Authors' Alcove for Fantasy Writers

In this writer education podcast from the Story Savvy Series, we break down how to use developmental editing advice, the print-and-mark edit method, and storytelling improvement tips to move forward when you're stuck self-editing. Learn how to define theme and message, rethink story structure and editing, and stay focused even when editing repetitive words gets frustrating.Hosted by developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and fantasy author Agnes Wolfe [agneswolfeauthor.com], this episode offers guidance for writers feeling overwhelmed or stalled in the self-editing process. Whether you're fighting decision paralysis or second-guessing structural choices, you'll learn how to make progress without striving for perfection.In this Episode Practical mindset shifts to move past resistance and perfectionismFast placeholders for audience, genre, and theme so you keep momentumScene-level fixes for sticky plot beats and arcsLightweight final-pass cleanups (speaker clarity, typos, scene breaks)How long to try, when to pause, and when to return after outside feedbackResourcesHartbound Developmental Editing - https://hartboundediting.com/Agnes Wolfe - agneswolfeauthor.comDragonheart Academy - Dragonheartacademy.com

In this writing craft podcast episode of the Story Savvy Series, we dive into catching typos in fiction and preparing your manuscript for feedback with a focused final read-through. You’ll learn how to polish your manuscript, improve reader clarity, and handle editing repetitive words before beta readers or editors ever see it. With powerful self editing tips for writers, this episode helps you wrap up your revisions with purpose.Hosted by developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and fantasy author Agnes Wolfe [agneswolfeauthor.com], this episode tackles the final steps of revising your draft. Together, they explore what to do in your last read-through—from formatting and flow to clarity and polish—so you’re confident when it’s time to share your work.In this Episode The goals of a last-pass editFormatting fixes you can’t search forBest tools for grammar, spelling, and clarityHow to flag and fix unclear dialogueTimeline guidance for staying productiveTricks for making your brain “see” your story freshResourcesHartbound Developmental Editing - https://hartboundediting.com/Agnes Wolfe - agneswolfeauthor.comDragonheart Academy - Dragonheartacademy.com

In this writing craft podcast episode of the Story Savvy Series, we walk through final checks for manuscripts to get your story ready for beta readers or editors. Featuring smart steps for editing repetitive words, avoiding head-hopping, and using self editing tips for writers to refine pacing and clarity. Whether you're writing fantasy or fiction, this session offers storytelling improvement tips, developmental editing advice, and practical tools to polish your manuscript with confidence.Hosted by Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com], a professional developmental editor, and Agnes Wolfe [agneswolfeauthor.com], an emerging middle-grade fantasy author, this episode breaks down how to wrap up your final self-edit and prep your book for outside eyes. A must-listen if you’re nearing the end of revision and want to make it count.In this Episode What “final checks” cover: gaps, placeholders (TK/TBD), and last-pass polishSystems for flagging unknowns (unique markers + searchable notes)Quick wins you can make now for a visibly cleaner draftHow much polish to do before beta readers vs. developmental editorsWhat to do when decisions are still undecided—and how to brief readersUsing lists and workspaces to remember “come back to this” itemsDeciding when this pass is truly the final editResourcesHartbound Developmental Editing - https://hartboundediting.com/Agnes Wolfe - agneswolfeauthor.comDragonheart Academy - Dragonheartacademy.com

In this writing craft podcast episode of the Story Savvy Series, we explore how to polish your manuscript by refining your use of nonverbal cues in fiction. You'll learn practical strategies for editing repetitive words, enhancing deep POV writing, and using physical descriptions to reinforce emotion and pacing. With helpful developmental editing advice, we walk you through how to enrich your narrative rhythms, avoid telling, and sharpen character voice—crucial skills for Fantasy novel editing and strong storytelling across genres. Join developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and aspiring fantasy author Agnes Wolfe [agneswolfeauthor.com] as they dig into this week’s self-editing focus: using nonverbal communication to refine and elevate your manuscript. Together, they share practical strategies for writers revising their drafts, from balancing body language with clarity and pacing to choosing the right NVC for character and scene.In this Episode The role of nonverbal cues in immersing readers in POVHow to swap out adverbs and emotion labels for authentic body languageStrategies for fresh, natural gestures without over-relying on clichésPersonalizing characters through their unique physical responsesDeciding when nonverbals support pacing—and when they slow scenes downLeveraging gestures and expressions to build tension and hint at what’s to comeResourcesHartbound Developmental Editing - https://hartboundediting.com/Agnes Wolfe - agneswolfeauthor.comDragonheart Academy - Dragonheartacademy.com

In this deep-dive on self editing character names, we break down how to avoid similar character names, apply smart naming conventions in fiction, and make effective decisions around title vs name usage. Packed with self editing tips for writers and practical developmental editing advice, this episode offers focused tools to polish your manuscript and strengthen clarity in character presentation across genres.Join developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and aspiring author Agnes Wolfe [agneswolfeauthor.com] as they break down the craft of naming in fiction through discussion and actionable advice. Their back-and-forth offers both professional insight and writer-focused clarity, helping you approach character names with purpose, consistency, and confidence during the revision process.Creating a character name database for clarity and consistencyChecking for look-alike or sound-alike character namesConfirming invented terms are relevant and reinforced in the storyManaging character name changes and cultural sensitivity during editsChoosing between proper names and functional titles when introducing charactersResourcesHartbound Developmental Editing - https://hartboundediting.com/Agnes Wolfe - agneswolfeauthor.comDragonheart Academy - Dragonheartacademy.com

In this author education channel episode of the Story Savvy Series, a writing craft podcast for fiction and fantasy authors, Rebecca Hartwell and Agnes Wolfe dive into the art of naming in fiction. They share self editing tips for writerson how to introduce names clearly, avoid reader confusion, and ensure consistency across series and worlds. If you’re ready to polish your manuscript with professional developmental editing advice, this episode is for you.In this Story Savvy Self-Editing episode, Rebecca Hartwell and Agnes Wolfe break down how to introduce character, place, and title names without overwhelming your reader. You’ll learn a practical checklist: cap new names per scene, pair each with context and a memorable trait, confirm cultural/time-period fit, clarify geography on first use, and keep aliases and titles consistent across a series.In this episode:-Keep new-name count reader-friendly-Pair every first mention with relationship context-Seed late-appearing characters earlier in the book-Align names with era, region, culture, and faith-State what a place is on first use (city, inn, forest)-Tame aliases and titles so one character stays one ideaRecommended Resources-Hart Bound Editing: www.hartboundediting.com-Agnes Wolfe: www.agneswolfeauthor.com-DragonheartAcademy: dragonheartacademy.com

Too much showing can bog your pacing; too much telling can flatten your emotion. This writing podcast for authors in the Story Savvy Series explores that delicate equilibrium with narrative distance explained in practical terms. You’ll uncover how to avoid info dumps, weave exposition naturally, and recognize when direct telling enhances reader understanding. Combining self editing tips for writers with developmental editing advice, the episode guides you toward stronger storytelling choices that polish your manuscript and keep your readers immersed from start to finish.In this episode of the Story Savvy Self-Editing Series, developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and aspiring fantasy author Agnes Wolfe [agneswolfeauthor.com] examine the pitfalls of exposition and over-description. Rebecca discusses how to balance show versus tell, write essential context without info dumping, and maintain narrative momentum through clear, purposeful prose.In this episode:Balancing show vs. tell for stronger storytellingRecognizing over-showing and trimming excess detailAvoiding exposition overload in your scenesUsing telling strategically for smoother pacingReplacing info dumps with purposeful, timely details

In this week’s Story Savvy Series episode, we explore cutting word count effectively and how to avoid repetition in writing—a must-listen Podcast for fantasy writers. Through developmental editing advice and storytelling improvement tips, Rebecca and Agnes discuss editing with integrity, sharing real examples from fantasy novel editing that show how to polish your manuscript with precision.In this episode of the Story Savvy Self-Editing Series, developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and aspiring fantasy author Agnes Wolfe [agneswolfeauthor.com] explore the importance of reducing redundancy in your manuscript. Rebecca explains what counts as repetition, how to identify word echoes and overused phrases, and why trimming these moments can strengthen pacing and polish your final draft.In this episode:How to tell when something’s actually repetitiveSpotting when you’ve both shown and told a momentCutting out overused words and echo phrasesSlimming your story without losing its voiceUsing repetition purposefully to strengthen key moments

Today we discuss all things AI and the writing process as well as editing with integrity. In this podcast for fantasy authors, we talk AI and storytelling ethics, specifically ethical AI use for authors. Rebecca points out the need for protecting author rights, the cognitive impact of AI use, and the environmental cost of AI tools. This is such an important topic, as it will have large impacts on the future of creativity and the arts. Agnes shares her still-evolving perspective on AI and the importance of researching the impacts for yourself.In this episode of the Story Savvy Self-Editing Series, developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and aspiring fantasy author Agnes Wolfe [agneswolfeauthor.com] discuss the highly controversial topic of AI. Rebecca defines the difference between generative AI and assistive AI, the environmental impacts of AI, and the long term effects on the cultural and personal art of writing. In this episode:-Understanding difference between generative and assistive AI-Dangers of using generative AI as an assistive tool-Ethical considerations of using AI-Value of human creativity vs AI generated-Importance of transparency when using AI

Join this podcast for fantasy writers as we dive into fantasy novel editing, practical author self-editing tips, and essential techniques for polishing your manuscript. We’ll break down fixing head hopping, revising narrative style, and refining first person vs third person narration to elevate your storytelling. This episode equips you with actionable strategies that editors use to help fantasy stories shine.Episode 39 of the Story Savvy Series focuses on cleaning up narrative style—specifically your choices of person, tense, and POV. Aspiring fantasy author Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] and developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] explain how to identify inconsistencies, manage dual or multi-POV books, and tackle common tense or pronoun errors. You’ll also learn when it’s safe to experiment with omniscient POV and why consistency builds reader trust and momentum. By the end, you’ll be ready to polish this vital layer of your manuscript.In this episode:-Why person, tense, and POV consistency is critical for immersion-How to spot subtle POV mistakes in your draft-Strategies for balancing first person vs third person narration-Editing tips for multi-POV and omniscient styles-Practical ways to catch tense errors beyond dialogue-Why this stage of self-editing is the right time to polish these issues

Join the Story Savvy Series for expert advice on Podcast for fantasy authors, from mastering Self-editing fiction to spotting flat characters before publication. Rebecca Hartwell and Agnes Wolfe share how originality, revising narrative style, and worldbuilding choices can shape unforgettable novels. You’ll gain practical tips on avoiding common writing mistakes, aligning with genre expectations in fiction, and applying fiction editing strategies that keep readers hooked. Perfect for writers looking to sharpen their craft and shine in the competitive world of fantasy book editing.In this episode of the Story Savvy Self-Editing Series, developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and fantasy writer Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] explore what makes a story feel truly fresh and distinctive. They unpack how to enrich characters and worldbuilding with originality while steering clear of overwriting or drifting too far from genre norms. You’ll learn actionable methods for spotting tired or repetitive elements, striking the balance between familiar tropes and creative twists, and weaving in unique touches that make your novel stand out.In this episode: -Why uniqueness helps your novel stand out in a crowded market-How to avoid being either too predictable or too strange-The “food metaphor” approach to understanding genre expectations-Practical exercises for adding inventive details to characters and worldbuilding-When to leave beloved tropes alone and innovate elsewhere-Tools for spotting flat, boring, or derivative aspects in your draft

This episode explores pacing pitfalls writers, novel structure pacing, and self-editing strategies for writers, focusing on how to create smooth transitions that keep readers engaged. We dive into scene-level editing and editing scene flow, unpacking how clarity in transitions impacts focal length in narration and helps in maintaining story momentum. With these practical insights, you’ll gain actionable tools to strengthen your fiction and avoid common mistakes that derail storytelling flow.In this episode of the Story Savvy Self-Editing Series, developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell and aspiring fantasy author Agnes Wolfe dig into one of the most overlooked but critical aspects of writing: transitions. From time jumps to POV shifts, and from white space to chapter breaks, they cover how to guide readers smoothly through changes without losing momentum or clarity.In this episode, you’ll learn:-The basics of signaling jumps in time, location, and POV-Why clarity in transitions is vital for reader immersion-Common mistakes writers make with scene breaks-Structural rules for breaks (scene, chapter, or whitespace)-How to maintain momentum when transitioning-What “focal length” means and how it impacts storytelling-When to summarize versus dramatize passages of time-How to stay consistent with multiple timelines or POVs-Tips for handling fantasy-specific transitions like teleportation or time travelRecommended Resources-Need a Developmental Editor? www.hartboundediting.com

In our ongoing series on self-editing strategies for writers, we take a closer look at novel structure pacing from the perspective of scene-level editing. This episode contrasts scene pacing vs global pacing, showing how writers can strengthen both big and small moments. Along the way, Rebecca offers insightful author self-editing tips in this engaging podcast for fantasy writers.In episode 36 of the Story Savvy Self-Editing series, developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and aspiring fantasy author Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] dive into scene-level pacing, how to make your climaxes land, prevent overwritten details that exhaust your reader, and ensure that every scene contributes meaningfully to the story. Together, they contrast scene pacing with global pacing, discuss strategies to keep readers engaged, and explain how to identify moments that should be trimmed, cut, or expanded.Rebecca highlights why overwriting small moments and under-writing big ones is the most common pacing issue she sees, and shares actionable tools to recalibrate your story. They cover pitfalls like underwritten climaxes, accidental big moments, and small details that pull unnecessary weight in a scene.You’ll learn:-The difference between scene-level and global pacing-How to structure big moments for maximum payoff-Practical ways to keep small moments small-How to spot and fix accidental big moments-Why climaxes often fail and how to prevent it

Discover how character-driven description, writing with your senses, and editing descriptive passages bring stories to life. This podcast for fantasy authors delivers writing immersive description, showing vs telling through senses, and editing tips for indie authors so you can create strong, unforgettable prose.Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] dive into why these “lesser” senses often go underused, and how to weave them in with intention. Whether you’re writing action scenes, quiet moments, or emotionally-charged character beats, you’ll walk away with practical tools for elevating your story and editing with confidence.You’ll learn:How to decide which senses matter most for your characterWhy touch and smell reveal more than you thinkWhen too much description becomes purple proseTips for adding sensory depth without overloading your proseWhy slower scenes need more sensory detail—not lessHow to connect senses with POV for stronger immersionWhat mistakes most authors make with sensory description

Strong scenes start with writing sight and sound, backed by smart show don’t tell writing tips and clear writing immersive description. In this podcast for fantasy authors, we cover how to avoid flat writing, master writing strong descriptions, and apply editing tips for indie authors. Whether you’re focused on writing believable settings or learning how to edit your book yourself, this podcast for fantasy writers gives you practical strategies to sharpen your story.In this podcast for fantasy authors, we unpack how sight and sound create immersive worldbuilding and help you refine your self-editing process. Learn practical tips for balancing sensory immersion, improving fantasy novel editing, and aligning sensory detail with point of view. If you’ve ever wondered how to write strong descriptions, how to avoid info-dumps, or how to edit your book yourself, this podcast for fantasy writers is for you.Developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and fantasy author Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] discuss how to choose the right sensory details, avoid common pitfalls, and connect readers to characters through purposeful description. They also cover how to adjust your approach depending on genre, audience, and scene type.You’ll learn:-How to decide what readers need to see and hear-Why protagonist description matters early in the book-Tips for using vocabulary and POV to guide immersion-How to avoid repetitive sensory choices-When to slim down description (and when to expand it)-Rules of thumb for writing description in action scenes-How sensory detail sets tone and reveals worldbuildingRecommended Resources-Need a Developmental Editor? hartboundediting.com

Join us on this podcast for fantasy writers as we explore self-editing strategies for writers that elevate clothing in fiction, weather, and societal detail into tools for immersive story world development. Rebecca Hartwell and Addie Dulac explain how using worldbuilding details like garments, transportation, and seasonal shifts can do more than set the stage—they can change the story. If you’re looking for practical advice on how to build fictional worlds that actually influence plot and character, this episode is full of smart, actionable guidance.In this podcast for fantasy authors, we examine tangible worldbuilding, from costuming and coinage to cities, carriages, and climate. You’ll learn how to use setting details to complicate your plot, reinforce theme, and shape tone—all while avoiding common self-editing pitfalls. Whether you write fantasy or historical fiction, this episode will sharpen your self-editing eye and deepen your story’s immersive power.Want to make your worldbuilding not just present—but impactful? In this episode, developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and historical romance author Addie Dulac dive into how to integrate physical world elements in ways that change your story’s direction and enhance character arcs. They explore how tangible details like weather, transportation, and clothing can create turning points, tension, and emotional beats that resonate.You’ll learn:-How to identify and fix shallow or surface-level worldbuilding-Ways to make tangible elements change your plot—not just decorate it-What to ask yourself about setting on the scene and story level-How to avoid “just in case” exposition with a “just in time” approach-When realism matters—and when to lean into reader expectationsRecommended Resources-Need a Developmental Editor? hartboundediting.com-Author’s Alcove Membership: authorsalcove.com-Read Addy DuLac’s books here: www.addydulacauthor.net

In this podcast for fantasy authors, we explore self-editing strategies for writers with a focus on writing believable fantasy worlds through strong story world development. Episode 32 of the Story Savvy series dives deep into writing societal norms in fiction, helping authors enhance their worldbuilding during the editing process. If you're working on a draft and want your world to feel immersive and intentional, this episode is packed with insights on fantasy novel editing and the nuances of culture, religion, and worldview that shape unforgettable stories.Join developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and guest co-host Addy DuLac, stepping in for Agnes Wolfe of Authors’ Alcove [authorsalcove.com], as they dig into how to evaluate your worldbuilding for immersion, clarity, and internal logic. Addy DuLac is a published author of interracial historical romance, known for One Season with the Duke and the Troublemakers Trilogy, a series that blends heart, humor, and heat with a deep respect for cultural nuance and historical weight.Whether you're writing fantasy, historical fiction, or anything in between, this episode offers actionable strategies for ensuring your world’s values, speech patterns, and beliefs serve the story—and never pull your readers out of it.You’ll learn:-How to define your world’s mindset through character behavior and voice-What “reader dissonance” is—and how to avoid it-When (and how) to explain culturally unique elements-Why consistency is more important than realism-How to track intangible worldbuilding details across drafts-Tools for keeping invented cultures authentic and immersiveRecommended Resources-Need a Developmental Editor? hartboundediting.com

Struggling with how to fix flat scenes or improve character-driven scenes in your novel? This podcast for fantasy writers offers expert writing tips for fiction authors, including how to craft writing realistic character reactions and anchor every chapter with a strong scene core event. We cover essential tools for self-editing characters, enhancing story structure and character roles, and mastering how to balance dialogue and action. Whether you’re deep into fantasy novel editing or looking for book editing for indie authors, this episode helps you write scenes that truly resonate.In this podcast for fantasy authors, we explore how to self-edit stagnant scenes and breathe life into every chapter. Join developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and author Addy Dulac filling in for Agnes Wolfe with Authors’ Alcove as they unpack what scene stagnation looks like, why it’s a problem, and how to fix it through better structure and variety. Addy DuLac is a published author of interracial historical romance, known for One Season with the Duke and the Troublemakers Trilogy, a series blending humor, heart, and heat.From writing character-driven scenes to managing scene transitions and avoiding dialogue-heavy lulls, this episode offers scene-level editing tools to help writers refine their storytelling. Whether you're polishing a first draft or prepping for publication, these tips will help ensure your scenes keep readers engaged.You’ll learn:-How to recognize when a scene has gone flat-The difference between slow pacing and stagnation-Tips to strengthen scenes through setting, agency, and tension-How to choose the right fix for your stagnant scene-When to slim down dialogue or break up exposition-How scene type variety and POV rotation keep stories freshRecommended Resources-Need a Developmental Editor? hartboundediting.com

In this podcast for fantasy authors, we cover story consistency editing, building character-driven scenes, and crafting the perfect scene core event. Learn practical tips for self-editing characters, improving fantasy novel editing, and aligning story structure and character roles. If you're focused on writing strong story beats, how to write strong scenes, or how to edit your book yourself, this podcast for fantasy writers is for you.Want to improve your character development in fantasy writing? In this episode, developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] joins fantasy author Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] to explore how to build compelling, consistent characters that don’t fall flat.They share how to spot inconsistencies in character behavior, what makes a character feel two-dimensional, and ways to make your cast more distinct—without resorting to extreme traits or stereotypes. Whether you’re editing your first draft or refining your final manuscript, this episode will help you bring your characters to life in a meaningful, grounded way.In this episode, we learned:-How to define your characters through character statements-Ways to check for and fix character flatness-Tips for writing believable dialogue and distinct voices-Techniques for avoiding trope fatigue while still honoring genre-How to use role, reaction, and motivation to create differentiation

Looking for developmental editing for characters? In this episode, we discuss editing characters for depth, creating unique supporting characters, and making characters distinct. So whether you're working on character voice development, defining character agency in storytelling, or improving character arcs, this episode will help you apply strong story structure and character roles to your fantasy novel. It's packed with practical insights for anyone learning how to edit your book yourself or aiming to become what makes a good writer great.Want to improve your character development in fantasy writing? In this episode, developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] joins fantasy author Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] to explore how to build compelling, consistent characters that don’t fall flat.They share how to spot inconsistencies in character behavior, what makes a character feel two-dimensional, and ways to make your cast more distinct—without resorting to extreme traits or stereotypes. Whether you’re editing your first draft or refining your final manuscript, this episode will help you bring your characters to life in a meaningful, grounded way.You’ll learn:-How to define your characters through character statements-Ways to check for and fix character flatness-Tips for writing believable dialogue and distinct voices-Techniques for avoiding trope fatigue while still honoring genre-How to use role, reaction, and motivation to create differentiation