Apr 19, 2021

Tracey’s still out and Anne is a bit under the weather, but we are here for you, talking Character Goals!

Anne brings up the “goal underneath the goal” and Jess talks about the importance of changing and conflicting goals. There is also a quest for a hotdog.

QUOTE: “Put your hand on your heart and ask what...

Nov 30, 2020

In a shorter episode, Anne and Tracey chat about character names, inspirations, and whoopsies. They discuss considerations for fantasy names, names drawn from different cultures, and the universally-accepted truth that Google is a writer’s best friend.

QUOTE: “No one ever made a difference by being like everyone...

Jun 29, 2020

Today the group takes a closer look at different antagonists – from mustache twirlers and teenage-stalking mouth-breathers, to complex bad guys and tortured souls, to antagonistic societal structures and Mother Nature herself.

They talk about subplot and temporary antagonists, and then dish on methods of fleshing...

Jun 1, 2020

The group talks about knowing where your characters stand -- primary level, secondary, or tertiary -- as well as what to do when you have too many cluttering up your work.

Anne shakes her fists about some stereotype pet peeves, Tracey discusses when to reduce, reuse, or recycle your characters, and Jess reminds folks of...

May 18, 2020

What’s the difference between a wound and a flaw? What’s a good flaw versus one that is predictable or easy or, egads, unforgiveable? The group discusses all that, as well as ways to integrate the two within the structure of your plot.

Tracey and Anne discuss some flaws that are deal breakers and then heckle Jess...