

The Adventurous Author | How to Write a Book, Character Development, Write with Consistency, Creative Writing,Story Structure
Bonnie Jean Schaefer | Author & Coach, Founder of the League of Adventurous Authors
Hey, Time-Strapped Author!
Wanna write great fiction?
BUT writing is hard because you…
- Have NO TIME because you work a full-time job or go to school full-time
- Doubt your writing ability
- Are unsure how to write the kind of captivating stories you love to read.
Then welcome to The Adventurous Author, the podcast for underdog authors on a mission to achieve legendary feats in the publishing world but have to overcome impossible obstacles, limited time, and paralyzing inner skepticism along the way.
Through these episodes, you will…
- Gain confidence in your author identity.
- Master the process and structure needed to write captivating stories EVEN WITH limited writing time.
- Learn to use AI effectively and ethically to constantly improve your writing skills and story quality.
I’m your host Bonnie Jean Schaefer.
Under my pen name of fantasy author D.K. Drake, I write action-packed, wholesome adventures without the snooze-worthy fluff.
But as your personal writing coach, I’m here to unlock YOUR narrative prowess, guide you in crafting spellbinding tales, and navigate the wild world of writing with AI.
Adventure awaits, so ignite your imagination, latch on to that dragon swooping overhead, and let the storytelling quest begin. It’s time to play in our own fabulous fantasy worlds.
Wanna write great fiction?
BUT writing is hard because you…
- Have NO TIME because you work a full-time job or go to school full-time
- Doubt your writing ability
- Are unsure how to write the kind of captivating stories you love to read.
Then welcome to The Adventurous Author, the podcast for underdog authors on a mission to achieve legendary feats in the publishing world but have to overcome impossible obstacles, limited time, and paralyzing inner skepticism along the way.
Through these episodes, you will…
- Gain confidence in your author identity.
- Master the process and structure needed to write captivating stories EVEN WITH limited writing time.
- Learn to use AI effectively and ethically to constantly improve your writing skills and story quality.
I’m your host Bonnie Jean Schaefer.
Under my pen name of fantasy author D.K. Drake, I write action-packed, wholesome adventures without the snooze-worthy fluff.
But as your personal writing coach, I’m here to unlock YOUR narrative prowess, guide you in crafting spellbinding tales, and navigate the wild world of writing with AI.
Adventure awaits, so ignite your imagination, latch on to that dragon swooping overhead, and let the storytelling quest begin. It’s time to play in our own fabulous fantasy worlds.
Episodes
Mentioned books

4 snips
Dec 29, 2023 • 9min
091 || Fantasy Fiction Friday: Chapter 40 of The Dragon Collector, a YA Fantasy
In a thrilling climax, Javan confronts his nemesis, King Omri, amid a backdrop of evil dragons and high stakes. Facing the chilling possibility of losing his mother adds tension to the battle for the throne. Listeners are drawn into Javan's courageous journey filled with unexpected twists. The drama unfolds as he boldly challenges the Dark King's regime, making for an exhilarating experience. Perfect for fans of YA fantasy, this chapter blends action and emotion, leaving you eager for more.

4 snips
Dec 25, 2023 • 5min
090 || RECEIVE God’s Goodness this Christmas
Celebrate the joyous spirit of Christmas as the host shares a heartfelt program performed with children, emphasizing the true essence of giving and receiving. Discover the importance of accepting God's gifts and spreading love during the holiday season. This inspiring message beautifully connects the celebration of Christmas with the deeper themes of faith and salvation, inviting listeners to reflect on how they can share joy with others.

4 snips
Nov 24, 2023 • 7min
089 || Fantasy Fiction Friday: Chapter 39 of The Dragon Collector, a YA Fantasy Novel
Dive into a suspenseful chapter where Javen confronts the sinister King Omri. The tension escalates as Esmeralda's future hangs by a thread. Discover the techniques of crafting suspenseful narratives that captivate readers. Additionally, explore the enchanting world of Zandador and get tips on organizing your story ideas for better writing success. Join the adventure and learn how to enhance your fiction!

Nov 17, 2023 • 21min
088 || Wonder How to Brainstorm Your Story Ideas with Confidence? Listen to this LIVE Brainstorming Session.
In today’s episode, you’ll hear me share my ideas for a Christmas play I am writing for my children’s church kids to perform on December 10. Normally, I don’t like like to share my ideas with others until I’ve organized my thoughts and have a clear direction for my story.
The League of Adventurous Authors has changed that. In addition to weekly check-ins to share wins and goals, AI art play days, and Q&A days, we also have Author Spotlight sessions. During these spotlight sessions, one author reads a snippet of a story he’s written, and the members have a chance to provide feedback.
In the Spotlight Session you’ll hear today, I am the author sharing a story idea, and then you’ll hear the feedback discussion that followed, feedback that helped me gain clarity about my story so that I was able to write a better draft of the script after this meeting.
If you’re interested in becoming a member of the League of Adventurous Authors, mark your calendars for December 27 when membership reopens. For now, listen in as I share my story ideas, how I used AI to help me write a bad first draft of the play I’m writing, and what feedback the League authors shared. Let’s get to it!
Your friend,
DK
Next Steps:
Experience the FREE Revolutionize Your Writing Masterclass.
The On-Demand Virtual Experience shows you how to master the art of organizing your story ideas in Notion to set yourself up for fiction writing success.
Escape into the Land of Zandador:
Get your free D.K. Drake Starter Library
Purchase one or all of the Dragon Stalker Bloodline Saga books on Amazon.
Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts:
“I love The Author D.K. Drake Show!” If that sounds like something you’d say, please rate and review this show. Your rating and review helps the show get found by other authors with big writing dreams. It’ll take a quick 30 seconds to scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then share what you enjoyed most about this episode.
And if you haven’t already done so, follow the podcast. That way you’ll never miss an episode and will be better prepared to write and publish your novel. Follow now!

Nov 3, 2023 • 12min
087 || Fantasy Fiction Friday: Chapter 38 of The Dragon Collector, a YA Fantasy Novel
It's Fantasy Fiction Friday! I’ve got chapter 38 of the Dragon Collector coming your way today.
In this chapter, you get to meet two new dragons, Dahlia and Eli. Dahlia is the evil king’s Dawn Stalker, and Eli is his Dusk Stalker. You’ll find Dahlia is a bit of a snob, and Eli…well, writing about Eli’s appearance in this scene broke my heart.
Listen in to find out why.
Next Steps:
**Register for the FREE Revolutionize Your Writing Masterclass.** The On-Demand Virtual Experience launches October 11! Master the art of organizing your story ideas in Notion to set yourself up for fiction writing success.
Escape into the Land of Zandador:
Get your free D.K. Drake Starter Library
Purchase one or all of the Dragon Stalker Bloodline Saga books on Amazon.
Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts:
“I love The Author D.K. Drake Show!” If that sounds like something you’d say, please rate and review this show. Your rating and review helps the show get found by other authors with big writing dreams. It’ll take a quick 30 seconds to scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then share what you enjoyed most about this episode.
And if you haven’t already done so, follow the podcast. That way you’ll never miss an episode and will be better prepared to write and publish your novel. Follow now!

4 snips
Nov 2, 2023 • 8min
086 || How to Finish 2023 Strong as a Christian Author
With just two months left in the year, there's still time to launch new writing projects or wrap up ongoing ones. Learn how to navigate year-end writing goals amidst holiday distractions. The discussion highlights the importance of setting specific targets and taking actionable steps to stay on track. Plus, get inspired by practical tips that encourage you to finish 2023 strong. Ready to make your writing dreams a reality? Let's dive in!

Oct 27, 2023 • 8min
085 || Try This Trick to Write a Memorable Final Scene of Your Novel
If you’re not sure how to end — or start — your story, this episode is for you. I’ll share a tip I thought was ridiculous when I first heard of it: bookending. Then I started seeing this technique being used in almost every story I read and movie I watched. Listen in to find out what bookending is, why it's popular, and how to use it like a pro.
Your friend,
DK
Next Steps:
Register for the FREE Revolutionize Your Writing Masterclass.
The On-Demand Virtual Experience is now available! Master the art of organizing your story ideas in Notion to set yourself up for fiction writing success.
Escape into the Land of Zandador:
Get your free D.K. Drake Starter Library
Purchase one or all of the Dragon Stalker Bloodline Saga books on Amazon.
Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts:
“I love The Author D.K. Drake Show!” If that sounds like something you’d say, please rate and review this show. Your rating and review helps the show get found by other authors with big writing dreams. It’ll take a quick 30 seconds to scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then share what you enjoyed most about this episode.
And if you haven’t already done so, follow the podcast. That way you’ll never miss an episode and will be better prepared to write and publish your novel. Follow now!

5 snips
Oct 14, 2023 • 12min
084 || Fantasy Fiction Friday: Chapter 37 of The Dragon Collector, a YA Fantasy Novel
In this gripping chapter, Javan confronts a harrowing reality as he trudges through a massive crowd, heading towards his mother’s public execution. The atmosphere is thick with tension and desperation, amplifying his inner turmoil. As he approaches the scene, the weight of his emotions and the impending tragedy set the stage for pivotal changes in his journey. It’s a dark and intense moment that deepens the narrative, pulling listeners into a landscape of despair and bravery.

6 snips
Oct 11, 2023 • 8min
083 || 2 Simple Ways to Solve 1 Big Writing Problem for Fiction Authors
Discover the biggest mistake many authors make that leads to chaos and wasted time. Learn two effective solutions to tidy up your writing process and bring order to your creative flow. The discussion highlights tools like Scrivener and Notion to enhance project management. Gain clarity in organizing your story ideas, paving the way for successful fiction writing. Don’t let disorganization hold you back; unleash your creativity with these essential tips.

10 snips
Oct 6, 2023 • 9min
082 || Fantasy Fiction Friday: Chapter 36 of The Dragon Collector, a YA Fantasy Novel
In a captivating chapter, the narrative shifts between Javan, a young boy in distress, and Micah, the adversary responsible for his suffering. The exploration of morality is rich, revealing Micah's motivations and the weight of his choices. Javan's internal struggle highlights the balance between compassion and duty, as he grapples with his heritage and responsibilities. This layered storytelling invites listeners into a fantastical realm, filled with dragons, where heroes face not only external battles but also profound moral dilemmas.


