A good developmental editor is mentoring an author through their book. That comes with some basic frustrations, especially when the editor is coaching a newbie like Tim. Shawn shares his views on this along with his new math equation... M + TEⁿ = IF. Click here to see Shawn's edits of Tim's first scene. For those using Word/Pages, you'll be able to see the exact edits he made. Click here to see Shawn's article Is "Good Enough" Good Enough?

Shawn, an expert in writing techniques, joins to dive deep into the art of calibrating scenes. He guides Tim on crafting compelling opening scenes that strike the right balance without overwhelming readers. They explore the significance of simplicity in storytelling, emphasizing clear narratives and character motivations. The discussion touches on the emotional vulnerability of sharing creative ideas, referencing George Lucas's early Star Wars concepts, and highlights unique ways to build tension without resorting to violence.

Who drives the story? This is a harder question to answer than you think. Shawn and Tim dive deep in this question. Steven Pressfield's The Spine of the Story Shawn and Tim's Emails Tim's story outline he sent to Shawn to look over. Shawn's response. Tim sent Shawn his short story in the Tales from Pennsylvania anthology. Shawn's response.

In this three part series, Shawn and Tim discuss the ins and outs of the publishing industry. Learn how to work with your publisher and market your book. How to Pick the Perfect Book Title.

In this three part series, Shawn and Tim discuss the ins and outs of the publishing industry. Learn how to find an agent and sell your book to a major publisher. Click here to visit Publisher Marketplace.

In this three part series, Shawn and Tim discuss the ins and outs of the publishing industry. They share their backstory and answer the question, "Should I indie or traditionally publish my book?" Click here to see the Book Publishing Calculator.

Learn how to fight Resistance and launch your writing career with the amazing Steven Pressfield. Check out his new book No One Wants to Read Your Shit.

Learn how to fight Resistance and launch your writing career with the amazing Steven Pressfield. Check out his new book No One Wants to Read Your Shit.

Tim and Shawn work to nail down the specifics for the second draft. Narrative device is a big topic along with nailing down the big events in your story.

Is Shawn killing Tim's creativity? This episode starts with that question then moves into deep genre questions and how to use Internal and External genres to tell great stories.