Co-Authoring Chronicles Podcast

In this episode of their podcast, Helen Corvis and Steaphan Kay dive into the topic of when characters should have sex in fiction. They explore the reasons for including sex scenes, such as expressing a full range of emotions, building tension, and providing a safe space for readers to explore intimacy. Helen emphasizes the importance of portraying sex positively and consensually, while Steaphan quotes Diana Gabaldon on the art of writing sensual scenes with restraint and beautiful imagery.

The hosts also discuss how the timing of sex scenes can depend on the characters' desires and the feasibility within the story. They touch on the expectations set by different genres, from erotica to young adult romance. Helen shares her thoughts on creating realistic and relatable intimate moments, even between "evil" characters.

Throughout the conversation, Helen and Steaphan remind listeners that authors have a limitless palette to portray sex and relationships in unique and meaningful ways. The episode concludes with the thought-provoking sentiment that even evil characters are capable of love and beauty.

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Helen (BlueSky)

Steaphan (IndieAuthors.Social | X | Facebook | Newsletter)

Co-Authored Serial Fiction: In the Arms of the Void

Related Content For This Episode:

• "I Give You My Body . . .": How I Write Sex Scenes by Diana Gabaldon
• Writing a Romance Novel For Dummies by Victorine Lieske (Author), Leslie Wainger

Other Content:

• For readers at steaphankay.com/blog
• For authors at steaphankay.com/authors
• For art lovers at deviantart.com/authorsteaphankay

Join Helen Corvis and Steaphan Kay in this enlightening episode where we look into the psychology behind creating memorable and authentic characters. In "What Makes Your Characters Tick?", we explore the intricate hopes, dreams, fears, and motivations that drive character development in storytelling.

Helen kicks off the discussion by emphasizing the importance of structuring characters' psychological profiles upfront to enhance story craft. She warns against falling into the trap of creating a Mary Sue or Gary Stu – essentially author self-inserts devoid of depth or challenge.

Steaphan introduces us to various tools and frameworks that can aid authors in fleshing out their characters, including insights from H. Claire Taylor's work on enneagrams and personality systems. The conversation also covers using Myers-Briggs types for character creation, with both hosts sharing how these methods have influenced his own writing projects.

The episode is peppered with references to literary giants such as Agatha Christie and Mark Twain, providing listeners with practical examples of how understanding what forms a person's sense of identity can lead to compelling narrative arcs.

Whether you're struggling with character development or looking for new ways to enrich your storytelling arsenal, this episode offers valuable perspectives on making your characters resonate authentically with readers. Tune in for an engaging discussion filled with tips, anecdotes, and much more!

Please Like & Follow us wherever you listen to this podcast and on social.

Helen (BlueSky)

Steaphan (IndieAuthors.Social | X | Facebook | Newsletter)

Co-Authored Serial Fiction: In the Arms of the Void

Related Content For This Episode:

• Enneagram & Fiction Masterclass

Other Content:

• For readers at steaphankay.com/blog
• For authors at steaphankay.com/authors
• For art lovers at deviantart.com/authorsteaphankay

In this eye-opening episode of the Co Authoring Chronicles of Serial Fiction podcast, hosts Helen Corvis and Steaphan Kay dive into the murky waters of sensitive topics and boundaries in writing. They explore the hidden pitfalls that can await authors who venture into these areas, and they offer practical advice on how to navigate them with respect and authenticity.

Helen and Steaphan discuss the importance of setting expectations for readers, and they share their thoughts on the use of trigger warnings. They also explore the question of whether authors should only write what they know, and they offer their insights on how to write about marginalized or underrepresented groups in a way that is both respectful and inclusive. Whether you're a seasoned author or just starting out, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to write about sensitive topics with confidence and compassion.

Note: When writing sensitive topics where you may not have firsthand experience, consider using sensitivity readers. They are individuals who are hired to read and provide feedback on manuscripts, particularly with regard to the portrayal of marginalized or underrepresented groups. Their feedback can help authors avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes or inaccuracies, and can also help to ensure that the work is respectful and inclusive.

Please Like & Follow us wherever you listen to this podcast and on social.

Helen (BlueSky)

Steaphan (IndieAuthors.Social | X | Facebook | Newsletter)

Co-Authored Serial Fiction: In the Arms of the Void

Related Content For This Episode:

• StoryGraph Content Warning Examples

Other Content:

• For readers at steaphankay.com/blog
• For authors at steaphankay.com/authors
• For art lovers at deviantart.com/authorsteaphankay

In this episode of the Co-Authoring Chronicles of Serial Fiction podcast, co-authors Helen Corvis and Steaphan Kay discuss the importance of character development in fiction writing. They explore how well-developed characters with clear motivations and goals can drive the narrative, make stories more engaging, and allow writers to explore deeper themes. Helen and Steaphan share examples from science fiction to illustrate effective character development, and discuss some techniques and challenges they have encountered in crafting authentic characters in their own collaborative serial fiction project, In the Arms of the Void . The co-authors also offer practical tips for monitoring character development and arcs over the course of a story.

Related Content:

• For readers at steaphankay.com/blog
• For authors at steaphankay.com/authors
• For art lovers at deviantart.com/authorsteaphankay
• Please Like & Follow us wherever you listen to this podcast and on social.

Helen (BlueSky)

Steaphan (IndieAuthors.Social | X | Facebook | Newsletter)

Co-Authoring Chronicles of Serial Fiction is a podcast where two voices come together to share their experiences and insights on the art of collaborative writing. Join Helen Corvis and Steaphan Kay, the co-authors of the serial fiction In the Arms of the Void as they delve into the world of inspiration and ideas.

In this episode, Helen and Steaphan discuss the role of childhood reading and science fiction classics in inspiring their work. They emphasize the importance of silence and clarity of mind for generating ideas, and explore the influence of theoretical science and technology on their storytelling. They also delve into the use of stereotypes and tropes in fiction, and the power of subverting them. Finally, they discuss the balance between writing to market and writing from the heart.

Co-Authoring Chronicles of Serial Fiction is a podcast for anyone interested in the creative process of writing, collaboration, and the power of storytelling. Join Helen and Steaphan as they share their journey and offer valuable insights for aspiring and experienced writers alike.

Please note: Helen and Steaphan are not attorneys and this podcast is not providing legal advice. Please seek legal counsel for professional guidance.

Enter the unparalleled universe of serial fiction co-authorship with Helen Corvus and Steaphan Kay in their captivating podcast, "Co-Authoring Chronicles of Serial Fiction." This episode covers the contractual side of writing In the Arms of the Void, where Helen and Steaphan unlock invaluable insights on creative partnership, exploring everything from drafting co-author contracts to equitable royalty sharing. This series is not just a guidebook for aspiring writers but an intimate look into the dynamics of collaboration, conflict resolution, and the shared joy and challenges of bringing a story to life. Whether you're navigating legalities without legal expertise or deciding on a book title that sells, this podcast offers practical advice alongside real-life experiences. Join them as they delve deep into not just the mechanics but also the artistry behind co-writing, making it an essential listen for current and future authors dreaming to write together without getting lost in the void.

Enter the heart of collaborative editing in this enlightening episode of "The Co-Authoring Chronicles of Serial Fiction Podcast." Join Helen Corvis and Steaphan Kay as they navigate the complex waters of refining their co-authored masterpiece,In the Arms of the Void. This episode zeroes in on the critical yet often challenging editing process, revealing the duo's unique four-step approach that has been instrumental in shaping their serial fiction. From initial revisions to final proofreading, Helen and Steaphan share invaluable insights into how they tackle each phase together, ensuring their story remains cohesive and compelling.

Listeners will get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how these authors communicate effectively to make joint decisions on plot adjustments, character development, and narrative pacing. The discussion delves into the nuances between editing and revision, highlighting how both play distinct roles in enhancing a manuscript. Moreover, Helen and Steaphan discuss the tools and techniques they employ to keep track of changes and maintain consistency across chapters. This episode is not just about the mechanics of co-authoring; it's a testament to the power of collaboration in overcoming obstacles and pushing creative boundaries. Whether you're an aspiring writer or an avid fan of serial fiction, this episode offers a treasure trove of tips, strategies, and personal anecdotes that illuminate the path to successful co-authorship.

In this insightful episode of the Co-Authoring Chronicles of Serial Fiction Podcast, hosts Helen Corvis and Steaphan Kay delve into the intimate relationship between art and storytelling. As co-authors of the serial fiction In the Arms of the Void they explore how various forms of artistic expression, from illustrations to music, can encapsulate and enhance narrative experiences.

Steaphan shares his personal journey from creating visual murals as a child to incorporating art into his written works. The duo discusses how art serves not just as an embellishment but as a powerful tool for conveying emotions and bringing stories to life beyond words. They reflect on the collaborative process behind integrating artwork into their co-authored series, emphasizing the importance of mutual understanding and shared vision.

Listeners will get a behind-the-scenes look at how they navigate creative decisions, from book cover designs to character illustrations, ensuring that each piece resonates with both authors and captures the essence of their sci-fi universe. The conversation also touches upon honoring diversity in representation through their artistic choices.

For those interested in seeing Steaphan's work firsthand, be sure to visit his DeviantArt page under Author Steaphan Kay, where you'll find captivating co-designed illustrations from "In the Arms of the Void" among other creations.

Join Helen and Steaphan as they unpack these topics with passion and candor, offering a unique glimpse into the co-authoring process where two voices unite to tell one compelling tale.

Dive into the intricate world of co-authoring with Helen Corvis and Steaphan Kay as they unravel their journey of crafting the serial fiction In the Arms of the Void. Discover how they navigated through differing writing styles, word choices, and perspectives. Learn about their unique approach to feedback that fosters creativity while maintaining respect for each other's ideas. Plus, get a behind-the-scenes look at how they tackled writing about intimacy in a sex-positive and gender-fluid way. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that offers valuable insights for any writer or aspiring author. And don't forget, your feedback is welcome on Kindle Vella!

In this thought-provoking episode of Co-Authoring Chronicles of Serial Fiction, Helen Corvis and Steaphan Kay (co-authors of In the Arms of the Void) confront the notorious challenge every writer fears: Writer's Block. But there's a twist – they explore how this dreaded phenomenon uniquely manifests in a co-authoring partnership. With candid discussions about their personal struggles and triumphs, Helen and Steaphan dissect the difference between traditional writer's block and 'blocking writing,' where life's priorities overshadow the creative process. They share insights from industry experts, discuss strategies to overcome procrastination, and emphasize the importance of creating a conducive writing environment. Whether you're flying solo or part of a writing duo, this episode offers valuable lessons on maintaining productivity, fostering accountability without blame, and keeping the passion for creation alive against all odds. Tune in to learn how two authors unite to keep their shared story thriving amidst the ebb and flow of inspiration and obligation.