

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

5 snips
Jun 28, 2023 • 8min
061 // Draft a Scene Outline to Demolish Writer’s Block (Write a Novella series, week 6)
Discover how transitioning from screenwriting to novel writing can unlock your creative potential. Learn practical tips for drafting scene outlines that help demolish writer's block. The process of using index cards to enhance storytelling and narrative flow is explored, making writing more manageable and fun. This episode emphasizes the importance of structure in crafting engaging manuscripts while retaining the action and pace. Get ready to transform your writing journey!

Jun 23, 2023 • 6min
060 // Fantasy Fiction Friday: Author DK Drake Reads Chapter 28 of The Dragon Collector, a YA Fantasy Novel
Join a thrilling adventure in the mystical Land of Zandador, as a Dragon Stalker hunts his elusive prey. Discover imaginative new creatures like raxens and gorzelles, born from the author's creativity. Delve into themes of loyalty and survival, all wrapped up in a captivating fantasy narrative. It’s a journey that promises excitement and a touch of magic!

Jun 22, 2023 • 11min
059 // The 15 Steps of a Captivating Plot Outline (Write a Novella Series, week 5)
In a quest to enhance storytelling skills, the latest discussion unveils a 15-step outlining method inspired by 'Save the Cat! Writes a Novel.' The host shares personal insights on how this structure has streamlined their own writing process. Listeners are guided through key elements of the hero's journey, including the internal conflicts that spark transformative moments. The episode emphasizes the importance of a well-structured plot to keep readers engaged and offers practical tips for character development and narrative resolution.

7 snips
Jun 16, 2023 • 7min
058 // Write a Novella in 18 Weeks: How to Outline Your Entire Story in 30 Minutes Max (Week 4)
Summer is the perfect time to dive into novella writing! This session focuses on the essential fourth week of outlining, building a strong story framework. Listeners discover a quick, effective method to draft a rough act outline in just 30 minutes. Gain valuable tips on brainstorming and refining story ideas while staying motivated as a writer. Get ready to propel your creative process and turn your writing dreams into reality!

Jun 7, 2023 • 9min
057 // New Novelist? Do These 2 Weird Things to Speed Up Success
Discover two unique strategies that could revolutionize your writing journey. Embrace your identity as a writer through a symbolic ceremony that sparks creativity. Learn the power of accepting imperfection, allowing mistakes to fuel your growth. Personal stories and motivational insights inspire new novelists to prioritize creativity over the burden of perfection. Ready to speed up your writing success?

May 31, 2023 • 3min
056 // Want a Super Simple Overview of the Self-Publishing Process?
Discover the essentials of the self-publishing journey! Learn about common hurdles faced by new authors and hear personal anecdotes that resonate. A clear, simplified roadmap for writing and publishing is provided, guiding you through each step. Additionally, there's an invitation to join a supportive community to share experiences and gain insights. Perfect for aspiring authors seeking clarity on their path!

7 snips
May 24, 2023 • 10min
055 // Follow This 5-Step System for Publishing Success
Explore the essential five-step process to transition from a book idea to publication success. Discover the importance of discipline and accountability in your writing routine. Learn how to break tasks into manageable pieces and why having support is crucial. Dive into the phases of preparation, writing, revising, and publishing, while overcoming perfectionism. Finally, uncover effective strategies for launching and marketing your book, all within a supportive community that helps you thrive as a writer.

7 snips
May 17, 2023 • 9min
054 // Could This One Habit Help You Reach Your Writing Goals Faster?
Discover how dedicating just 30 minutes each Monday for weekly reflections can supercharge your writing progress. Explore the importance of setting achievable targets and crafting actionable tasks to stay on track. The discussion unveils a new support membership program, designed to provide accountability through live meetings. Get inspired to integrate structured time management into your creative process and watch your writing goals become a reality.

May 10, 2023 • 9min
053 // 3 Tips for Writing Stellar Stories
Discover how backpacking in South America inspired three essential tips for crafting stellar stories. Personal anecdotes highlight the importance of preparation and savoring the creative journey. Embrace the adventure of storytelling with these intriguing insights!

May 5, 2023 • 16min
052 // Your Creative Brain Will Thank You for This
This podcast features a delightful interview conducted in a chilly tent during an eight-day hiking adventure. Listeners can discover how outdoor experiences shape storytelling and spark creative inspiration. The hosts dive into gear discussions and the bliss of tasty trail treats, while recounting the physical challenges of hiking, like battling blisters. An emphasis on disconnecting from technology reveals how real-life experiences can boost creativity, inviting listeners to embrace their own adventures!


