Writers, Ink: Your backstage pass to the world's most prolific authors From sitcoms to horror, how screenwriting can help shape your novel with Brian McAuley.
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Sep 2, 2025 Brian McAuley, a screenwriter-turned-author known for his award-winning works, shares his journey from childhood inspirations to successful novels. He explores how outlining novels like screenplays can enhance character development and storytelling. The conversation dives into the unique challenges of transitioning from film to writing horror narratives, emphasizing the importance of structure and engaging scenes. McAuley also shares insights on balancing writing with teaching and offers valuable tips for aspiring writers in crafting compelling narratives.
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TV Movies Train Pacing
- TV movie thrillers teach fast pacing and regular cliffhangers because of commercial breaks.
- That structure trains writers to create chapter breaks that keep readers returning.
Outline Like A Screenwriter
- Outline novels like screenplays: scene-by-scene translating into chapter beats to track dramatic movement.
- Ask who wants what, what blocks them, and whether they achieve it to organically create the next scene.
Use Many Craft Tools
- Read craft books broadly and internalize multiple structures rather than follow one formula religiously.
- Use corkboards and index cards to pin key premise scenes and then earn larger set pieces between them.
