Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple: How to Write, Edit, and Publish Your Debut Fantasy, Science Fiction, or Dystopian Novel

Fix Your Novel with the Save the Cat Blueprint (Act 1) | Writing Tips & Techniques | Episode 29


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Does your novel feel like it’s wandering aimlessly, struggling to find direction? In this episode, I’ll walk you through the first five beats of the Save the Cat story structure—a simple, effective tool to shape your novel into a story readers can’t put down. Learn how this flexible plotting method can keep your story on track while leaving plenty of room for creativity and unexpected inspiration.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

  • Why Save the Cat is the perfect balance of structure and creativity
  • How to craft a compelling first scene
  • How to subtly introduce your story’s core message in the theme stated beat
  • Why the setup is crucial and why skipping it can hurt your story
  • And so much more

Whether you’re drafting or revising, this episode will give you practical tips to apply the Save the Cat framework to your own manuscript.

Get the Workbook:📚 Click here to sign up to get the Save the Cat Act 1 Workbook

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SNAP Critique ✍️ Ready to get your first scene (5 pages or fewer) critiqued for FREE? Fill out the SNAP Critique Form right here!

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Ask Me Anything Thursdays👋 Send me your writing question! I'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Include your name if you want a shout out! 🤗

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Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple: How to Write, Edit, and Publish Your Debut Fantasy, Science Fiction, or Dystopian NovelBy Heather Davis, Writing Coach, Book Coach, and Developmental Editor

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