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Book Writing Tips: Quick Tips for New and Seasoned Authors
Alba Arango
38 episodes
6 days ago
Struggling to decide when to use dialogue and when to rely on narration in your writing? In this episode, I break down dialogue vs. narration and how each tool shapes pacing, character development, and reader engagement. Learn when dialogue brings scenes to life through authentic voices and emotional exchanges—and when strong narration provides clarity, depth, and momentum. I’ll explore common mistakes writers make, such as overloading scenes with exposition or relying too heavily on dialogue...
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Struggling to decide when to use dialogue and when to rely on narration in your writing? In this episode, I break down dialogue vs. narration and how each tool shapes pacing, character development, and reader engagement. Learn when dialogue brings scenes to life through authentic voices and emotional exchanges—and when strong narration provides clarity, depth, and momentum. I’ll explore common mistakes writers make, such as overloading scenes with exposition or relying too heavily on dialogue...
Show more...
Books
Arts,
Education,
How To
Episodes (20/38)
Book Writing Tips: Quick Tips for New and Seasoned Authors
Episode 37: Dialogue vs. Narration: Finding the Perfect Balance in Your Story
Struggling to decide when to use dialogue and when to rely on narration in your writing? In this episode, I break down dialogue vs. narration and how each tool shapes pacing, character development, and reader engagement. Learn when dialogue brings scenes to life through authentic voices and emotional exchanges—and when strong narration provides clarity, depth, and momentum. I’ll explore common mistakes writers make, such as overloading scenes with exposition or relying too heavily on dialogue...
Show more...
6 days ago
17 minutes

Book Writing Tips: Quick Tips for New and Seasoned Authors
Episode 36: Using Subplots to Add Depth and Meaning to Your Novel
Subplots are more than just side stories—they’re powerful tools for deepening your narrative and enriching your characters. In this episode, I explore how well-crafted subplots can strengthen your main plot, raise stakes, and create a more immersive reading experience. Learn how to use subplots to reveal character backstory, reinforce your central theme, and add emotional complexity to your story. We’ll break down some different types of subplots, how to weave them seamlessly into your main s...
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1 week ago
11 minutes

Book Writing Tips: Quick Tips for New and Seasoned Authors
Episode 35: Writing Great Villains: How to Create Memorable Antagonists Readers Love to Hate
A great story needs a great villain. In this episode, I dive deep into writing great villains and explore what makes an antagonist truly unforgettable. From believable motivations and moral gray areas to powerful backstories and personal stakes, you’ll learn how to create villains that challenge your protagonist and elevate your entire story. Whether you’re writing fantasy, romance, thrillers, or literary fiction, strong antagonists are essential for tension, conflict, and emotional payoff. I...
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2 weeks ago
14 minutes

Book Writing Tips: Quick Tips for New and Seasoned Authors
Episode 34: Using Cold & Flu Moments for Character Development
What if a cold or flu could make your characters stronger? In this episode, we explore how being sick can become a powerful tool for character development in fiction. On a side note, I was actually sick as I recorded this podcast, so it is a little on the shorter side. Helpful links (some are affiliate links): Scrivener (the writing software I use) AlbaArango.com (my website and contact information) The Ruby Diamond (my NEW RELEASE!) #characterdevelopment, #writingcraft, #fictionwritin...
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3 weeks ago
7 minutes

Book Writing Tips: Quick Tips for New and Seasoned Authors
Episode 33: Level Up Your Characters: How Vacations Boost Character Development
In this episode, I explore how using vacations for character development can unlock deeper storytelling and more authentic emotional arcs. Whether your characters are escaping to a sun-soaked beach, trekking through the mountains, or getting lost in a bustling foreign city, travel can reveal who they truly are—and who they might become. I look at how vacations naturally create conflict, growth, and transformation, and why these journeys are powerful tools for authors crafting immersive fictio...
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1 month ago
11 minutes

Book Writing Tips: Quick Tips for New and Seasoned Authors
Getting the Most from Your Beta Readers: How to Collect Truly Effective Feedback
Unlock the secrets to getting effective feedback from beta readers in this insightful episode designed for both new and experienced authors. I break down what questions to ask so you can level up your storytelling with confidence. Learn how to find the right beta readers, set clear expectations, and create feedback forms that help you collect meaningful, actionable insights. Whether you’re writing fiction or nonfiction, this episode offers essential strategies to help you strengthen character...
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1 month ago
14 minutes

Book Writing Tips: Quick Tips for New and Seasoned Authors
Episode 31: Breaking Through Writer’s Block: My Novel November Survival Guide
Struggling to put words on the page during Novel November? You’re not alone. In this episode, I dive into practical, actionable strategies that I used for overcoming writer’s block and reigniting my creative flow. Whether you’re drafting your first novel or pushing through the middle slump, these tips will help you stay inspired, motivated, and consistent throughout this high-energy writing month. Perfect for authors, aspiring writers, and anyone participating in Novel November, this ep...
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1 month ago
9 minutes

Book Writing Tips: Quick Tips for New and Seasoned Authors
Episode 30: Why Storyboarding Makes Writing Easier
In this episode, we dive into the advantages of storyboarding for authors and how it can transform your writing process from chaotic to clear. Whether you're drafting your first novel or outlining your next big series, storyboarding your book helps you visualize plot structure, track character arcs, and maintain seamless pacing. We’ll break down why successful writers use storyboarding as a powerful planning tool, how it supports creativity without stifling spontaneity, and the best methods t...
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1 month ago
14 minutes

Book Writing Tips: Quick Tips for New and Seasoned Authors
Episode 29: Tips Every Writer Needs to Complete Their First Draft
Ready to tackle your first draft but not sure where to start? In this episode, we dive into some essential tips and strategies every writer needs to confidently begin and complete their first draft. From overcoming writer’s block and silencing your inner critic to setting realistic goals and finding your writing rhythm, we’ll walk you through the process of turning that blank page into a finished manuscript. Whether you’re participating in Novel November, starting a new novel, or working on y...
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2 months ago
13 minutes

Book Writing Tips: Quick Tips for New and Seasoned Authors
Episode 28: Ready, Set, Write! Making the Most of Novel November
Get ready for Novel November—the ultimate challenge for writers to unleash their creativity! In this episode, we dive into what makes November such a powerful time for authors, from (former) NaNoWriMo inspiration to practical writing motivation tips. Whether you’re drafting your first novel or polishing your latest masterpiece, this episode offers writing strategies and goal-setting advice to help you stay focused and inspired all month long. Join us for an encouraging episode designed to mak...
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2 months ago
16 minutes

Book Writing Tips: Quick Tips for New and Seasoned Authors
Episode 27: Top Resources Every Author Needs: Tools to Write, Publish & Promote Your Book
In this episode, we’re diving into the best resources for authors—from writing software to promo tools, publishing platforms, and community support networks that help you stay motivated and on track. Whether you're a first-time author or a seasoned writer, having the right tools can make all the difference in your publishing journey. If you're looking to grow your author career, streamline your writing process, and confidently navigate the publishing world, this episode is packed with p...
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2 months ago
20 minutes

Book Writing Tips: Quick Tips for New and Seasoned Authors
Episode 26: Book Signing Essentials: What Every Author Should Bring to Shine at Their First Event
In this episode, we’re diving into the must-have essentials every author should bring to ensure your event runs smoothly and leaves a lasting impression. Learn what to pack on your signing table to stay organized, professional, and ready for anything. We’ll cover everything from book display tips and marketing materials to those small but powerful touches. Whether you’re a self-published author or traditionally published, these book signing essentials will help you build connections, boost sa...
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2 months ago
20 minutes

Book Writing Tips: Quick Tips for New and Seasoned Authors
Episode 25: Bringing Your Setting to Life
In this episode, we dive into the art of bringing your story’s setting to life. A strong setting does more than provide a backdrop—it shapes mood, builds atmosphere, and immerses readers in your fictional world. We’ll explore techniques for worldbuilding, sensory detail, and atmosphere, showing you how to transport readers directly into your story. From small, everyday details that ground your narrative in reality to sweeping landscapes that capture the imagination, you’ll learn how to craft ...
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3 months ago
17 minutes

Book Writing Tips: Quick Tips for New and Seasoned Authors
Episode 24: Why Time and Setting Matter
In this episode, we dive into one of the most overlooked yet powerful tools in storytelling — time and setting. Whether it’s a bustling city in the present day, a quiet village in the 1800s, or a distant planet centuries in the future, when and where your story takes place shapes everything from your characters’ motivations to the tone and pacing of your plot. We’ll explore how time and setting work together to create atmosphere, reveal character, and ground readers in your story’s world.&nbs...
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3 months ago
13 minutes

Book Writing Tips: Quick Tips for New and Seasoned Authors
Episode 23: Writing Stronger Characters Through Food – How Food Reveals Personality & Backstory
In this episode, we explore an often-overlooked storytelling tool: using food for character development. Whether you’re writing fantasy, contemporary fiction, romance, or memoir, the way your characters cook, eat, order takeout, or avoid certain dishes can reveal deep layers of their personality, background, culture, and emotional state. If you’ve ever struggled with flat characters or repetitive dialogue tags, this episode will help you bring your cast to life—one bite at a time. Links from ...
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3 months ago
12 minutes

Book Writing Tips: Quick Tips for New and Seasoned Authors
Episode 22: How to Get a Book Cover That Makes Your Book Stand Out
Your book cover is the first thing readers see—and it can determine whether they click “buy” or keep scrolling. In this episode, we explore how to find a book cover that grabs attention, attracts your ideal reader, and boosts book sales. Whether you’re self-publishing on Kindle Direct Publishing, preparing to launch your first novel, or refreshing an older book, this episode will give you practical strategies to make your cover work for you. Perfect for indie authors, self-publishers, and wri...
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3 months ago
17 minutes

Book Writing Tips: Quick Tips for New and Seasoned Authors
Episode 21: Characters and Tech: How Your Characters Use Technology Can Help with Character Development.
Technology is a huge part of our lives. How your characters use technology is a great way to bring your reader into the setting and help them get to know your characters better. First, I will talk about non-fiction and how you as the author/narrator can incorporate technology into your book (and I do not mean AI). Then I will get into fiction and discuss different ways you can incorporate the characters’ use of technology into the story to help with setting and character development. So...
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3 months ago
15 minutes

Book Writing Tips: Quick Tips for New and Seasoned Authors
Episode 20: 5 Things I Wish I Had Known Before I Published My First Book
5 Things I wish I had known before I published my first book. Hindsight is 20/20, right? Here are the top five things I wish I had known before I self-published my first book. (book 13 comes out October 1st!) #writngtips #writingabook #publishingtips Links from this episode: The Ruby Sapphire (preorder from your favorite bookseller) TikTok (my handle @AlbaArango007) YouTube (my name @AlbaArango) Follow me on TikTok for quick, 60-second videos about writing tips, publishing tips, a...
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4 months ago
15 minutes

Book Writing Tips: Quick Tips for New and Seasoned Authors
Episode 19 : Why Writer's Conferences are Worth the Money
Are writer’s conferences worth the money? Absolutely. In this episode, I will talk about the importance of writer’s conferences for both new/unpublished authors as well as seasoned authors. Links from this episode: TikTok (my new, unhacked, TikTok channel) [@AlbaArango007] Las Vegas Writer’s Conference Other helpful links (some are affiliate inks): Scrivener (the writing software I use) AlbaArango.com (my website) The Lady Ghost (one of my books) Social Media links Instagram Threads YouT...
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4 months ago
12 minutes

Book Writing Tips: Quick Tips for New and Seasoned Authors
Episode 18: How to Begin Paragraphs: Wording Matters
What is the best way to start paragraphs? In this episode, I will delve into the some cautions of writing in first person, especially in regards to paragraph opening sentences, as well as general tips for keeping your writing from becoming monotonous. So, sit back. Relax. And let's talk paragraphs. Links mentioned in this video The Ruby Diamond (release date is October 1) Other helpful links (*note: some are affiliate links) Scrivener (writing software…the one I use) AlbaArango.com (my websit...
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4 months ago
9 minutes

Book Writing Tips: Quick Tips for New and Seasoned Authors
Struggling to decide when to use dialogue and when to rely on narration in your writing? In this episode, I break down dialogue vs. narration and how each tool shapes pacing, character development, and reader engagement. Learn when dialogue brings scenes to life through authentic voices and emotional exchanges—and when strong narration provides clarity, depth, and momentum. I’ll explore common mistakes writers make, such as overloading scenes with exposition or relying too heavily on dialogue...