Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple: How to Write, Edit, and Publish Your Debut Fantasy, Science Fiction, or Dystopian Novel

Writers often think world-building starts with maps, magic systems, political structures, or pages of lore. But what if it actually starts with your protagonist? In this excerpt from my conversation with Gabriela Pereira for WorldShift 2026 , we explore one of the biggest mindset shifts writers can make about world-building. Gabriela explains why every story—not just fantasy or science fiction—inv...

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 category” actually means behind the scenes. We break down the real differences between middle grade, YA, new adult, and adult fiction… and why those lines...

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 fall flat at the scene level, and the essential elements that make a scene engaging, cohesive, and impossible to ignore. Whether you’re drafting or r...

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 traditional publishing and self-publishing, why it’s often confused with vanity presses, and how authors can decide if it’s the right path for them. W...

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 what commercial fiction truly requires, and how to build a smarter, more intentional path to mastering writing on your own. If you’ve been wonder...

Feeling overwhelmed by querying—or stuck in the rejection cycle with no clue what’s “wrong”? You’re not alone. In this episode, I sit down with Julie Artz (author, editor, book coach, and dragon 🐉) to demystify what agents actually want—and how to build a pitch package that makes them want to read more. We break down what’s inside today’s modern pitch package (including the two pieces Query Manag...

Struggling to make your scenes feel tense, gripping, and impossible to look away from? You’re not alone. In this episode, I’m breaking down why so many scenes feel flat even when the stakes seem high, what writers often get wrong about conflict, and how to build the kind of tension that keeps readers glued to the page. If your scenes feel a little too easy on your characters (and your readers), th...

Struggling to make sense of story structure—or wondering if you’re doing it “wrong”? You’re not alone. In this episode, I sit down with Gabriela Pereira, founder of DIY MFA, to talk about story structure in a way that feels empowering instead of intimidating. We zoom in on the classic three-act structure (and why it’s classic , not universal), break down the role of pivot points, and explore how s...

Struggling to craft that perfect first sentence? You're not alone. In this episode, I'm sharing why your novel’s opening line matters more than ever in today’s distracted world, how to avoid the most common first-line pitfalls, and three powerful strategies to spark reader curiosity from the very first word. Whether you're revising or just starting out, this writing episode will hel...

In this episode, I sit down with New York Times bestselling author J.D. Barker to talk about writing that sells—without sacrificing craft, creativity, or your sanity. J.D. shares his unconventional journey from ghostwriter and book doctor to bestselling author, along with the systems, habits, and strategic decisions that helped him build a thriving, long-term writing career. You’ll learn: ✨ How J...

Do you know your story needs backstory… but every time you try to include it, it just feels wrong?   Clunky. Awkward. Like the story suddenly stumbles instead of flowing forward. Or maybe you’ve gone the opposite direction—cutting nearly all the backstory out because you’ve been warned about info dumping—only to realize your scenes now feel thin, confusing, or emotionally flat. You’re not doing an...

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 fee...

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...

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 rig...

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...

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...

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...

 👉 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 , St...

 👉 Click here to grab your free ticket to the WorldShift: Speculative Fiction Writers’ Summit and hear Alex Temblador’s summit presentation—plus 30+ other craft-deep sessions from top speculative fiction coaches, authors, and industry pros.  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...

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, w...

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 surprise...

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...

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....

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 c...

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....