

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

7 snips
May 4, 2023 • 20min
051 // Enrich Your Writing With Adventures! Author DK Drake and Becky Interview Each Other (part II)
Join two adventurous friends as they reflect on their exhilarating eight-day hike in Chile. They share delicious culinary tales from the trail, highlighting humorous camping meals and the joy of warm food. The bond formed among fellow travelers creates unforgettable stories, while thoughts on travel and life lessons offer inspiration. Discover how solitude and companionship in nature illuminate resilience and gratitude, reminding us to appreciate life's simple pleasures. These shared experiences inspire not just personal growth, but also enrich our storytelling.

9 snips
May 3, 2023 • 19min
050 // Are You an Adventurous Author Who Likes to Hike? Author DK Drake and Becky Interview Each Other While On Their Hiking Adventure
Join two adventurous authors as they recount their recent hiking trip filled with laughs, challenges, and tasty snacks! They delve into essential gear and share personal stories about the comforts of camping. Hear how they tackled nutritional hurdles while on the trail and prepared for unexpected rain. Their journey through Chile’s stunning wilderness showcases breathtaking glaciers and vibrant autumn colors. This lighthearted chat is a perfect blend of outdoor fun and practical tips for aspiring adventurers!

Apr 26, 2023 • 5min
049 // How NOT Writing Can Make You a Better Writer
A transformative journey unfolds as the speaker shares insights from a two-month sabbatical, highlighting their epic backpacking adventure in Chile. They emphasize how real-life experiences can enrich the writing process. Anticipation builds for new content that merges hiking adventures with writing lessons. Engaging listeners personally, the speaker encourages feedback and invites them to connect through email, hinting at an exciting surprise for aspiring writers ahead.

Mar 2, 2023 • 3min
048 // 3 Reasons I’m Taking Break From Podcasting in March
A creative break can spark new ideas! The speaker shares their plans for a March pause to explore fresh inspirations. This time will be dedicated to personal reflection and productivity improvements. Exciting writing workshops and a research trip are on the horizon, promising richer content when they return in April! Tune in for a glimpse into how stepping back can lead to breakthroughs in creativity.

Feb 22, 2023 • 9min
047 // Write a Novella Series: 5 Random Questions to Help You Develop Interesting Characters in Week 3
In this week's installment, the focus shifts to developing captivating main characters for your novella. The hosts introduce five whimsical questions designed to add depth and intrigue to your characters. They also outline a streamlined, three-step character development process tailored for novellas. From the importance of thorough background details to the value of engaging interviews, listeners are encouraged to enhance their storytelling through richer character exploration. It's a playful yet insightful way to elevate your writing!

Feb 17, 2023 • 11min
046 // Fantasy Fiction Friday: Author DK Drake Reads Chapter 27 of The Dragon Collector, a YA Fantasy Novel
Dive into a magical adventure in the Land of Zandador! Discover the allure of teleportation as characters Aster and Javen embrace the thrill of travel. Explore how King Omri's desire for control shapes the fate of his kingdom. Journey with them through enchanting landscapes while they prepare to meet the formidable dragon, Mercer. Will they successfully navigate the treacherous waters of adventure? Tune in for a captivating escape filled with fantasy and intrigue!

Feb 14, 2023 • 14min
045 // Write a Novella Series: 3 Story Elements to Work On in Week 2
In the quest to write a novella, the focus is on crafting quality narratives over speed. Listeners learn to develop compelling plots and purpose premises, guiding heroes through meaningful journeys. Essential techniques for world-building are discussed, enhancing the richness of stories set in fantasy or historical contexts. The approach is methodical, fostering a sense of community among writers as they navigate the intricacies of storytelling. A balanced strategy promises depth and engagement throughout the writing process.

4 snips
Feb 10, 2023 • 12min
044 // Fantasy Fiction Friday: Author DK Drake Reads Chapter 26 of The Dragon Collector, a YA Fantasy Novel
In this captivating chapter, foreshadowing weaves a rich tapestry for future tales. Javen embarks on a journey with Aster, encountering the mysterious Mercer and a whimsical bread known as 'dragon's delight.' The shadow of tyranny looms heavy as Micah, riding a dragon, threatens the townsfolk under King Omri's oppressive rule. Aster's poignant memories reveal past sacrifices in the struggle for freedom, while a tragic loss thrusts a character into a pivotal mission, balancing personal desires against the weight of destiny.

19 snips
Feb 7, 2023 • 11min
043 // Want to Write a Novella? Follow This 7-Step Plan
Bonnie Jean Schaefer, a writing coach and author known as D.K. Drake, shares her expert insights on novella writing. She unveils a practical seven-step plan to help busy writers carve out time for their passion projects. Listeners discover essential pre-writing tasks, tips on structuring their story, and the importance of drafting and revising. Bonnie emphasizes how completing a novella can be a motivating milestone for any aspiring author looking to hone their craft and manage their writing schedule.

Feb 4, 2023 • 12min
042 // Fantasy Fiction Friday: Author DK Drake Reads Chapter 25 of The Dragon Collector, a YA Fantasy Novel
Dive into an enchanting world as chapter 25 of a thrilling YA fantasy unfolds. The host shares insights on the artistic freedom in creating unique places and characters within fantasy fiction. Discover the humorous struggles of Javen during his combat training, showcasing both the challenges and lessons in the art of battle. Plus, learn about the intriguing research that adds depth to the fantastical realms. Prepare for an escape to the vibrant Land of Zandador!


