Left-brained stories (mysteries, crime thrillers, spy stories) are among the highest selling books on the market today. Readers can’t get enough of them, and that means the bar for authors is really high because we have to create a puzzle that our readers haven’t seen before. Add to this the fact that the fundamentals of storytelling work in a slightly different way than they do with other stories. In this episode, Melanie and I summarize all the lessons we’ve learned over the past 10 episodes and we share our greatest a-ha moments.
Our study of left-brained stories didn’t stop with the podcast though. Offline we’ve been diving deeply into this genre that we both love. We’ve gathered up everything the writer of a left-brained story needs to know and we’ve put it in a webinar coming up on May 2, 2024. Don’t miss it! To register, visit www.valeriefrancis.ca/spring2024
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(The following summary was generated by AI.)
Are you a writer staring at a blank page, wondering how to transform your plot points into compelling scenes that leap off the page? You’re not alone. Crafting the perfect scene is a challenge for many authors, but what if there was a tool that could make your first draft as polished as your tenth?
In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the world of scene planning with a revolutionary tool that has transformed the writing process for both our hosts and their clients. This isn’t just about filling in the blanks; it’s about understanding the anatomy of a scene that grips readers and doesn’t let go.
The episode kicks off with an honest confession from Valerie, who shares her struggle with scene creation and her journey to develop a ‘scene planner.’ This worksheet isn’t just a checklist; it’s a strategic approach to writing that ensures every scene you write has purpose, tension, and an irresistible pull.
As we dive deeper, Melanie Hill, writer, editor, and poet, shares her passion for spy stories, fairy tales, and master detective novels, and how these genres benefit from meticulous scene crafting. The episode is not just a walkthrough of a writing tool; it’s an exploration of how stories unfold, one scene at a time, and the critical importance of keeping the reader engaged.
The hosts discuss left brain stories – those that hook readers intellectually with puzzles and mysteries. They break down the elements that make these stories tick, from the inciting incident to the denouement, giving listeners a comprehensive look at what it takes to write a story that’s both intellectually stimulating and emotionally satisfying.
But that’s not all. The episode also teases an upcoming webinar that promises to take writers’ skills to the next level, discussing scene types and the ‘magic key’ to unlocking storytelling problems. This is a can’t-miss opportunity for any writer serious about honing their craft.
Whether you’re writing a novel, a memoir, or anything in between, this podcast episode offers invaluable insights into the art of scene planning. So, grab your headphones, tune in, and get ready to revolutionize the way you write. Your readers—and your future self—will thank you.
And remember, a well-crafted scene is the heartbeat of a story. Make yours count.