Writing Quest

By Brenden Pugh

Writing Quest is me sharing my journey and everything I learn along the way to write and publish my epic fantasy novel.... more

· Education

5

33 ratings

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FAQs about Writing Quest:

How many episodes does Writing Quest have?

The podcast currently has 130 episodes available.

Writing Quest episodes:

December 20, 2024 From Struggle to Storytelling: Timothy Robare’s Writing Quest
🚀 Timothy Robare: Writing, Worldbuilding, and Embracing the Journey 🚀
Writing Quest’s Links:
Support my bookstore: https://bookshop.org/shop/questhavenbooks
Storybook: Master Novelist: https://writingquest.gumroad.com/l/StorybookMasterNovelist
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/WritingQuest
Scrivener Discount (20% off with code ‘QUEST’): https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html?fpr=writingquest2
Codex Archetypum E-Book: https://gumroad.com/a/398043347/tguwn
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Timothy Robare shares the inspiring journey behind his Tales of Battle series. From enduring personal challenges to navigating the creative highs and lows of writing and self-publishing, Timothy's story is a testament to perseverance and passion. With a love for crafting dynamic worlds and relatable characters, he dives into the process of turning his ideas into novels and the lessons learned along the way.
What’s Inside:
From Writing Therapy to Author Career:
Timothy explains how writing provided an outlet during his childhood struggles and became a lifelong passion.
Crafting Tales of Battle:
Inspired by Redwall and a love for elves, Timothy discusses his unique blend of humanoid animals, elves, and humans in his epic fantasy series.
Going with the Flow vs. Outlining:
While his first series was written fluidly, Timothy reflects on the challenges of retrofitting maps and systems post-draft and shares plans to outline his next series.
Publishing Path:
After facing setbacks with querying, Timothy shares why he chose self-publishing and the support he received from his editor to take the leap.
Advice for Aspiring Authors:
Timothy emphasizes the importance of seeking constructive criticism, staying true to your artistic journey, and embracing both the highs and lows of the writing process.
Join the Discussion:
How do you navigate the ups and downs of writing and publishing? Are you a plotter, pantser, or somewhere in between? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to check out Timothy Robare’s Tales of Battle!
Subscribe for more inspiring author interviews and writing tips from Writing Quest!
#WritingQuest #TimothyRobare #TalesOfBattle #FantasyWriting #Worldbuilding
...more
47min
December 13, 2024 Rewriting a Debut Novel: NJ Alexander’s Lessons
🚀 NJ Alexander on Vanity Presses, Rewriting, and Building a Writing Community 🚀
Writing Quest’s Links:
Storybook: Master Novelist: https://writingquest.gumroad.com/l/StorybookMasterNovelist
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/WritingQuest
Scrivener Discount (20% off with code ‘QUEST’): https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html?fpr=writingquest2
Codex Archetypum E-Book: https://gumroad.com/a/398043347/tguwn
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Brendan sits down with NJ Alexander, author of Fog Bound, to discuss his journey through self-publishing, the perils of vanity presses, and how rewriting his debut novel gave it new life.
From sharing lessons learned about dodging scams to detailing his meticulous writing process, NJ delivers a candid and inspiring look at the trials and triumphs of being an indie author. This conversation is packed with actionable advice, from avoiding common pitfalls in publishing to finding your place in a supportive writing community.
What’s Inside:
A Tale of Redemption:
NJ shares how his early experience with a vanity press led to reclaiming his work and relaunching Fog Bound.
Rewriting and Reimagining:
Discover how NJ transformed his original draft by adding new depth, improving character agency, and restructuring the story.
Avoiding Vanity Presses:
Warning signs and why authors should never pay a publisher to release their work.
Writing Routine:
NJ’s disciplined binge-writing strategy and how he balances creativity with a full-time job.
Community Building:
The importance of finding critique partners, beta readers, and support within the indie writing space.
Looking Ahead:
NJ’s plans to finish the Echoes of Ono series and venture into writing something weird, wacky, and wildly creative.
Join the Discussion:
Have you ever had a negative experience with a vanity press? How do you stay motivated to write? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to grab your copy of Fog Bound!
Subscribe for more author interviews and writing tips from Writing Quest!
#WritingQuest #NJAlexander #FantasyAuthor #FogBound #SelfPublishing #VanityPress #IndieAuthor
...more
54min
November 26, 2024 The Heart of Quinaria: Inside Bethany Garcia’s Fantasy World
🚀 Interview with Bethany Garcia: Worldbuilding, Self-Publishing, and Creative Freedom 🚀
Bethany Garcia’s Links:
Website: www.bshgarcia.com (Get From the Ashes free by subscribing to her newsletter!)
Socials: @bshgarcia on all platforms (primarily on Twitter/X and Instagram)
Upcoming Release: Of Love and Loss (Released September 28th)
📚 Ebook Pre-order: https://books2read.com/u/b6pwl0
📚 Paperback and Hardback also available!
Writing Quest’s Links:
Storybook: Master Novelist: https://writingquest.gumroad.com/l/StorybookMasterNovelist
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/WritingQuest
Scrivener Discount (20% off with code ‘QUEST’): https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html?fpr=writingquest2
Codex Archetypum E-Book: https://gumroad.com/a/398043347/tguwn
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Brenden sits down with fantasy author Bethany Garcia, author of Of Thieves and Shadows and Of Love and Loss. Bethany shares her journey from acting to writing, the origins of her Quinaria series, and the challenges of balancing family life with creative pursuits.
Bethany dives deep into worldbuilding, character development, and the self-publishing process, offering invaluable advice to aspiring authors. From finding the courage to share your work with beta readers to navigating the complexities of publishing, Bethany’s insights are both practical and inspiring.
What’s Inside:
The Origins of Quinaria:
Bethany recounts how a single scene idea during an acting exercise transformed into her debut fantasy series, The Heart of Quinaria.
On Worldbuilding:
For Bethany, worldbuilding is more than setting—it’s a character in its own right, shaping her story and influencing every decision her characters make.
Writing Process & Challenges:
Balancing writing with family life, Bethany discusses how becoming a mother reshaped her approach to creativity, and how she shifted from a structured routine to seizing moments of inspiration during naptimes.
Self-Publishing vs. Traditional:
Bethany reflects on her decision to self-publish after receiving feedback from agents. She highlights the value of creative control, the importance of research, and the ever-evolving landscape of indie publishing.
Advice for Aspiring Authors:
Finish your drafts, get feedback from beta readers, and build a supportive writing community—Bethany’s advice for writers at any stage of their journey.
Join the Discussion:
Have you considered self-publishing? What role does worldbuilding play in your stories? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to check out Bethany Garcia’s latest book, Of Love and Loss!
Subscribe for more author interviews and writing tips from Writing Quest!
#WritingQuest #BethanyGarcia #FantasyAuthor #Worldbuilding #SelfPublishing #OfThievesAndShadows #HeartOfQuinaria
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56min
November 25, 2024 From Comics to Fantasy: The Journey of David Hopkins!
🚀 The Writing Journey of David Hopkins: From Comics to Fantasy Novels 🚀
David Hopkins’s Links:
Author website: https://thatdavidhopkins.com
The Dryads Crown: https://dryadscrown.com
Free copy of War of the Hounds: https://thatdavidhopkins.com/war
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/davidhopkins.author/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatdavidhopkins/
Writing Quest’s Links:
Storybook: Master Novelist - https://writingquest.gumroad.com/l/StorybookMasterNovelist
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/WritingQuest
Scrivener (Get 20% off with code ‘QUEST’): https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html?fpr=writingquest2
Codex Archetypum E-Book: https://gumroad.com/a/398043347/tguwn
Episode Summary:
In this episode, we chat with David Hopkins, author of The Dryads Crown and War of the Hounds, about his multifaceted writing journey. Starting in the world of comics, David has carved a path through journalism and fantasy fiction, building a robust creative portfolio. He delves into his love for storytelling, the lessons he learned from comics, and why he chose to self-publish his novels. David shares insights into his world-building process, the challenges of indie publishing, and the creative freedom that comes with being an independent author.
What’s Inside:
From Comics to Fantasy:
David explains his transition from writing comic books to novels, sharing how his experience in comics shaped his approach to storytelling.
The Power of Indie Publishing:
Discover why David chose self-publishing and how it has given him the control to create and market his work on his own terms.
Crafting a Series Universe:
Learn how The Dryads Crown and War of the Hounds fit into a shared universe and David’s innovative approach to standalone novels within a larger series.
Advice for Aspiring Authors:
David offers actionable tips on mastering your craft, outlining effectively, and navigating the world of indie publishing while maintaining creative control.
Join the Community:
What’s your writing journey been like? Are you working on a novel or comic project? Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below! Don’t forget to hit subscribe for more author interviews and writing insights on Writing Quest.
Thank you for watching! Dive into the world of fantasy with David Hopkins and continue your writing journey with us here on Writing Quest.
#WritingQuest #DavidHopkins #FantasyAuthor #DryadsCrown #WarOfTheHounds #IndieAuthor #ComicsToFiction #WritingTips
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1h 9min
November 14, 2024 Neon Noir: Inside the Cyberpunk World of Nina Voss!
🚀 Nina Voss: Creating Cyberpunk Worlds and Self-Publishing Success 🚀
Nina Voss’s Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nina.author
Website: https://nina-voss.square.site
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@nina.author
Writing Quest’s Links:
Storybook: Master Novelist - https://writingquest.gumroad.com/l/StorybookMasterNovelist
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/WritingQuest
Scrivener (Get 20% off with code ‘QUEST’): https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html?fpr=writingquest2
Codex Archetypum E-Book: https://gumroad.com/a/398043347/tguwn
Welcome back to another episode of Writing Quest! Today, we’re thrilled to have Nina Voss on the show to discuss her debut cyberpunk novel, Neon Noir, and her journey as a self-published author. From early creative sparks writing fanfiction to building the neon-soaked world of “Cyber City,” Nina dives into how she brought Neon Noir to life.
What’s Inside:
Worldbuilding with Music: Nina shares how synthwave and cyberpunk music shaped her vision for Cyber City, making music one of her biggest inspirations for character and scene development.
Navigating Self-Publishing: Discover why Nina chose the indie route for Neon Noir and the advantages (and challenges!) of having full creative control.
Using Social Media for Indie Marketing: Find out how Nina built an engaged community of readers on Instagram and Threads and her unique approach to promoting her work online.
Building a Series in the Cyberpunk Genre: Learn about her plans for expanding Neon Noir into a multi-book series and what’s next for her characters and the gritty world they live in.
Connecting with Readers: From pre-release ARC sign-ups to handling her first reviews, Nina gives us insights on how she connects with readers and embraces feedback to improve her craft.
Join the Community:
Are you a cyberpunk fan or interested in the self-publishing world? Let us know in the comments if Neon Noir is on your TBR list!
Subscribe to Writing Quest on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram for more engaging author interviews, writing tips, and inspiring stories from indie authors.
Thank you for joining us in this inspiring conversation with Nina Voss! Whether you're just beginning your author journey or are a seasoned writer, we hope you find something new and helpful here on Writing Quest. See you in the next episode!
#WritingQuest #NinaVoss #NeonNoir #Cyberpunk #SelfPublishing #IndieAuthor #WritingJourney
...more
54min
October 25, 2024 Creating The Eye of Eternity: Inside Mark Timmony’s Epic Series
🔥 Building Epic Fantasy Worlds with Author Mark Timmony 🔥
Mark Timmony’s Links:
Website: https://marktimmony.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marktimmony/
X (Twitter): https://x.com/MarkTimmony
Writing Quest’s Links:
Storybook: Master Novelist - https://writingquest.gumroad.com/l/StorybookMasterNovelist
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/WritingQuest
Scrivener (Get 20% off with code ‘QUEST’): https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html?fpr=writingquest2
Codex Archetypum E-Book: https://gumroad.com/a/398043347/tguwn
Mark Timmony, author of The Blood of the Spear, joins us to dive deep into the world of epic fantasy writing. In this episode, we explore Mark’s journey from an avid reader of fantasy classics like The Wheel of Time to creating his own expansive series, The Eye of Eternity. Discover how Mark balances world-building, character development, and plotting in a long-form fantasy series, and get a sneak peek into his process for creating maps and intricate storylines that span multiple books.
What You’ll Learn:
The Influence of Fantasy Classics:
Mark shares how reading The Wheel of Time and Game of Thrones influenced his approach to writing epic sagas.
World-Building and Map Creation:
Find out how Mark’s love for maps in fantasy books shaped the world of The Eye of Eternity and how he brings his settings to life.
Writing a Series Beyond a Trilogy:
Mark talks about the challenges and rewards of writing a seven-book series and the importance of planning.
Are You Building Your Own Fantasy World?
Tell us how you’re building your fantasy universe in the comments below! And don’t forget to subscribe for more writing tips and author interviews.
#WritingQuest #MarkTimmony #FantasyWriting #EpicFantasy #WorldBuilding #TheBloodOfTheSpear #WritingTips
...more
56min
October 22, 2024 From Dreams to Demons: The Dark Fantasy World of Cal Logan
🔥 From Dreams to Demons: The Journey of Author Cal Logan 🔥
Cal Logan’s Links:
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CZ95T51R
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/210480686-shadowbane
Website: https://callogan.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/calplogan
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cal_logan_author/
Writing Quest’s Links:
Storybook: Master Novelist - https://writingquest.gumroad.com/l/StorybookMasterNovelist
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/WritingQuest
Scrivener (Get 20% off with code ‘QUEST’): https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html?fpr=writingquest2
Codex Archetypum E-Book: https://gumroad.com/a/398043347/tguwn
In this episode, we chat with fantasy author Cal Logan, whose debut novel Shadow Bane is making waves in the Grimdark fantasy world. From turning a terrifying nightmare into an epic fantasy story to the intricacies of setting a novel in feudal Japan, Cal Logan shares his creative journey and passion for world-building. We also delve into his transition from traditional publishing to self-publishing and why taking creative control has been a game-changer for him.
What You’ll Learn:
Creating Complex Characters:
How Cal shapes his protagonists and antagonists, making them both relatable and fearsome.
Navigating Publishing Choices:
Learn why Cal Logan chose to self-publish Shadow Bane after exploring traditional publishing and how he’s taken the reins of his own destiny.
Blending Mythology with Fantasy:
Cal’s unique approach to infusing Japanese yokai and cultural elements into his dark, demon-filled world will inspire you to think outside the box in your own writing.
Join the Conversation:
Have you ever wanted to turn your dreams into a story? Comment below on how you get your best writing ideas, and don’t forget to subscribe for more interviews, tips, and writing inspiration from Writing Quest!
#WritingQuest #CalLogan #ShadowBane #FantasyWriting #SelfPublishing #GrimdarkFantasy #IndieAuthor #Yokai
...more
50min
October 22, 2024 How Carrow Brown Writes Fantasy, Romance & Everything In Between
🚀 Carrow Brown’s Journey: Writing Under Two Author Names! 🚀
Carrow Brown’s Links:
Website: https://carrowbrown.com
Queen of Swords and Silence: https://www.amazon.com/Queen-Swords-Silence-Carrow-Brown-ebook/dp/B0BPMJZVYR
Roll D20 for Love and Hope: https://www.amazon.com/Roll-D20-Love-Hope-Crits-ebook/dp/B0BLWHJTTL
Writing Quest’s Links:
Storybook: Master Novelist - https://writingquest.gumroad.com/l/StorybookMasterNovelist
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/WritingQuest
Scrivener (Get 20% off with code ‘QUEST’): https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html?fpr=writingquest2
Codex Archetypum E-Book: https://gumroad.com/a/398043347/tguwn
Welcome to another episode of Writing Quest! In this exciting interview, Carrow Brown (also writing under the name Faye Black) shares her journey of writing across multiple genres under two author names. From her early writing inspirations to navigating the world of self-publishing, Carrow gives us a peek behind the scenes of her process.
What’s Inside:
Writing Across Genres:
Carrow explains why she uses two author names—Carrow Brown for her fantasy and horror works, and Faye Black for romance—and how it helps her maintain clear branding for her readers.
Self-Publishing vs. Traditional:
Learn how Carrow’s experience with traditional publishing led her to take full control of her creative process through self-publishing, and the pros and cons of managing it all herself.
Full-Time Job & Writing Balance:
Find out how Carrow juggles her full-time job while still making time to write, market her books, and engage with readers across social media platforms.
Early Inspirations & Learning to Write:
Carrow talks about her unusual path into reading and writing, from her late start at age 10 to becoming an avid reader of Sonic the Hedgehog comics and more!
Community & Collaboration:
Carrow shares her experiences with the supportive indie author community on platforms like Discord and Twitter, highlighting the importance of connections in today’s publishing world.
Join the Community:
Are you balancing a full-time job and writing? Curious about publishing under multiple names? Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below!
Follow Writing Quest on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram for more in-depth author interviews and writing tips.
Thank you for joining us in this engaging conversation with Carrow Brown! Whether you're an aspiring writer or a seasoned author, there’s always something new to discover here on Writing Quest. See you in the next episode!
#WritingQuest #CarrowBrown #FayeBlack #SelfPublishing #WritingJourney #IndieAuthor #AuthorLife
...more
52min
October 17, 2024 Crafting Epic Fantasies with Ronit J
🚀 Journey Through Self-Publishing with Ronit J on Writing Quest 🚀
Ronit J’s Links:
Website: https://ronitjauthor.com
Pre-order Abandoned by the Gods: https://www.amazon.com/~/e/B0CLDQCPJC
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ronitjauthor/
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/ronitjauthor
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/ronitjauthor/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554238109868
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronitjauthor/
Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/NitroJ7/
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/ronit-j
Writing Quest’s Links:
Storybook: Master Novelist - https://writingquest.gumroad.com/l/StorybookMasterNovelist
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/WritingQuest
Scrivener (Get 20% off with code ‘QUEST’): https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html?fpr=writingquest2
Codex Archetypum E-Book: https://gumroad.com/a/398043347/tguwn
Welcome to another episode of Writing Quest, where we dive into the journey of self-publishing with our special guest, Ronit J, author of Abandoned by the Gods and Help! My Dog is the Chosen One. Join us as Ronit shares his experiences navigating the self-publishing world and the creative process behind his fantasy novels.
What’s Inside:
Meet Ronit J:
Discover how Ronit’s passion for writing started at an early age, influenced by fantasy classics like Eragon and Lord of the Rings, and how his love for storytelling continues to drive his creative journey.
Crafting an Epic Fantasy:
Ronit talks about his intricate world-building process, how he explores complex themes such as societal structures, and how his background in filmmaking influences his narrative style.
Character Development & Personal Insights:
Learn how Ronit creates rich, multifaceted characters, drawing from personal experiences and real-world systems, and hear how his own anxiety played a key role in shaping the protagonist in Help! My Dog is the Chosen One.
Balancing Creativity & Industry Realities:
Ronit opens up about the challenges and rewards of self-publishing, from handling every aspect of book production to finding satisfaction in seeing his creative vision come to life, all while balancing the demands of the writing industry.
Join the Community:
Are you fascinated by epic fantasy, or curious about the world of self-publishing? Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below!
Follow Writing Quest on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram for more in-depth author interviews and writing tips.
Thank you for joining us in this exploration of Ronit J’s creative world. Whether you're a writer on your own journey or a fantasy enthusiast, there’s always something new to discover here on Writing Quest. See you in the next episode!
#WritingQuest #RonitJ #SelfPublishing #FantasyWriting #AbandonedByTheGods #HelpMyDogIsTheChosenOne #WorldBuilding
...more
50min
September 27, 2024 From Query Trenches to Indie Success: Katee Stein’s Writing Journey
✍️ Indie vs Traditional Publishing with Katee Stein: The Journey to Earthbound ✍️
Katee Stein’s Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katee.stein
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kateestein
Website: https://www.kateestein.com
Newsletter: https://substack.com/@kateestein?r=2iklku&utm_medium=ios
Writing Quest’s Links:
Storybook: Master Novelist - https://writingquest.gumroad.com/l/StorybookMasterNovelist
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/WritingQuest
Scrivener (Get 20% off with code ‘QUEST’): https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html?fpr=writingquest2
Codex Archetypum E-Book: https://gumroad.com/a/398043347/tguwn
In this episode of Writing Quest, Canadian author Katee Stein discusses her latest book Earthbound and the transition from traditional to indie publishing. From starting her writing journey in 2018 to publishing multiple books, Katee shares the highs and lows of querying, rejections, and the creative freedom that comes with indie publishing. She also dives into the unique blend of science fiction and fantasy that defines her stories, including Glass Helix and Earthbound. Learn from Katee’s insights about marketing, crafting a unique writing process, and the power of authenticity in indie publishing.
What’s Inside:
🌎 Indie Publishing vs Traditional Publishing: Katee breaks down the pros and cons of each approach.
💡 Creative Control: Discover why indie publishing gave Katee the freedom to fully express her vision in Earthbound.
📚 Blending Genres: How Katee mixes sci-fi and fantasy to create unique worlds and stories.
✍️ Writing Process: Katee shares her discovery-writing approach and tips for letting characters drive the story.
Thank you for watching! Don’t forget to subscribe to Writing Quest for more author insights and writing tips.
#WritingQuest #KateeStein #Earthbound #IndiePublishing #AuthorJourney #WritingProcess #FantasySciFi #CreativeControl #GlassHelix #SelfPublishing
...more
49min

FAQs about Writing Quest:

How many episodes does Writing Quest have?

The podcast currently has 130 episodes available.