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

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

Heather Davis, Writing Coach, Book Coach, and Developmental Editor, Many Worlds Writing
Writing
Save the Cat
Character Development
Writing Techniques
Character Transformation
Speculative Fiction
Dual Point Of View
Act Two
Query Letters
Protagonist
Writing Process
Flawed Protagonists
Story Structure
Pixar
B Story
Novel Rejection
Goal, Motivation, Stakes, and Conflict Chain
LGBTQ+ Representation
Interiority
Narrative Transformation

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 s... more

PublishesTwice monthlyEpisodes47Founded2 years ago
Number of ListenersCategories
BooksHow ToArtsEducation

Listen to this Podcast

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

Latest Episodes

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 inti... more

YouTube

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 str... more

YouTube

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 bestsell... more

YouTube

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 back... more

YouTube

Key Facts

Accepts Guests
Contact Information
Podcast Host
Number of Listeners
Find out how many people listen to this podcast per episode and each month.

Similar Podcasts

Recent Guests

Sam Cameron
Fantasy writer and book coach
Episode: How to Write LGBTQ+ Characters with Confidence and Care: Special Guest Sam Cameron | Episode 20

Host

Heather Davis
Heather Davis is a Certified Book Coach and developmental editor, specializing in supporting writers throughout their creative processes. She has over a decade of experience helping authors improve their manuscripts and navigate the nuances of writing, editing, and publishing.

Reviews

5.0 out of 5 stars from 46 ratings
  • 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 and relevant examples, plus insights into how each sample illustrates the point.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    HypeHurts
    United States10 days ago
  • 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 the episode about opening lines and the episode about crafting backstory.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    ColleenGersheyWrites
    United States10 days ago
  • Full of helpful pointers

    I love this podcast. The episodes are full of clear and actionable information.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Carleton1026
    United States11 days ago
  • Fantastic Podcast for Writers

    Finally a podcast specifically geared towards writers of Speculative Fiction! Heather Davis gives helpful writing tips and uses passages from Science Fiction, Fantasy, and other Speculative novels to illustrate the concepts. Her explanations are concise, logical, and clear. This is one of the best podcasts for writers, and THE best for writers of Speculative Fiction. Highly recommended!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Caged67
    Canada11 days ago
  • Clear, concrete advice every writer needs!

    Heather Davis masterfully delivers writing advice in these concise segments. Interior, backstory, first lines - she covers it all, and breaks it down into actionable tasks with plenty of examples to articulate how to improve one’s writing. A must-listen podcast for writers of every ability.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    true crime fan #1000
    United States11 days ago

Listeners Say

Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.

Many find the targeted approach to speculative fiction refreshing, especially compared to more general writing advice podcasts.
The companion workbooks linked in the show notes enhance the practical value of the episodes, aiding in the application of concepts discussed.
The positive feedback emphasizes the show's effectiveness in enhancing their writing processes while keeping them motivated.
Listeners appreciate the clear and concise writing tips provided, often taking notes due to the actionable advice offered.
Listeners commend Heather for her straightforward guidance, which is devoid of fluff and focuses on useful strategies for overcoming writing challenges.

Chart Rankings

How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.

Apple Podcasts
#229
United States/Arts/Books
Apple Podcasts
#232
Canada/Arts/Books
Apple Podcasts
#59
New Zealand/Arts/Books
Apple Podcasts
#167
New Zealand/Arts

Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

Ask Me Anything Thursdays: Why are agents rejecting my novel? | Writing Techniques & Tips | Episode 32
Q: Why are agents rejecting my novel?
The host discusses various reasons for rejection, such as poor query letters, lack of clarity in stakes, and insufficient emotional depth in characters.
Ask Me Anything Thursdays: Can I write a dual Point of View novel using a mixed POV structure? | Writing Techniques & Tips | Episode 30
Q: Can I write a dual point of view novel using a mixed POV structure?
Yes, it is permissible to mix different POV styles, such as first and third person, if it serves the story well.

Audience Metrics

Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.

Listeners per Episode
Gender Skew
Location
Interests
Professions
Age Range
Household Income
Social Media Reach

Frequently Asked Questions About This Podcast

What is This Podcast about and what kind of topics does it cover?

Focusing on the craft of speculative fiction writing, this podcast addresses common hurdles faced by aspiring authors, such as plot structure, character development, worldbuilding, and the nuances of the publishing pathway. Every episode offers actionable strategies, often enhanced by companion workbooks, providing listeners with concrete advice to improve their writing and storytelling abilities. The engaging content features both instructional sessions and expert interviews, ensuring a well-rounded approach to writing in genres including fantasy, science fiction, and dystopian narratives. Unique in its emphasis on clarity and straightforwardness, the podcast empowers writers to make intentional decisions that enhance their storytelling pr... more

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this podcast launched 2 years ago and published 47 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.

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Recent guests on this podcast include:

1. Sam Cameron

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