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
43 episodes
4 weeks ago
Is your novel idea exciting… but the path from first spark to finished book feels confusing, overwhelming, or totally opaque? Do you daydream about epic worlds, lush magic systems, and big emotions… but worry you’ll never quite figure out how to actually build the story (or the career) you want? You’re not alone. I’ve worked with so many talented writers whose imaginations are on fire, but who feel stuck between drafting, revising, worldbuilding, and navigating the publishing landscape. The c...
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Is your novel idea exciting… but the path from first spark to finished book feels confusing, overwhelming, or totally opaque? Do you daydream about epic worlds, lush magic systems, and big emotions… but worry you’ll never quite figure out how to actually build the story (or the career) you want? You’re not alone. I’ve worked with so many talented writers whose imaginations are on fire, but who feel stuck between drafting, revising, worldbuilding, and navigating the publishing landscape. The c...
Is your novel idea exciting… but the path from first spark to finished book feels confusing, overwhelming, or totally opaque? Do you daydream about epic worlds, lush magic systems, and big emotions… but worry you’ll never quite figure out how to actually build the story (or the career) you want? You’re not alone. I’ve worked with so many talented writers whose imaginations are on fire, but who feel stuck between drafting, revising, worldbuilding, and navigating the publishing landscape. The c...
Is your writing polished but still not hitting with the emotional punch you want? Do your scenes look great on the surface… but readers don’t lean in, don’t feel connected, and don’t feel compelled to turn the page? You’re not alone. I’ve read thousands of opening pages from talented writers who have gorgeous prose, solid craft, and thoughtful worldbuilding. But something still feels a little flat. Competent, but not electric. Beautiful, but not alive. The missing ingredient is almost always ...
Self-publishing can feel overwhelming, confusing, and expensive… but it doesn’t have to stay that way. In this episode, I sit down with publisher, book coach, and summit host Alexa Bigwarfe (founder and CEO of Write|Publish|Sell and the Women in Publishing Summit) to break down your publishing options and demystify what it really takes to self-publish like a pro. You’ll learn how to choose the right path for your book, where to invest your money, and how to start thinking like an author–entre...
Writing with ADHD can feel like chaos — but it doesn’t have to. In this episode, I sit down with book coach and author Nicole Bross to explore brain-friendly strategies that help neurodiverse writers focus, follow through, and finally finish their drafts. You’ll learn how to design a writing process that fits your brain instead of fighting against it. We’ll talk about: ✨ Why persistence matters more than consistency for ADHD writers ✨ How to outline without killing your creativity...
Feedback can transform your writing — or completely derail your confidence — depending on how you understand it. In this episode, Heather breaks down the four types of writing feedback every author needs to know (and only one that truly helps you improve). You’ll learn how to tell the difference between feedback that leaves you spinning your wheels and feedback that actually moves your story — and your skills — forward. We’ll talk about: ✨ Why “positive” and “negative” feedback aren’t helpful...
Is your story built on a rock-solid foundation—or is it wobbling under the weight of weak structure, thin characters, or unclear purpose? In this episode of Speculative Fiction Made Simple, I break down the four essential elements every novel must have to truly resonate with readers, hook agents, and stand out in today’s crowded market. 💡 Spoiler: These are totally learnable skills you can start applying right now. You will learn: Why clarifying your novel’s point is the single most important...
👉 Click here to grab your free ticket to the WorldShift: Speculative Fiction Writers’ Summit and hear Lisa Cron’s summit presentation—plus 30+ other craft-deep sessions from top speculative fiction coaches, authors, and industry pros. Most of what you’ve been taught about writing is wrong. At least, that’s what bestselling author and story coach Lisa Cron (📚 Wired for Story, Story Genius, Story or Die) believes—and she’s here to prove it. In this deep, no-fluff conversation, Lis...
Worried you’ll get it wrong when writing a character whose identity isn’t your own—and that you’ll hurt someone, face backlash, or be told you shouldn’t even try? But at the same time, you know that leaving out marginalized identities doesn’t feel right either—especially when you’re building entire worlds from scratch? You’re not alone. And this episode is for you. In this powerful, honest conversation, I sit down with the brilliant Alex Temblador—award-winning author of Writing an Identity N...
So many writers dream of getting a traditional book deal—but the process to get there can feel confusing, overwhelming, and totally out of reach. In this episode, I’m giving you a bird’s-eye view of the entire traditional publishing journey—from that first spark of a novel idea to the moment you finally see your book on the shelf. We’ll talk about what really goes into landing a literary agent, what happens once you’ve signed with one, and why it’s never too early to start thinking ...
How do you write an ending so compelling that readers not only finish your book but immediately tell their friends, “You HAVE to read this”? Well, that’s a big question—but one thing’s for sure: a strong story structure is essential. In this episode, we’re tackling Act 3 of the Save the Cat story structure framework. I’ll break down how to craft a climactic, unforgettable ending—one that surprises readers, leaves them deeply satisfied, and makes them eager to grab your next book. What You’ll ...
Are you sending out queries but only getting form rejections—or worse, no responses at all? Maybe you're receiving personalized rejections that praise your concept but still pass on your book? If you’re struggling to understand why agents aren’t biting, this episode is for you. In today’s Ask Me Anything Thursday, I’ll break down the biggest reasons novels get rejected—and what you can do to fix them. Whether it’s your query letter, voice, stakes, or character depth, I’ll walk you through pra...
Does your novel feel have a saggy middle? Does it just meander around without a lot of momentum? In this episode, I’ll walk you through Act 2 of the Save the Cat story structure—a simple, effective tool to shape your novel into a story readers can’t put down. Learn how this flexible plotting method can keep your story on track while leaving plenty of room for creativity and unexpected inspiration. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How to keep the middle of your novel from dragging—and why t...
Ask Me Anything Thursdays: Can I Mix POV Styles in a Dual POV Novel?Have you ever wondered if you can write a dual POV novel where one protagonist is in first person and the other is in third? In this episode, I answer this question from fantasy writer Becca and break down when and how this technique can work beautifully in speculative fiction.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why mixing POVs can be a powerful storytelling tool.How to decide which protagonist should be in first person.The key...
Does your novel feel like it’s wandering aimlessly, struggling to find direction? In this episode, I’ll walk you through the first five beats of the Save the Cat story structure—a simple, effective tool to shape your novel into a story readers can’t put down. Learn how this flexible plotting method can keep your story on track while leaving plenty of room for creativity and unexpected inspiration.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why Save the Cat is the perfect balance of structure and creati...
Ask Me Anything Thursdays answering the podcasting question "How do I make sure my protagonist is lovable?"Are you struggling to create a protagonist readers truly care about? In this episode, I share four actionable strategies to help you craft a dynamic, relatable protagonist readers won’t forget.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why connecting readers to your protagonist matters.How to make your characters feel authentic and compelling.Ways to add depth and resonance to your storytelling.T...
Are you looking to level up your writing in 2025? In this episode, I dive into three incredibly valuable ways you can improve your writing, get answers to your important writing questions, and get valuable feedback on your work for FREE. Tune in to learn how to navigate your writing challenges and set yourself up for success in 2025!This episode was produced by me, The Speculative Fiction Book Coach! Contact me at heather@manyworldswriting.com Join My Email List 📧 Click HERE to join my ...
Click HERE to find Comp Titles Crash Course!$97 for limited time!Comp titles--they might be one of the most dreaded topics in the writing world. After all, most of us are writing novels that feel unique, so trying to find a novel “like” ours is a nearly impossible feat. In fact… It's a frustrating, overwhelming task that makes us feel more than a little salty. But, the truth is, comp titles are a necessary evil. And if you give yourself the time, space, and tools to do the work properly,...
The opening scene of your novel is arguably the most crucial part of your book. If it doesn’t capture readers' curiosity and imagination, they won’t keep reading. No wonder the opening scene is notoriously hard to write!But don’t worry—I’m here to help simplify and clarify the progress!In this episode, you’ll discover:5 Essential Questions you MUST answer when writing your opening sceneWhether backstory and context are essential or just a recipe for info dumpingWhy character flaws and problem...
Writer's block is one of the most challenging hurdles an author can encounter. It has the power to derail brilliant stories and thwart dreams of becoming a published author. But fear not—there are effective strategies to combat this creativity killer and keep your writing journey on course.In this episode, we'll delve into practical, actionable steps to limit and conquer writer’s block. Whether you're struggling to get started, stuck in the middle of a project, or facing a blank page, I've go...
Most writers understand that creating a character with no flaws is a huge turnoff to readers because it’s hard to feel connected to someone who is perfect and does everything right. But how do you give your protagonist flaws that feel real and authentic instead of superficially layered on? Worry no more! In this episode, we'll dive deep into exactly how to uncover and develop your protagonist's flaws so readers will be hooked.In this episode you’ll learn:The 4 steps to writing a ...
Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple: How to Write, Edit, and Publish Your Debut Fantasy, Science Fiction, or Dystopian No
Is your novel idea exciting… but the path from first spark to finished book feels confusing, overwhelming, or totally opaque? Do you daydream about epic worlds, lush magic systems, and big emotions… but worry you’ll never quite figure out how to actually build the story (or the career) you want? You’re not alone. I’ve worked with so many talented writers whose imaginations are on fire, but who feel stuck between drafting, revising, worldbuilding, and navigating the publishing landscape. The c...
