Advertise on podcast: Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple: How to Write, Edit, and Publish Your Debut Fantasy, Science Fiction, or Dystopian No

Rating

★★★★★

4.9

from

44 reviews

Description

Have you ever had a story idea you love—a vivid world, compelling characters, big themes—but every time you sit down to write, something just… isn’t working? If that sounds familiar, you’re in the right place. Welcome to Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple. In each episode, I tackle one specific problem standing between you and a cohesive, compelling book—whether that’s character arc, plot structure, backstory, worldbuilding, magic systems, genre clarity, revision, or the publishing path. Some episodes are focused teaching sessions where I break down craft and process step by step, and others feature in-depth conversations with industry experts—authors, editors, agents, and publishing professionals—who share real-world insight into what actually works. No vague advice. No craft mysticism. Just concrete, actionable strategies you can apply immediately (often with free companion workbooks linked right in the show notes). This podcast is here to help you stop spinning your wheels and start making confident, intentional story choices—so your novel feels grounded, emotionally powerful, and readable all the way through. I’m your host, Heather Davis—Author Accelerator Certified Book Coach, developmental editor, host of the WorldShift Writing Summit, podcaster, and fellow speculative fiction writer. I’ve spent over a decade helping writers untangle messy drafts, fix stories that almost work, and build novels from the ground up in a way that’s sustainable and actually makes sense. And let’s be honest: writing a good novel—the kind readers want to finish, recommend, and come back to—is hard. This podcast doesn’t promise shortcuts or overnight success. Instead, it embraces the real, messy, challenging work of storytelling—and gives you the tools to do it well. If you’ve ever found yourself typing questions like these into Google, this show is for you: What is show don't tell?What's the difference between scenes and chapters?How do I use Save the Cat to structure my novel without it feeling formulaic?How do I include backstory without info-dumping?Why isn’t my magic system working in my story?How do I revise a novel without getting overwhelmed?How do I write character driven stories? How do I develop my author Voice?How do I write fantasy, romantasy, dystopian, science fiction, magical realism, paranormal, horror, or other speculative genres?How do I develop my protagonist?What is interiority?How do I determine the these and Point of my novel? How do I create a character arc for my protagonist? etc. So if you’re ready to write a novel you’re proud of—one that holds together, makes readers think, and earns their trust—go ahead and follow or subscribe. It’s the easiest way to support the show and make sure you don’t miss what’s coming next. Next steps: If you want to go deeper, get on my email list so you don’t miss my free and paid classes, workshops, and free writing sprints: 👉 https://resources.manyworldswriting.com/U2F1zO Have a question or want to reach out directly? You can email me anytime at [email protected] Until next time, keep writing, keep dreaming, and remember: the world needs your stories right now. Don’t give up on your novel—or yourself.

Unlock Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple: How to Write, Edit, and Publish Your Debut Fantasy, Science Fiction, or Dystopian No podcast Email contact info,
Listeners & Audience details

Email contact information

Direct podcast contact details

Listeners

Audience numbers & engagement insights

Audience details

Podcast Insights

Podcast episodes

Check latest episodes from Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple: How to Write, Edit, and Publish Your Debut Fantasy, Science Fiction, or Dystopian No podcast

The Secret to Powerful Writing: Three-Act Structure Demystified with Gabriela Pereira | Episode 46

2026/02/04

Struggling to make sense of story structure—or wondering if you’re doing it “wrong”? You’re not alone. In this episode, I sit down with Gabriela Pereira, founder of DIY MFA, to talk about story structure in a way that feels empowering instead of intimidating. We zoom in on the classic three-act structure (and why it’s classic, not universal), break down the role of pivot points, and explore how structure works best as a crosscheck rather than a paint-by-numbers formula. You’ll learn: ✨ Why the three-act structure works—and why it isn’t universal or rigid ✨ Gabriela’s “3 + 2 = 1” framework (three acts, two pivot points, one cohesive story) ✨ How to navigate Act Two without falling into the dreaded “and then… and then…” trap ✨ What the midpoint and Dark Night of the Soul are really doing for your protagonist ✨ How different types of endings work (and how to choose the right one for your story) If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by story structure or unsure why something in your draft just isn’t working, this episode will help you move from instinct to intention—and finally see where your story needs support. 👉 Join Heather's email list for FREE and paid writerly goodies! https://resources.manyworldswriting.com/U2F1zO 👉DIY MFA Starter Kit at DIYMFA.com/join Ask Me Anything Thursdays👋 Send me your writing question! I'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Include your name if you want a shout out! 🤗 🌻 Podcast Giveaway Entry Form 🌻 Support the show

The Art of Writing Irresistible First Lines | Episode 45

2026/01/28

Struggling to craft that perfect first sentence? You're not alone. In this episode, I'm sharing why your novel’s opening line matters more than ever in today’s distracted world, how to avoid the most common first-line pitfalls, and three powerful strategies to spark reader curiosity from the very first word. Whether you're revising or just starting out, this writing episode will help you grab attention—and keep it. In this episode, I break down exactly how to write killer first lines—the kind that spark instant curiosity, hook readers emotionally, and make them need to keep reading. We’ll talk about what first lines are actually for (hint: it’s not being pretty or clever), what not to do, and the simple but powerful strategies that make an opening line irresistible. You’ll learn: ✨ Why first lines matter more than ever—and how reader distraction changes what works ✨ The most common first-line mistakes that quietly kill curiosity (and what to do instead) ✨ What creating curiosity actually means—and how to do it without confusing your reader ✨ The three most effective types of killer opening lines, with clear examples you can apply immediately If your current first line feels bland, safe, or like it’s just… there—and you’ve been telling yourself you’ll “fix it later”—this episode will show you how to fix it, and what to aim for instead. By the end, you’ll understand how to turn your opening line into a true reader-hooking powerhouse—and why this one sentence sets the tone for everything that follows. 👉 Join my email list for FREE and paid writerly goodies! https://resources.manyworldswriting.com/U2F1zO Ask Me Anything Thursdays👋 Send me your writing question! I'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Include your name if you want a shout out! 🤗 🌻 Podcast Giveaway Entry Form 🌻 Support the show

Writing That Sells: What New York Times Bestseller J.D. Barker Did Differently | Episode 44

2026/01/21

In this episode, I sit down with New York Times bestselling author J.D. Barker to talk about writing that sells—without sacrificing craft, creativity, or your sanity. J.D. shares his unconventional journey from ghostwriter and book doctor to bestselling author, along with the systems, habits, and strategic decisions that helped him build a thriving, long-term writing career. You’ll learn: ✨ How J.D. went from writing bestsellers under other people’s names to betting everything on his own career ✨ Why he self-published his first novel—and how that decision helped him break into traditional publishing ✨ What publishing looks like now (and why books need to be nearly “five-star ready” before agents or editors ever see them) ✨ His daily writing routine, word-count goals, and rituals for staying productive year after year ✨ How and why he uses outlining now—and what he learned plotting alongside James Patterson ✨ His approach to backstory, pacing, and suspense (including how he knows when readers are skimming) ✨ How beta readers actually help him shape stronger, more engaging novels ✨ Why thinking differently—especially when it comes to promotion—has been key to his success ✨ What it really takes to build a writing career that balances creativity, business, and real life If you’re serious about writing books that connect with readers and building a sustainable author career in today’s publishing world, this episode offers a candid, practical look at what works, what’s changed, and how you can approach your writing with both confidence and strategy. Join my email list for FREE and paid writerly goodies! https://resources.manyworldswriting.com/U2F1zO Ask Me Anything Thursdays👋 Send me your writing question! I'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Include your name if you want a shout out! 🤗 🌻 Podcast Giveaway Entry Form 🌻 Support the show

Writing Backstory That Actually Works (5 Guidelines You Must Know!) | Episode 43

2026/01/14

Do you know your story needs backstory… but every time you try to include it, it just feels wrong? Clunky. Awkward. Like the story suddenly stumbles instead of flowing forward. Or maybe you’ve gone the opposite direction—cutting nearly all the backstory out because you’ve been warned about info dumping—only to realize your scenes now feel thin, confusing, or emotionally flat. You’re not doing anything wrong. Backstory is one of the most misunderstood elements of writing a novel. In this solo episode, I break down how to write backstory that actually works—backstory that deepens character, clarifies motivation, and pulls readers closer instead of pushing them away. This episode pairs closely with Episode 41 on Interiority, and together they form a powerful foundation for writing scenes that feel emotionally alive and fully grounded. You’ll learn: ✨ Why backstory is non-negotiable—and why the real problem isn’t having backstory, but how it’s used ✨ The five core guidelines that make backstory feel seamless instead of disruptive ✨ How framing backstory through interiority transforms it from explanation into emotional experience ✨ The difference between vague, abstract backstory and specific, concrete details readers can visualize ✨ How to place backstory inside a scene so it feels triggered, relevant, and purposeful ✨ Why “less backstory” isn’t always the answer—and how to find the right dosage ✨ How to use backstory to illuminate the present moment without stopping the story cold If your backstory feels clunky, misplaced, or never quite right—and you’re tired of guessing what to cut or keep—this episode will give you a clear, practical framework for using backstory with confidence. By the end, backstory won’t feel like a liability. It’ll feel like one of your strongest storytelling tools. Join my email list for FREE and paid writerly goodies! https://resources.manyworldswriting.com/U2F1zO Ask Me Anything Thursdays👋 Send me your writing question! I'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Include your name if you want a shout out! 🤗 🌻 Podcast Giveaway Entry Form 🌻 Support the show

Writing Fantasy, Building Worlds, and Navigating the Publishing World with Leslye Penelope | Episode 42

2025/12/10

Is your novel idea exciting… but the path from first spark to finished book feels confusing, overwhelming, or totally opaque? Do you daydream about epic worlds, lush magic systems, and big emotions… but worry you’ll never quite figure out how to actually build the story (or the career) you want? You’re not alone. I’ve worked with so many talented writers whose imaginations are on fire, but who feel stuck between drafting, revising, worldbuilding, and navigating the publishing landscape. The creativity is there. The ambition is there. But the process still feels murky and out of reach. The missing ingredient is almost always the same: a clear, sustainable way to develop both your novel and your author career, from someone who’s walked the hybrid path. In this interview, I sit down with award-winning fantasy author Leslye Penelope to talk about how she develops a novel from idea to finished book, how she balances traditional and self-publishing, and how she builds powerful worlds, magic systems, and character arcs without losing creative control. You’ll learn: ✨ How Leslye went from self-publishing A Song of Blood and Stone to landing a St. Martin’s Press deal (and a spot on Time’s list of the 100 Best Fantasy Novels of All Time) ✨ Why she chose to self-publish first as a Black epic fantasy romance author—and how she protected her vision and her rights ✨ The levels of professional editing she invested in as an indie author ✨ How she structures her writing life as a hybrid author, including her co-writing sessions, fast-drafting process, and multi-draft revision approach ✨ The plotting frameworks she leans on ✨ How she approaches character work using wounds, misbeliefs, Enneagram types, and theme so her protagonists actually arc on the page ✨ Her philosophy of worldbuilding ✨ How she designs magic systems with real limits and costs, drawing on research and lived traditions so the magic feels fresh. If you’re dreaming of a long-term speculative fiction career but feel overwhelmed by the craft, the worldbuilding, and the business side, this episode will give you a grounded, practical roadmap for developing your next novel (and protecting your creative freedom) from first spark to final draft. Join my email list for FREE and paid writerly goodies! https://resources.manyworldswriting.com/U2F1zO Grab Leslye's FREE worldbuilding checklist right here! Ask Me Anything Thursdays👋 Send me your writing question! I'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Include your name if you want a shout out! 🤗 🌻 Podcast Giveaway Entry Form 🌻 Support the show

Make Your Writing Unputdownable Through Interiority | Episode 41

2025/12/03

Is your writing polished but still not hitting with the emotional punch you want? Do your scenes look great on the surface… but readers don’t lean in, don’t feel connected, and don’t feel compelled to turn the page? You’re not alone. I’ve read thousands of opening pages from talented writers who have gorgeous prose, solid craft, and thoughtful worldbuilding. But something still feels a little flat. Competent, but not electric. Beautiful, but not alive. The missing ingredient is almost always the same: interiority. In this solo episode, I break down what interiority actually is, why it is the most important element of your novel, and how to use it to create characters readers feel bonded to from page one. You’ll learn: ✨ What interiority really is and why it is more essential than plot or character arc ✨ Why readers need both your protagonist’s emotions and their interpretation of events ✨ The difference between dry narration and interiority-rich writing (with examples from Suzanne Collins and Rebecca Yarros) ✨ The first major Pillar of Interiority: Intellectual and Emotional Processing ✨ How to use therapist-style questions to deepen your protagonist’s internal world ✨ A simple technique to place interiority on the page so it feels seamless, natural, and woven directly into the story ✨ How external action and internal processing work together to hook readers and agents from the very first page If your scenes feel distant, flat, or like something important is missing, this episode will teach you how to bring your protagonist’s mind onto the page in a way that feels organic, alive, and completely unputdownable. Join my email list for FREE and paid writerly goodies! https://resources.manyworldswriting.com/U2F1zO Grab the free Interiority Workbook (examples, graphics, and guiding questions) in the show notes. Ask Me Anything Thursdays👋 Send me your writing question! I'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Include your name if you want a shout out! 🤗 🌻 Podcast Giveaway Entry Form 🌻 Support the show

Writing as a Business: Self-Publishing Like a Pro (with Alexa Bigwarfe) | Episode 40

2025/11/19

Self-publishing can feel overwhelming, confusing, and expensive… but it doesn’t have to stay that way. In this episode, I sit down with publisher, book coach, and summit host Alexa Bigwarfe (founder and CEO of Write|Publish|Sell and the Women in Publishing Summit) to break down your publishing options and demystify what it really takes to self-publish like a pro. You’ll learn how to choose the right path for your book, where to invest your money, and how to start thinking like an author–entrepreneur instead of “just” a writer with a dream. We’ll talk about: ✨ The real differences between traditional, hybrid, and self-publishing (and who each path serves best) ✨ Why self-publishing is not the “free” option and the core investments you need to plan for ✨ The non-negotiables for a professional book: editing, cover design, formatting, and more ✨ How knowing your genre (and your reader) shapes everything from your story beats to your marketing ✨ What “author platform” actually means and why your email list matters more than any social feed ✨ Simple ways to start building an audience before your book is finished, even if you feel “brand new” ✨ How to approach self-publishing like a long game, including realistic timelines and expectations ✨ When a pen name or hybrid press might make sense for your goals and how to avoid predatory vanity presses By the end, you’ll have a clearer picture of your publishing options and a practical roadmap for treating your book like the powerful, long-term asset it can be, instead of a one-and-done passion project. Grab Alexa’s free Publishing Pathways & Distribution Guide HERE. Ask Me Anything Thursdays👋 Send me your writing question! I'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Include your name if you want a shout out! 🤗 🌻 Podcast Giveaway Entry Form 🌻 Support the show

Brain-Friendly Writing Strategies for Writers with ADHD (with Nicole Bross) | Episode 39

2025/10/22

Writing with ADHD can feel like chaos — but it doesn’t have to. In this episode, I sit down with book coach and author Nicole Bross to explore brain-friendly strategies that help neurodiverse writers focus, follow through, and finally finish their drafts. You’ll learn how to design a writing process that fits your brain instead of fighting against it. We’ll talk about: ✨ Why persistence matters more than consistency for ADHD writers ✨ How to outline without killing your creativity ✨ Simple ways to handle distractions and idea overwhelm ✨ What to do when perfectionism or fear of failure creeps in ✨ How to embrace messy first drafts and make revision the fun part ✨ Nicole’s free writing habit tracker that turns progress into motivation By the end, you’ll have a gentler, more sustainable way to write — one that honors how your brain actually works and helps you bring your stories to life with less struggle and more joy. Join my email list for FREE and paid writerly goodies! https://resources.manyworldswriting.com/U2F1zO Grab Nicole’s Writing Habit Tracker — a spreadsheet that tracks your daily word count, changes color when you hit your target, and turns habit-building into a visual game. Pick up a copy of Nicole's bestselling book A Novel Approach: Strategies for ADHD Writers HERE. Ask Me Anything Thursdays👋 Send me your writing question! I'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Include your name if you want a shout out! 🤗 🌻 Podcast Giveaway Entry Form 🌻 Support the show

4 Types of Writing Feedback Every Author Must Understand | Episode 38

2025/10/08

Feedback can transform your writing — or completely derail your confidence — depending on how you understand it. In this episode, Heather breaks down the four types of writing feedback every author needs to know (and only one that truly helps you improve). You’ll learn how to tell the difference between feedback that leaves you spinning your wheels and feedback that actually moves your story — and your skills — forward. We’ll talk about: ✨ Why “positive” and “negative” feedback aren’t helpful labels ✨ The difference between praise, growth, general, and specific feedback ✨ The single quadrant of feedback that will supercharge your development as a writer ✨ How to stop fearing critique and start using it to become a stronger storyteller By the end, you’ll know exactly what kind of feedback to ask for (and give!) so you can connect more deeply with your story — and your readers. 💌 Want a visual of the four feedback types? Grab the feedback graphic HERE! Ask Me Anything Thursdays👋 Send me your writing question! I'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Include your name if you want a shout out! 🤗 🌻 Podcast Giveaway Entry Form 🌻 Support the show

The 4 Non-Negotiable Writing Foundations Every Novel Needs | Episode 37

2025/09/25

Is your story built on a rock-solid foundation—or is it wobbling under the weight of weak structure, thin characters, or unclear purpose? In this episode of Speculative Fiction Made Simple, I break down the four essential elements every novel must have to truly resonate with readers, hook agents, and stand out in today’s crowded market. 💡 Spoiler: These are totally learnable skills you can start applying right now. You will learn: Why clarifying your novel’s point is the single most important step in your storytelling processHow to design a protagonist with depth, conflict, and a powerful character arcWhat kind of worldbuilding actually matters (and what you can safely skip)How to structure your plot so every beat drives transformation and delivers on your story’s promiseIf your novel feels shaky or stuck, this episode will give you the blueprint to shore it up and move forward with confidence. Join my email list for FREE and paid writerly goodies! https://resources.manyworldswriting.com/U2F1zO Ask Me Anything Thursdays👋 Send me your writing question! I'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Include your name if you want a shout out! 🤗 🌻 Podcast Giveaway Entry Form 🌻 Support the show

Debunking Harmful Writing Myths With Lisa Cron | Episode 36

2025/08/13

👉 Click here to grab your free ticket to the WorldShift: Speculative Fiction Writers’ Summit and hear Lisa Cron’s summit presentation—plus 30+ other craft-deep sessions from top speculative fiction coaches, authors, and industry pros. Most of what you’ve been taught about writing is wrong. At least, that’s what bestselling author and story coach Lisa Cron (📚 Wired for Story, Story Genius, Story or Die) believes—and she’s here to prove it. In this deep, no-fluff conversation, Lisa and I dismantle some of the most damaging writing myths that keep authors stuck—like “backstory should be used sparingly,” “don’t tell us what your character’s thinking,” and “hold back information for a big reveal.” We dig into why these “rules” are not only misguided but can actually drain the emotional power from your story. You’ll learn: Why emotion—not plot—is the true driver of storyHow to build a novel from the inside out (and why starting with plot is a trap)The truth about backstory (and why it belongs on every page)How to craft characters whose internal struggles keep readers hookedThe one question you must answer before you write a single sceneIf you’ve ever felt confused, stuck, or frustrated by conflicting writing advice, this episode will give you clarity, permission, and a fresh, brain-science-backed approach to storytelling that works. Join my email list for FREE and paid writerly goodies! https://resources.manyworldswriting.com/U2F1zO Ask Me Anything Thursdays👋 Send me your writing question! I'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Include your name if you want a shout out! 🤗 🌻 Podcast Giveaway Entry Form 🌻 Support the show

Writing An Identity Not Your Own With Alex Temblador | Episode 35

2025/07/30

👉 Click here to grab your free ticket to the WorldShift: Speculative Fiction Writers’ Summit and hear Alex Temblador’s summit presentation—plus 30+ other craft-deep sessions from top speculative fiction coaches, authors, and industry pros. Worried you’ll get it wrong when writing a character whose identity isn’t your own—and that you’ll hurt someone, face backlash, or be told you shouldn’t even try? But at the same time, you know that leaving out marginalized identities doesn’t feel right either—especially when you’re building entire worlds from scratch? You’re not alone. And this episode is for you. In this powerful, honest conversation, I sit down with the brilliant Alex Temblador—award-winning author of Writing an Identity Not Your Own, Half Outlaw, and Secrets of the Casa Rosada—to talk about how speculative fiction writers can represent identities outside their own with more care, confidence, and nuance. We get into: What most writers get wrong (even with good intentions) The difference between writing and editing identities How to spot unconscious bias and avoid coded stereotypes Why worldbuilding always reflects our world—and what to do about it Plus: her haunted house story (yes, really)If you’ve ever wondered how to get representation right without falling into fear, tokenism, or tired tropes, this episode will change the way you write—and revise—forever. Spoiler: You can do this. And Alex shows you how. $40 off "Writing An Identity Not Your Own: For Fantasy & Sci-Fi Writers" with promo code SPECFIC Sign up here 👉 https://www.alextemblador.com/courses Ask Me Anything Thursdays👋 Send me your writing question! I'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Include your name if you want a shout out! 🤗 🌻 Podcast Giveaway Entry Form 🌻 Support the show

Writing with Publishing in Mind: The Traditional Publishing Pathway Explained | Episode 34

2025/04/24

So many writers dream of getting a traditional book deal—but the process to get there can feel confusing, overwhelming, and totally out of reach. In this episode, I’m giving you a bird’s-eye view of the entire traditional publishing journey—from that first spark of a novel idea to the moment you finally see your book on the shelf. We’ll talk about what really goes into landing a literary agent, what happens once you’ve signed with one, and why it’s never too early to start thinking like a published author. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✨ What traditional publishing actually looks like (and why it takes years—not months). ✨ The 15-step journey from novel idea to bookstore shelf. ✨ How a book coach, critique group, or developmental editor fits into the process. ✨ Why you should start thinking about querying before your novel is even finished. ✨ How to handle rejection without losing momentum—or your mind. Whether you're just starting your novel or you're already on your second revision, this episode will help you understand the traditional publishing path so you can walk it with confidence. Get The Infographic:📚Are you more of a visual person? I totally get it. That's why I created this handy infographic! Join my email list and snag it for free! Program Clarity Chat 🎉🚀 Are you curious whether private book coaching or group book coaching might be right for you? Please click here to sign up for a FREE chat! Join Momentum Writing Sprints! ✍️🏃🏽‍♀️😎Come write with us for FREE every Saturday from 11 am to 12 pm ET! Ask Me Anything Thursdays👋 Send me your writing question! I'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Include your name if you want a shout out! 🤗 🌻 Podcast Giveaway Entry Form 🌻 Support the show

Fix Your Novel with the Save the Cat Blueprint (Act 3) | Writing Tips & Techniques | Episode 33

2025/02/26

How do you write an ending so compelling that readers not only finish your book but immediately tell their friends, “You HAVE to read this”? Well, that’s a big question—but one thing’s for sure: a strong story structure is essential. In this episode, we’re tackling Act 3 of the Save the Cat story structure framework. I’ll break down how to craft a climactic, unforgettable ending—one that surprises readers, leaves them deeply satisfied, and makes them eager to grab your next book. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✨ What makes The Break Into Three the turning point that propels your protagonist into the final act. ✨ How to build a powerful, high-stakes finale that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. ✨ The five essential beats of a strong, emotionally satisfying ending. ✨ Why the Final Image is the key to making your story feel complete—and how to craft one that lingers in readers’ minds. If you want to write an ending that sticks with your readers long after they turn the last page, this episode is for you. Join my email list for FREE and paid writerly goodies! https://resources.manyworldswriting.com/U2F1zO Ask Me Anything Thursdays👋 Send me your writing question! I'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Include your name if you want a shout out! 🤗 🌻 Podcast Giveaway Entry Form 🌻 Support the show

Ask Me Anything Thursdays: Why are agents rejecting my novel? | Writing Techniques & Tips | Episode 32

2025/02/20

Are you sending out queries but only getting form rejections—or worse, no responses at all? Maybe you're receiving personalized rejections that praise your concept but still pass on your book? If you’re struggling to understand why agents aren’t biting, this episode is for you. In today’s Ask Me Anything Thursday, I’ll break down the biggest reasons novels get rejected—and what you can do to fix them. Whether it’s your query letter, voice, stakes, or character depth, I’ll walk you through practical solutions to help your manuscript stand out. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The two main types of rejection and what they reveal about your query and pagesWhy agents pass on a strong premise and how to make your writing irresistibleThe most common query letter mistakes—and how to fix themHow to clarify your stakes so agents (and readers) can’t look awayWhy interiority and emotional depth are non-negotiable in today’s marketAnd so much more!Whether you're drafting or deep in the querying trenches, this episode will give you practical strategies to strengthen your manuscript and improve your chances of landing an agent. Program Clarity Chat 😎🎉📚🚀 Are you curious whether private book coaching or group book coaching might be right for you? Please click here to sign up for a FREE chat! Join Momentum Writing Sprints! ✍️🏃🏽‍♀️😎Come write with us for FREE every Saturday from 11 am to 12 pm ET! Ask Me Anything Thursdays👋 Send me your writing question! I'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Include your name if you want a shout out! 🤗 🌻 Podcast Giveaway Entry Form 🌻 Support the show

Podcast reviews

Read Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple: How to Write, Edit, and Publish Your Debut Fantasy, Science Fiction, or Dystopian No podcast reviews

4.9 out of 5

44 reviews

★★★★★

tvguy56 2026/02/03

I really enjoyed listening and learning

This podcast was enjoyable, fun and made me smile. I learned a lot listening to it. Thanks William as look

★★★★★

RookieRook 2026/02/03

Excellent Writing Advice

Heather always has excellent writing advice. I love her podcasts where she has great examples that are super helpful and easy to understand.

★★★★★

The genuine me 2026/02/01

Superb Writing Advice

I love how Heather gives me a clear range of choices on how I could implement my writing craft. It helps me to understand why I do what I do with my w...

★★★★★

Beth Yurosko 2026/02/01

Podcast is super informative

Heather gives tons of information and practical tips on how to improve your writing. I love how easy she explains complicated storytelling concepts

★★★★★

avethefavej 2026/02/01

Informative!

Every time I listen to HD’s advice, be it the podcast or the newsletter, I have to take notes and I often refer back to those notes because they are a...

★★★★★

sunrhyse 2026/02/01

Super helpful writing podcast!

I have learned so much by listening to this podcast. Heather explains the craft of writing in a clear, understandable way, covering topics thoroughly ...

★★★★★

Karen K. From Chicago 2026/01/31

Great Podcast for Writers

Just listened to the episode on first lines. Heather offers great advice. I’m recommending this podcast to my writing friends, and I can’t wait to lis...

★★★★★

expressgirl727 2026/01/30

Great for Writers

This podcast always presents useful information for writers. It’s digestible and is presented in a way that can be put into practice. I really enjoy l...

★★★★★

BigLeaf3 2026/01/29

Excellent writing advice

Heather focuses on one topic and explores it in depth. She starts with simple explanations and works up to a full understanding. Always provides clear...

★★★★★

ColleenGersheyWrites 2026/01/29

Helpful tips

I’ve listened to several episodes of this podcast and I always come away with some clarity or some ideas on how to improve my wip. I especially enjoy ...

check all reviews on apple podcasts

Advertise on podcast: Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple: How to Write, Edit, and Publish Your Debut Fantasy, Science Fiction, or Dystopian No

Description

Advertise on Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple: How to Write, Edit, and Publish Your Debut Fantasy, Science Fiction, or Dystopian No

Advertise on Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple: How to Write, Edit, and Publish Your Debut Fantasy, Science Fiction, or Dystopian No to promote your brand to thousands of podcast listeners

What do you want to promote?

Ad Format

Campaign Budget

Business Details

Unlock Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple: How to Write, Edit, and Publish Your Debut Fantasy, Science Fiction, or Dystopian No podcast Email contact info,
Listeners & Audience details

Email contact information

Listeners

Audience details

Podcast episodes

Check latest episodes from Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple: How to Write, Edit, and Publish Your Debut Fantasy, Science Fiction, or Dystopian No podcast

Podcast reviews

Read Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple: How to Write, Edit, and Publish Your Debut Fantasy, Science Fiction, or Dystopian No podcast reviews

Podcast sponsorship advertising

Start advertising on Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple: How to Write, Edit, and Publish Your Debut Fantasy, Science Fiction, or Dystopian No relevant audience podcasts

What do you want to promote?

Ad Format

Campaign Budget

Business Details

You may also like to advertise on these Podcasts

Advertise on podcast: Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple: How to Write, Edit, and Publish Your Debut Fantasy, Science Fiction, or Dystopian No

Description

Advertise on Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple: How to Write, Edit, and Publish Your Debut Fantasy, Science Fiction, or Dystopian No

Advertise on Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple: How to Write, Edit, and Publish Your Debut Fantasy, Science Fiction, or Dystopian No to promote your brand to thousands of podcast listeners

What do you want to promote?

Ad Format

Campaign Budget

Business Details

Unlock Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple: How to Write, Edit, and Publish Your Debut Fantasy, Science Fiction, or Dystopian No podcast Email contact info, Listeners & Audience details

Email contact information

Listeners

Audience details

Podcast episodes

Check latest episodes from Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple: How to Write, Edit, and Publish Your Debut Fantasy, Science Fiction, or Dystopian No podcast

Podcast reviews

Read Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple: How to Write, Edit, and Publish Your Debut Fantasy, Science Fiction, or Dystopian No podcast reviews

Podcast sponsorship advertising

Start advertising on Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple: How to Write, Edit, and Publish Your Debut Fantasy, Science Fiction, or Dystopian No relevant audience podcasts

What do you want to promote?

Ad Format

Campaign Budget

Business Details

You may also like to advertise on these Podcasts

Unlock Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple: How to Write, Edit, and Publish Your Debut Fantasy, Science Fiction, or Dystopian No podcast Email contact info,
Listeners & Audience details