Welcome to episode 86 of the Course of Action podcast! Today, we have a special guest, Terrence McCauley, an award-winning and bestselling author known for his captivating westerns, crime novels, and his latest novella, "Chicago '63." Terrence McCauley is a talented author with a passion for storytelling and a deep understanding of the publishing industry.
In this episode, Terrence shares insights into the process of publishing and submitting work for awards, as well as discusses the importance of finding the right publisher or agent who understands and appreciates your writing style. Terrence emphasizes the significance of researching and targeting the right awards for your genre and style of writing, and investing in your writing through award submission. He provides tips on
crafting a compelling submission package, including a well-written synopsis and
a captivating excerpt.
Terrence delves into the art of fiction writing and the elements that make a story engaging. He shares his approach to character development, emphasizing the importance of creating relatable and multi-dimensional characters. Terrence
discusses the significance of plot structure and pacing in keeping readers hooked from beginning to end. He offers advice on balancing dialogue and narrative to create a seamless reading experience.
The Novella vs. The Novel
Terrence explores the unique challenges and advantages of writing novellas compared to novels. He discusses how novellas allow authors to explore a specific theme or idea in a concise and focused manner. Terrence shares his experience writing "Chicago '63" and how the novella format allowed him to capture the essence of the story in a shorter length. Chicago ’63 is a gripping novella about the
first African-American Secret Service Agent surrounded around a dark conspiracy
and the sitting President’s office travel to the windy city.
Jeff and Terrence share their love for cigars and how they have become a part of his writing routine, especially while writing Chicago ’63. He discusses how cigars help him relax, focus, and find inspiration during the writing process. Terrence explains the connection between cigars and the contemplative nature of writing, creating a conducive environment for creativity.
Get your copy of Chicago '63 today: https://amzn.to/4bxqIcp
Timestamps:
0:00 - Intro
4:45 - History Lesson
5:40 - Westerns
13:00 - Publishing Awards
15:30 - Writing Fiction
18:20 - Ghostwriting
21:40 - Cigar Rundown
31:00 - New Novella/Chicago '63
41:40 - The Dossier Question
Find more about Terrence McCauley at terrencemccauley.com
Find more about “The Dossier” and Jeff Circle at: jeffcircle.com/the-dossier/
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