In Flooded (S6 E4 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), the basement floods, Buffy struggles over too many bills, and the trio sends a demon after her.  Along with the recap, this podcast episode focuses on:

(1)  the challenges of an intangible villain (like debt and falling property values) in a fantasy story; (2) false conflict vs. character-based conflict between Buffy, Giles, and Willow; (3) what works and doesn’t with cartoony villains like the trio; and (4) is slaying a metaphor for women’s unpaid labor?

Last Episode: After Life S6 E3

Next Up: Life Serial S6 E5

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Get Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel (ebook, audiobook, or workbook)

Get The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year (ebook, audiobook, or workbook)

Get the latest Q.C. Davis Mystery The Hidden Man

Check out self-study online course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft

Make a one-time donation at Buy Me A Coffee to hear bonus episode Gods, Guilt, and the Weight of the World

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As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn’t change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

About Lisa M. Lilly

In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com.

Click here to learn about free ebooks from Lisa M. Lilly.

In After Life (S6 E3 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), a demon Buffy’s friends think she brought back from hell torments everyone. Along with the recap, this podcast episode focuses on:

(1) plot turns and protagonist questions that make After Life more of a continuation than a standalone story; (2) why monsters need rules and whether the demon here follows any; (3) hints the writers weave in to tell us Buffy is hiding things from her friends; and (4) seeds for season-long character and relationship arcs.

Last Episode: Bargaining Part 2 S6 E2

Next Up: Flooded S6 E4

Download free Story Structure worksheets

Listen to bonus episodes and support the podcast by becoming a patron 

Get Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel (ebook, audiobook, or workbook)

Get The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year (ebook, audiobook, or workbook)

Check out self-study online course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft

Make a one-time donation at Buy Me A Coffee to hear bonus episode Gods, Guilt, and the Weight of the World

Read Buffy and the Art of Story Books

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn’t change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

About Lisa M. Lilly

In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com.

Click here to learn about free ebooks from Lisa M. Lilly.

In Bargaining Part 2 (S6 E2 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), demon bikers take over Sunnydale and Buffy claws her way out of the grave and thinks she’s in hell. Along with the recap, this podcast episode focuses on:

(1) how Bargaining Parts 1 and 2 change the tone of series; (2) clever scene transitions that cue new viewers in and engage the audience; (3) a climax with a different protagonist; and (4) whether Buffy, though dead for Part 1, is the antagonist throughout.

Last Episode: Bargaining Part 1 S6 E1

Next Up: After Life S6 E3

Download free Story Structure worksheets

Listen to bonus episodes and support the podcast by becoming a patron 

Get Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel (ebook, audiobook, or workbook)

Get The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year (ebook, audiobook, or workbook)

Check out self-study online course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft

Make a one-time donation at Buy Me A Coffee to hear bonus episode Gods, Guilt, and the Weight of the World

Read Buffy and the Art of Story Books

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn’t change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

About Lisa M. Lilly

In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com.

Click here to learn about free ebooks from Lisa M. Lilly.

In Bargaining Part 1 (S6 E1 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Buffy’s friends struggle to deal with her death—and to bring her back to life. Along with the recap, this podcast episode focuses on:

(1) conflicts that bring the audience into the brand new world without Buffy; (2) story questions that keep viewers on edge; (3) actions that show characters’ emotions in powerful ways; and (4) protagonist and pacing issues because Bargaining: Part 1 includes so many viewpoints and covers so much ground.

Last Episode: 3 Women Talk Buffy Season 5

Next Up: Bargaining Part 2, S6 E2

Download free Story Structure worksheets

Listen to bonus episodes by becoming a patron 

Get Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel (ebook, audiobook, or workbook)

Get The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year (ebook, audiobook, or workbook)

Check out self-study online course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft

Make a one-time donation at Buy Me A Coffee to hear bonus episode Gods, Guilt, and the Weight of the World

Read Buffy and the Art of Story Books

Visit Buffy and the Art of Story Facebook Page

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn’t change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

About Lisa M. Lilly

In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com.

Click here to learn about free ebooks from Lisa M. Lilly.

In Buffy Season 5 As A Whole (a bonus Buffy and the Art of Story podcast episode), 3 women podcasters talk about the best, the worst, and the meh in Buffy the Vampire Slayer Season 5 and beyond. Host Lisa M. Lilly and guests Kerry Walsh (co-host of Coaching Carrie podcast) and Roberta Lipp (co-host of They Coined It podcast) focus on:

(1) does Glory’s disappearing act undercut her as the Big Bad? (2) The Body: best episode dealing with death or concept that doesn’t quite land? (3) should anyone care when Riley leaves? (4) Buffy’s state of mind and heart during The Gift; and more.

Last Episode: Glory As The Big Bad with Rachel Wharton

Next Up (on January 16, 2023): Bargaining Part 1 S6 E1

Happiness, Anxiety, And Writing: Using Your Creativity To Live A Calmer, Happier Life

Download free Story Structure worksheets

Listen to more bonus episodes by becoming a patron 

For the writer on your holidays list: Self-study online course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft

Get Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel (ebook, audiobook, or workbook)

Get The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year (ebook, audiobook, or workbook)

Make a one-time donation at Buy Me A Coffee to hear bonus episode Gods, Guilt, and the Weight of the World

Get the Buffy and the Art of Story Books

Visit the Buffy and the Art of Story Facebook Page

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn’t change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

About Lisa M. Lilly

In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com.

Click here to learn about free ebooks from Lisa M. Lilly.

In Glory As The Big Bad (a bonus Buffy and the Art of Story podcast episode), host Lisa M. Lilly talks with Rachel Wharton of Kobo Writing Life about Buffy the Vampire Slayer Season 5 and more. The conversation focuses on:

(1) Glory as a powerful, stereotypically feminine Big Bad who reflects series’ themes; (2) how the “Death Is Your Gift” message affects Buffy’s view of herself and her mission in Season 5; (3) whether Season 4 ranks as the least best season despite many excellent episodes; (4) comparing the dialogue, goals, and powers of the Big Bads in Buffy; and more.

Last Episode: The Gift, S5 E22

Next Up: More on Season 5 with Kerry Walsh (co-host of the Coaching Carrie podcast) and Roberta Lipp (co-host of the They Coined It podcast)

Download free Story Structure worksheets

Listen to more bonus episodes by becoming a patron 

For the writer on your holidays list: Self-study online course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft

Get Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel (ebook, audiobook, or workbook)

Get The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year (ebook, audiobook, or workbook)

Make a one-time donation at Buy Me A Coffee to hear bonus episode Gods, Guilt, and the Weight of the World

Get the Buffy and the Art of Story Books

Visit the Buffy and the Art of Story Facebook Page

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn’t change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

About Lisa M. Lilly

In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com.

Click here to learn about free ebooks from Lisa M. Lilly.

In The Gift (S5 E22 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Buffy faces off with Glory for the last time and Dawn’s life—and the fate of the world—hang in the balance. Along with the recap, this podcast episode focuses on:

(1) call backs that make The Gift a satisfying finale; (2) multiple series themes woven into Buffy’s struggle to save Dawn and the world; (3) exposition, conflict, and foreshadowing that fit the story and don’t slow the pace; (4) an unexpected climax that’s not between Glory and Buffy; and (5) the ultimate Pyrrhic victory, where Buffy prevails at an unbearable cost.

Last Episode: The Weight Of The World

Next Up: Glory As The Big Bad with Guest Rachel Wharton 

Download free Story Structure worksheets

Listen to bonus episodes by becoming a patron 

Vulture Article on The Gift

Kobo Writing Life Podcast: The Art of Story with Lisa M. Lilly

Get Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel (ebook, audiobook, or workbook)

Get The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year (ebook, audiobook, or workbook)

Check out self-study online course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft

Make a one-time donation at Buy Me A Coffee to hear bonus episode Gods, Guilt, and the Weight of the World

Get the Buffy and the Art of Story Books

Visit the Buffy and the Art of Story Facebook Page

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn’t change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

About Lisa M. Lilly

In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com.

Click here to learn about free ebooks from Lisa M. Lilly.

In The Weight Of The World (S5 E21 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Willow uses magic to reach a catatonic Buffy while the gang hunts for Dawn, who’s been captured by Glory. Along with the recap, this podcast episode focuses on:

(1)  conflict between Buffy’s friends that brings the audience up to speed; (2)  a powerful main plot entirely in Buffy’s mind; (3)  Glory and Dawn show what works best - showing or telling exposition, emotion, and character; and (4)  it’s all about guilt - Ben’s, Glory’s, and most important, Buffy’s.

Last Episode: Spiral S5 E20

Next Up: The Gift, S5 E22

Download free Story Structure worksheets

Listen to bonus episodes by becoming a patron 

Get Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel (ebook, audiobook, or workbook)

Get The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year (ebook, audiobook, or workbook)

Check out self-study online course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft

Make a one-time donation at Buy Me A Coffee to hear bonus episode Gods, Guilt, and the Weight of the World

Get the Buffy and the Art of Story Books

Visit the Buffy and the Art of Story Facebook Page

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn’t change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

About Lisa M. Lilly

In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com.

Click here to learn about free ebooks from Lisa M. Lilly.

In Spiral (S5 E20 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Buffy and friends flee from Glory across the desert in a camper and the Knights of Byzantium follow. Along with the recap, this podcast episode focuses on:

(1) how Spiral weaves in questions about Buffy’s escape plan, Ben’s & Glory’s origins and more to keep viewers engaged; (2) revealing exposition through conflict between Ben and a minion versus the near monologue General Gregor gives; (3) small moments that foreshadow the shocking end of Spiral; and (4) cartoon imagery throughout the gang’s dealings with Glory and the Knights.

Plus an interview with Rachel Wharton from Kobo about the ways to promote books you publish through Kobo Writing Life.

Spoiler-free, except at the end (with plenty of warning).

Last Episode: Tough Love S5 E19

Next Up: The Weight Of The World, S5 E21

Work On Your Story

Download free Story Structure worksheets

Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel in ebook, audiobook, or workbook form 

The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year in ebook, audiobook, or workbook form

More Help With Your Novel at Writing As A Second Career

Click here to learn more about the online course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft

Support Buffy And The Art Of Story Podcast

Become a patron and access bonus episodes 

Make a one-time donation at Buy Me A Coffee and enjoy a very Buffy holiday episode

Buffy and the Art of Story Books

Buffy and the Art of Story Facebook Page

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn’t change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

About Lisa M. Lilly

In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com.

Like supernatural thrillers or private investigator novels with smart, strong female protagonists? Click here to learn about free ebooks from Lisa M. Lilly.

In Tough Love (Buffy the Vampire Slayer S5 E19), Tara and Willow have their first fight, Buffy struggles to deal with Dawn, and Glory believes she’s found the key and attacks. Along with the recap, this podcast episode focuses on:

(1) scenes that build suspense but still play fair by cutting just before a key moment; (2) whether the last scene where Glory confronts Buffy serves as a climax, game changer, or cliff hanger; and (3) how Tough Love changes when viewed as a complete story versus Part 1 of 2.

Spoiler-free, except at the end (with plenty of warning).

Last Episode: Intervention, S5 E18

Next Up: Spiral, S5 E20

Work On Your Story

Download free Story Structure worksheets

Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel in ebook, audiobook, or workbook form 

The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year in ebook, audiobook, or workbook form

Help With Your Novel at Writing As A Second Career

Click here to learn more about the online course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft

Support Buffy And The Art Of Story Podcast

Become a patron and access bonus episodes 

Make a one-time donation at Buy Me A Coffee and enjoy a very Buffy holiday episode

More Links From Tough Love

Lisa M. Lilly's Audiobooks

The Complete Awakening Supernatural Thriller Series ebook box set

Buffy and the Art of Story Books

Buffy and the Art of Story Facebook Page

Like supernatural thrillers or private investigator novels with smart, strong female protagonists? Free ebooks from Lisa M. Lilly

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn’t change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

About Lisa M. Lilly

In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com.