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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

PublishesWeeklyEpisodes53Founded2 years ago
Number of ListenersCategories
EducationHow ToArtsBooks

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

Age category feels straightforward… until it really, really isn’t.

In this episode, I sit down with Ben Grange to unpack one of the most confusing (and important) decisions a writer can make: how to position your book in the market—and what “age cat... more

YouTube

Struggling to write scenes that actually work—the kind that keep readers turning pages instead of skimming or putting your book down? You’re not alone. In this episode, I’m breaking down what a scene really is (and what it’s not), why so many novels ... more

YouTube

Hybrid publishing gets talked about a lot… and misunderstood even more.

In this episode, I sit down with Megan Sells (Acquisitions Manager and Developmental Editor at Atmosphere Press) to unpack what hybrid publishing actually is—how it differs from... more

YouTube

Think you need an MFA or a creative writing degree to become great at writing? Don't be so sure. 

In this episode, I’m breaking down why so many aspiring authors believe formal education is the key to success, what MFA programs actually teach versus... more

YouTube

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Recent Guests

Megan Sells
Acquisitions Editor and Developmental Editor at Atmosphere Press
Atmosphere Press
Episode: Writing Your Novel Your Way: The Hybrid Publishing Option (with Megan Sells, Atmosphere Press) | Episode 50
Julie Artz
An author, editor, book coach, and dragon who helps writers break the rejection cycle.
Episode: Writing Strong Pitches for Querying Success (with Julie Artz) | Episode 48
Gabriela Pereira
Founder of DIY MFA, an alternative to traditional Master of Fine Arts in writing
DIY MFA
Episode: The Secret to Powerful Writing: Three-Act Structure Demystified with Gabriela Pereira | Episode 46
J.D. Barker
New York Times and international bestselling American author
Episode: Writing That Sells: What New York Times Bestseller J.D. Barker Did Differently | Episode 44
Leslye Penelope
Award-winning author of The Earths Singer Chronicles
Episode: Writing Fantasy, Building Worlds, and Navigating the Publishing World with Leslye Penelope | Episode 42
Alexa Bigwarfe
Founder and CEO of Right Publish Sell and the Women in Publishing Summit
Episode: Writing as a Business: Self-Publishing Like a Pro (with Alexa Bigwarfe) | Episode 40
Nicole Bross
Book coach and author of A Novel Approach, Strategies for ADHD Writers
Manuscript Alchemy
Episode: Brain-Friendly Writing Strategies for Writers with ADHD (with Nicole Bross) | Episode 39
Lisa Cron
Story coach and author of Wired for Story and Story Genius
Episode: Debunking Harmful Writing Myths With Lisa Cron | Episode 36
Alex Temblador
Award-winning author of 'Writing an Identity Not Your Own', 'Half Outlaw', and 'The Secrets of the Casa Rosada'
Various literary publications
Episode: Writing An Identity Not Your Own With Alex Temblador | Episode 35

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

4.9 out of 5 stars from 110 ratings
  • Writing Motivation and Mentoring

    This is a great podcast and has kept me writing and improving my work for many years. Heather is excellent at breaking down tips and guidance to improve fictional writing and I’ve gone back over my works many times after listening to her to follow her guidance.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Phileasfoggy22
    United Kingdom2 months ago
  • Always so helpful!

    I think Heather may be clairvoyant—she seems to know just what I need help with to improve my writing. I come way from each episode with some insight or bit of advice I can apply right away.

    Apple Podcasts
    1
    Bluejaygreenjay
    United States2 months ago
  • Well structured,thoughtful and practical

    This podcast is great and really helpful to new writers who need a little help. I am new to the writing industry and all her tips and tricks are so helpful and I use them constantly. This is the best writing podcast I have listened to for a while and I listen to a lot. I am always eagerly waiting for the next episode. Would strongly recommend for all writers of all ages.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    HHLLMM11
    Australia2 months ago
  • Great for writers

    Super useful writing adobe! Heather knows her stuff!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Kbeacon26
    United States2 months ago
  • Excellent podcast for spec fic writers

    As a beginner writer, Heather’s podcast has been extremely helpful for me. I like how she breaks down writing techniques with clear examples. It makes it easy to learn and she’s such a joy to listen to. I feel more confident in starting to write my first fantasy novel. Highly recommended!!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    LiyanaRj
    United Kingdom2 months 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
#57
Netherlands/Arts/Books
Apple Podcasts
#163
Netherlands/Arts

Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

Writing as a Business: Self-Publishing Like a Pro (with Alexa Bigwarfe) | Episode 40
Q: What is author platform and do we need an email list?
An author platform is where people find you, including your website and social media. An email list is essential because it's the only thing you fully control and a key tool for marketing.
Writing as a Business: Self-Publishing Like a Pro (with Alexa Bigwarfe) | Episode 40
Q: What would you say are the non-negotiables for self-publishing?
Authors need to invest in editing, quality cover design, formatting, and marketing. Understanding and knowing their genre is also crucial.
Brain-Friendly Writing Strategies for Writers with ADHD (with Nicole Bross) | Episode 39
Q: What advice would you give every ADHD writer listening for finishing their book and feeling good about the process?
Be good to yourself. Accept that some days it's not going to go your way, and you're still a writer even when it doesn't.
Writing An Identity Not Your Own With Alex Temblador | Episode 35
Q: What message do you have for writers wanting to write about marginalized identities?
Alex encourages writers to familiarize themselves with the realities of the identities they wish to portray and to engage with works from authors of those communities.
Writing An Identity Not Your Own With Alex Temblador | Episode 35
Q: Can you elaborate on the diversity problem in publishing?
Temblador explains that while there's a perception of progress, many authors from marginalized communities still face systemic barriers in publishing, including biases and unequal opportunities.

Audience Metrics

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

Listeners per Episode
Gender Skew
Location
Interests
Professions
Age Range
Household Income
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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 53 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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What guests have appeared on this podcast?

Recent guests on this podcast include:

1. Megan Sells
2. Julie Artz
3. Gabriela Pereira
4. J.D. Barker
5. Leslye Penelope
6. Alexa Bigwarfe
7. Nicole Bross
8. Lisa Cron

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