We're talking about the difference between a great concept and a great story this week.

Recommendation: Atlanta (TV series)

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This week, on casting a spell, building your story's vibe, and understanding the limits of atmosphere.

Book recommendation: THE SWIMMERS by Julie Otsuka.

Stuck in a writing rut, or traveling in loops? This week, tips for breaking out of it.

Book recommendation: TOKYO UENO STATION, by Yu Miri.

I had the pleasure of speaking with author Cheryl Lu-Lien Tan for this week's episode. Cheryl is the author of several books; most recently, she is the co-editor and contributor of ANONYMOUS SEX. Learn more at http://cheryllulientan.com.

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This week, get out your red pen and try some concrete exercises to make five pages of your story better.

Book recommendation: ALL CREATURES GREAT AND SMALL, by James Herriot

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Hillary Jordan is the author of the novels Mudbound and When She Woke as well as the digital short "Aftermirth," all published by Algonquin Books of Chapel Hill. She also co-created and co-edited, with Cheryl Lu-Lien Tan, the groundbreaking erotica anthology Anonymous Sex, forthcoming from Scribner on February 1, 2022. Hillary’s stories have been translated into 15 languages.

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This week, face the story that scares you.

Book recommendation: BUNNY by Mona Awad.

In honor of Valentine's Day, I'm thinking about showing the big loves and little loves of your character in your fiction.

Book recommendation: LOOKER by Laura Sims.

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This week, I'm admitting the best kept secret of many writers.

Book recommendation: MIDDLEMARCH, by George Eliot. Join me in reading Middlemarch in 2022!

This week, take a small step in the other direction and look around you.

Book recommendation: FIGHT NIGHT, by Miriam Toews.

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