The answer definitely isn’t to avoid familiar storylines completely—sometimes a path is well-trodden for a reason. So let's get into the difference between a cliché (something we’ve seen over and over) and a trope (a familiar storyline or story element) and talk about how tropes might actually serve you. 

You can find a transcript of this episode at my website, where you can also subscribe to my newsletter, get behind-the-scenes peeks at how I write, and any other news about new books, events or the podcast. You can also submit a question for the podcast on my website. For more on my book recommendation for this month, Lady Helen and the Dark Days Club, check out author Alison Goodman's website. You can find me on Twitter or Instagram.