The Writing Forge

In this episode of the Writing Forge podcast, Kelly Lydick of Pure Carbon Publishing joins Bonnie and Miranda to delve into the world of editing. The trio unravels the distinctions between developmental and other kinds of editing, shedding light on the nuanced roles each plays in the writing process. They discuss the importance of finding the right editor, the benefits of a sample edit, and the collaborative dynamic between authors and editors. Whether you're navigating plot points in fiction or refining the scope of a nonfiction piece, this episode provides valuable insights into the crucial role of developmental editing in bringing your writing to life.

How would you describe the logline of your current work in progress to a developmental editor? Let us know at our socials!

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Cover art by Maggie Walker

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Dan Wells’ preface to the 10th anniversary edition of Elantris

Hosts Bonnie and Miranda and guest Beth Bonness delve into the fascinating connection between dreams and poetry. Beth's unique perspective of rediscovering her passion for poetry after experiencing life-altering strokes sheds light on how dreams and the subconscious mind can influence the creative process. The discussion explores the randomness of dreaming, the emotional seeds found in vivid dreams, and the potential for inspiration that comes from tapping into your subconscious. Beth also shares her approach of writing in the morning before her to-do list wakes up, using warm-up prompts to access her creativity, and letting her thoughts percolate during sleep. This episode offers valuable insights for writers of all genres and encourages listeners to explore the connection between their dreams and their creative work. Join Bonnie, Miranda, and Beth as they unravel the mysteries of the creative subconscious.

How often do you dream, and how often do you write about it? Have any interesting dreams lately? Share with us on our socials!

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Cover art by Maggie Walker

Join hosts Bonnie and Miranda and guest Sonja Dewing, an award-winning author and CEO of the Women's Thriller Writers Association, as they delve into the world of AI and its applications in the realm of social media marketing. Amidst a discussion on the limitations and possibilities of AI, they explore how AI, particularly Chat GPT, can enhance your social media presence without replacing the human touch. They discuss the value of authentic and personalized content in today's digital landscape, the role of AI in content creation, and the fine balance between automation and human creativity.

Tune in to discover the best practices for using AI in social media marketing, learn about the ethical considerations, and find out how Chat GPT can assist with your marketing plans.

What do you think? Will you use ChatGPT for your marketing? Do you already? Let us know at our socials!

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Cover art by Maggie Walker

Bonnie and Miranda use their experiences as anthology judges, editor, and author to share valuable insights and tips for writers looking to submit their work to anthologies. From uncovering niche opportunities to avoiding common mistakes to crafting standout submissions, they share invaluable tips and tricks to help you make your mark in the competitive world of anthologies. Whether you're new to anthologies or a seasoned writer, you'll find useful advice and guidance in this episode. Tune in to learn how to navigate the anthology landscape successfully!

And check out Writing Heights’ newest anthology, Exception/All: An Anthology Exploring What It Means to Be Normal.

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Cover art by Maggie Walker

Uncover the keys to building and sustaining a thriving writing community in the Writing Forge’s very first live episode! Writing Heights Writers Association director Amy Rivers and Northern Colorado Writers founder Kerrie Flanagan join Bonnie and Miranda for an important conversation on the significance of connecting with our fellow writers. From feedback that refines your work to finding your unique tribe of supporters, explore how writing communities provide a place to celebrate victories and share struggles. Get inspired to step out of your comfort zone, embrace bravery, and foster connections that elevate your writing journey.

Links:

National Novel Writing Month

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Cover art by Maggie Walker

Explore character backstory on this episode of The Writing Forge! YA author Traci L. Jones joins Bonnie and Miranda for a look at how backstory adds depth and authenticity to your characters. They share strategies for using dialogue to reveal character history organically, integrating flashbacks to enhance your plot, and avoiding excessive exposition. Discover how to maintain balance between moving the plot forward and sharing essential information, all while leaving your audience eager for more. Whether you're writing speculative fiction or realistic tales, you won't want to miss this enlightening discussion on making your story's past come to life.

What’s your favorite character backstory? Share with us on our socials!

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Cover art by Maggie Walker

Join Bonnie and Miranda for a thought-provoking episode on the art of switching genres in your writing career. Drawing from John Dedakis's experience pivoting from seasoned journalist to novelist, the conversation delves into the challenges and rewards of venturing into new creative territories. Learn how to leverage your strengths, adapt your skills, and incorporate your background into a fresh genre while staying true to your unique voice. Whether you're considering a leap or just curious, this episode offers guidance to navigate your genre transition.

Anyone else out there make the switch from journalist to novelist? Or vice versa? Let us know how it went at our socials!

Links:

Writing Forge episode 2.12: Elements of Storytelling

Writing Forge episode 2.9: Look Both Ways Before Crossing Genres

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Cover art by Maggie Walker

Poetry and story mix beautifully to make a novel in verse—an increasingly popular form of writing. Miranda and Bonnie learn more from Megan E. Freeman, author of middle-grade novel-in-verse Alone, about what makes a novel in verse, the freedom it can provide, its relatability across different demographics, and of course, tips and tricks for succeeding in the format. 

Had you heard of a novel in verse before today? If so, what has been your favorite? We’d love to hear from you!

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Cover art by Maggie Walker

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Kwame Alexander’s The Crossover

Verse novelist Jason Reynolds

David Elliott’s Voices: The Final Hours of Joan of Arc

Melanie Crowder’s Audacity

Joy McCullough’s Blood Water Paint

Nikki Grimes’ Ordinary Hazards: A Memoir

*cue evil laughter* While most of us love a good villain, antagonists can be so much more. Parents, best friends, even the protagonist themselves can make some of the most compelling antagonists. Kat Falls joins Bonnie and Miranda to discuss how to develop well-rounded, multidimensional antagonists. 

And remember: Go too far—it's easier to pull back during revisions than it is to heat up a tepid antagonist. 

Share your favorite villains and antagonists with us on our socials! 

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Cover art by Maggie Walker

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For a breakdown of the real antagonist of the Dark Knight, listen to https://writingexcuses.com/writing-excuses-6-18-hollywood-formula/

Whether you’re officially a freelancer or just trying to get writing done in your free time, we all need to find what works to keep us motivated and organized. Long-time freelance writer Holly Day joins Bonnie and Miranda to talk about their favorite tools for staying organized and tricks for keeping motivation up—especially when mental health inteferes with productive writing.

What are your best organizational tips and tricks? Share with us on our socials!

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Cover art by Maggie Walker

Links: 

Bonnie’s Shut Up & Write! group (all are welcome!): https://shutupwrite.com/series/shut-up-write-online-with-bonnie-m/7548

Habitica: https://habitica.com/