We know side characters are the best, but how do you prevent them from taking over?! This week, authors Anna Mercier and Lyssa Mia Smith discuss what makes a great side character as well as tips and tricks on how much page time to give them.

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This week, authors Anna Mercier and Lyssa Mia Smith tackle one of the most difficult questions: when do you stop research and outlining and actually write the book?

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This week, Anna Mercier and Lyssa Mia Smith attempt to organize episodes of Turning to Story into a writing process. Spoiler Alert: The process is always nebulous, but maybe this will help some folks out!

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You have your character's misbelief, and you know exactly how they'll grow as a person. Now how the heck do you create a plot that pushes them in that direction?! Never fear! Authors Anna Mercier and Lyssa Mia Smith chat about ways you can balance internal change with external plot. Every scene will crackle with electric energy from that third rail!

During their first ever minisode, authors Anna Mercier and Lyssa Mia Smith cover all things 3rd rail. Misbeliefs, wounds, and inner conflict all help create electrifying scenes.

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It only took weeks of raving about it, but we finally got Emily Taylor, NYT Bestselling author of Hotel Magnifique, to share how her background in marketing helps her craft big ideas. From conception to execution, the Big Idea can help you craft a story that will stick out on any shelf!

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What is story but one event leading to another? WRONG. Well, at least according to Lisa Cron. This week, authors Anna Mercier and Lyssa Mia Smith analyze the ten elements every scene should have. It's checklist perfection and the perfect tool for your writing kit!

This week, authors Lyssa Mia Smith and Anna Mercier nerd out about an often overlooked writerly tool: setting. From visceral sensory overload to theme and symbolism, worldbuilding can be used to immerse readers across an entire novel and from scene to scene.

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Want to keep readers turning page after page? The key is immersion! This week, authors Anna Mercier and Lyssa Mia Smith cover what sucks readers in- and what rips them out.

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Do you hear that sound in the distance? The thunder of hooves. Hark! The three biggest monsters you'll face on your publishing journey are here: imposter syndrome, comparison, and loneliness. Don't worry, authors Anna Mercier and Lyssa Mia Smith are to help with a productive vent session and tools to help you prepare for the long, wonderful road ahead.

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