Story Embers Podcast: Recent Episodes
Story Embers
A podcast dedicated to guiding and inspiring Christian storytellers to glorify God with excellent craftsmanship. Tune in every third Monday of the month as podcast host Grace Livingston and various members of the Story Embers staff discuss topics from all areas of storycraft. Whether it’s writing habits, character development, complex themes, or plot gimmicks, we’ll be tackling all that and more from a Christian perspective on the Story Embers podcast!
Join award-winning authors J.J. Fischer, Ann Marie Stewart and C.J. Milacci as they reveal how to build suspense in every chapter of your novel, how to turn sagging middles into tension-pounding scenes, how suspense works differently in romance vs action stories, and much more!
Show notes:
- Comment on this episode on our blog!
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more! (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:
Positive Motivation - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
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Great stories require deep thinking. But how can you create space for deep thoughts in a world filled with distractions and other commitments?
In today’s episode, Lori, Martin, and Daeus give some key insight into cultivating deep thoughts as a writer. They share the SCAMPER technique, discuss the difference between linear and web thinking, and describe how to “push beyond the wall” inside your mind. They also give suggestions for what to do when you’re too busy to write or think deeply.
Show notes:
- Comment on this episode on our blog!
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more! (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:
Positive Motivation - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the Show.
How do you create characters who are dynamic, unpredictable, and who leap off the page?
In today’s episode, Martin, Lori, and Daeus discuss what makes a nuanced, well-rounded character – and how to avoid the pitfalls of a boring protagonist.
Tune in to discover the ingredients to finding depth in your characters and learn how digging into your own experiences can help the lives of your story’s inhabitants connect to a reader.
Show notes:
- Comment on this episode on our blog!
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more! (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:
Positive Motivation - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the Show.
If the truth of the Bible reveals a creative God, how then does God’s Word inspire and expand our own creativity?
In today’s episode, Daeus, Lori, and Martin explore what it means to let your creative life be grounded in Scripture, and also how to depict characters who are both walking in truth – and who aren’t.
They also share some key examples of stories that engage with Scripture without coming across as ‘preachy’.
Show notes:
- Comment on this episode on our blog!
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more! (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:
Positive Motivation - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the Show.
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Every human heart feels the longing for heaven. And for us as Christians, the anticipation of coming home to heaven one day is a unique theme we can poignantly wrestle with in our fiction.
We can explore the tension we feel between the now of being called to live for Christ in an imperfect world, and the not yet of longing to witness the new heavens and new earth one day, in all its God-given beauty and perfection.
In today’s episode, Daeus, Mariposa, and Josiah wrestle with this tension of how to write about a home we long for but haven’t yet experienced. They also discuss how to be faithful with this life we’ve been given on earth, without wishing to ‘escape’ to heaven.
Show notes:
- Purchase 'The Shards of Elan' tetralogy by Laura VanArendonk Baugh here!
- You can visit Laura VanArendonk Baugh's website by clicking here.
- Comment on this episode on our blog!
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more! (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:
Positive Motivation - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the Show.
Cliffhangers entice you to turn pages long into the night. But how do you write in a thrilling way that avoids disappointment and boredom? What actually keeps readers invested in a story when they encounter a dangling plot point?
In today’s episode, Josiah, Mariposa, and Daeus show you how to engage readers with scenes that close at a nerve-wracking moment and later reach a satisfying conclusion.
Show notes:
- Comment on this episode on our blog!
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more! (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:
Positive Motivation - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show
We live in a world that’s become increasingly focused on fame, and “success” for a writer means having thousands of followers, signing with a large publisher, and hitting the bestseller list. The goal is to be in the spotlight and make a hefty income.
But, as Christians, we write for God’s glory, not our own.
Knowing this, we wrestle with moral questions about our dreams and ambitions. What if we want to be published by the Big Five? How do we grow an audience but not our pride? If we’re not seen, are we truly having an influence?
In this episode, Josiah, Mariposa, and Daeus discuss serving God through writing—whether with a huge platform or a small one.
Show notes:
- Click here to purchase Lori Z. Scott's new book, Offsides!
- Click to discover more about Lori Z. Scott on her website.
- Comment on this episode on our blog!
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more! (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:
Positive Motivation - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show
Jesus said, “Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.” As writers who intend for others to read our work, we desire to be leaders, and as Christians that means we must lay ourselves down and seek to serve our audiences. But what does the application of that look like?
Listen as Josiah, Gabby, and Daeus unpack the motivations and actions of a servant-hearted writer, why it’s such an important mindset to have, and how building relationships with readers can be like inviting them into a warm house on a rainy day.
Show notes:
- Discover more about Traitor by Laurie Lucking here!
- Comment on this episode on our blog!
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more! (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:
Positive Motivation - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show
Like Tolkien’s depiction of The Shire, portraying moments of warmth and joy can be a powerful way to convey that Christ’s path is vastly different from the darkness in the world. How can showing characters’ potential to thrive give hope to readers? And how can writers do that while still being honest about sin and the hardships we all go through?
Listen as Josiah, Gabby, and Daeus explore the concept of wholeness, its importance within fiction, and whether hope comes from waiting for heaven’s completeness or if we can experience it here on earth as well.
Show notes:
- Comment on this episode on our blog!
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more! (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:
Positive Motivation - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show
What role does a writer play as a member of Christ’s Body? How do we respect others and their gifts, even when their purpose looks vastly different from ours? And how do we respond when we feel like our value is misunderstood?
Listen as Josiah, Gabby, and Daeus tease out where our identity comes from, how our actions involve much more than simply the task of writing, and how we can be a blessing to others both within the Body of Christ and outside it.
Show notes:
- Comment on this episode on our blog!
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more! (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:
Positive Motivation - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show
Famous writers throughout the ages attribute their growth to short stories. But is this literary form relevant to modern novelists?
Listen as Lori, Mariposa, and Daeus discuss how short stories have (or haven’t) helped them, when a writer is ready to begin longer works, and how to hone your craft using short stories.
Show notes:
- Comment on this episode on our blog!
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more! (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:
Positive Motivation - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show
No matter what you’re writing, your book is meant for someone, whether yourself or a specific group of people. But at what point should you decide who your target audience is? And how does that choice affect your writing process?
In today’s episode, Lori, Mariposa, and Daeus dive into these questions and discuss Christian vs. secular audiences, when writing for yourself is helpful, and more.
Show notes:
- Comment on this episode on our blog!
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more! (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:
Positive Motivation - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show
What makes a reader turning page after page? Unique and surprising plot twists. But how do you pull them off? In today’s episode, Lori, Mariposa, and Daeus give practical and inspiring advice to superpower your ability to create plot twists that shock and delight again and again.
What’s your favorite plot twist? Let us know in the comments!
View the show notes for this episode here, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Story Embers podcast on Spotify, Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, and more.
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Tragic heroes can be powerful. Some of the literature that has lasted the longest has portrayed tragic heroes and deep, powerful themes. So, how can we write tragic heroes and negative character arcs from a Christian perspective? In today’s episode Lori, Gabby, and Josiah continue our conversation on negative character arcs and give us some powerful advice on how to create the climax of a tragic arc.
Show notes:
- Comment on this episode on our blog!
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more! (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:
Positive Motivation - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show
Human beings were created by God as unique individuals and have been given the ability to create.
So, where do we find the balance between creating something completely new and original, and fitting in with today’s publishing world? Genre expectations are so established, but if God has called us to explore new directions within our work, how can we navigate that and still have a publishing career?
In today’s episode, Josiah, Lori, and Gabby give us clear and practical thoughts that illuminate many sides of this issue.
Show notes:
- Comment on this episode on our blog!
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more! (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:
Positive Motivation - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show
You’ve probably heard the saying that “someone who wants to write a great story must first live a great story.” But how do you tackle the questions and struggles you’ve faced through your characters and plot? Where should you draw the line between fiction and reality?
In today’s episode, Lori, Gabby, and Josiah discuss a big topic: how writers can find inspiration in their own personal stories while still being servant-hearted.
Show notes:
- Comment on this episode on our blog!
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more! (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:
Positive Motivation - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show
We're taking a break for the month of April due to some technical challenges, but we'll be back on May 15th for a brand new episode of the Story Embers Podcast.
In the meantime, check out our upcoming Riveting Revisions summit to supercharge your editing process on April 27-29: https://storyembers.org/summit/.
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How do you structure a chapter? Where should a scene start and end? How do you pace a chapter well? In today’s episode, Gabby, Daeus, and Hope take us on a deep dive into the fundamentals of crafting chapters and scenes, and how to pace them in powerful, effective, and creative ways.
Show notes:
- Comment on this episode on our blog!
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more!
Music credits:
Positive Motivation - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show
How can you tackle sympathetic villains and antiheroes from a Christian perspective, especially in our modern culture? In today’s episode, Gabby, Hope and Daeus give inspiring and thought-provoking advice on how to make a villain sympathetic in a godly way and how an exploration of antiheroes is needed just as much as heroes and villains (as the Apostle Peter demonstrates!).
Show notes:
- Comment on this episode on our blog!
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more!
Music credits:
Positive Motivation - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show
Does anyone else want to supercharge their writing life this new year? In today’s episode, Daeus, Hope, and Gabby give their top tips for creating writing goals that will help you maintain a consistent writing schedule no matter how busy your life is.
Show notes:
- Comment on this episode on our blog! (https://storyembers.org/?p=156175)
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more! (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:
Positive Motivation - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show
In this special episode, we’re taking a step back to think about Christmas. Traditionally, this is a season of anticipation for the future and remembering the long wait for a Savior. Lori, Josiah, and Mariposa discuss how to cope with seasons of waiting as writers and how to find time to rest during the holidays.
Show notes:
- Comment on this episode on our blog! (https://storyembers.org/?p=155968)
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more! (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:
Positive Motivation - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Support the show
How does the content we digest as writers affect our work? What are some ways we can be more intentional about what is influencing our stories? In today’s episode, Lori, Mariposa, and Josiah discuss practical ways we can use texts to deepen our own stories, as well as how to discover if something you’re consuming is negatively affecting your fiction.
Show notes:
- Comment on this episode on our blog! (https://storyembers.org/?p=155623)
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more! (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:
Positive Motivation - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Support the show
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It’s common advice for writers to ‘Show, don’t tell’ in their stories, but can this advice extend to how the Gospel influences our fiction? What are some practical ways that the Gospel can influence our stories in natural, thought-provoking ways, rather than preachy messages? In today’s episode, Mariposa, Josiah, and Lori discuss how characters’ actions can point to Christ, as well as the purpose of writers within the broader context of the Church. Listen to the conversation below!
Show notes:
- Comment on this episode on our blog! (SE Podcast #55: How to Show and Not Tell the Gospel in Fiction - Story Embers)
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more! (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:
Positive Motivation - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Support the show
The most powerful stories we read end with a powerful sacrifice. But why does the theme of sacrifice resonate with us? Why does sacrifice make a story meaningful? In today’s episode, Martin, Lori, and Daeus discuss why sacrifice is so vital in the journey of a protagonist, and how you can craft impactful moments of sacrifice within your story. Listen to the conversation below
Show notes:
- Comment on this episode on our blog! (https://storyembers.org/?p=150718)
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more! (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:
Positive Motivation - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Support the show
In today’s episode, Martin, Lori, and Daeus share how the Bible has impacted their own journeys as storytellers, and how Christians can use the Bible to deepen their fictional writing. How does the Bible model the kinds of stories we want to tell?
Show notes:
- Comment on this episode on our blog! (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-51-ho…during-revisions/)
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more! (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:
Positive Motivation - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Support the show
Welcome to a special edition of our podcast in conjunction with our article series and book study on Sara Ella’s Coral. Today Brianna Storm Hilvety, Mariposa Aristeo, and James Noller sit down with the author to discuss her experience while writing the novel. Sara gives a behind-the-scenes glimpse at what inspired her ideas and explains how she balanced sensitive issues like depression and suicide with her love of fairy tales.
Show notes:
- For more book promotion and platform help, listen to the Novel Marketing Podcast! (https://www.authormedia.com/novel-marketing/)
- Comment on this episode on our blog! (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-52-interview-with-sara-ella-about-coral)
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more! (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:
Positive Motivation - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Support the show
Edits that affect your entire manuscript can be daunting. How do you know what to change, when to change it, and whether you’ve fixed the problem? In today’s episode, Martin, Lori, and Daeus discuss how to manage large-scale revisions and find the motivation to edit when you’re overwhelmed.
Show notes:
- For more book promotion and platform help, listen to the Novel Marketing Podcast! (https://www.authormedia.com/novel-marketing/)
- Comment on this episode on our blog! (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-51-ho…during-revisions/)
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more! (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:
Positive Motivation - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Support the show
In today’s episode, the panelists celebrate Story Embers’ fourth anniversary with a walk down memory lane and a heartfelt goodbye to current podcast host, Grace Livingston. Josiah, Daeus, and Grace reminisce about Story Embers’ development from a daring concept to the site’s launch in 2018, and Lori shares how our mission drew her in years later. They reflect on how Story Embers has shaped them personally, grown their knowledge of storytelling, and more.
Show notes:
- For more book promotion and platform help, listen to the Novel Marketing Podcast! (https://www.authormedia.com/novel-marketing/)
- Comment on this episode on our blog! (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-50-reflecting-on-four-years-of-story-embers/)
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more!(https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
In today’s episode, Josiah, Daeus, and Lori tackle a common storytelling obstacle: forgettable themes. They discuss examples of underwhelming themes, propose possible causes, and give advice on how to ensure that your story’s theme is relatable and impactful.
Show notes:
- For more book promotion and platform help, listen to the Novel Marketing Podcast! (https://www.authormedia.com/novel-marketing/)
- Learn more about The Resonant Themes Summit--registration closes April 17th! (https://storyembers.org/summit/)
- Comment on this episode on our blog! (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-49-how-to-avoid-forgettable-themes/)
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more!(https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Engaging fiction comes from a fountain of creativity within the author, but ideas gush out more fluidly on some days than others. In today’s episode, Josiah, Mariposa, and Lori share the habits that keep their imaginations primed for use and give tips to help other writers through dry spells.
Show notes:
- For more book promotion and platform help, listen to the Novel Marketing Podcast! (https://www.authormedia.com/novel-marketing/)
- Read Lori's article "5 Classroom Techniques Writers Can Adopt to Improve Creativity"! (https://storyembers.org/5-classroom-techniques-writers-can-adopt-to-improve-creativity/)
- Comment on this episode on our blog! (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-48-embracing-your-inner-creativity/)
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more!(https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Some authors write because it’s a calling—others write just for the joy of it. In today’s episode, Daeus, Rose, and Martin share what motivates each of them as authors and discuss what it means to be “called” to write. They talk about the importance of understanding your own motivations as a storyteller and give practical tips for deciding what place writing holds in your life.
What topics would you like to hear discussed on the podcast? Let us know at info@storyembers.org!
Show notes:
- For more book promotion and platform help, listen to the Novel Marketing Podcast! (https://www.authormedia.com/novel-marketing/)
- Read Daeus's article "How to Triple Your Writing Speed in One Day"! (https://storyembers.org/how-to-triple-your-writing-speed-in-one-day/)
- Comment on this episode on our blog! (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-47-does-god-call-people-to-write/)
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more!(https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
As the old saying goes, good writers are good readers first. But what books should writers be reading? In today’s episode, Josiah, Mariposa, and Lori talk about the importance of exploring genres outside the ones they write in and the lessons they’ve learned when doing so. They also give practical tips on how you can expand your own reading selections.
What topics would you like to hear discussed on the podcast? Let us know at info@storyembers.org!
Show notes:
- For more book promotion and platform help, listen to the Novel Marketing Podcast! (https://www.authormedia.com/novel-marketing/)
- Comment on this episode on our blog! (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-46-reading-widely/)
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more!(https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
The fourth resolution of our manifesto states, "We resolve to infuse our storytelling with truth, being bold and unafraid of our stance while presenting it with love and tact, recognizing that truth in storytelling is best communicated when shown, not told." Telling the truth in love is a common mantra in Christian circles. But how do you apply it to fiction, and what does it look like in practice? Josiah, Daeus, Rose, and Martin tackle these questions and more in today’s episode.
What topics would you like to hear discussed on the podcast? Let us know at info@storyembers.org!
Show notes:- Read the Christian Storytellers Manifesto! (https://storyembers.org/manifesto/)
- Download our FREE Tricky Subjects for Christian Storytellers article series! (https://storyembers.org/resource-library/)
- Comment on this episode on our blog! (https://storyembers.org/how-to-subtly-and-effectively-speak-truth-in-fiction/)
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more!(https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
In today’s episode, Josiah joins staff members Mariposa and Lori as they take an in-depth look at kidlit. They discuss what makes the genre unique, how the age of your audience affects the writing process, and the lessons authors of any genre can learn from children’s stories.
What topics would you like to hear discussed on the podcast? Let us know at info@storyembers.org!
Show notes:- Access our FREE Cultivating a Mindset for Success e-course! (https://storyembers.org/academy/)
- Meet Lori and Mariposa on our staff page! (https://storyembers.org/meet-the-team/)
- Comment on this episode on our blog! (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-44-childrens-fiction/)
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more!(https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
"Deconstruction" has become a popular term online over the past year to describe those who are rejecting some Christian beliefs and seeking new answers. While "deconstructing" may be a new term, there have always been people who doubt what they believe, and in today’s episode, Josiah DeGraaf, Daeus Lamb, Rose Sheffler, and Martin Detwiler discuss the importance of portraying doubting or “deconstructing” Christians in fiction.
Is it important to portray doubting believers in your stories? What are common triggers for doubts in real life that authors should be aware of? What are common mistakes that Christian writers can make when writing these characters? They tackle these questions and more in this episode.
What topics would you like to hear discussed on the podcast? Let us know at info@storyembers.org!
Show notes:- Learn more about The School of Kingdom Writers and join the movement! (https://sokw.org/)
- Our article series on The Promise of Jesse Woods by Chris Fabry! (https://storyembers.org/how-to-write-stories-that-christian-readers-actually-need/)
- Our podcast interview with Chris Fabry on writing The Promise of Jesse Woods! (https://www.buzzsprout.com/163137/3941270-interview-with-chris-fabry-about-the-promise-of-jesse-woods)
- Meet Rose and Martin on our staff page! (https://storyembers.org/meet-the-team/)
- Comment on this episode on our blog! (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-43-portraying-doubting-or-deconstructing-christians-in-stories/)
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more!(https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
In today’s episode, Josiah, Hope, and Gabby discuss how writers can create unique and interesting villains. They share their favorite examples of memorable villains, warn against common pitfalls writers encounter when crafting attention-grabbing villains, and debate whether or not a villain can be too unique.
What topics would you like to hear discussed on the podcast? Let us know at info@storyembers.org!
Show notes:- Learn more about The School of Kingdom Writers and join the movement! (https://sokw.org/)
- Read Gabrielle's article "Why Realistic Motives Alone Don't Create Believable Villains"! (https://storyembers.org/why-realistic-motives-alone-dont-create-believable-villains/)
- Comment on this episode on our blog! (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-42-crafting-unique-villains/)
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more!(https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Last summer, several Story Embers staff members watched the first season of The Chosen together. In this episode, Josiah, Rolena, and Daeus discuss what they loved about the series and the techniques Christian storytellers can draw from it. What made the show’s characters so memorable and its thematic moments so poignant? What can authors learn from The Chosen about portraying representations of Christ in their stories? They tackle these questions and more in today's episode.
Show notes:- Learn more about The School of Kingdom Writers and join the movement! (https://sokw.org/)
- Watch The Chosen! (https://watch.angelstudios.com/thechosen)
- Comment on this episode on our blog! (https://storyembers.org/se-41-what-the-chosen-gets-right-about-christian-storytelling/)
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more!(https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
In today’s episode, Josiah, Hope, and Gabby tackle the strengths and weaknesses of different POVs and explore how a character’s perspective impacts readers’ relationship with the story. They share their personal preferences and give tips on how to choose the right POV character for your story.
What topics would you like to hear discussed on the podcast? Let us know at info@storyembers.org!
Show notes:- Learn more about The School of Kingdom Writers and join the movement! (https://sokw.org/)
- Comment on this episode on our blog: (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-40-the-power-of-point-of-view/)
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more!(https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Finding the right theme to explore in a story can be a struggle. How can you make sure your theme is deep instead of shallow? What are some common mistakes writers make when selecting themes? Josiah, Rolena, and Daeus tackle these questions and more on today’s episode.
What topics would you like to hear discussed on the podcast? Let us know at info@storyembers.org!
Show notes:- Learn more about The School of Kingdom Writers and join the movement! (https://sokw.org/)
- Comment on this episode on our blog: (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-39-choosing-the-right-themes-to-write-about/)
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more!(https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
The second act is notoriously difficult for many writers—how can you keep your story’s middle engaging while progressing the plot at the correct pace? Hope, Josiah, and Gabrielle give tips on how to remedy a sagging second act and discuss how writers can ensure that every scene in the story’s middle is essential.
What topics would you like to hear discussed on the podcast? Let us know at info@storyembers.org!
Show notes:
- Learn more about The School of Kingdom Writers and join the movement! (https://sokw.org/)
- Comment on this episode on our blog: (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-38-overcoming-the-sagging-middle/)
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more!(https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Some stories have conflict that immediately grabs readers while others fall flat. In this episode, Josiah, Rolena, and Daeus discuss their favorite examples of engaging conflict and offer tips on how to build up to those moments. Listen to their conversation below!
What topics would you like to hear discussed on the podcast? Let us know at info@storyembers.org!
Show notes:
- Access our FREE Cultivating a Mindset for Success e-course: (https://storyembers.org/resource-library/)
- Comment on this episode on our blog: (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-37-crafting-irresistible-plots-conflicts/)
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more!(https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Today Josiah, Rolena, Daeus, and Hope tackle the ins and outs of effective worldbuilding. They discuss common worldbuilding mistakes they’ve seen authors make and give tips on how to introduce worldbuilding to readers without info-dumping.
What topics would you like to hear discussed on the podcast? Let us know at info@storyembers.org!
Show notes:
- Access our FREE Wordbuilding Questionnaire and other resources: (https://storyembers.org/mindset/)
- Daeus's article "How to Create Original Slang that Enriches Your Story World": (https://storyembers.org/how-to-create-original-slang-that-enriches-your-story-world/)
- Comment on this episode on our blog: (https://storyembers.org/?s=podcast)
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more!(https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Today Josiah, Brianna, and Gabrielle share their experiences with professional editing and how it has helped them grow as writers. They debunk common misconceptions that writers have about working with a professional editor and discuss the advantages of hiring one.
What topics would you like to hear discussed on the podcast? Let us know at info@storyembers.org!
Show notes:
- Have your work sharpened by Story Embers' recommended editor: (https://www.theliterarycrusader.com/welcome.html) - Josiah’s article “3 Truths You May Not Realize About Professional Editing”: (https://storyembers.org/three-truths-you-may-not-realize-about-professional-editing/)- Access our FREE Cultivating a Mindset for Success e-course: (https://storyembers.org/mindset/)
- Comment on this episode on our blog: (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-35-what-professional-editing-is-like/)
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more!(https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Today Josiah, Rolena, Daeus, and Hope tackle one of the most powerful tools in a writer’s arsenal: subtext. What is it? Why is it important? What do you lose when your story lacks it?
What topics would you like to hear discussed on the podcast? Let us know at info@storyembers.org!
Show notes:
- Download our FREE How to Weave Christian Themes into Your Story worksheet: (https://storyembers.org/resource-library/)
- Comment on this episode on our blog: (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-34-demystifying-subtext/)
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more!(https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Almost every piece of writing advice is served with a side of “keep your readers in mind,” but what exactly does that phrase mean? And how can writers practice it effectively? In today’s episode, Josiah, Brianna, and Gabrielle share tips for how to focus on your readers during the writing and editing process.
What topics would you like to hear discussed on the podcast? Let us know at info@storyembers.org!
Show notes:
- Download our FREE Ask the Reader e-book: (https://storyembers.org/resource-library/)
- Comment on this episode on our blog: (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-33-how-to-keep-your-readers-in-mind/)
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more!(https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
The eighth resolution of our Christian Storytellers Manifesto describes our commitment to “paint traces of hope in even the darkest situations.” However, this raises several questions. Why do Christian writers need to shine light into pitch-black moments? How do we achieve a balance between the two? And does this mean we shouldn’t write sad endings? Josiah, Daeus, Rolena, and Hope weigh in on today’s episode.
What topics would you like to hear discussed on the podcast? Let us know at info@storyembers.org!
Show notes:- Read the Christian Storytellers Manifesto: (https://storyembers.org/manifesto/)
- Download our FREE Tricky Subjects for Christian Storytellers article series: (https://storyembers.org/resource-library/)
- Comment on this episode on our blog: (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-32-should-christians-write-stories-with-dismal-endings/)
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more!(https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Producing a novel isn’t a one-man show. Today Josiah DeGraaf, Brianna Storm Hilvety, and Gabrielle Pollack discuss the hidden heroes who help an author give readers a fully fleshed-out and polished story. How do each of these team members contribute to the writing process? How can writers fail to effectively collaborate with them? Listen to the panelists tackle these questions on today's episode!
What topics would you like to hear discussed on the podcast? Let us know at info@storyembers.org!
Show notes:
- Have your work sharpened by Story Embers' recommended editor: (https://www.theliterarycrusader.com/welcome.html)
- Access our FREE Cultivating a Mindset for Success e-course: (https://storyembers.org/mindset/)
- Comment on this episode on our blog: (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-31-unsung-heroes-of-the-writing-process/)
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more!(https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
At the end of last year, Story Embers sent out a survey to the Christian writing community. Nearly half of the respondents reported that their biggest challenge wasn’t plot, characters, theme, or style but finding time to write! Josiah, Hope, and Rolena have tackled writing habits on the podcast before, but today Josiah, Hope, and Brandon discuss how to incorporate writing into a busy schedule. They also talk about how to recognize when lack of time is a true problem or just an excuse.
What topics would you like to hear discussed on the podcast? Let us know at info@storyembers.org!
Show notes:- Our episode on other writing habits and disciplines: (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-4-writing-habits-and-disciplines/)
- Download our FREE Words for the Weary Writer e-book: (https://storyembers.org/resource-library/)
- Comment on this episode on our blog: (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-30-finding-time-to-write-when-you-have-no-time/)
- Become a supporter and get access to exclusive Story Embers updates, swag, and more!(https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
In our Tricky Subjects for Christian Storytellers series, we briefly mentioned the challenge writers face when writing corrupt characters. Can writers ever safely immerse themselves in the mind of an evil character? How many of his thoughts should you reveal to your audience? And what advice does Scripture give about this topic? Josiah, Rolena, and Daeus tackle these questions and more on today’s podcast.
What topics would you like to hear discussed on the podcast? Let us know at info@storyembers.org!
Show notes:- Tricky Subjects for Christian Storytellers Series (https://storyembers.org/dear-christian-novelists-cleanness-is-not-next-to-godliness/)
- Fireside Reading & Interview with the Author of "A Heretic's Sacrifice" (https://storyembers.org/fireside-reading-interview-with-the-author-of-a-heretics-sacrifice/)
- Comment on this episode on our blog (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-29-portraying-sinful-thoughts-without-stumbling-readers/)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
In February, Josiah, Rolena, and Daeus discussed the elements of a satisfying climax, but what happens once the protagonist has survived the final conflict? Today Josiah, Hope, and Brandon explore what makes a story’s resolution effective and meaningful. They share their favorite examples of memorable endings and give tips on how to avoid common mistakes when tying off a story.
What topics would you like to hear discussed on the Story Embers Podcast? Email info@storyembers.org to let us know!
Show notes:- February's episode, "The Elements of a Satisfying Climax" (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-23-the-elements-of-a-satisfying-climax/)
- Fireside Reading & Interview with the Author of "A Heretic's Sacrifice" (https://storyembers.org/fireside-reading-interview-with-the-author-of-a-heretics-sacrifice/)
- Comment on this episode on our blog (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-28-what-happens-after-the-climax/)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
On our podcast, we talk a lot about writing quality stories. But what does that look like in practice? How do authors use the techniques we discuss to craft compelling themes, characters, and plots?
Today we’re thrilled to introduce Michael Stanton as the guest host for a new experimental series of podcast episodes. In each one, Michael will give a professional, dramatic reading of a short story we’ve published and interview the author about the process of writing it. We hope that seeing an example of a well-constructed story and hearing how the author created it will help you learn to do the same.
Without further ado, welcome to the first installment of Stories by the Embers! Today's featured piece is by Story Embers Editor-in-Chief, Josiah DeGraaf. It’s a thrilling escapade of a cunning heretic and shapeshifter who tries to act honorably but instead lands himself in more and more trouble.
Did you enjoy this special episode? Email us at info@storyembers.org to share your thoughts. We’re only producing a couple fireside readings and interviews, so if you want this bonus series to become a permanent addition to our podcast, let us know!
Show notes:
- Transcript of "A Heretic's Sacrifice" by Josiah DeGraaf (https://storyembers.org/a-heretics-sacrifice/) Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet MusicUmbrella Pantsby Kevin MacLeod - License
Sneaky Adventureby Kevin MacLeod - License
Achaidh Cheideby Kevin MacLeod - License
Stay The Courseby Kevin MacLeod - License
Virtutes Instrumentiby Kevin MacLeod - License
Other Ambiance Soundscapesby TableTop Audio - License
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Welcome to the finale of our book study and article series on The Promise of Jesse Woods! In today’s episode, Josiah DeGraaf, Brianna Storm Hilvety, and Grace Livingston sit down with author Chris Fabry to discuss his experience while writing the novel. Fabry gives a behind-the-scenes glimpse at what inspired his ideas and how he developed his characters, plot, and theme.
Show notes:- Our article series on what writers can learn from The Promise of Jesse Woods (https://storyembers.org/how-to-write-stories-that-christian-readers-actually-need/)
- Chris Fabry's website (https://chrisfabry.com/)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Last month Josiah, Hope, and Brandon tackled parents in fiction—this month, Josiah, Rolena Hatfield, and Daeus Lamb are taking a look at the other end of the spectrum with child characters. They discuss how children are typically portrayed in fiction and give tips for writing children realistically.
What helps you get into the mind of a child when writing child characters? Let us know in the comments!
Show notes:
- Last month's episode covering parents in fiction (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-24-how-to-write-realistic-parents/)
- Rose Sheffler's article "Stop Pretending Children Don't Exist in Your Story World" (https://storyembers.org/stop-pretending-children-dont-exist-in-your-story-world/)
- Comment on this episode on our blog (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-25-writing-realistic-children/)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Today Josiah DeGraaf, Hope Ann, and Brandon Miller break down the depiction of parents in fiction. They discuss problems with how parents are often portrayed in stories and give tips on how to avoid these.
What’s your favorite example of well-written parents in fiction? Let us know in the comments!
Show notes:- Comment on this episode on our blog (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-24-how-to-write-realistic-parents/)
Music credits:Legendaryby Purple Planet Music: (https://www.purple-planet.com)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Many writers struggle to craft a climax that wraps the whole story together. What are the necessary elements of a compelling climax? In today’s episode, Josiah DeGraaf, Rolena Hatfield, and Daeus Lamb tackle this question, discuss their favorite examples of moving endings, and give tips on how to avoid weak climaxes.
What makes a climax memorable for you? And what mistakes have you noticed in climaxes you’ve read? Let us know in the comments!
Show notes:- Comment on this episode on our blog (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-23-the-elements-of-a-satisfying-climax/)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
In today’s episode Josiah DeGraaf, Hope Ann, and Brandon Miller tackle suspense, cliffhangers, emotional tension, and all of those amazing story elements that keep readers up until 2 AM. They share their favorite examples of stories that kept them turning the page and discuss why some techniques for suspense are more effective than others.
What’s one story that kept you up until 2 AM? What techniques did the author use to keep you hooked? Let us know in the comments!
Show notes:- Comment on this episode on our blog (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-22-how-to-keep-readers-up-until-2-am/)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Over the past week, we’ve run a series on Uncovering the Reasons Why Books Fail, where Josiah DeGraaf explored how to assess a novel’s quality through three scales. Today he asks Hope Ann and Brandon Miller for their perspectives on how objective a book’s artistic value truly is. They also discuss how to apply these concepts.
What aspect of crafting artistic stories do you want to grow in? Let us know!
Show notes:
- Our article series on Uncovering the Reasons Why Books Fail (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-21-can-we-craft-stories-that-are-objectively-artistic/)
- Comment on this episode on our blog (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-21-can-we-craft-stories-that-are-objectively-artistic/)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Today Josiah DeGraaf, Rolena Hatfield, and Daeus Lamb discuss the importance of embracing the impact our stories can have on readers and maintaining the delicate balance between writing for ourselves and others.
What’s one way you prioritize writing for others versus writing for yourself? Let us know!
Show notes:- Comment on this episode on our blog (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-20-writing-for-others-vs-writing-for-yourself/)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Today Josiah DeGraaf, Hope Ann, and Brandon Miller discuss what it means to depict characters with souls. How do we show readers the inherent worth of a person’s soul without being explicitly Christian?
How do you think souls should be treated in fiction? What’s your favorite example of a book that effectively portrayed a soul as valuable? Let us know!
Show notes:- Comment on this episode on our blog (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-19-depicting-souls-in-literature/)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Today Josiah DeGraaf, Rolena Hatfield, and Daeus Lamb discuss a writer’s worst enemy: discouragement. They share their own experiences with battling it and offer advice to anyone who is wondering if it’s time to quit writing.
When was the last time you felt discouraged about your writing? What helped you overcome it? Please share in the comments!
Show notes:- Comment on this episode on our blog (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-18-how-to-battle-discouragement/)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
As humans we’re prone to a multitude of sins, and as writers there are a few sins we tend to struggle with by virtue of our craft. Today Josiah DeGraaf, Hope Ann, and Brandon Miller discuss two specific sins they and others have struggled with: envy and pride. They share their own experiences with envy and pride and give practical tips on how to work through these issues.
What’s one thing you would say to your beginning-writer self if you had the chance? Let us know in the comments!
Show notes:- Comment on this episode on our blog (https://storyembers.org/common-sins-writers-struggle-with/)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Today Josiah DeGraaf, Rolena Hatfield, and Daeus Lamb tackle a famous piece of writing advice: show, don’t tell. What exactly is the difference between showing and telling? Why is showing important? Should writers ever tell instead? Listen to them answer these questions and more!
What common “telling” errors have you seen in other works? Do you think telling instead of showing is ever appropriate? Let us know in the comments!
Show notes:- Comment on this episode on our blog (https://storyembers.org/the-many-applications-of-show-dont-tell/)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Earlier this month, Josiah DeGraaf, Rolena Hatfield, and Daeus Lamb shared their perspectives on crafting creative stories while remaining grounded in Christian theology. Today Josiah continues the discussion with Hope Ann and Brandon Miller. They reflect on how they’ve wrestled with this question in their own journeys and offer advice for storytellers who are struggling to find a balance between creativity and Christian orthodoxy.
Have you ever wrestled with how to adhere to Christian orthodoxy within the perimeters of fiction? What are your thoughts on how to do this? Let us know here!
Show notes:
- Listen to part one of this discussion (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-14-balancing-creativity-and-orthodoxy-as-a-christian-storyteller-part-1/)- Comment on this episode on our blog (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-15-balancing-creativity-and-orthodoxy-as-a-christian-storyteller-part-2/)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
As storytellers, we thrive on finding new story ideas. However, as Christians, we’re called to uphold certain unchanging truths. What are the limits of orthodoxy when crafting a distinct fantasy world or exploring a unique theme? How can we seek to portray truth creatively yet remain grounded in Christian theology? In today’s episode, Josiah DeGraaf, Rolena Hatfield, and Daeus Lamb answer these questions and share how they’ve navigated this issue in their own writing.
Have you ever wrestled with how to adhere to Christian orthodoxy within the perimeters of fiction? What are your thoughts on how to do this? Let us know!
Show notes:- Comment on this episode on our blog (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-14-balancing-creativity-and-orthodoxy-as-a-christian-storyteller-part-1/)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Last month we discussed how to create flawed protagonists without chasing readers away. Today Josiah DeGraaf, Hope Ann, and Brandon Miller tackle the other end of the spectrum—how to effectively write virtuous protagonists. They share their favorite examples of virtuous protagonists and explore what prevented them from being annoying.
What’s your favorite example of a virtuous character who didn’t irritate you as a reader? Let us know in the comments!
Show notes:- Listen to our episode on crafting flawed, yet likable protagonists (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-10-writing-flawed-protagonists-without-turning-off-readers/)
- Comment on this episode on our blog (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-13-writing-virtuous-protagonists-without-turning-off-readers/)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Josiah DeGraaf, Rolena Hatfield, and Daeus Lamb discuss how we can accurately portray prayer in fiction. They share where they’ve seen prayer used effectively and give tips on how to impactfully show God’s will through both answered and unanswered prayers.
Do you think answered or unanswered prayers are more powerful in storytelling? And what’s your favorite instance of prayer in a story? Let us know!
Show notes:- Comment on this episode on our blog (https://storyembers.org/se-podcast-12-how-to-effectively-portray-prayer-in-your-writing/)
Music credits:Legendary - Purple Planet Music (https://www.purple-planet.com/)
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Today Josiah DeGraaf, Hope Ann, and Brandon Miller talk about personal writing styles. What is a storyteller’s writing style? How do you discover your own? They tackle these questions and more.
What are some prominent characteristics of your writing style? Do you struggle to be consistent to your style when reading other writers’ work? Let us know in the comments!
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Today Josiah DeGraaf, Rolena Hatfield, and Daeus Lamb give tips on how to create flawed protagonists that readers still want to root for. They also share examples of where they’ve seen this done effectively. Listen to their discussion below! What is your favorite example of a flawed protagonist who doesn’t turn you off as a reader? Let us know here!
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Welcome to the finale of Fawkes week! In today’s episode, Grace Livingston, Josiah DeGraaf, and Rolena Hatfield sit down with YA author Nadine Brandes to talk about her learning experiences while writing Fawkes. Nadine gives a behind-the-scenes glimpse at what inspired the story, the challenges she encountered during the process, and how she felt about switching to the historical fantasy genre. Our giveaway ends tonight, so be sure to enter for a chance to win a signed copy of Fawkes along with book swag!
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Josiah DeGraaf, Hope Ann, and Brandon Miller share how their faith has impacted their writing and discuss how a writer’s worldview can affect a story consciously or unconsciously. Want to share your perspective on this topic? Join us on the forum thread for this episode to continue the conversation!
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Josiah DeGraaf, Hope Ann, and Brandon Miller discuss the closing of LifeWay Christian Stores and the digitization of book selling as a whole. Does LifeWay’s closing mean that explicitly Christian fiction no longer has a place on the market? How will the shift to the digital world affect both authors and readers? Listen to them tackle these questions in today's episode.
What do you think of the digitization of book selling? Do you prefer paperbacks or e-books? Let us know in the comments!
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
Today Hope Ann, Josiah DeGraaf, and Rolena Hatfield discuss the types of critique they’ve found the most (and least) helpful and share tips on handling feedback from both categories. What has been the most insightful bit of writing input you’ve received? And what mindset do you try to cultivate when dealing with critiques? Let us know!
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
In today's episode, Hope Ann, Josiah DeGraaf, and Rolena Hatfield discuss a specific type of character many of our subscribers love to write: the witty character. They share their favorite examples of this beloved trope, explore its dangers, and give tips for how you can create witty characters who are as complex as they are hilarious. Who are some of your favorite witty characters? Let us know in the comments!
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
In today’s episode, Josiah DeGraaf, Hope Ann, and Rolena Hatfield tackle writing habits and disciplines. They share the writing habits that have proved the most beneficial and how you can develop successful ones of your own. What writing habits have helped you on your own writing journey? Let us know in the comments!
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
In today’s episode, Josiah DeGraaf, Daeus Lamb, and Brandon Miller share their favorite contemporary Christian authors and discuss what elements set them apart. Who are some of your favorite contemporary Christian authors? Let us know in the comments!
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
In today’s episode, Josiah DeGraaf, Daeus Lamb, and Brandon Miller explore the ins and outs of Christian fantasy and allegory. They discuss the advantages and disadvantages of writing in either genre and share their favorite (and least favorite) things about this popular area of the Christian fiction market.
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)
For our inaugural episode, Josiah DeGraaf, Daeus Lamb, and Brandon Miller discuss the current state of Christian fiction. They explore its strengths, its weaknesses, and what trends they’re seeing across the Christian fiction market.
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/storyembers)