The Novelry on Writing

Join award-winning novelist Emylia Hall and crime fiction expert Urban Waite as they dive into the art of crafting conflict in storytelling. They reveal why conflict is the backbone of an engaging plot, discussing how it shapes character development and emotional resonance. Learn about layering conflicts—both internal and external—that keep readers hooked. Emylia shares tips on making actions feel authentic, while Urban emphasizes the significance of micro-conflicts to build suspense and maintain reader interest. It's a treasure trove for aspiring writers!

Georgia Summers, a Sunday Times bestselling author and editor in SFF, teams up with Libby Page, a writing coach and bestselling novelist, to share insights on crafting sexual tension in storytelling. They discuss the importance of physicality and proximity, highlighting how specific dialogue and sensory details can deepen character connections. The duo emphasizes using strategic settings and conflicts to heighten emotional stakes, making characters’ interactions charged with anticipation. Their tips are invaluable for writers looking to create unforgettable chemistry.

Join New York Times bestselling novelist Tara Conklin and author Gina Sorell as they delve into the art of titling your book. They discuss the importance of audience targeting and how a title serves as an effective marketing tool. Discover how to convey tone and intrigue, explore themes for layered meanings, and get creative with inspiration from poetry and song titles. With practical tips on flexibility and options, this conversation is a treasure trove for any writer looking to hook their readers right from the title!

Join bestselling authors Kate Riordan and Anissa Gray as they explore the intriguing concept of the shadow self in fiction. They reveal how tapping into personal darkness can create rich, relatable characters. Discover methods to stress-test your characters and ignite their hidden impulses. The duo shares examples from gripping novels and discusses how motivation can drive characters to reckless extremes. Plus, learn how to use writing as a safe outlet for revenge against past wrongs. Dive into the murkier sides of creativity!

Bestselling author Amanda Reynolds, known for her psychological thrillers, teams up with Sorcha Rose, a crime and thriller editor, to explore the art of crafting suspenseful stories. They share five essential tips for captivating readers, including how to instantly draw them in and maintain a gripping pace. The duo emphasizes creating relatable characters and dropping subtle clues to build tension. They conclude with insights on crafting satisfying endings that surprise yet feel earned, ensuring readers cherish the journey.

Gina Sorrell, a contemporary fiction author and writing coach, joins USA Today bestselling author Colleen Oakley for an insightful discussion on overcoming writing slumps. They emphasize that getting stuck is a normal part of the creative process. Discover five effective techniques to reignite your word count, including the power of physical movement, the benefit of silent walks, and the fresh perspective gained from changing your environment. Plus, hear unique rituals that can spark creativity!

In this engaging discussion, bestselling YA authors Bea Fitzgerald and Ella McLeod dive into the sizzling world of romantasy. They emphasize raising stakes to deepen character yearning and tension, while cleverly navigating tropes to captivate readers. Bea breaks down romance beats within fantasy plots, urging writers to push conflicts to the extreme for maximum emotional impact. The duo highlights the importance of blending fantastical elements with profound emotional stakes, ensuring that love feels both earned and consequential.

Discover how to breathe life into dialogue with tips from writing experts. Learn the difference between natural and realistic speech, and why clarity matters. Explore how subtext and character intent can convey deep emotions without heavy exposition. Get insights on creating distinct voices for characters, even in similar roles. Plus, the power of reading dialogue aloud is highlighted as a key tool for authenticity. Unpack the art of dialogue and keep your readers engaged!

Join Piers Torday, an award-winning children’s fiction author, and Tasha Suri, celebrated fantasy writer, as they dive into the art of world-building. They discuss how starting with character can naturally reveal your setting, and the importance of mixing history into your fantasy elements. Tasha encourages writers to embrace imagination and fun, while Piers shares tips on revealing world details gradually to keep readers hooked. They emphasize that the tension between a character's needs and their world enhances storytelling.

Join Melanie Conklin, an award-winning author of middle-grade fiction, and Heather Webb, a USA Today bestselling author of historical fiction, as they share five practical tips for crafting gripping stories. They discuss the importance of character yearning and high stakes, revealing how secrets and vulnerabilities can hook readers. Learn how to layer troubles for depth and create mysteries that keep the audience guessing. With their insights, you'll be well on your way to writing those page-turners that keep readers up at night!