So many writers dream of getting a traditional book deal—but the process to get there can feel confusing, overwhelming, and totally out of reach.

In this episode, I’m giving you a bird’s-eye view of the entire traditional publishing journey—from that first spark of a novel idea to the moment you finally see your book on the shelf.

We’ll talk about what really goes into landing a literary agent, what happens once you’ve signed with one, and why it’s never too early to start thinking like a published author.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✨ What traditional publishing actually looks like (and why it takes years—not months).
✨ The 15-step journey from novel idea to bookstore shelf.
✨ How a book coach, critique group, or developmental editor fits into the process.
✨ Why you should start thinking about querying before your novel is even finished.
✨ How to handle rejection without losing momentum—or your mind.

Whether you're just starting your novel or you're already on your second revision, this episode will help you understand the traditional publishing path so you can walk it with confidence.

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How do you write an ending so compelling that readers not only finish your book but immediately tell their friends, “You HAVE to read this”?

Well, that’s a big question—but one thing’s for sure: a strong story structure is essential.

In this episode, we’re tackling Act 3 of the Save the Cat story structure framework. I’ll break down how to craft a climactic, unforgettable ending—one that surprises readers, leaves them deeply satisfied, and makes them eager to grab your next book.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✨ What makes The Break Into Three the turning point that propels your protagonist into the final act.
✨ How to build a powerful, high-stakes finale that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
✨ The five essential beats of a strong, emotionally satisfying ending.
✨ Why the Final Image is the key to making your story feel complete—and how to craft one that lingers in readers’ minds.

If you want to write an ending that sticks with your readers long after they turn the last page, this episode is for you.

Get the Act 3 Workbook:📚 Click here to sign up to get the Save the Cat Act 2 Workbook

Get the FULL (Acts 1-3) Workbook:📚 Click here to sign up to get the Save the Cat Act 2 Workbook

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Are you sending out queries but only getting form rejections—or worse, no responses at all? Maybe you're receiving personalized rejections that praise your concept but still pass on your book? If you’re struggling to understand why agents aren’t biting, this episode is for you.

In today’s Ask Me Anything Thursday, I’ll break down the biggest reasons novels get rejected—and what you can do to fix them. Whether it’s your query letter, voice, stakes, or character depth, I’ll walk you through practical solutions to help your manuscript stand out.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The two main types of rejection and what they reveal about your query and pages
• Why agents pass on a strong premise and how to make your writing irresistible
• The most common query letter mistakes—and how to fix them
• How to clarify your stakes so agents (and readers) can’t look away
• Why interiority and emotional depth are non-negotiable in today’s market
• And so much more!

Whether you're drafting or deep in the querying trenches, this episode will give you practical strategies to strengthen your manuscript and improve your chances of landing an agent.

Program Clarity Chat 😎🎉📚🚀 Are you curious whether private book coaching or group book coaching might be right for you? Please click here to sign up for a FREE chat!

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Ask Me Anything Thursdays👋 Send me your writing question! I'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Include your name if you want a shout out! 🤗

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Does your novel feel have a saggy middle? Does it just meander around without a lot of momentum? In this episode, I’ll walk you through Act 2 of the Save the Cat story structure—a simple, effective tool to shape your novel into a story readers can’t put down. Learn how this flexible plotting method can keep your story on track while leaving plenty of room for creativity and unexpected inspiration.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How to keep the middle of your novel from dragging—and why this is where many stories lose momentum
• Why the Midpoint is a game-changer and how it shifts your story into high gear
• How internal and external obstacles work together to create tension and growth
• And so much more!

Whether you’re drafting or revising, this episode will give you practical tips to apply the Save the Cat framework to your own manuscript.

Get the Workbook:📚 Click here to sign up to get the Save the Cat Act 2 Workbook

Join My Email List 📧 Click HERE to join my email list and snag free writing goodies, including expert workshops and more!

SNAP Critique ✍️ Ready to get your first scene (5 pages or fewer) critiqued for FREE? Fill out the SNAP Critique Form right here!

Program Clarity Chat 💻 Are you curious whether private book coaching or group book coaching might be right for you? Please click here to sign up for a FREE chat!

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Ask Me Anything Thursdays👋 Send me your writing question! I'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Include your name if you want a shout out! 🤗

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Ask Me Anything Thursdays: Can I Mix POV Styles in a Dual POV Novel?

Have you ever wondered if you can write a dual POV novel where one protagonist is in first person and the other is in third? In this episode, I answer this question from fantasy writer Becca and break down when and how this technique can work beautifully in speculative fiction.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why mixing POVs can be a powerful storytelling tool.
• How to decide which protagonist should be in first person.
• The key to making each POV distinct and immersive.
• Examples of speculative fiction novels that have successfully used mixed POVs.
• Tune in for practical tips, examples, and guidance to help you decide if a mixed POV structure is right for your novel!

Join My Email List 📧 Click HERE to join my email list and snag free writing goodies, including expert workshops and more!

SNAP Critique ✍️ Ready to get your first scene (5 pages or fewer) critiqued for FREE? Fill out the SNAP Critique Form right here!

Program Clarity Chat 💻 Are you curious whether private book coaching or group book coaching might be right for you? Please click here to sign up for a FREE chat!

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Ask Me Anything Thursdays👋 Send me your writing question! I'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Include your name if you want a shout out! 🤗

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Does your novel feel like it’s wandering aimlessly, struggling to find direction? In this episode, I’ll walk you through the first five beats of the Save the Cat story structure—a simple, effective tool to shape your novel into a story readers can’t put down. Learn how this flexible plotting method can keep your story on track while leaving plenty of room for creativity and unexpected inspiration.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why Save the Cat is the perfect balance of structure and creativity
• How to craft a compelling first scene
• How to subtly introduce your story’s core message in the theme stated beat
• Why the setup is crucial and why skipping it can hurt your story
• And so much more

Whether you’re drafting or revising, this episode will give you practical tips to apply the Save the Cat framework to your own manuscript.

Get the Workbook:📚 Click here to sign up to get the Save the Cat Act 1 Workbook

Join My Email List 📧 Click HERE to join my email list and snag free writing goodies, including expert workshops and more!

SNAP Critique ✍️ Ready to get your first scene (5 pages or fewer) critiqued for FREE? Fill out the SNAP Critique Form right here!

Program Clarity Chat 💻 Are you curious whether private book coaching or group book coaching might be right for you? Please click here to sign up for a FREE chat!

Join Momentum Writing Sprints! ✍️🏃🏽‍♀️😎Come write with us for FREE every Saturday from 11 am to 12 pm ET!

Ask Me Anything Thursdays👋 Send me your writing question! I'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Include your name if you want a shout out! 🤗

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Ask Me Anything Thursdays answering the podcasting question "How do I make sure my protagonist is lovable?"

Are you struggling to create a protagonist readers truly care about? In this episode, I share four actionable strategies to help you craft a dynamic, relatable protagonist readers won’t forget.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why connecting readers to your protagonist matters.
• How to make your characters feel authentic and compelling.
• Ways to add depth and resonance to your storytelling.
• Tips for getting helpful feedback to strengthen your work.

Join My Email List 📧 Click HERE to join my email list and snag free writing goodies, including expert workshops and more!

SNAP Critique ✍️ Ready to get your first scene (5 pages or fewer) critiqued for FREE? Fill out the SNAP Critique Form right here!

Program Clarity Chat 💻 Are you curious whether private book coaching or group book coaching might be right for you? Please click here to sign up for a FREE chat!

Join Momentum Writing Sprints! ✍️🏃🏽‍♀️😎Come write with us for FREE every Saturday from 11 am to 12 pm ET!

Ask Me Anything Thursdays👋 Send me your writing question! I'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Include your name if you want a shout out! 🤗

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Are you looking to level up your writing in 2025? In this episode, I dive into three incredibly valuable ways you can improve your writing, get answers to your important writing questions, and get valuable feedback on your work for FREE. Tune in to learn how to navigate your writing challenges and set yourself up for success in 2025!

This episode was produced by me, The Speculative Fiction Book Coach! Contact me at heather@manyworldswriting.com

Join My Email List 📧 Click HERE to join my email list and snag free writing goodies, including expert workshops and more!

SNAP Critique ✍️ Ready to get your first scene (5 pages or fewer) critiqued for FREE? Fill out the SNAP Critique Form right here!

Program Clarity Chat 💻 Are you curious whether private book coaching or group book coaching might be right for you? Please click here to sign up for a FREE chat!

Join Momentum Writing Sprints! ✍️🏃🏽‍♀️😎Come write with us for FREE every Saturday from 11 am to 12 pm ET!

Ask Me Anything Thursdays👋 Send me your writing question! I'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Include your name if you want a shout out! 🤗

Support the show