Authors' Alcove for Fantasy Writers

In this writer education podcast from the Story Savvy Series, we break down how to use developmental editing advice, the print-and-mark edit method, and storytelling improvement tips to move forward when you're stuck self-editing. Learn how to define theme and message, rethink story structure and editing, and stay focused even when editing repetitive words gets frustrating.Hosted by developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and fantasy author Agnes Wolfe [agneswolfeauthor.com], this episode offers guidance for writers feeling overwhelmed or stalled in the self-editing process. Whether you're fighting decision paralysis or second-guessing structural choices, you'll learn how to make progress without striving for perfection.In this Episode Practical mindset shifts to move past resistance and perfectionismFast placeholders for audience, genre, and theme so you keep momentumScene-level fixes for sticky plot beats and arcsLightweight final-pass cleanups (speaker clarity, typos, scene breaks)How long to try, when to pause, and when to return after outside feedbackResourcesHartbound Developmental Editing - https://hartboundediting.com/Agnes Wolfe - agneswolfeauthor.comDragonheart Academy - Dragonheartacademy.com

In this writing craft podcast episode of the Story Savvy Series, we walk through final checks for manuscripts to get your story ready for beta readers or editors. Featuring smart steps for editing repetitive words, avoiding head-hopping, and using self editing tips for writers to refine pacing and clarity. Whether you're writing fantasy or fiction, this session offers storytelling improvement tips, developmental editing advice, and practical tools to polish your manuscript with confidence.Hosted by Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com], a professional developmental editor, and Agnes Wolfe [agneswolfeauthor.com], an emerging middle-grade fantasy author, this episode breaks down how to wrap up your final self-edit and prep your book for outside eyes. A must-listen if you’re nearing the end of revision and want to make it count.In this Episode What “final checks” cover: gaps, placeholders (TK/TBD), and last-pass polishSystems for flagging unknowns (unique markers + searchable notes)Quick wins you can make now for a visibly cleaner draftHow much polish to do before beta readers vs. developmental editorsWhat to do when decisions are still undecided—and how to brief readersUsing lists and workspaces to remember “come back to this” itemsDeciding when this pass is truly the final editResourcesHartbound Developmental Editing - https://hartboundediting.com/Agnes Wolfe - agneswolfeauthor.comDragonheart Academy - Dragonheartacademy.com

In this deep-dive on self editing character names, we break down how to avoid similar character names, apply smart naming conventions in fiction, and make effective decisions around title vs name usage. Packed with self editing tips for writers and practical developmental editing advice, this episode offers focused tools to polish your manuscript and strengthen clarity in character presentation across genres.Join developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and aspiring author Agnes Wolfe [agneswolfeauthor.com] as they break down the craft of naming in fiction through discussion and actionable advice. Their back-and-forth offers both professional insight and writer-focused clarity, helping you approach character names with purpose, consistency, and confidence during the revision process.Creating a character name database for clarity and consistencyChecking for look-alike or sound-alike character namesConfirming invented terms are relevant and reinforced in the storyManaging character name changes and cultural sensitivity during editsChoosing between proper names and functional titles when introducing charactersResourcesHartbound Developmental Editing - https://hartboundediting.com/Agnes Wolfe - agneswolfeauthor.comDragonheart Academy - Dragonheartacademy.com

Too much showing can bog your pacing; too much telling can flatten your emotion. This writing podcast for authors in the Story Savvy Series explores that delicate equilibrium with narrative distance explained in practical terms. You’ll uncover how to avoid info dumps, weave exposition naturally, and recognize when direct telling enhances reader understanding. Combining self editing tips for writers with developmental editing advice, the episode guides you toward stronger storytelling choices that polish your manuscript and keep your readers immersed from start to finish.In this episode of the Story Savvy Self-Editing Series, developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and aspiring fantasy author Agnes Wolfe [agneswolfeauthor.com] examine the pitfalls of exposition and over-description. Rebecca discusses how to balance show versus tell, write essential context without info dumping, and maintain narrative momentum through clear, purposeful prose.In this episode:Balancing show vs. tell for stronger storytellingRecognizing over-showing and trimming excess detailAvoiding exposition overload in your scenesUsing telling strategically for smoother pacingReplacing info dumps with purposeful, timely details

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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 unresolvedBest practices for handling open threads in standalone novels vs. seriesThe difference between seeds and subplots—and why it mattersHow to track emotional payoff and avoid disappointing your readersThe editing power of creating simple lists to manage subplots, characters, and setupsIf you’ve ever felt like your ending was almost satisfying—but something was missing—this episode is for you.Recommended ResourcesNeed a Developmental Editor? hartboundediting.comAuthor’s Alcove Membership: authorsalcove.comFantasy Book Giveaway: AuthorsAlcove.orgChapters[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