In this week’s Story Savvy Series episode, we explore cutting word count effectively and how to avoid repetition in writing—a must-listen Podcast for fantasy writers. Through developmental editing advice and storytelling improvement tips, Rebecca and Agnes discuss editing with integrity, sharing real examples from fantasy novel editing that show how to polish your manuscript with precision.In this episode of the Story Savvy Self-Editing Series, developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and aspiring fantasy author Agnes Wolfe [agneswolfeauthor.com] explore the importance of reducing redundancy in your manuscript. Rebecca explains what counts as repetition, how to identify word echoes and overused phrases, and why trimming these moments can strengthen pacing and polish your final draft.In this episode:How to tell when something’s actually repetitiveSpotting when you’ve both shown and told a momentCutting out overused words and echo phrasesSlimming your story without losing its voiceUsing repetition purposefully to strengthen key moments
Today we discuss all things AI and the writing process as well as editing with integrity. In this podcast for fantasy authors, we talk AI and storytelling ethics, specifically ethical AI use for authors. Rebecca points out the need for protecting author rights, the cognitive impact of AI use, and the environmental cost of AI tools. This is such an important topic, as it will have large impacts on the future of creativity and the arts. Agnes shares her still-evolving perspective on AI and the importance of researching the impacts for yourself.In this episode of the Story Savvy Self-Editing Series, developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and aspiring fantasy author Agnes Wolfe [agneswolfeauthor.com] discuss the highly controversial topic of AI. Rebecca defines the difference between generative AI and assistive AI, the environmental impacts of AI, and the long term effects on the cultural and personal art of writing. In this episode:-Understanding difference between generative and assistive AI-Dangers of using generative AI as an assistive tool-Ethical considerations of using AI-Value of human creativity vs AI generated-Importance of transparency when using AI
Join this podcast for fantasy writers as we dive into fantasy novel editing, practical author self-editing tips, and essential techniques for polishing your manuscript. We’ll break down fixing head hopping, revising narrative style, and refining first person vs third person narration to elevate your storytelling. This episode equips you with actionable strategies that editors use to help fantasy stories shine.Episode 39 of the Story Savvy Series focuses on cleaning up narrative style—specifically your choices of person, tense, and POV. Aspiring fantasy author Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] and developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] explain how to identify inconsistencies, manage dual or multi-POV books, and tackle common tense or pronoun errors. You’ll also learn when it’s safe to experiment with omniscient POV and why consistency builds reader trust and momentum. By the end, you’ll be ready to polish this vital layer of your manuscript.In this episode:-Why person, tense, and POV consistency is critical for immersion-How to spot subtle POV mistakes in your draft-Strategies for balancing first person vs third person narration-Editing tips for multi-POV and omniscient styles-Practical ways to catch tense errors beyond dialogue-Why this stage of self-editing is the right time to polish these issues
Join the Story Savvy Series for expert advice on Podcast for fantasy authors, from mastering Self-editing fiction to spotting flat characters before publication. Rebecca Hartwell and Agnes Wolfe share how originality, revising narrative style, and worldbuilding choices can shape unforgettable novels. You’ll gain practical tips on avoiding common writing mistakes, aligning with genre expectations in fiction, and applying fiction editing strategies that keep readers hooked. Perfect for writers looking to sharpen their craft and shine in the competitive world of fantasy book editing.In this episode of the Story Savvy Self-Editing Series, developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and fantasy writer Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] explore what makes a story feel truly fresh and distinctive. They unpack how to enrich characters and worldbuilding with originality while steering clear of overwriting or drifting too far from genre norms. You’ll learn actionable methods for spotting tired or repetitive elements, striking the balance between familiar tropes and creative twists, and weaving in unique touches that make your novel stand out.In this episode: -Why uniqueness helps your novel stand out in a crowded market-How to avoid being either too predictable or too strange-The “food metaphor” approach to understanding genre expectations-Practical exercises for adding inventive details to characters and worldbuilding-When to leave beloved tropes alone and innovate elsewhere-Tools for spotting flat, boring, or derivative aspects in your draft
This episode explores pacing pitfalls writers, novel structure pacing, and self-editing strategies for writers, focusing on how to create smooth transitions that keep readers engaged. We dive into scene-level editing and editing scene flow, unpacking how clarity in transitions impacts focal length in narration and helps in maintaining story momentum. With these practical insights, you’ll gain actionable tools to strengthen your fiction and avoid common mistakes that derail storytelling flow.In this episode of the Story Savvy Self-Editing Series, developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell and aspiring fantasy author Agnes Wolfe dig into one of the most overlooked but critical aspects of writing: transitions. From time jumps to POV shifts, and from white space to chapter breaks, they cover how to guide readers smoothly through changes without losing momentum or clarity.In this episode, you’ll learn:-The basics of signaling jumps in time, location, and POV-Why clarity in transitions is vital for reader immersion-Common mistakes writers make with scene breaks-Structural rules for breaks (scene, chapter, or whitespace)-How to maintain momentum when transitioning-What “focal length” means and how it impacts storytelling-When to summarize versus dramatize passages of time-How to stay consistent with multiple timelines or POVs-Tips for handling fantasy-specific transitions like teleportation or time travelRecommended Resources-Need a Developmental Editor? www.hartboundediting.com
In our ongoing series on self-editing strategies for writers, we take a closer look at novel structure pacing from the perspective of scene-level editing. This episode contrasts scene pacing vs global pacing, showing how writers can strengthen both big and small moments. Along the way, Rebecca offers insightful author self-editing tips in this engaging podcast for fantasy writers.In episode 36 of the Story Savvy Self-Editing series, developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and aspiring fantasy author Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] dive into scene-level pacing, how to make your climaxes land, prevent overwritten details that exhaust your reader, and ensure that every scene contributes meaningfully to the story. Together, they contrast scene pacing with global pacing, discuss strategies to keep readers engaged, and explain how to identify moments that should be trimmed, cut, or expanded.Rebecca highlights why overwriting small moments and under-writing big ones is the most common pacing issue she sees, and shares actionable tools to recalibrate your story. They cover pitfalls like underwritten climaxes, accidental big moments, and small details that pull unnecessary weight in a scene.You’ll learn:-The difference between scene-level and global pacing-How to structure big moments for maximum payoff-Practical ways to keep small moments small-How to spot and fix accidental big moments-Why climaxes often fail and how to prevent it
Discover how character-driven description, writing with your senses, and editing descriptive passages bring stories to life. This podcast for fantasy authors delivers writing immersive description, showing vs telling through senses, and editing tips for indie authors so you can create strong, unforgettable prose.Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] dive into why these “lesser” senses often go underused, and how to weave them in with intention. Whether you’re writing action scenes, quiet moments, or emotionally-charged character beats, you’ll walk away with practical tools for elevating your story and editing with confidence.You’ll learn:How to decide which senses matter most for your characterWhy touch and smell reveal more than you thinkWhen too much description becomes purple proseTips for adding sensory depth without overloading your proseWhy slower scenes need more sensory detail—not lessHow to connect senses with POV for stronger immersionWhat mistakes most authors make with sensory description
Strong scenes start with writing sight and sound, backed by smart show don’t tell writing tips and clear writing immersive description. In this podcast for fantasy authors, we cover how to avoid flat writing, master writing strong descriptions, and apply editing tips for indie authors. Whether you’re focused on writing believable settings or learning how to edit your book yourself, this podcast for fantasy writers gives you practical strategies to sharpen your story.In this podcast for fantasy authors, we unpack how sight and sound create immersive worldbuilding and help you refine your self-editing process. Learn practical tips for balancing sensory immersion, improving fantasy novel editing, and aligning sensory detail with point of view. If you’ve ever wondered how to write strong descriptions, how to avoid info-dumps, or how to edit your book yourself, this podcast for fantasy writers is for you.Developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and fantasy author Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] discuss how to choose the right sensory details, avoid common pitfalls, and connect readers to characters through purposeful description. They also cover how to adjust your approach depending on genre, audience, and scene type.You’ll learn:-How to decide what readers need to see and hear-Why protagonist description matters early in the book-Tips for using vocabulary and POV to guide immersion-How to avoid repetitive sensory choices-When to slim down description (and when to expand it)-Rules of thumb for writing description in action scenes-How sensory detail sets tone and reveals worldbuildingRecommended Resources-Need a Developmental Editor? hartboundediting.com
Join us on this podcast for fantasy writers as we explore self-editing strategies for writers that elevate clothing in fiction, weather, and societal detail into tools for immersive story world development. Rebecca Hartwell and Addie Dulac explain how using worldbuilding details like garments, transportation, and seasonal shifts can do more than set the stage—they can change the story. If you’re looking for practical advice on how to build fictional worlds that actually influence plot and character, this episode is full of smart, actionable guidance.In this podcast for fantasy authors, we examine tangible worldbuilding, from costuming and coinage to cities, carriages, and climate. You’ll learn how to use setting details to complicate your plot, reinforce theme, and shape tone—all while avoiding common self-editing pitfalls. Whether you write fantasy or historical fiction, this episode will sharpen your self-editing eye and deepen your story’s immersive power.Want to make your worldbuilding not just present—but impactful? In this episode, developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and historical romance author Addie Dulac dive into how to integrate physical world elements in ways that change your story’s direction and enhance character arcs. They explore how tangible details like weather, transportation, and clothing can create turning points, tension, and emotional beats that resonate.You’ll learn:-How to identify and fix shallow or surface-level worldbuilding-Ways to make tangible elements change your plot—not just decorate it-What to ask yourself about setting on the scene and story level-How to avoid “just in case” exposition with a “just in time” approach-When realism matters—and when to lean into reader expectationsRecommended Resources-Need a Developmental Editor? hartboundediting.com-Author’s Alcove Membership: authorsalcove.com-Read Addy DuLac’s books here: www.addydulacauthor.net
In this podcast for fantasy authors, we explore self-editing strategies for writers with a focus on writing believable fantasy worlds through strong story world development. Episode 32 of the Story Savvy series dives deep into writing societal norms in fiction, helping authors enhance their worldbuilding during the editing process. If you're working on a draft and want your world to feel immersive and intentional, this episode is packed with insights on fantasy novel editing and the nuances of culture, religion, and worldview that shape unforgettable stories.Join developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and guest co-host Addy DuLac, stepping in for Agnes Wolfe of Authors’ Alcove [authorsalcove.com], as they dig into how to evaluate your worldbuilding for immersion, clarity, and internal logic. Addy DuLac is a published author of interracial historical romance, known for One Season with the Duke and the Troublemakers Trilogy, a series that blends heart, humor, and heat with a deep respect for cultural nuance and historical weight.Whether you're writing fantasy, historical fiction, or anything in between, this episode offers actionable strategies for ensuring your world’s values, speech patterns, and beliefs serve the story—and never pull your readers out of it.You’ll learn:-How to define your world’s mindset through character behavior and voice-What “reader dissonance” is—and how to avoid it-When (and how) to explain culturally unique elements-Why consistency is more important than realism-How to track intangible worldbuilding details across drafts-Tools for keeping invented cultures authentic and immersiveRecommended Resources-Need a Developmental Editor? hartboundediting.com
Struggling with how to fix flat scenes or improve character-driven scenes in your novel? This podcast for fantasy writers offers expert writing tips for fiction authors, including how to craft writing realistic character reactions and anchor every chapter with a strong scene core event. We cover essential tools for self-editing characters, enhancing story structure and character roles, and mastering how to balance dialogue and action. Whether you’re deep into fantasy novel editing or looking for book editing for indie authors, this episode helps you write scenes that truly resonate.In this podcast for fantasy authors, we explore how to self-edit stagnant scenes and breathe life into every chapter. Join developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and author Addy Dulac filling in for Agnes Wolfe with Authors’ Alcove as they unpack what scene stagnation looks like, why it’s a problem, and how to fix it through better structure and variety. Addy DuLac is a published author of interracial historical romance, known for One Season with the Duke and the Troublemakers Trilogy, a series blending humor, heart, and heat.From writing character-driven scenes to managing scene transitions and avoiding dialogue-heavy lulls, this episode offers scene-level editing tools to help writers refine their storytelling. Whether you're polishing a first draft or prepping for publication, these tips will help ensure your scenes keep readers engaged.You’ll learn:-How to recognize when a scene has gone flat-The difference between slow pacing and stagnation-Tips to strengthen scenes through setting, agency, and tension-How to choose the right fix for your stagnant scene-When to slim down dialogue or break up exposition-How scene type variety and POV rotation keep stories freshRecommended Resources-Need a Developmental Editor? hartboundediting.com
In this podcast for fantasy authors, we cover story consistency editing, building character-driven scenes, and crafting the perfect scene core event. Learn practical tips for self-editing characters, improving fantasy novel editing, and aligning story structure and character roles. If you're focused on writing strong story beats, how to write strong scenes, or how to edit your book yourself, this podcast for fantasy writers is for you.Want to improve your character development in fantasy writing? In this episode, developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] joins fantasy author Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] to explore how to build compelling, consistent characters that don’t fall flat.They share how to spot inconsistencies in character behavior, what makes a character feel two-dimensional, and ways to make your cast more distinct—without resorting to extreme traits or stereotypes. Whether you’re editing your first draft or refining your final manuscript, this episode will help you bring your characters to life in a meaningful, grounded way.In this episode, we learned:-How to define your characters through character statements-Ways to check for and fix character flatness-Tips for writing believable dialogue and distinct voices-Techniques for avoiding trope fatigue while still honoring genre-How to use role, reaction, and motivation to create differentiation
Looking for developmental editing for characters? In this episode, we discuss editing characters for depth, creating unique supporting characters, and making characters distinct. So whether you're working on character voice development, defining character agency in storytelling, or improving character arcs, this episode will help you apply strong story structure and character roles to your fantasy novel. It's packed with practical insights for anyone learning how to edit your book yourself or aiming to become what makes a good writer great.Want to improve your character development in fantasy writing? In this episode, developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] joins fantasy author Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] to explore how to build compelling, consistent characters that don’t fall flat.They share how to spot inconsistencies in character behavior, what makes a character feel two-dimensional, and ways to make your cast more distinct—without resorting to extreme traits or stereotypes. Whether you’re editing your first draft or refining your final manuscript, this episode will help you bring your characters to life in a meaningful, grounded way.You’ll learn:-How to define your characters through character statements-Ways to check for and fix character flatness-Tips for writing believable dialogue and distinct voices-Techniques for avoiding trope fatigue while still honoring genre-How to use role, reaction, and motivation to create differentiation
Are you writing a fantasy romance novel? Rebecca Hartwell gives developmental editing tips on what makes a good writer great! In this episode we discuss everything from character development in romance, genre expectations in romance and other romance novel writing tips. In this self-editing series for authors, you will learn how to edit your book yourself. Want to know how to write a romance or love story that delivers emotional payoff? In Episode 28, developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and fantasy author Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] unpack what makes a great romance—whether it’s the main plot or just a subplot.They break down the most important beats in a romance arc, from the meet cute to the happily ever after, while discussing creative ways to approach genre conventions. Rebecca also explains the difference between romantasy and romantic fantasy, and how to evaluate if you’re writing a romance at all.Whether you’re writing epic fantasy with romantic threads or aiming for a classic love story, this episode gives you actionable tips for writing relationships that resonate.In this episode, you’ll learn:-How a romance differs from a love story-Rebecca’s beat sheet for a satisfying romance-What are the most common romance writing mistakes-How romance differs as a main plot versus subplot-The difference between writing romance in a series versus standalone-Why all tropes and cliches are fairgameRecommended Resources-Need a Developmental Editor? hartboundediting.com-Romancing the Beat by Gwen Hayes-StoryGrid’s Love Story Guide
Want to know how to write a magic system? Rebecca offers developmental editing tips on writing a unique magic system, how to edit your book yourself, and what makes a good writer great. Through this writing advice podcast, every week we discuss editing fantasy novels, fixing story problems, and plot structure advice. In episode 27 of the Story Savvy Self-Editing series, developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and aspiring fantasy author Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] explore magic systems—whether they are hard or soft, how to ensure they're creating consistent world rules, avoiding plot holes, and identifying red flags in revision.Rebecca and Agnes explore the essential elements of crafting compelling magic systems in fantasy writing. They discuss how to integrate magic systems seamlessly into the storyline, avoid common pitfalls, and create unique, well-thought-out worlds that captivate readers. This episode offers actionable advice for aspiring fantasy authors to refine their magic systems during the self-editing process.In this episode you’ll learn: -How to make your magic system an essential part of the plot-Whether your magic leans more toward a hard system or a soft one-Tips for avoiding contradictions and plot gaps in your world-Methods for keeping track of the rules that govern your magic-Why tying your magic system to your story’s core themes matters-Key warning signs to watch for during the self-editing phaseIf you want to turn your good magic system into a great one, this is the episode for you. Recommended Resources-Brandon Sanderson’s articles on soft vs. hard magic systems: -https://www.brandonsanderson.com/blogs/blog/sandersons-first-law
In this week’s Story Savvy Series episode, we receive chapter length advice, scene vs chapter structure, and using word count effectively. So please join developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and author and editor Jena Doyle [jenadoyle.com] as they discuss how to editor your book yourself and what makes a good writer great! Jena is filling in for Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com], to explore practical self-editing strategies focused on word count. Whether your manuscript is bloated or barely hitting the minimum, this episode unpacks how to make every word count—literally.Episode 21 of the 52-Week Story Savvy series explores how to meet genre expectations and refine your novel at the chapter, scene, and sentence level. Together, Rebecca and Jena provide actionable techniques to optimize pacing, balance chapter lengths, and trim or expand your story without losing its heart.They also discuss:-How to identify your ideal word count based on bestselling books-Strategies to tighten bloated manuscripts and cut unnecessary scenes-Smart ways to increase word count without adding fluff-Tips for managing chapter structure and reader flow-Tools like tally counters and search-and-replace to fine-tune your writingWhether you’re aiming to traditionally publish or self-publish, this episode offers essential insights for polishing your manuscript and aligning it with professional standards.Recommended Resources:Hartbound Editing Services – https://hartboundediting.comSilvie Pawn’s Godsend Series – https://www.facebook.com/GodsendSaga
In this week’s Story Savvy series, we continue to talk about how to edit your book yourself, by discussing fixing story problems, where we learn what is Deus ex machina and learn a Deus ex Machina examples. Developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] is joined by author Silvia Pawn who is standing in for Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com]. Deus ex Machina is when outside forces or unexplained powers save the day and strip the protagonist of agency. In episode 20 of 52-Week Story Savvy, they examine how this trope, while rooted in classical theatre, often fails in modern genre fiction.Rebecca and Silvia dive into what makes Deus ex Machina feel unearned, how fantasy and sci-fi allow more room for bending reality, and why grounding your magic or tech in early seeding matters. Silvia also shares from her own work-in-progress, a story about omnipotence, internal conflict, and how collaboration—not one savior—creates resolution.They also dive into strategies for:-Avoiding common Chosen One pitfalls-Seeding power systems or world mechanics early-Creating surprising yet inevitable story payoffs-Using side characters and subtle hints to build tension-Balancing predictability and reader satisfaction-Recognizing when agency theft happens in climaxesWhether you’re revising a magic-heavy manuscript or adapting a D&D campaign into a novel, this episode helps you walk the line between powerful storytelling and narrative shortcuts.Recommended Resources:Hartbound Editing Services – https://hartboundediting.comSilvia Pawn’s Godsend Series – https://www.facebook.com/GodsendSaga
Confused about which plot threads to tie up—and which to let dangle? You’re not alone. Today we discuss when to leave plot threads open, how to track plot threads, and planting story seeds, among other ways of fixing story problems. Listen to Rebecca share her plot structure tips and what makes a good writer great!
Want to know what makes a good writer great? Tune into our writing podcast for authors, where we explore plot structure tips, book editing hacks, and how to self-edit with intentionality. This week’s episode focuses on plot threads, subplots, and story seeds—and how to decide what needs a payoff.
In this episode of the Story Savvy series, developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and aspiring fantasy author Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] dig into whether you need to resolve everything you foreshadowed—and what to do when you don’t.
In this episode you’ll learn:
How to decide whether to tie up a plot thread or leave it unresolved
Best practices for handling open threads in standalone novels vs. series
The difference between seeds and subplots—and why it matters
How to track emotional payoff and avoid disappointing your readers
The editing power of creating simple lists to manage subplots, characters, and setups
If you’ve ever felt like your ending was almost satisfying—but something was missing—this episode is for you.
Recommended Resources
Need a Developmental Editor? hartboundediting.comAuthor’s Alcove Membership: authorsalcove.comFantasy Book Giveaway: AuthorsAlcove.org
Chapters[00:00] Intro[00:27] Understanding Plot Threads[01:38] When Not to Tie Up Plot Threads[03:01] Foreshadowing in Series Writing[05:03] Best Practices for Leaving Threads Open[07:36] Tying Up Loose Ends[09:51] Tracking Seeds and Subplots[13:23] Understanding Seeds vs. Subplots[15:30] Ensuring Payoff for Seeds[18:01] The Importance of Intentionality
Feeling tangled in too many storylines? Wondering if your subplot is helping—or hurting—your novel? You’re not alone.Want to know what makes a good writer great? Tune into our writing podcast for authors, where we explore plot structure tips, how to structure a story plot, and book editing hacks. This week’s focus: plot threads and subplots. In this week’s episode of the Story Savvy series, developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and aspiring fantasy author Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] unravel the confusion around subplots vs. plot threads. You’ll learn how to identify your main plot, what subplots are worth keeping, and how to revise your story so it most satisfies your reader. If you've ever forgotten to tie up a subplot, or tried to juggle too many plotlines and lost your readers along the way—this one's for you.This episode covers:How to figure out which plot is your novel’s backbone–main plotThe difference between plot threads and subplotsWhy less (subplots) is sometimes moreHow to check if a subplot is actually landing with your audienceWhen a subplot might need to be cut altogetherWhether you're editing your manuscript or plotting your next draft, this episode will give you tools to create tighter, more powerful fiction—without sacrificing depth.Recommended Resources:Need a Developmental Editor? Hart Bound EditingAuthor’ Alcove Membership: http://authrosalcove.comFantasy Book Giveaway: AuthorsAlcove.orgChapters[00:00] Intro[01:11] Understanding Main Plots vs. Subplots[04:32] The Importance of Knowing Your Primary Plot[06:04] Defining Plot Threads and Subplots[09:05] Balancing Subplots: Too Many or Too Few?[11:00] Evaluating Subplots During Revision[14:12] Connecting Subplots to the Main Plot[16:05] Common Mistakes in Subplot Integration[20:33] Wrapping Up Subplots, Is It a Must?
Do you ever wonder what makes a good writer great? In this week’s writing podcast for authors, we dig into one of the most overlooked tools in self-editing: consequences and emotional processing. Whether you’re looking for book editing hacks, story pacing strategies, or help with editing fantasy novels, Episode 24 of the Story Savvy Series tackles it all. In this episode, we’re diving into one of the most powerful ways to level up your writing—making sure your big story moments actually land. If you’ve ever written a scene that felt important but somehow fell flat, this one’s for you.
Developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell (hartboundediting.com) and fantasy author Agnes Wolfe (authorsalcove.com) team up to explore emotional fallout, plot consequences, and how to make character reactions feel real—without slowing down your pacing.
From plot twists to quiet turning points, you’ll get practical, down-to-earth advice for writing emotional characters, deepening your scenes, and making your story hit harder in all the right places.
They also discuss:
What makes a moment “big” in the first place
How to tell if a scene is missing impact
When it’s okay to delay consequences or emotional fallout
Why a small tweak can save a flat scene
What to do if a character’s reaction feels off
The balance between emotional weight and story momentum
If you want to write stories where every moment matters—and every turning point leaves a mark—this episode will help you get there.
Recommended Resources:Hart Bound Editing Services – [https://hartboundediting.com]Authors’ Alcove Membership Community – [http://authorsalcove.com]Book Giveaway – [http://authorsalcove.org]
[00:00] Intro[01:12] Checking for consequences in every scene[03:50] Defining big events in a story[05:25] When big moments don’t impact the plot[07:01] Using consequences to strengthen weak scenes[10:43] The importance of consequences and processing[12:20] Making consequences appropriate in context[14:53] Adding more external consequences[16:53] Genre differences in consequences and processing[20:35] Delaying consequences and processing[28:16] External vs. internal follow-up for big events