Discover the power of voice in writing through a close reading of 'This is How You Lose the Time War'. Explore the unique voices of characters, the impact of diverse voices on narrative depth, and crafting character voices in audiobook narration. Get inspired to emulate strong voices in your own writing and join the Patreon community for ad-free content.

How do you slowly reveal the supernatural in an obviously supernatural story? How can you prepare your audience for a reveal without disclosing it too quickly? If someone is familiar with your writing, they know the genre and what to expect from it. We talk about how we work within these confines while also making space for surprises, magic, and the supernatural. Homework:Do a reread or rewatch of something with a big reveal (like the reveal in "Dark One: Forgotten.") Think about how your understanding of the story has changed since you have that information earlier.Also prepare for our upcoming Deep Dive, by reading through Howard Tayler's Schlock Mercenary. And feel free to re-listen to our interview with Howard earlier this year, here.Thing of the Week:Nope, directed by Jordan PeeleCredits: Your hosts for this episode were Mary Robinette Kowal, DongWon Song, Erin Roberts, Dan Wells, and Howard Tayler. It was produced by Emma Reynolds, recorded by Marshall Carr, Jr., and mastered by Alex Jackson.Join Our Writing Community! PatreonInstagramYouTubeFacebookTwitterSign up for our newsletter: https://writingexcuses.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/writing-excuses2130/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Let's take all our tension tools and apply them in tiny ways. A big application of tension might be an argument between two characters about a course of plot-important action. Microtension might be those characters arguing about how long to boil eggs. In this episode we'll explore some favorite applications of microtension, and the ways in which it can be layered to ramp up the larger, plot-focused tension. Credits: Your hosts for this episode were Mary Robinette Kowal, DongWon Song, Erin Roberts, Dan Wells, and Howard Tayler. It was recorded by Marshall Carr, Jr., and mastered by Alex Jackson.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/writing-excuses2130/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Brandon Sanderson, an acclaimed fantasy author, and Dan Wells, a popular thriller writer, dive into the intricacies of storytelling. They discuss how authorial intrusion can break immersion, with examples from films and literature. The duo highlights the joy of spotting character actors and how familiar faces impact viewer experience. They also analyze the quirks of fictional devices, like 555 phone numbers, and the challenges of word choice in fantasy writing, emphasizing the importance of cultural nuances and thoughtful details in world-building.

Back in February, with Episode 18.8, we began exploring the process of writing a mystery story. That episode led us into a series of six episodes about tension, and the tools we use to create and manage it. And now, with this episode (and a toolbox full of tension) we're ready (we hope!) to revisit the creation of mystery stories. Credits: Your hosts for this episode were Mary Robinette Kowal, DongWon Song, Erin Roberts, Dan Wells, and Howard Tayler. It was recorded by Marshall Carr, Jr., and mastered by Alex Jackson.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/writing-excuses2130/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this podcast, they do a close reading of Red's opening narration to analyze how voice communicates character and world effectively. They discuss drawing readers' attention to key details, suggest rewriting sentences from a work in progress, and provide writing tips. The hosts explore the impact of language on character and world-building, delve into Red's complex nature, and prioritize time and self-care. They also discuss free indirect speech, storytelling techniques, and crafting intriguing plot twists.

Brandon Sanderson and Dan Wells discuss the Hugo Awards and other award shows. They also talk about tortoise care, British slang, and controversies surrounding the Hugo Awards. The chapter descriptions include discussions on tortoise care, raising endangered turtles, 'fly tipping', and the need for reform in the awards system.

Bestselling fantasy author Brandon Sanderson and co-host Dan Wells discuss the complexities of book publishing, sharing crazy signing stories, the challenges of book publicity, and the struggles of the film industry. They touch on topics like the economics of publishing, the midlist, and the evolving strategies of book promotion.

Bestselling fantasy author Brandon Sanderson and author Dan Wells discuss their bucket list aspirations, including changing a Magic the Gathering card and visiting the 7 wonders of the world. They also talk about their dream destinations, media projects they'd like to be a part of, and the allure of space tourism.

Bestselling fantasy author, Brandon Sanderson, and acclaimed author/podcaster, Dan Wells, discuss humorous conspiracy theories like Disney movie titles, glitter conspiracies, fake snow by Bill Gates, hidden planets, flat earth, hollow earth, and more in an entertaining and light-hearted manner on this podcast.