It’s time to tear some stories up, for your benefit.

Four writers have graciously laid their stories on the butcher block. Brad Pauquette and Alli Prince critique these stories, so that we can all learn to identify common writing issues.

You may have heard the rule “Show, don’t tell.” But do you really know what it means? Most writers think they know…but they’re wrong.

In this episode, we’ll see lots of examples of how to effectively apply that rule, both from a story structure standpoint and in the narrative itself. We’ll see how it applies in a short story setting and how it applies to novel chapters.

Brad and Alli critique these four stories, with the author’s permission:

“A Werewolf’s Will,” by Nathan Casey
“I Just Got Here,” by Kamryn Weaver
“Bonded – Chapter 1,” by Camila Justice
“Sunlight Hollow – Chapter 1,” by Ava Travis

Before you begin, take the time to download the stories we’ll be discussing. Do your own critique first and see if you identify similar issues as Brad and Alli. Download all four stories here: writers.company/july-22nd-procritique-materials-now-available/

Brad Pauquette is an experienced editor and the director of The Company. With more than 15 years in the publishing industry, specializing in new author development, Brad has worked with hundreds of authors to help them improve their work and publish their best. Brad’s bestselling book, The Novel Matrix, is available from all major retailers.

Brad will be joined by author Alli Prince, a graduate of The Company’s full-time apprenticeship program. Alli recently published her debut novella, Copper Lies. She was also the managing editor for Lawless: An anthology of short stories inspired by the biblical book of Judges.

The post SHOW ME the story: July 2025 ProCritique Recording (Episode 160) appeared first on The Company.