Book Writing Tips: Quick Tips for New and Seasoned Authors

In this episode, I’m sharing the steps I’m taking to develop my very first murder mystery novel. Because I have never written in this genre, I’m going to share the steps I have taken thus far to prepare me to write in this genre.

Whether you’re an aspiring mystery writer, or simply curious about what happens behind the scenes when a writer chooses to write in a new genre, this episode offers a look at the creative process, discoveries, and decisions shaping my story.

 Links from this episode and other links (some are affiliate links):

Scrivener (the writing software I use)

How to Write a Mystery: A Handbook from Mystery Writers of America (book I bought)

My newsletter signup 

AlbaArango.com (my website and contact information)

The Ruby Diamond (my newest book)

#MurderMystery #MysteryWriting #WritingProcess #CrimeFiction #MysteryNovel #AmWriting #WritersOfInstagram #WritingCommunity #AuthorLife #Suspense #Storytelling #NovelWriting

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Bluesky

Facebook

Want to learn how to write an action scene that feels fast, exciting, and impossible to put down? In this episode, I break down the essential techniques for writing action scenes that create tension, momentum, and emotional impact.

Whether you’re writing a novel, short story, screenplay, or fantasy adventure, these creative writing techniques will help you craft action sequences that readers can visualize and feel.

Helpful links (some are affiliate links):

My newsletter signup 

Scrivener (the writing software I use)

AlbaArango.com (my website and contact information)

The Ruby Diamond (my newest release!)

#NovelWriting #WritingTips #CreativeWriting #StoryStructure #FictionWriter #AuthorPodcast #WritingCommunity #ActionScenes

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Bluesky

Facebook

Not sure which POV is best for your book? In this episode, I break down the pros and cons of writing in the different points of view, from first person to third person limited and omniscient (and even second person!). Not really sure what each of these are? No worries! I'll break down what each POV means and (hopefully) give you some food for thought on which one would be best for your book.

Helpful links (some are affiliate links):

My newsletter signup 

Scrivener (the writing software I use)

AlbaArango.com (my website and contact information)

The Ruby Diamond (my newest release!)

Social Media links

Instagram

Threads

YouTube

TikTok

Bluesky

Facebook

Is your manuscript missing the spark that hooks agents and keeps readers turning pages? In this episode of the podcast, I break down the 9 essential elements of a novel that every successful story must include.

 Discover practical creative writing tips to weave these elements organically into your manuscript without making your story feel formulative. Tune in to build your ultimate storytelling toolkit!

Helpful links (some are affiliate links):

My newsletter signup 

Scrivener (the writing software I use)

AlbaArango.com (my website and contact information)

The Ruby Diamond (my newest release!)

#NovelWriting #WritingTips #CreativeWriting #StoryStructure #FictionWriter #AuthorPodcast #WritingCommunity #PlotDevelopment #BookMarketing #WriterLife

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Bluesky

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In this episode of the podcast, I unpack the golden rule of creative writing: how to master the art of "show, don't tell." I break down actionable techniques to transform flat, exposition-heavy sentences into immersive emotional experiences that keep your readers hooked.

 Perfect for indie authors, novelists, and screenwriters of all experience levels looking to strengthen their unique narrative voice and master a deeper point of view. Tune in to stop summarizing your story and start bringing your fictional world to life!

Helpful links (some are affiliate links):

My newsletter signup 

Scrivener (the writing software I use)

AlbaArango.com (my website and contact information)

The Ruby Diamond (my newest release!)

#ShowDontTell #WritingTips #CreativeWriting #FictionWriter #NovelWriting #AuthorPodcast #WritingCommunity #BookEditing #StorytellingTips #WriterLife

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Bluesky

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Looking for a subtle, realistic way to test your protagonist without launching a full-scale crisis? In this episode of the podcast, I break down how to leverage minor illnesses—like a stubborn common cold, an annoying seasonal allergy flare-up, or a pounding tension headache—as a brilliant tool for organic character development.

Helpful links (some are affiliate links):

My newsletter signup 

Scrivener (the writing software I use)

AlbaArango.com (my website and contact information)

The Ruby Diamond (my newest release!)

#CharacterDevelopment #WritingTips #CreativeWriting #FictionWriter #NovelWriting #AuthorPodcast #WritingCommunity #PlotDevelopment #StorytellingTips #WriterLife

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Bluesky

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Are you looking for a fresh, organic way to show who your characters are without relying on boring info-dumps? In this episode, I explore the power of character development through the lens of daily habits and personal routines.

 Tune in to turn ordinary chores into powerful tools for character growth!

Helpful links (some are affiliate links):

My newsletter signup 

Scrivener (the writing software I use)

AlbaArango.com (my website and contact information)

The Ruby Diamond (my newest release!)

 #CharacterDevelopment #WritingTips #CreativeWriting #FictionWriter #NovelWriting #AuthorPodcast #WritingCommunity #PlotDevelopment #StorytellingTips #WriterLife

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Bluesky

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Are you looking for a foolproof way to catch hidden typos and fix clunky sentences? In this episode, I dive into the ultimate self-editing secret: reading your manuscript out loud. Discover how shifting from visual reading to auditory editing can completely transform your revision process and elevate your storytelling.

 Perfect for indie authors, novelists, and creative writers looking for practical writing tips to sharpen their voice and inject prose with maximum impact. 

 Tune in to stop skimming your work and start hearing your story in a whole new way!

 Helpful links (some are affiliate links):

My newsletter signup 

Scrivener (the writing software I use)

AlbaArango.com (my website and contact information)

The Ruby Diamond (my newest release!)

#BookEditing #WritingTips #SelfEditing #CreativeWriting #NovelWriting #AuthorPodcast #WritingCommunity #IndieAuthor #FictionWriter #ManuscriptRevision

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Instagram

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Bluesky

Facebook

Are you feeling isolated in your creative journey? In this episode, I explore the best places to find your writing community and discuss why building a strong network is essential for your long-term publishing success.

I break down where to connect with fellow storytellers, covering both online and in-person events, and how those connections can help you in your writing journey.

Tune in to discover how to move from a lonely hobbyist to a well-connected, thriving professional writer!

 Helpful links (some are affiliate links):

Henderson Writers Group

My newsletter signup 

Scrivener (the writing software I use)

AlbaArango.com (my website and contact information)

The Ruby Diamond (my newest release!)

Podcast Hashtags

#WritingCommunity #AuthorNetwork #WritingTips #IndieAuthor #AuthorsOfInstagram #CreativeWriting #CritiquePartner #BookMarketing #WritingLife #AuthorPodcast

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Are you an architectural plotter who maps out every chapter, or an intuitive pantser who writes by the seat of your pants? In this episode, I break down the great debate of plotting vs. pantsing to help you discover the perfect workflow for your creative process.

I explore the pros and cons of both creative writing styles, analyzing how a detailed novel outline can prevent writer's block versus how organic pantsing can spark unexpected character discoveries. There is no single correct way to write a book, but understanding your natural tendencies will completely transform your productivity and finish drafts faster. 

Discover how to blend both worlds using the "plantsing" hybrid method to get the structure you need without losing the magic of discovery. Tune in to stop fighting your natural instincts and unlock your ultimate writing routine!

 Helpful links (some are affiliate links):

My newsletter signup 

Scrivener (the writing software I use)

AlbaArango.com (my website and contact information)

The Ruby Diamond (my newest release!)

#PlotterVsPantser #WritingProcess #NovelOutline #CreativeWriting #WritingTips #IndieAuthor #FictionWriter #WritingCommunity #StoryStructure #AuthorPodcast

Social Media links

Instagram

Threads

YouTube

TikTok

Bluesky

Facebook