Jerry B. Jenkins’ Writing Advice for New Authors
Have you decided to write a book but feel overwhelmed by everything there is to learn? Wondering where to start, what to write first, or how to know if your writing is any good?In this episode, I talk with New York Times bestselling author Jerry B. Jenkins (215 books, 73+ million copies sold) about how new and beginning authors can start the right way.In this interview, you’ll discover:What your first project should be a book and how it can help you grow quickly as a writer.A mindset shift that will change how you think about feedbackHow to find your writing voiceIf you want practical advice from a seasoned writer that will save you years of frustration, listen in or read the blog version.Support the show
Why Every Author Should Try Writing a Mystery at Least Once
Mystery isn't just a genre. It's a storytelling skill that every author can use to keep readers turning pages, no matter what they write.In this month’s episode, USA Today bestselling mystery author Sara Rosett reveals how writers of any genre can use elements from the mystery genre to keep readers hooked.Whether you write mystery, fantasy, romance, or nonfiction, this conversation will change the way you think about story structure and reader engagement.You’ll discover:Which genres benefit from using elements of mystery writingHow to hide clues and red herrings in a way that feels natural but surprisingCommon mistakes new mystery writers make and how to avoid themIf you want to build stories that feel more immersive, compelling, and satisfying, listen in or read the blog version and make your next story un-put-down-able.Support the show
How to Write Endings Readers Can't Stop Talking About
You’ve heard it said that a great beginning will sell your book, but a great ending will sell your next book.Every bestseller becomes a bestseller because word spreads from reader to reader, and what creates that good word of mouth? Satisfying endings.In this week’s episode, you’ll learn:What makes an ending satisfying (hint: it doesn’t have to be happy!)How endings must vary from genre to genreWhat advantage Christian authors have over secular authors when writing endingsListen in or read the blog version if you want to write an ending that your readers can’t stop talking about.Support the show
Has Christian Publishing Gone Woke?
Many authors have received that dreaded rejection letter from a traditional Christian publisher siting platform size as the reason for the rejection.Is there a platform size that makes you a shoo-in for a traditional Christian publisher? What if even millions of followers can’t get you a contract with a traditional Christian publisher? Is there something else going on?In this episode, Chase Replogle and I discuss trends in Christian publishing that we’ve observed from the inside.We’ll discussWhat makes a Christian publisher “Christian”Questions we ought to be asking of the Christian publishing industryHow Christian authors can navigate the current publishing landscapeListen in or read the blog version to get a behind-the-scenes glimpse into how Christian publishing has changed over the years.Support the show
AI Tools for Authors (Writing Off Social Crosscast)
If social media leaves you drained and you’re unsure what to do with AI, this week’s episode is for you. I recently appeared on the Writing off Social podcast to unpack how authors can step off the social treadmill and put AI to work without losing their voice.In our conversation you’ll learn:What boundaries you can set around your use of AIWhere to start using AI in your workMy prediction for the future of nonfiction (and how to make sure you control your brand of expertise)Listen in or read the blog version and get practical steps for using AI to increase your productivity and relieve you of the writing and publishing tasks you don’t enjoy.Support the show