Slate Technology

Today Bianca, Carly, and CeCe critique a coming-of-age submission set in the 80s, as well as a speculative literary fiction query.They chat about the importance of details in a query, as opposed to big-picture themes; an example of a prologue that induces curiosity; layering emotion to create more realistic interactions with characters; including emotion and interiority during narration/exposition to elevate your work; how the emotional complexity of your characters can heighten your readers’ connection to them; figuring out ways to show what characters want, rather than explicitly telling readers what that is; the risk of writing experimental fiction; and avoiding using narration in your first line.Note: Carly Watters and CeCe Lyra are literary agents at P.S. Literary Agency, but their work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly and CeCe on this podcast are solely that of them as podcast co-hosts and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency. Find us on our socials:Twitter: @TSNOTYAW @BiancaM_author @carlywatters @ceciliaclyraInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_shit_about_writing/https://www.instagram.com/biancamarais_author/https://www.instagram.com/carlywatters/ https://www.instagram.com/cece_lyra_agent/Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/TSNOTYAWWebsites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.comBookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwritingTo register for CeCe’s upcoming Hacking Writing on A Line Level course, go to https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_xDo7-fz8Q-GrnyE6Nw41qA#/registrationFor more information about the Deep Dive Virtual Retreat, go to https://www.theshitaboutwriting.com/deep-dive-series-2025.htmlOur Sponsors:* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Join Bianca in our October bonus episode as your favourite book person, Emilie Sommer from East City Book Shop, answers all your comp requests!If you’re looking for our usual Q&A segment, that now gets published as part of our end of the month Substack newsletter. Subscribe to get access to that, and so much more: https://theshitaboutwriting.substack.com/Note: Carly Watters and CeCe Lyra are literary agents at P.S. Literary Agency, but their work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly and CeCe on this podcast are solely that of them as podcast co-hosts and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.Find us on our socialsTwitter: @TSNOTYAW @BiancaM_author @carlywatters @ceciliaclyraInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_shit_about_writing/ https://www.instagram.com/biancamarais_author/https://www.instagram.com/carlywatters/ https://www.instagram.com/cece_lyra_agent/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TSNOTYAWWebsites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and ww.cecilialyra.comBookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwritingTo ask us a question, go to: https://sayhi.chat/TSNOTYAWTo register for CeCe’s upcoming Hacking Writing on A Line Level course, go to https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_xDo7-fz8Q-GrnyE6Nw41qA#/registrationTo sign up for the Beta Reader Match Up, go to https://www.biancamarais.com/beta-reader-match-up.htmlOur Sponsors:* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Join an insightful conversation with a New York Times bestselling author as she delves into the beauty of nighttime and its impact on nature writing. Discover how to craft evocative scenes that balance information with storytelling without overwhelming readers. Engage with the magical relationship between humans and darkness, and learn how narrative writing can capture sensory details to evoke empathy. Plus, find out how innovative tools can enhance your writing and organization skills!

The hosts critique a speculative and literary fiction query, emphasizing clarity in language and character development. They explore the importance of aligning plot and climax with genre expectations. Discussions also highlight the challenges of writing in epistolary format and the need for emotional depth. Insights into bilingual language acquisition are shared, illustrating storytelling complexities for diverse audiences. The episode underscores a commitment to supporting writers through community engagement and exciting upcoming initiatives.

Alix E. Harrow, a Hugo-Award winning and NYT bestselling author known for her works like 'The Ten Thousand Doors of January,' dives into her latest novel 'Starling House.' She explores how character relationships illuminate vulnerability and raise stakes, plus the flexibility of word counts in sci-fi and fantasy. Alix shares her world-building process, the art of using secondary characters effectively, and innovative techniques like footnotes—all while emphasizing writing beautiful prose in the drafting phase and balancing backstory with curiosity.

The hosts analyze a family saga and a psychological thriller, emphasizing the need for clear POV information in query letters. They discuss the importance of concise wording and effective character connections through plot and theme. Humor mixes with critique as they explore a psychological thriller query, highlighting character dynamics. The conversation dives into balancing scene work and emotional interiority, with tips on making characters' behaviors plausible. Plus, they stress the value of reading work aloud to enhance narrative clarity.

Emilie Sommer, associated with East City Bookshop, shares her expertise on navigating the often tricky world of comparative titles. She dives into the importance of building an author brand while aligning manuscripts with successful comp titles. Emilie discusses specific recommendations across genres, including multi-POV literature and speculative thrillers. Her insights cover themes like feminism, emotional journeys, and financial literacy for creators. Tune in for practical strategies to enhance visibility and connect with readers!

Best-selling author Marissa Stapley, known for her novel The Lightning Bottles, shares insights into her creative process and the evolution of her characters. She discusses the balance of writing with multiple editors and the importance of taking time in storytelling. The conversation dives into resilience in writing, addressing setbacks, and the emotional toll of rejections. Stapley emphasizes the beauty of character depth and the unique perspectives that can emerge from personal experiences, inspiring aspiring authors to embrace their own journeys.

In this engaging discussion, Liane Moriarty, a NYT bestselling author known for her gripping narratives, shares insights on her latest book and the intricacies of her drafting process. Hannah Nicole Maehrer, a rising star in romance-fantasy, reveals her TikTok-inspired journey to success with her debut novel, 'Apprentice to the Villain.' They dive into the importance of author-agent chemistry, the emotional rollercoaster of rejection, and the unique challenges of navigating the publishing landscape, all while emphasizing creativity and authenticity.

Join the lively discussion on crafting compelling characters! The hosts explore the fine line between likeable and interesting, focusing on their characters' wants and messy emotions. They share insights on starting your novel effectively and maintaining connected plot points. Delve into the challenges of relatable character dynamics and the importance of vulnerability and depth in storytelling. Listen for helpful tips on navigating emotional landscapes, even with unredeemable protagonists!