share how to spot inconsistencies in character behavior, what makes a character feel two-dimensional, and ways to make your cast more distinct—without resorting to extreme traits or stereotypes. Whether you’re editing your first draft or refining your final manuscript, this episode will help you bring your characters to life in a meaningful, grounded way.You’ll learn:-How to define your characters through character statements-Ways to check for and fix character flatness-Tips for writing believable dialogue and distinct voices-Techniques for avoiding trope fatigue while still honoring genre-How to use role, reaction, and motivation to create differentiation

Are you writing a fantasy romance novel? Rebecca Hartwell gives developmental editing tips on what makes a good writer great! In this episode we discuss everything from character development in romance, genre expectations in romance and other romance novel writing tips. In this self-editing series for authors, you will learn how to edit your book yourself. Want to know how to write a romance or love story that delivers emotional payoff? In Episode 28, developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and fantasy author Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] unpack what makes a great romance—whether it’s the main plot or just a subplot.They break down the most important beats in a romance arc, from the meet cute to the happily ever after, while discussing creative ways to approach genre conventions. Rebecca also explains the difference between romantasy and romantic fantasy, and how to evaluate if you’re writing a romance at all.Whether you’re writing epic fantasy with romantic threads or aiming for a classic love story, this episode gives you actionable tips for writing relationships that resonate.In this episode, you’ll learn:-How a romance differs from a love story-Rebecca’s beat sheet for a satisfying romance-What are the most common romance writing mistakes-How romance differs as a main plot versus subplot-The difference between writing romance in a series versus standalone-Why all tropes and cliches are fairgameRecommended Resources-Need a Developmental Editor? hartboundediting.com-Romancing the Beat by Gwen Hayes-StoryGrid’s Love Story Guide

Want to know how to write a magic system? Rebecca offers developmental editing tips on writing a unique magic system, how to edit your book yourself, and what makes a good writer great. Through this writing advice podcast, every week we discuss editing fantasy novels, fixing story problems, and plot structure advice. In episode 27 of the Story Savvy Self-Editing series, developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and aspiring fantasy author Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] explore magic systems—whether they are hard or soft, how to ensure they're creating consistent world rules, avoiding plot holes, and identifying red flags in revision.Rebecca and Agnes explore the essential elements of crafting compelling magic systems in fantasy writing. They discuss how to integrate magic systems seamlessly into the storyline, avoid common pitfalls, and create unique, well-thought-out worlds that captivate readers. This episode offers actionable advice for aspiring fantasy authors to refine their magic systems during the self-editing process.In this episode you’ll learn: -How to make your magic system an essential part of the plot-Whether your magic leans more toward a hard system or a soft one-Tips for avoiding contradictions and plot gaps in your world-Methods for keeping track of the rules that govern your magic-Why tying your magic system to your story’s core themes matters-Key warning signs to watch for during the self-editing phaseIf you want to turn your good magic system into a great one, this is the episode for you. Recommended Resources-Brandon Sanderson’s articles on soft vs. hard magic systems: -https://www.brandonsanderson.com/blogs/blog/sandersons-first-law

In this week’s Story Savvy Series episode, we receive chapter length advice, scene vs chapter structure, and using word count effectively. So please join developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and author and editor Jena Doyle [jenadoyle.com] as they discuss how to editor your book yourself and what makes a good writer great! Jena is filling in for Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com], to explore practical self-editing strategies focused on word count. Whether your manuscript is bloated or barely hitting the minimum, this episode unpacks how to make every word count—literally.Episode 21 of the 52-Week Story Savvy series explores how to meet genre expectations and refine your novel at the chapter, scene, and sentence level. Together, Rebecca and Jena provide actionable techniques to optimize pacing, balance chapter lengths, and trim or expand your story without losing its heart.They also discuss:-How to identify your ideal word count based on bestselling books-Strategies to tighten bloated manuscripts and cut unnecessary scenes-Smart ways to increase word count without adding fluff-Tips for managing chapter structure and reader flow-Tools like tally counters and search-and-replace to fine-tune your writingWhether you’re aiming to traditionally publish or self-publish, this episode offers essential insights for polishing your manuscript and aligning it with professional standards.Recommended Resources:Hartbound Editing Services – https://hartboundediting.comSilvie Pawn’s Godsend Series – https://www.facebook.com/GodsendSaga

In this week’s Story Savvy series, we continue to talk about how to edit your book yourself, by discussing fixing story problems, where we learn what is Deus ex machina and learn a Deus ex Machina examples. Developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] is joined by author Silvia Pawn who is standing in for Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com]. Deus ex Machina is when outside forces or unexplained powers save the day and strip the protagonist of agency. In episode 20 of 52-Week Story Savvy, they examine how this trope, while rooted in classical theatre, often fails in modern genre fiction.Rebecca and Silvia dive into what makes Deus ex Machina feel unearned, how fantasy and sci-fi allow more room for bending reality, and why grounding your magic or tech in early seeding matters. Silvia also shares from her own work-in-progress, a story about omnipotence, internal conflict, and how collaboration—not one savior—creates resolution.They also dive into strategies for:-Avoiding common Chosen One pitfalls-Seeding power systems or world mechanics early-Creating surprising yet inevitable story payoffs-Using side characters and subtle hints to build tension-Balancing predictability and reader satisfaction-Recognizing when agency theft happens in climaxesWhether you’re revising a magic-heavy manuscript or adapting a D&D campaign into a novel, this episode helps you walk the line between powerful storytelling and narrative shortcuts.Recommended Resources:Hartbound Editing Services – https://hartboundediting.comSilvia Pawn’s Godsend Series – https://www.facebook.com/GodsendSaga

Confused about which plot threads to tie up—and which to let dangle? You’re not alone. Today we discuss when to leave plot threads open, how to track plot threads, and planting story seeds, among other ways of fixing story problems. Listen to Rebecca share her plot structure tips and what makes a good writer great! 

Want to know what makes a good writer great? Tune into our writing podcast for authors, where we explore plot structure tips, book editing hacks, and how to self-edit with intentionality. This week’s episode focuses on plot threads, subplots, and story seeds—and how to decide what needs a payoff.

In this episode of the Story Savvy series, developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and aspiring fantasy author Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] dig into whether you need to resolve everything you foreshadowed—and what to do when you don’t.

In this episode you’ll learn: 

• How to decide whether to tie up a plot thread or leave it unresolved

• Best practices for handling open threads in standalone novels vs. series

• The difference between seeds and subplots—and why it matters

• How to track emotional payoff and avoid disappointing your readers

• The editing power of creating simple lists to manage subplots, characters, and setups

If you’ve ever felt like your ending was almost satisfying—but something was missing—this episode is for you.

Recommended Resources

Need a Developmental Editor? hartboundediting.comAuthor’s Alcove Membership: authorsalcove.comFantasy Book Giveaway: AuthorsAlcove.org

Chapters[00:00] Intro[00:27] Understanding Plot Threads[01:38] When Not to Tie Up Plot Threads[03:01] Foreshadowing in Series Writing[05:03] Best Practices for Leaving Threads Open[07:36] Tying Up Loose Ends[09:51] Tracking Seeds and Subplots[13:23] Understanding Seeds vs. Subplots[15:30] Ensuring Payoff for Seeds[18:01] The Importance of Intentionality

Feeling tangled in too many storylines? Wondering if your subplot is helping—or hurting—your novel? You’re not alone.Want to know what makes a good writer great? Tune into our writing podcast for authors, where we explore plot structure tips, how to structure a story plot, and book editing hacks. This week’s focus: plot threads and subplots. In this week’s episode of the Story Savvy series, developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and aspiring fantasy author Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] unravel the confusion around subplots vs. plot threads. You’ll learn how to identify your main plot, what subplots are worth keeping, and how to revise your story so it most satisfies your reader. If you've ever forgotten to tie up a subplot, or tried to juggle too many plotlines and lost your readers along the way—this one's for you.This episode covers:How to figure out which plot is your novel’s backbone–main plotThe difference between plot threads and subplotsWhy less (subplots) is sometimes moreHow to check if a subplot is actually landing with your audienceWhen a subplot might need to be cut altogetherWhether you're editing your manuscript or plotting your next draft, this episode will give you tools to create tighter, more powerful fiction—without sacrificing depth.Recommended Resources:Need a Developmental Editor? Hart Bound EditingAuthor’ Alcove Membership: http://authrosalcove.comFantasy Book Giveaway: AuthorsAlcove.orgChapters[00:00] Intro[01:11] Understanding Main Plots vs. Subplots[04:32] The Importance of Knowing Your Primary Plot[06:04] Defining Plot Threads and Subplots[09:05] Balancing Subplots: Too Many or Too Few?[11:00] Evaluating Subplots During Revision[14:12] Connecting Subplots to the Main Plot[16:05] Common Mistakes in Subplot Integration[20:33] Wrapping Up Subplots, Is It a Must?

Do you ever wonder what makes a good writer great? In this week’s writing podcast for authors, we dig into one of the most overlooked tools in self-editing: consequences and emotional processing. Whether you’re looking for book editing hacks, story pacing strategies, or help with editing fantasy novels, Episode 24 of the Story Savvy Series tackles it all. In this episode, we’re diving into one of the most powerful ways to level up your writing—making sure your big story moments actually land. If you’ve ever written a scene that felt important but somehow fell flat, this one’s for you.

Developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell (hartboundediting.com) and fantasy author Agnes Wolfe (authorsalcove.com) team up to explore emotional fallout, plot consequences, and how to make character reactions feel real—without slowing down your pacing.

From plot twists to quiet turning points, you’ll get practical, down-to-earth advice for writing emotional characters, deepening your scenes, and making your story hit harder in all the right places.

They also discuss:

• What makes a moment “big” in the first place

• How to tell if a scene is missing impact

• When it’s okay to delay consequences or emotional fallout

• Why a small tweak can save a flat scene

• What to do if a character’s reaction feels off

• The balance between emotional weight and story momentum

If you want to write stories where every moment matters—and every turning point leaves a mark—this episode will help you get there.

Recommended Resources:Hart Bound Editing Services – [https://hartboundediting.com]Authors’ Alcove Membership Community – [http://authorsalcove.com]Book Giveaway – [http://authorsalcove.org]

[00:00] Intro[01:12] Checking for consequences in every scene[03:50] Defining big events in a story[05:25] When big moments don’t impact the plot[07:01] Using consequences to strengthen weak scenes[10:43] The importance of consequences and processing[12:20] Making consequences appropriate in context[14:53] Adding more external consequences[16:53] Genre differences in consequences and processing[20:35] Delaying consequences and processing[28:16] External vs. internal follow-up for big events

Do you want to know what makes a good writer great? Today in our writing podcast for authors, we discuss how to write a great plot twist and how to spot plot twist mistakes. 

In episode 23 of the Story Savvy Series, we explore how to masterfully build and edit plot twists that hook your readers and shift your story’s path. So, let’s join together as we unravel the secrets of twisty storytelling. Developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and author Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] reveal how to transform surprising moments into satisfying turning points.

This week in the 52-Week Story Savvy self-editing series we break down how to execute genre-specific twists that align with character arcs and pacing. Whether you're planning your midpoint surprise or final reveal, this episode offers the insight you need to make it land.

They also discuss:

• How to balance big twists with smaller story surprises

• The dangers of deus ex machina endings

• How to recognize a well-executed twist

• Why a protagonist’s belief system matters

• The role of POV in misdirecting readers

• Crafting foreshadowing that only makes sense after the twistIf you want your twists to feel earned—not forced—this episode is your blueprint for creating "surprising but inevitable" reveals.

Recommended Resources:

• Hart Bound Editing Services – [https://hartboundediting.com]

• Authors’ Alcove Membership Community – [http://authorsalcove.com]

• Book Giveaway – [http://authorsalcove.org]

Chapters: 

[00:00] Intro[01:06] What is a plot twist?[04:40] Do genres shape twist size?[07:57] When should twists happen?[10:20] What ruins a twist?[12:19] How to foreshadow well?[15:38] Was the twist effective?[19:53] Too many twists?[22:10] What do twists affect?[24:22] Great twist or not?

Let’s talk about mental health for writers, author support system, and writer self-care. In this week's Story Savvy Series episode, we take a thoughtful detour from structure and craft to focus on mental health in the writing journey. Developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and author Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] dive deep into the emotional realities behind the editing process—from creative burnout and perfectionism to PTSD, grief, and more.

Episode 22 of the 52-Week Story Savvy series reminds writers that healing and storytelling often go hand in hand. Together, Rebecca and Agnes share personal stories, editing insights, and tips on how to navigate your writing when life gets hard.

They also explore:

• Recognizing when it’s time to pause your project

• Writing with depression, ADHD, and trauma

• Setting flexible deadlines that support your health

• What community support looks like for creative people

• Ways to edit painful scenes without re-traumatizing yourself

Whether you're overwhelmed by revisions or just need encouragement to take a break, this episode offers both practical guidance and emotional validation for writers of all stages.

[00:00] Introduction  [01:22] Honest Conversations About Mental Health  [04:15] Navigating Writing During Difficult Times  [07:37] The Connection Between Creativity and Mental Wellness  [11:06] Facing Imposter Syndrome as a Writer  [16:07] Overcoming the Trap of Perfectionism  [25:02] Recognizing and Recovering from Burnout  [27:16] Coping with Everyday Mental Health Challenges  [30:03] How PTSD Impacts the Writing Process  [35:05] Using Deadlines to Stay Focused and Motivated  [43:54] Why Community Matters for Writers 

Feeling tangled in too many storylines? Wondering if your subplot is helping—or hurting—your novel? You’re not alone.Want to know what makes a good writer great? Tune into our writing podcast for authors, where we explore plot structure tips, how to structure a story plot, and book editing hacks. This week’s focus: plot threads and subplots. In this week’s episode of the Story Savvy series, developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and aspiring fantasy author Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] unravel the confusion around subplots vs. plot threads. You’ll learn how to identify your main plot, what subplots are worth keeping, and how to revise your story so it most satisfies your reader. If you've ever forgotten to tie up a subplot, or tried to juggle too many plotlines and lost your readers along the way—this one's for you.This episode covers:How to figure out which plot is your novel’s backbone–main plotThe difference between plot threads and subplotsWhy less (subplots) is sometimes moreHow to check if a subplot is actually landing with your audienceWhen a subplot might need to be cut altogetherWhether you're editing your manuscript or plotting your next draft, this episode will give you tools to create tighter, more powerful fiction—without sacrificing depth.Recommended Resources:Need a Developmental Editor? Hart Bound EditingAuthor’ Alcove Membership: http://authrosalcove.comFantasy Book Giveaway: AuthorsAlcove.orgChapters[00:00] Intro[01:11] Understanding Main Plots vs. Subplots[04:32] The Importance of Knowing Your Primary Plot[06:04] Defining Plot Threads and Subplots[09:05] Balancing Subplots: Too Many or Too Few?[11:00] Evaluating Subplots During Revision[14:12] Connecting Subplots to the Main Plot[16:05] Common Mistakes in Subplot Integration[20:33] Wrapping Up Subplots, Is It a Must?

Rebecca Hartwell, developmental editor, continues with the story savvy series as she tackles how to spot plot holes and character inconsistencies. To help you turn your good story into a great one, learn about editing fantasy novels through writing strong plots and fixing story problems in this week’s episode, Episode 19 of 52-Week Story Savvy.

In this episode, editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and guest host sla Elrick [suemillsauthor.com], author of contemporary romance of Whispers of New England,standing in for Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] work through how to identify common pitfalls that lead to plot holes, contradictions, and character inconsistencies. They also cover how to use fresh eyes and feedback effectively without compromising your creative vision.

You’ll learn techniques to:

Detect inconsistencies and contradictions like a new reader would

Repair plot holes without derailing the story

Maintain clear and consistent character goals and backstories

Seed character growth naturally to avoid sudden shifts

Use detailed character sheets to prevent errors

Whether you’re a first-time novelist or an experienced writer polishing your latest draft, this episode offers actionable strategies to keep your story coherent, believable, and engaging for your audience.

In This Episode:

Identifying and addressing plot holes

Evaluating reader feedback effectively

Fixing character inconsistencies

Balancing complexity with clarity

Planning plot repairs without creating new issues

Using fresh techniques to strengthen story logic

Recommended Resources:

Hartbound Editing Services – [https://hartboundediting.com]

Authors’ Alcove Membership Community – [http://authorsalcove.com]

Book Giveaway – [http://authorsalcove.org]

[00:00] Introduction

[01:16] Guest Spotlight: Sue Mills

[03:17] What Are Plot Holes?

[06:11] Solving Significant Plot Issues

[09:04] Handling Reader Critiques

[11:51] Weighing Plot Fixes and Story Impact

[12:30] Methods for Repairing Plot Gaps

[14:54] Spotting Character Inconsistencies

[18:49] Addressing Character Feedback

[22:10] Typical Character Continuity Mistakes

[26:52] Character Development vs. Out-of-Character Moments

[29:09] Shapeshifting Characters and Unexpected Twists

Want plot development tips such as how to build tension in a scene, conflict escalation in stories, and how to build character-driven conflict? Listen as Rebecca Hartwell, developmental editor of Hartbound Editing, shares exactly what you need to make your good story into a great one in episode 18 of 52-Week Story Savvy Self-Editing Series

This week, editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] teams up with Guest host Lindsey Luther [lyndseyluther.com] , author of speculative fiction fantasy book - Greencloack (filling in for aspiring author Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com]) to tackle the essential craft of building character-driven plots that feel inevitable, yet surprising. Together, they unpack why well-motivated characters and escalating conflict are the keys to keeping your narrative taut and emotionally charged.

Rebecca Hartwell explains how to:

• Craft character decisions that naturally propel the plot forward.

• Align character goals with theme and genre expectations.

• Introduce obstacles that reveal character growth, not just add drama.

They also explore how to layer internal and external stakes so that every scene matters, and why pacing is about more than just “action.” You’ll get practical tips for revising passive scenes, enriching your midpoint, and making sure your climax delivers both a payoff and a punch.

If you’re struggling with meandering plots or flat character arcs, this episode will give you the tools to restructure and reinvigorate your story.

In This Episode:

• What Story Intensity Really Means

• Finding the Right Intensity for Your Genre & Audience

• Easy Ways to Dial Intensity Up (or Down)

• Why Your Descriptions Can Make or Break Intensity

• Matching Emotional Feels with Physical Action

• How to Let Intensity Flow Naturally

• Pacing vs. Intensity — Making Them Dance Together

• Tips for Keeping Your Intensity Fresh and Varied

• Boosting (or Soothing) Intensity Without Raising the Stakes

Recommended Resources:Hartbound Editing Services – [https://hartboundediting.com]Authors’ Alcove Membership Community – [http://authorsalcove.com]Book Giveaway – [http://authorsalcove.org]Story Grid – https://storygrid.comSave the Cat – https://savethecat.com

[00:00] Intro[01:00] What Story Intensity Really Means

[02:22] Finding the Right Intensity for Your Genre & Audience

[05:00] Easy Ways to Dial Intensity Up (or Down)

[08:40] Why Your Descriptions Can Make or Break Intensity

[10:40] Matching Emotional Feels with Physical Action

[12:12] How to Let Intensity Flow Naturally

[15:52] Pacing vs. Intensity — Making Them Dance Together

[17:40] Tips for Keeping Your Intensity Fresh and Varied

[21:50] Boosting (or Soothing) Intensity Without Raising the Stakes

Ever wonder what are stakes in fiction and how to build tension in a scene? Rebecca discusses things like character-driven conflict, high-stakes storytelling and much more as us writers learn how to edit our book ourselves. In this high-impact episode of 52-Week Story Savvy, editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and guest host standing in for Christine Nicholas aspiring author Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] break down the crucial role of stakes in storytelling—and how to raise them without losing reader trust.

Together, they define what stakes really are (hint: it's not always life or death!) and how to weave them seamlessly into your plot using tools like Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and stakes spectrums. You’ll discover how to analyze global and chapter-level stakes, keep scenes engaging, and avoid common missteps like artificial plot twists and inconsistent tension.

Whether you're writing a slow-burn fantasy, a fast-paced thriller, or character-driven fiction, this episode will help you pinpoint what your characters stand to lose—and why it matters.

In This Episode:

• The difference between goals, motivations, and stakes

• Using Maslow’s Hierarchy to layer character needs

• Chapter-by-chapter vs. global stakes

• Varying stakes to avoid a flat narrative

• Literal, figurative, and internal life-or-death spectrums

• How to escalate stakes without breaking believability

• Why readers must understand the stakes by the midpoint

• A self-editing checklist for testing stakes scene by scene

Recommended Resources:

• Developmental Editing Services – [https://hartboundediting.com]

• Authors’ Alcove Membership Site – [http://authorsalcove.com]

• Book Giveaway – [http://authorsalcove.org]

• Story Grid – https://storygrid.com

• Save the Cat – https://savethecat.com

• Wired for Story by Lisa Cron

[00:00] Intro

[01:07] Defining Stakes in Storytelling

[03:07] Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and Stakes

[04:10] Chapter vs. Global Stakes

[06:05] Variety in Stakes

[07:59] Identifying and Strengthening Stakes

[09:01] Types of Stakes Beyond Life and Death

[14:14] Exploring Internal and External Stakes

[16:21] Assessing the Power of Stakes

[19:00] Establishing Stakes Without Death

[21:05] Grounding Stakes in the Narrative

[23:01] Raising Stakes Gradually

[26:37] Determining Global Success or Failure

[28:01] Timing the Revelation of Stakes

Curious about first person point of view versus third? Wondering how to self-edit your novel or take your writing to the next level? In this full episode of 52-Week Story Savvy, developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell (hartboundediting.com) and Isla Elrick guest host and award winning author steps in for aspiring fantasy author Agnes Wolfe (authorsalcove.com) dig into how narrative choices shape your story—and how to revise with purpose.This isn't just about fixing grammar; it's about refining your storytelling. Rebecca unpacks how your choice of POV, tense, and narrative depth can elevate or undercut your story, and offers strategies to revise with clarity and intention. You'll learn what works, what doesn't, and how to fix common pitfalls like head-hopping and inconsistent narration—even if you’ve already written your draft.In This Episode:First, second, or third person—what fits your story best?Deep POV vs distant: How to strike the right tonePresent vs past tense: Why it mattersMulti-POV tools (including the creative “Fibonacci method”)Choosing a POV style that strengthens plot and reader connectionHow to revise POV or tense in later drafts without feeling overwhelmedWhether you're just starting or knee-deep in edits, this episode will help you find your narrative voice and fine-tune your manuscript with confidence.Recommended Resources:Developmental Editing Services – hartboundediting.comAuthors’ Alcove Membership Site – authorsalcove.comBook Giveaway – authorsalcove.org

Struggling with first person POV versus third person POV? Wondering what makes a good writer great or how to improve story writing skills? In this advice-packed episode of 52-Week Story Savvy, editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] teams up with aspiring author Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] to help you master your narrative voice.

Together, they explore the pros and cons of different POVs, tenses, and storytelling perspectives—sharing real examples. You’ll learn how your POV choice shapes your reader’s emotional connection, how to avoid common pitfalls like head-hopping, and when it’s okay to break the rules (and how to fix things if you already have).

Rebecca doesn’t just tell you what works—she explains why, so you can make confident, intentional choices that suit your story and genre. Whether you're writing a sprawling epic or a single-POV middle grade, you’ll walk away from this episode feeling more empowered, more prepared, and more excited to edit.

In This Episode:

• What tense and person choice really say about your story

• Deep POV vs distant narration: how close is too close?

• When to add a secondary POV—and when not to

• Practical self-editing tips for spotting consistency issues

• The head-hopping trap (and how to avoid it!)

• Why choosing the right narrator for each scene can transform your book

Recommended Resources:

• Developmental Editing Services (Expert Feedback) – [https://hartboundediting.com]

• Authors’ Alcove Membership Site – [http://authorsalcove.com]

• Book Giveaway – [http://authorsalcove.org]

• Story Grid – https://storygrid.com

• Save the Cat – https://savethecat.com

• How to Write a Sizzling Synopsis by Brian Cohen

Looking for writer improvement and want to know what makes a good writer great? In this episode, Rebecca shares how to edit your book yourself and offers practical fantasy book blurb advice. Unlike typical writing tutorials, she explores how your blurb can actually shape and strengthen your story while you revise.

In this newest installment of 52-Week Story Savvy, editor Rebecca Hartwell (hartboundediting.com) and aspiring author Agnes Wolfe (authorsalcove.com) talk about how writing your blurb early on can bring clarity to your plot, characters, and emotional arc. Whether you're working on a rough draft or tightening up your final revision, this episode helps you align your manuscript with the promises you’re making to readers in your blurb.

You’ll hear Rebecca break down what a blurb is—and what it definitely isn’t—and walk you through how to craft one that captures the soul of your story. She shares her five-step method for writing blurbs that engage readers, expose weak spots in your narrative, and meet genre expectations. For writers who struggle with blurbs (you’re not alone!), Rebecca also recommends Brian Cohen’s How to Write a Sizzling Synopsis as a must-have tool in your writing toolkit.

In This Episode:

• How to craft a compelling blurb that highlights your story’s conflict, stakes, and emotional drive

• Why distinguishing a blurb from a synopsis matters and how it affects reader interest

• A clear five-step process to help you draft, revise, and polish your book blurb

• Ways to use your blurb as a lens for self-editing and improving story cohesion

• Common blurb pitfalls to avoid, from overcrowded character lists to tone mismatches

Recommended Resources:

• Developmental Editing Services (Expert Feedback) – [https://hartboundediting.com]

• Authors’ Alcove Membership Site – [http://authorsalcove.com]

• Book Giveaway – [http://authorsalcove.org]

• Story Grid – https://storygrid.com

• Save the Cat – https://savethecat.com

• How to Write a Sizzling Synopsis by Brian Cohen

[00:00] Intro

[01:51] What is a blurb—and what isn’t it?

[04:17] When should you write your blurb?

[05:42] Why write a blurb before finishing your book?

[06:34] What resources and steps can help you write a strong blurb?

[14:18] How can your blurb help you reevaluate your story?

[22:28] Is it necessary to write your blurb early in the process?

[29:54] What should you do if your blurb and book don’t match?

Curious about how to structure a story plot to create great pacing? Rebecca reveals what makes a good writer great as she dives into what are some good storytelling techniques, explores how to write a good plot for a story, and offers tips on how to improve story writing skills. 

Today, in this newest episode of 52-Week Story Savvy, Rebecca Hartwell (Hart Bound Editing) and aspiring author Agnes Wolfe (Authors’ Alcove) break down one of the trickiest parts of self-editing: pacing. Whether your story drags or moves too fast, Rebecca offers actionable steps to help you fine-tune your emotional rhythm and keep your readers turning pages.

This episode covers everything from identifying when your pacing is off to knowing how (and where) to fix it. You’ll learn how to map emotional highs and lows, structure your scenes for momentum, and avoid the burnout/boredom trap that so many stories fall into. Plus, Rebecca shares pro editor tips like using visual scene mapping, adjusting chapter structure, and avoiding info-dumping while still delivering rich story detail.

In This Episode:

• How to create a visual “pacing map” of your novel using a spreadsheet

• Learn how to ensure every scene moves the story forward

• How to fix pacing without rewriting your entire book

• Solving pacing problems

• Balancing tension with calmer moments. 

Recommended Resources:

• Developmental Editing Services (Expert Feedback) – [https://hartboundediting.com]

• Authors’ Alcove Membership Site – [http://authorsalcove.com]

• Book Giveaway – [http://authorsalcove.org]

• Story Grid – https://storygrid.com

• Save the Cat – https://savethecat.com

[00:00] Intro

[01:28] What Is Pacing?

[03:33]  How Can We Identify Overwriting and Underwriting?

[06:20] How to Know When to Create a Chapter Break, and When to Break Them?

[10:39] How Can We Prevent Our Reader from Getting Bored or Burning Out?

[15:45] What Patterns Should We Have in Emotional Pacing?

[21:52] How Do You Avoid Plodding Along?

[30:43] Actionable Steps To Correct Pacing