Shows
Writing Pursuits70: Serial Storytelling - Let's Get Started with Guest, Kimboo YorkKimboo York, author of Become an Unstoppable Storyteller: How to Craft Compelling Serials, gives us the low down on writing serial stories for publication. Serials are a longstanding and honored publishing tradition that are now a growing trend.Guest: Kimboo YorkKimboo York's website: HouseofYork.infoSubstack: https://houseofyork.substack.com/Ream: https://reamstories.com/houseofyork/publicGet your free copy of the First Chapter Rubric.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified EditorKathreseMcKee.com2023-09-2752 min
Writing Pursuits69: Challenges for Late Blooming WritersTips for mature, first-time authors to get over impostor syndrome and conquer self doubt.Mentioned in the episode:AI for Authors: Practical and Ethical Guidelines. Alliance of Independent AuthorsIndependent Book Publishers AssociationQuestion of the week: What is the most challenging part of being a mature author?Get your free copy of the First Chapter Rubric.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified EditorKathreseMcKee.comIf you would like to sign up for a f...2023-09-2007 min
Writing Pursuits68: 10 Reasons to Consider SubstackAn overview of the benefits to authors of using Substack for blogging, newsletters, and a stand-in website.The question of the week is: What email service provider do you use and why?Get your free copy of the First Chapter Rubric.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified EditorKathreseMcKee.comYourFirstChapter.com2023-09-0706 min
Writing Pursuits67: Ethics of ChatGPT for AUthorsExplores plagiarism, academic cheating, intellectual property concerns, and the ethical use of AI by authors.Read the accompanying post at WritingPursuits.com: LINKThe question of the week is: What are your predictions about how authors will use AI in the future?Get your free copy of the First Chapter Rubric.Links:Accompanying post: https://writingpursuits.substack.com/p/ethics-of-using-chatgpt-for-authorsWritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified EditorKathreseMcKee.comYourFirstChapter.com2023-08-3110 min
Writing Pursuits66: Storytelling Revolution: Humans and AI Unite!Interview with J. Thorn, author of Three Story Method: Cowriting with ChatGPT: AI-Powered Storytelling.Join the revolution transforming storytelling as we explore the synergy between human creativity and AI's formidable power. Discover how this union will shape the narratives of tomorrow.J. Thorn has published two million words and has sold more than 185,000 books worldwide. He is an official member of the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America, the Horror Writers Association, and the Great Lakes Association of Horror Writers.J. co-founded the Writers, Ink podcast with J.D. Barker, and has...2023-08-2452 min
Writing Pursuits65: The Power of Story Structure - Pacing and Excitement UnleashedDiscover the key plot points that drive the narrative, from the thrilling inciting event to the breathtaking resolution. Don't miss this in-depth analysis of how structure plays a pivotal role in creating an unforgettable adventure.Resources mentioned:*The Hero with a Thousand Faces* by Joseph Campbell - https://www.amazon.com/Thousand-Faces-Collected-Joseph-Campbell/dp/1577315936/*The Writer's Journey: Mythic Structure For Writers* by Christopher Vogler - https://www.amazon.com/Writers-Journey-Anniversary-Library-Structure/dp/1615933239/*The Heroine's Journey: Woman' Quest for Wholeness* by Maureen Murdock - https://www.amazon.com/Heroines-Journey-Womans-Quest-Wholeness/dp/1611808308/*The Heroine's...2023-07-2818 min
Writing Pursuits64: The Art of Collaboration with JP Rindfleisch IXJP Rindfleisch IX and Kathrese McKee discuss must-know tips for author collaborations. ADDITIONAL LINKS:https://www.jprindfleischix.com/Book 3 of the Leah Ackerman series launched last month!https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B5XWG3G9Story Hypothesis will be coming out in August (no link yet)I also host coworking streams on Twitch with the pomodoro method.https://www.twitch.tv/cheshirepopeRead the accompanying post at WritingPursuits.com: LINKThe question of the week is: Share a collaboration you have been a...2023-07-1929 min
Writing Pursuits63: Building Writing Momentum - Transform Habits with the 12-Week YearThe 12 Week Year - Discover how accountability, commitment, and greatness in the moment can elevate your writing game."The 12 Week Year" by Brian P. Moran and Michael Lennington - https://www.amazon.com/12-Week-Year-Others-Months/dp/1118509234/"The 12 Week Year for Writers" by A. Trevor Thrall - https://www.amazon.com/12-Week-Year-Writers-Comprehensive-ebook/dp/B09CLX3NMK/Question of the week: What does greatness in the moment mean to you?Get your free copy of the First Chapter Rubric.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Met...2023-07-1210 min
Writing Pursuits62: Fantasy Tropes - High Fantasy to Urban DystopiaFantasy authors get to create captivating worlds, epic battles, and unforgettable characters. We do a deep dive into the realms of fantasy subgenres and their tropes.Read the accompanying post at WritingPursuits.com: LINKThe question of the week is: What are your favorite fantasy books, series, or authors?Get your free copy of the First Chapter Rubric.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified EditorKathreseMcKee.comYourFirstChapter.com2023-07-0512 min
Writing Pursuits61: Mastering the Art of Dialogue with Jeff ElkinsJeff Elkins, aka, the Dialogue Doctor, who is an author, podcast host, and writing coach. Jeff shares his experience of conducting over 200 coaching sessions to help authors improve their dialogue and create engaging characters. He explains that the ideas and techniques in his book, "The Dialogue Doctor Will See You Now: How to Write Dialogue and Characters Readers Will Love," were developed through collaborative efforts within the dialogue doctor community. He emphasizes the importance of dialogue in immersing readers in a story and discusses the distinction between dialogue and exposition.Jeff also provides insights on...2023-06-3045 min
Writing Pursuits60: 8 Ways to Make Author ConnectionsMaking connections as writers is important. But how do you go about leaving your shell to make those connections? Here are eight ways to connect.Collaboration for Authors: A Complete Guide to Collaborating, Finding a Partner, and Accelerating Your Author Career by Daniel Willcocks and J. ThornCo-writing a book: Collaboration and Co-creation for Authors by J. Thorn and Joanna PennQuestion of the week: How do you make writing related connections?Get your free copy of the First Chapter Rubric.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @W...2023-06-0210 min
Writing Pursuits59: How to Use Body Language to Improve StorytellingToday, we will cover using body language to improve your writing by conveying emotions, showing instead of telling, boosting characterization, and so much more.Former FBI Agent Explains How to Read Facial Expressions | WIRED - YouTubeQuestion of the week: What are some overused phrases you try to avoid in your fiction writing?Get your free copy of the First Chapter Rubric.Links:The Dictionary of Body Language: A Field Guide to Human BehaviorThe Emotion Thesaurus: A Writer's Guide to Character ExpressionWritingPursuits.com2023-05-2412 min
Writing Pursuits58: 7 Tips to Renew Your Mind and Transform Your Writing58: 7 Tips to Renew Your Mind and Transform Your Writing, focusing on brain health and wellbeing for authors.The question of the week is: How do you refresh and renew your mind?Get your free copy of the First Chapter Rubric.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified EditorKathreseMcKee.comMailerlite (affiliate link)YourFirstChapter.com2023-05-1710 min
Writing Pursuits57: Magic, Myth, and Man - Wield Supernatural Power (6)This is the last part of a six-part World Building Series. Today, we discuss five tips for incorporating myth and magic into your world building.The question of the week is: What are your favorite books, series, or movies that include mythology or magic?Get your free copy of the First Chapter Rubric.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified EditorKathreseMcKee.comMailerlite (affiliate link)YourFirstChapter.com2023-05-1010 min
Writing Pursuits56: Past and Present - Explore History's Legacy (5)In this episode, we cover 5 tips to help your create and remember your world's history and use it to drive your stories forward.The question of the week is: What is your method for creating the history for your fictional worlds, and how do you keep track??Get your free copy of the First Chapter Rubric.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified EditorKathreseMcKee.comMailerlite (affiliate link)YourFirstChapter.comWorld AnvilPlottr.com2023-05-0413 min
Writing Pursuits55: Wheels of Progress - Shape Your World (4)Today, iwe discuss everything from transportation and communication to architecture, construction, technology, and medical knowledge that goes into creating a believable, immersive world. Read the accompanying post at WritingPursuits.com: LINKThe question of the week is: What are your favorite books and movies where these topics played a pivotal role. Share your favorites in the comments?Get your free copy of the First Chapter Rubric.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified EditorKathreseMcKee.comMailerlite (affiliate link)2023-04-2717 min
Writing Pursuits54: Society's Rules - Bend Them, Break Them (3)Society's rules is a part of world building that often does not get enough attention. This is part 3 of a six-part world building series.Helpful Sources:77 Caste System Examples (2023) - Helpful ProfessorElumis - What Are Basic Human Rights?Sanderson's Three Laws of Magic: Worldbuilding Advice for Game MastersThe question of the week is: How have you used society's rules as an important aspect in your stories?Get your free copy of the First Chapter Rubric.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram...2023-04-2423 min
Writing Pursuits53: Nature's Realm - Set the Stage (2)This is part 2 of a 6-part series on Worldbuilding entitled "Natures' Realm: Set the Stage." Discover ways to exploit the setting of your story for plot points and sources of conflict to make your novels more engaging and immersive.Accompanying YouTube video: https://youtu.be/_dl7rvWseqgQuestion of the week: How does the place you set your stories add to the plot and enhance conflict?Get your free copy of the First Chapter Rubric.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified Editor...2023-04-0611 min
Writing Pursuits52: Building Better Worlds & Why It Matters (1)Unlock the secrets of effective world building with the tips from my world building Series. Today, we explore how world building benefits your writing. The question of the week is: What fictional book world have you always wanted to visit and why?Get your free copy of the First Chapter Rubric.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified EditorKathreseMcKee.comMailerlite (affiliate link)YourFirstChapter.com2023-03-3017 min
Writing Pursuits51: ChatGPT for Authors - Pros and ConsIs ChatGPT for Authors? Angela Haas and V.E. Griffith are my guests as we discuss the pros and cons of ChatGPT for writers. Listen in as three authors discuss how they use ChatGPT, its strengths and weaknesses, and the potential legal ramifications.To try ChatGPT, go to https://chat.openai.com/See the video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Jf3h8_bIdkQThe question of the week is: How will ChatGPT fit into your author process?Get your free copy of the First Chapter Rubric.Links:...2023-03-2241 min
Writing Pursuits50: Plottr Tips from a Pro with guest: Troy LambertPlottr is an app that helps authors outline faster, organize smarter, and turbocharge their productivity. Troy Lambert, author of more than 25 mystery novels, reveals how he uses Plottr to keep up with the demanding writing schedule of a commercial writer. Troy reveals his process for plotting, creating character profiles, revision, and keeping the facts straight for his ambitious series.Get a 30-Day Money Back Gurantee at https://Plottr.comMy favorite advice was:If your spouse or a relative asks if you are still doing that writing thing, say, "You bet I am...2023-03-1546 min
Writing Pursuits49: 5 Steps to Fight Author FadeWhat is "Author Fade?" How do you recognize it? And how do you avoid it or recover from it? Learn 5 steps to fight author fade.Read the accompanying post at WritingPursuits.com: https://www.writingpursuits.com/5-steps-to-fight-author-fade/The question of the week is: Do you have tips and tricks for overcoming author fade?Get your free copy of the First Chapter Rubric.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified EditorKathreseMcKee.comMailerlite (affiliate link)YourFirstChapter.com2023-03-0820 min
Writing Pursuits48: How to Write a Strong Synopsis and WhyA synopsis is a useful tool for authors and a necessary one to attract an agent or publisher. Use these tips to make the process easier.The question of the week is: Do you have any pointers or experiences to share about writing synopses?Get your free copy of the First Chapter Rubric.Laube, Steve. 2018. “Book Proposals: The Fiction Synopsis -.” The Steve Laube Agency. https://stevelaube.com/why_write-a-synopsis/Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified EditorKathreseMcKee.comMai...2022-09-2117 min
Writing Pursuits47: Getting to the Finish Line with Guest, Emma DhesiGetting to the finish line for your first book is the most important task for a new author. How do you overcome the obstacles and develop the mindset to get to The End?Emma Dhesi coaching at https://www.emmadhesi.comSpecial offer ending Saturday, September 10, 2022 https://www.emmadhesi.com/21days.The question of the week is: What is your biggest challenge to finish writing your novel?Get your free copy of the First Chapter Rubric.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Met...2022-09-0744 min
Writing Pursuits46: Twelve Great Ways to Find Story IdeasIn this episode of Writing Pursuits, I will discuss twelve ways to find story ideas.Question of the week: What is your favorite method of brainstorming new story ideas?Get your free copy of the First Chapter Rubric.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified EditorKathreseMcKee.comMailerlite (affiliate link)YourFirstChapter.com2022-09-0112 min
Writing Pursuits45: Don't Call It an OutlineThe puzzler approach takes a fair amount of prewriting and preparation before the real work begins, but don't call it an outline.Check out The Heroine's Journey: For Writers, Readers, and Fans of Pop Culture by Gail Carriger for a great addition to your author library.Read the accompanying post at WritingPursuits.com: "Don't Call It an Outline".The question of the week is: How do you map out your stories? What methods work best for you?Get your free copy of the First Chapter Rubric.Links:Wri...2022-08-2415 min
Writing Pursuits44: Use Content Pillars to Generate Strong ContentUse content pillars to generate content for your blog, social media posts, and newsletters. Stop struggling with what to write about in your blog and your author newsletter and your social posts!Who Is Your Ideal Reader Avatar? goes with Episode 2: Who Is Your Ideal Reader?.Use Content Pillars to Generate Strong ContentContent Pillars Exercise downloadable pdf fileThe question of the week is: What are your content pillars?Get your free copy of the First Chapter Rubric.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @Wr...2022-08-1712 min
Writing Pursuits43: Finding Your Mirror MomentThe mirror moment in a story is when the main character experiences a moment of clarity that pushes them to change direction. It is the turning point.That moment of clarity is when your character experiences an ah-hah moment. Most often, it is the unveiling of a truth about—themselves, the world, what they must do if they hope to survive, or what they must do to be "save the world," regardless of the price.Your homework for this episode is to read Write Your Novel From The Middle: A New Approach for Plotters, Pantsers and...2022-08-1010 min
Writing Pursuits42: Seven More Ways to Improve Your ManuscriptThis is part 2 of a two-part series. Part 1 is in Episode 41. Your story is finished. You've reached the end. Your beta readers are waiting, an agent has asked for a full manuscript, or maybe you are getting it ready for your editor. What are some easy ways to immediately improve it before your send it out? Let's find out in this episode of Writing Pursuits.Read the accompanying post at WritingPursuits.com: "Seven More Ways to Improve Your Manuscript." The question of the week is: What is your biggest challenge when you revise your manuscript?2022-08-0314 min
Writing Pursuits41: Seven Easy Ways to Improve Your ManuscriptBefore you send your manuscript to an agent, editor, or your beta readers, use these steps to immediately improve your manuscript.Read the accompanying post at WritingPursuits.com: Seven Easy Ways to Improve Your Manuscript.The question of the week is: What are your favorite last-minute checks before your send your manuscript out?Get your free copy of the First Chapter Rubric.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified EditorKathreseMcKee.comMailerlite (affiliate link)YourFirstChapter.com2022-07-2711 min
Writing Pursuits40: Make a Scene in a Good WayScenes are the building blocks of novel writing. If you master writing scenes, your stories will be unputdownable. Riveting. Engaging. If you are an experienced author, you know these things, but every fiction author must learn how to write a good scene.The question of the week is: How do you know you have reached the end of a scene?Get your free copy of the First Chapter Rubric.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified EditorKathreseMcKee.comMailerlite (affiliate l...2022-07-2010 min
Writing Pursuits39: Ways to Break Through Writer's BlockIs writer's block real? Yes. Can you beat it? What to do when you have writer's block. Writer's block is not a permanent condition, and there are ways to minimize its impact.The question of the week is: What is your favorite way to get unstuck and beat writer's block?Get your free copy of the First Chapter Rubric.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified EditorKathreseMcKee.comMailerlite (affiliate link)YourFirstChapter.com2022-07-1313 min
The Author Life Podcast70: Your Novel's First Chapter: How can you evaluate your story's hook?This week author Crys Cain is joined by special guest Kathrese McKee. They discuss the process that goes into creating your story's hook and why it is so important in attracting your readers.
Question of the week: what is the hook for your current book that you're writing?
References:
Writing Pursuits
First Chapter Rubric
To read the full transcript or comment on the episode: https://theauthorlife.com/70-hook/
Learn more about The Author Life: https://theauthorlife.com2022-07-0514 min
Writing Pursuits38: Fear and Desire, Keys to ConflictFiguring out your characters' fears and deepest needs and desires is a key to characterization and generating conflict for your plot.The question of the week is: How have you used your characters' fears to drive your plot? Or, what is your favorite example of a character's fears driving a plot?Get your free copy of the First Chapter Rubric.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified EditorKathreseMcKee.comMailerlite (affiliate link)YourFirstChapter.com2022-06-2912 min
Writing Pursuits37: Branding for Middle Grade Fiction, Guest - S. A. SchneiderToday, I have a guest, Stephen Schneider, and we will be discussing his middle grade fiction and a few other topics.Stephen writes as S. A. Schneider, and he is a purveyor of fantasy and a travel guide for kids to explore the many worlds found in books. Anyone who has a wolf should be a writer of fantasy, right? Enjoy the adventure.Discovered Wordsmiths (podcast) https://www.discoveredwordsmiths.com/Stephen's website and resources for parents and teachers at https://www.sa-schneider.com/Links:Make sure you get your fr...2022-06-2234 min
Writing Pursuits36: Five Things Authors Should Quit DoingTime is our most precious commodity, but we spend too much effort and thought--too much time--on stuff that actually holds us back. We also avoid a couple of things that make all the difference.Get your free copy of the First Chapter Rubric.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified EditorKathreseMcKee.comMailerlite (affiliate link)YourFirstChapter.com2022-06-1511 min
Writing Pursuits35: Is Kindle Vella for You? Guest: Christine DaigleIn this week's episode, I interview Christine Daigle about her experience with Kindle Vella, and she gives lots of tips and insights for successfully writing serial fiction. Christine is co-writing two Kindle Vella series with Stewart Sternberg under the pen name of L. P. Styles. Guest: Christine Daigle who co-writes with Stewart SternbergAuthor Website: https://www.christinedaiglebooks.com/L. P Styles Website: https://www.lpstylesbooks.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lpstylesbooks/The Molecule Thief on Kindle Vella: https://www.amazon.com/The-Molecule-Thief/dp/B0957CZ7M12022-06-0926 min
Writing Pursuits34: Seven Tips for Using Universal Book LinksThere are plenty of tools and apps to help you market your books, but most of those come at a premium. Today, we are going to look at a free tool that will simplify your life and help you market your books. In fact, you can earn money on books you didn't write by maximizing your affiliate links. Let's learn about Universal Book Links and how to use them.If you would like to sign up for a free Draft2Digital account, I am an affiliate, and this is my link: https://www.d...2022-06-0210 min
Writing Pursuits33: Is Blogging a Waste of Time for Authors?Do authors of books need to write blog posts too? What about doing blog tours during your book launch? Who should blog and who shouldn't? What are the best topics to blog about? Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified EditorKathreseMcKee.comMailerlite (affiliate link)YourFirstChapter.com2022-05-2514 min
Writing Pursuits32: First Chapter Analysis with Guest Alden T BurgessFirst Chapter analysis with Alden Burgess's science fantasy YA novel, The Elusion Crystals. Great discussion with this film maker turned novelist.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified EditorKathreseMcKee.comMailerlite (affiliate link)YourFirstChapter.com2022-05-191h 06
Writing Pursuits31: Eight Ways to Create Margin in Your Author LifeAn emergency in my personal life taught be lessons about needing margin in my life. Here, I share 8 ways I have found to create margin.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified EditorKathreseMcKee.comMailerlite (affiliate link)YourFirstChapter.com2022-05-1209 min
Writing Pursuits30: What is the best email marketing software for authors?What do you do when your email service provider changes their product, changes their pricing, and doesn't let you migrate your data to the new platform? This is what happened to me and thousands of other clients lately when MailerLite rolled out their newer, better, shinier MailerLite and assured their existing clients that the "classic" version would continue to function for some time to come at the existing pricing structure. But all new clients would only be able to sign up for the new MailerLite. This is what I did. Resources:Email Deliverability Test...2022-04-2717 min
Writing Pursuits29: Tips for Writing a Strong Author BiographyYour author biography is your business card, your elevator pitch, and your introduction rolled into one. Taking the time to craft a strong author bio will help you establish a consistent image across your books and across the internet. Authors mentioned in this episode:Lane Rebelo, LCSW at TinySigns.comJen Fisch at KetoInTheCity.comJames L. Rubard at jameslrubart.comLinks:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified EditorKathreseMcKee.comMailerlite (affiliate link)YourFirstChapter.com2022-04-1920 min
Writing Pursuits28: Use Plain Text to Future-Proof Your WritingYou need to consider plain text as a means to future-proof your written work. Why plain text? How hard is it to do? What are the advantages and disadvantages? My suggestions? Let's find out.The question of the week is: What steps have you taken to archive your manuscripts or other important work? Alternate question: What is your favorite text editor or notetaking app?Derek Sivers, "Write plain text files."Shields Up: Take The Five-Day Security Challenge-Shields Up videoLinks:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified E...2022-04-1313 min
Writing Pursuits27: First Chapter Analysis with Katherine VinsonFull episode on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/3LTx2NYPDoMKatherine (Kat) Vinson's website: https://sparksofember.wordpress.com/Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified EditorKathreseMcKee.comMailerlite (affiliate link)YourFirstChapter.com2022-04-0615 min
Writing Pursuits26: Mind Maps for AuthorsMind maps are a powerful way to think about story writing, so today, we are looking at mind mapping software for writers.https://www.coggle.ithttps://www.ayoa.comhttps://www.mindmeister.comLinks:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified EditorKathreseMcKee.comMailerlite (affiliate link)YourFirstChapter.com2022-03-3013 min
Writing Pursuits25: How to Choose Book Writing SoftwareYou want to be an author. Or maybe you already are an author, but for some reason, you are dissatisfied with the book writing software you are currently using. Today, I am going to concentrate on software you would use on a PC or Mac, not standalone writing machines like the Traveler by FreeWrite. So which software should you look at? Which one should you choose? Answers to these questions in Episode 25 of Writing Pursuits.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified EditorKathreseMcKee.com...2022-03-2314 min
Writing Pursuits24: Shields Up! Five-Day Security ChallengeCybersecurityis always a concern, but due to the war in Ukraine, world governments haveissued warnings about data security to protect against hacking. How can authorsprotect their work and take action to protect their data? What easy steps canyou take this week to be in a much better state of preparedness? To be ready?To safeguard your finances and your work? Let's dive into the Five-Day SecurityChallenge in Episode 24 of Writing Pursuits. Resources:• Five-Day Security Challenge especially forauth...2022-03-0918 min
Writing Pursuits23: First Chapter Analysis with Becky Appleby-SparrowIntroducing the First Chapter RubricIn this episode, we analyze Becky Appleby-Sparrow's first chapter of Love Unlikely, a YA romantic fantasy. We use the newly available First Chapter Rubric, available for free at FirstChapterRubric.com.Get your copy and follow along.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified EditorKathreseMcKee.comMailerlite (affiliate link)YourFirstChapter.com FirstChapterRubric.com2022-03-0237 min
Writing Pursuits22: Agent Scams, Shams, & FraudsAn agent can be an invaluable partner, but how do can you tell if an agent is legit? Which literary agents should you avoid? How much do literary agents cost? Do you pay literary agents upfront? Do agents charge fees?Association of American Literary Agents (AALA). Founded in 1991 as the Association of Authors' Representatives (AAR) http://aaronline.org/Find Absolute Write Water Cooler. Look in their "Bewares, Recommendatons & Background Checks" section.PublishersMarketplace. Membership required.QueryTrackerLinks:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method...2022-02-2313 min
Writing Pursuits21: Interview with Valerie Ihsan - Memoirs, Myths, & MemoriesShow NotesWhat is a memoir, really? Why would you choose to write one? Does it have to be 100% factual and accurate? Will you get sued? Answers to these questions and more on Episode 21 of Writing Pursuits.My guest, Valerie Ihsan, is a published author, a story analyst, podcaster, and coach. As a certified Three Story Method editor, she nurtures and empowers authors to create their best work. She specializes in helping writers find the core message of their memoirs; diagnosing underdeveloped areas in their fiction or non-fiction manuscripts with a story rubric; and taking...2022-02-1631 min
Writing Pursuits20: Interview with Jeff Elkins, The Dialogue DoctorShow NotesToday I welcome Jeff Elkins to Writing Pursuits. Jeff is an author of more than 10 novels, an editor, and a professional speaker. He is the host of the Dialogue Doctor Podcast and a Three Story Method Certified editor. Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified EditorKathreseMcKee.comMailerlite (affiliate link)YourFirstChapter.comGuest Links:DialogueDoctor.com2022 Workshops5 Mistakes You're Making with Your Dialogue2022-02-0835 min
Writing Pursuits19: Your First Chapter - The Three CsShow NotesConflict, choices, and consequences are the engine that powers your story and engages your readers. How can you build these three Cs into your first chapter? What are the types of conflict, and how can you use them to your advantage? Finally, what is the fourth C to make your first chapter irresistible? Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified EditorKathreseMcKee.comMailerlite (affiliate link)YourFirstChapter.com2022-02-0219 min
Writing Pursuits18: Your First Chapter - Setting, Normal World, Genre, & StakesShow NotesAs part of the series on how to write a strong first chapter, we consider the setting of the story, the normal world, the types of stakes in a story, and the genre expectations.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified EditorKathreseMcKee.comMailerlite (affiliate link)YourFirstChapter.com2022-01-2613 min
Writing Pursuits17: Your First Chapter - Point of ViewShow NotesToday's Question: What is your favorite kind of point of view and why?Point of view is one of the most important decisions you must make before you begin writing your first chapter. Whose perspective will you choose–yours, one of your characters, or multiple points of view? Which type of point of view will you choose? These questions and more on Episode 17 of Writing Pursuits.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified EditorKathreseMcKee.comMailerlite (affiliate link)...2022-01-1917 min
Writing Pursuits16: Your First Chapter - The HookShow NotesThe first thing a first chapter must do is hook the reader with one or more catchy opening sentences. Learning how to write the first chapter of a book is difficult, but mastering how to write a great first sentence is at least as important. We will cover ways to hook your reader and more on Episode 16 of Writing Pursuits.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified EditorKathreseMcKee.comMailerlite (affiliate link)YourFirstChapter.com2022-01-0620 min
Writing Pursuits15: When Is Your Story Finished?This is the last episode for 2021; please join us again on Wednesday, January 5th for the first episode of 2022.How do you know when your story is finished? The answer to that question is a judgment call with artistic and practical factors to consider. Are you wasting time on endless revisions? What do your readers want? What do agents and publishers want? Is the story long enough or is it too long? How do you know when you’re done writing a book? Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastWriting Pur...2021-12-0814 min
Writing Pursuits14: How to Avoid Plot ConvenienceWhat is a plot convenience? Can you identify examples of plot convenience in books and movies? Learn how to avoid plot convenience in your novels.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastWriting Pursuits Author CommunityWordMarkerEdits.comKathreseMcKee.comMailerlite (affiliate link)2021-12-0117 min
Writing Pursuits13: Debunking Author MythsEpisode 13: Debunking Author MythsThere are several, common myths about writing for a living. Today we discuss and debunk the myths.This week’s question is: What lies are holding you back from writing? Please share.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastThree Story Method Certified Editor What does that mean?KathreseMcKee.comMailerlite (affiliate link)Other Links:Nick Stephenson, Your First 10,000 ReadersKevin Kelly’s article: “1,000 True Fans”2021-11-2411 min
Writing Pursuits12: Big Rocks for 2022The big rocks first principle works, but there are problems with the analogy. For authors, it is essential to decide what your big rocks are to avoid failure. The big rocks first principle works, but there are problems with the analogy. For authors, it is essential to decide what your big rocks are to avoid failure. Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastKathreseMcKee.comMailerlite (affiliate link)2021-11-1713 min
Writing Pursuits11: Use Unreliable Narrators in Your StoriesThe unreliable narrator is a tool every writer needs to have in their toolbelt. What are unreliable narrators, what categories do they fall in, and how do you write them?Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastWriting Pursuits Author CommunityWordMarkerEdits.comKathreseMcKee.comMailerlite (affiliate link)2021-11-1015 min
Writing Pursuits10: Reduce Friction for WritingReducing friction is one of the most overlooked keys to getting things done. For the author, friction can come in many forms, but there are ways to reduce or eliminate friction and get the work started! Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastWriting Pursuits Author CommunityWordMarkerEdits.comKathreseMcKee.comMailerlite (affiliate link)Other links from episode:Leuchttrum1917 journals (Amazon affiliate link)Atomic Habits: An Easy &Proven Way to Create Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear (Amazon affiliate lin...2021-11-0320 min
Writing Pursuits9: Self-Editing OverviewShow NotesIf you can get good at self-editing, you will save money by making it easier and thus less expensive for your editor to do their job. Today, I’m going to give an overview of a process any author can use to save time. You can save yourself from making twenty passes through your manuscript.Links:WritingPursuits.comInstagram: @WritingPursuitsPodcastWriting Pursuits Author CommunityWordMarkerEdits.comKathreseMcKee.comMailerlite (affiliate link)Gue...2021-10-2717 min