The authors start off with a look at the different points of view that can be used while writing and when to use them (0:46). The episode's writing tip takes a look at back story - how much of it should be included and how to blend it into the story and at what point (5:52). In the Rules to Write by, Alaine and S.C. look at starting sentences with conjunctions. Should they be treated in the same way that adverbs are? Should you be alarmed if you start some of your writing with them? Take a listen to find out. (9:13). Please note that due to circumstances beyond our control, the first season will only be nine episodes in length. Thank you for listening to the first season of The Second Draft Podcast. #2DP #ask2DP

For this episode, it was Alaine's turn to provide some tips for (steamy) romance authors, including: deciding on a trope; build up to love; limit the sex; use a slow burn; and incorporating a happily ever after ending in the story (0:46). The episode's Writing Tip has the authors taking a look at subtext - what it is good for and when you should think about it in your own writing (5:05). In the Rules to Write by Alaine attacks the idea of write what you know and S. C. Morgan gives his particular take on the subject. (9:28). #2DP #ask2DP

This episode starts out with S. C. exploring five tips for dark fiction and horror authors, including: be true to the content; use your fears; pace your story; create 3D characters; and atmosphere is key (0:44). This episode's writing tip zones in on purple prose, what it is and how it should be treated (4:35). In the Rules to Write by Alaine and S.C. dive into chapter word counts and if there is a set standard or if there is a certain amount of flexibility on the topic (7:06). #2DP #ask2DP

Alaine takes the wheel to start off this episode as she discusses her five items to consider for an indie author: the need for beta readers; having a professional cover; getting your story professionally edited; having an effective blurb; and marketing practices available (0:46). This episode's writing tip is a timely one - how to kick start your writing when you have a million things on your mind (17:40). In the Rules to Write by Alaine and S. C. dive into the debate on whether stories should have epilogues / prologues (22:10). The authors close the episode asking for questions for their tenth and final episode of season one with #ask2DP included in the message and thanking those people who are putting their lives on the line during the pandemic. #2DP #ask2DP

Alaine and S. C. take a look at imposter syndrome - what causes it, who is affected by it and what you can do about it (0:43). Next up, the team welcomes J. T. Tenera to the podcast to discuss the Efrit's Journey series, his writing process and what is coming up in the near future for him and his stories (7:41). This episode's writing tip tackles how and when to self edit and the limitations of editing your own work (23:31). The authors finish off the episode with the Rules to Write By looking at Active versus Passive writing and some examples to simplify them. #2DP #ask2DP

Opening this episode, Alaine and S. C. dig into the differences between writing a short story and a novel and how the process changes during the evolution of those stories (0:43). The writing tip involves varying the sentence length in your prose - why you do it and how it benefits your story (8:12). The authors then delve into this episode's Rules to Write by and examine one of the oldest rules in the book - show, don't tell except when you should (11:37). #2DP #ask2DP

Alaine and S. C. discuss exactly what drives your story - either characters or plot (0:45). For this episode's writing tip, they look at how to get rid of those pesky filler words (13:01). And speaking of pesky filler words, the authors kick off a new section of the podcast, Rules to Write by, discussing Adverbs (16:04). #2DP #ask2DP

Alaine and S. C. discuss what second draft can do for your writing (0:44) and how it affected the final version of Chasing Peace (2:00). This episode's Writing Tip (3:38) takes a look at Alaine's favorite part of writing, dialogue. Next, Alaine and S. C. discuss plotting vs. pantsing in this edition of the Writer's Co-Host Perspective discussion (8:01) and get a laugh from some of their writing style differences. #2DP #ask2DP

Alaine and S. C. discuss how the podcast came together (0:47) before moving on to the Writing Tip (3:38) where they compare their thoughts on what exactly a first draft is. Next, Alaine and S. C. open up the Writer's Perspective discussion (5:21) with a look at how they record their first drafts - pen & paper vs. the laptop. Thank yous (9:45) for this and the following episodes include Multimedia Afterdark (Messina & Alex), Danosongs for the theme music (Three Joys and the Truth) and Alaine's and S.C.'s families for putting up with the distractions that come with recording a podcast. #2DP #ask2DP

Welcome to the first season of the Second Draft Podcast, where we discuss the craft of writing and the struggles of publication. Every week, join authors Alaine Grayson and S. C. Morgan as they discuss their differing points of view on writing in all of its intricacies including tools of the trade, writing tips and experiences gained along the way. Follow Us on Twitter Here: @Alainegreyson, @ScmorganAuthor & @2nddraftpodcast #2DP #ask2DP #podcast #writing #author