Rebecca Hartwell, developmental editor, continues with the story savvy series as she tackles how to spot plot holes and character inconsistencies. To help you turn your good story into a great one, learn about editing fantasy novels through writing strong plots and fixing story problems in this week’s episode, Episode 19 of 52-Week Story Savvy.

In this episode, editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and guest host sla Elrick [suemillsauthor.com], author of contemporary romance of Whispers of New England,standing in for Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] work through how to identify common pitfalls that lead to plot holes, contradictions, and character inconsistencies. They also cover how to use fresh eyes and feedback effectively without compromising your creative vision.

You’ll learn techniques to:

Detect inconsistencies and contradictions like a new reader would

Repair plot holes without derailing the story

Maintain clear and consistent character goals and backstories

Seed character growth naturally to avoid sudden shifts

Use detailed character sheets to prevent errors

Whether you’re a first-time novelist or an experienced writer polishing your latest draft, this episode offers actionable strategies to keep your story coherent, believable, and engaging for your audience.

In This Episode:

Identifying and addressing plot holes

Evaluating reader feedback effectively

Fixing character inconsistencies

Balancing complexity with clarity

Planning plot repairs without creating new issues

Using fresh techniques to strengthen story logic

Recommended Resources:

Hartbound Editing Services – [https://hartboundediting.com]

Authors’ Alcove Membership Community – [http://authorsalcove.com]

Book Giveaway – [http://authorsalcove.org]

[00:00] Introduction

[01:16] Guest Spotlight: Sue Mills

[03:17] What Are Plot Holes?

[06:11] Solving Significant Plot Issues

[09:04] Handling Reader Critiques

[11:51] Weighing Plot Fixes and Story Impact

[12:30] Methods for Repairing Plot Gaps

[14:54] Spotting Character Inconsistencies

[18:49] Addressing Character Feedback

[22:10] Typical Character Continuity Mistakes

[26:52] Character Development vs. Out-of-Character Moments

[29:09] Shapeshifting Characters and Unexpected Twists

Want plot development tips such as how to build tension in a scene, conflict escalation in stories, and how to build character-driven conflict? Listen as Rebecca Hartwell, developmental editor of Hartbound Editing, shares exactly what you need to make your good story into a great one in episode 18 of 52-Week Story Savvy Self-Editing Series

This week, editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] teams up with Guest host Lindsey Luther [lyndseyluther.com] , author of speculative fiction fantasy book - Greencloack (filling in for aspiring author Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com]) to tackle the essential craft of building character-driven plots that feel inevitable, yet surprising. Together, they unpack why well-motivated characters and escalating conflict are the keys to keeping your narrative taut and emotionally charged.

Rebecca Hartwell explains how to:

• Craft character decisions that naturally propel the plot forward.

• Align character goals with theme and genre expectations.

• Introduce obstacles that reveal character growth, not just add drama.

They also explore how to layer internal and external stakes so that every scene matters, and why pacing is about more than just “action.” You’ll get practical tips for revising passive scenes, enriching your midpoint, and making sure your climax delivers both a payoff and a punch.

If you’re struggling with meandering plots or flat character arcs, this episode will give you the tools to restructure and reinvigorate your story.

In This Episode:

• What Story Intensity Really Means

• Finding the Right Intensity for Your Genre & Audience

• Easy Ways to Dial Intensity Up (or Down)

• Why Your Descriptions Can Make or Break Intensity

• Matching Emotional Feels with Physical Action

• How to Let Intensity Flow Naturally

• Pacing vs. Intensity — Making Them Dance Together

• Tips for Keeping Your Intensity Fresh and Varied

• Boosting (or Soothing) Intensity Without Raising the Stakes

Recommended Resources:Hartbound Editing Services – [https://hartboundediting.com]Authors’ Alcove Membership Community – [http://authorsalcove.com]Book Giveaway – [http://authorsalcove.org]Story Grid – https://storygrid.comSave the Cat – https://savethecat.com

[00:00] Intro[01:00] What Story Intensity Really Means

[02:22] Finding the Right Intensity for Your Genre & Audience

[05:00] Easy Ways to Dial Intensity Up (or Down)

[08:40] Why Your Descriptions Can Make or Break Intensity

[10:40] Matching Emotional Feels with Physical Action

[12:12] How to Let Intensity Flow Naturally

[15:52] Pacing vs. Intensity — Making Them Dance Together

[17:40] Tips for Keeping Your Intensity Fresh and Varied

[21:50] Boosting (or Soothing) Intensity Without Raising the Stakes

Ever wonder what are stakes in fiction and how to build tension in a scene? Rebecca discusses things like character-driven conflict, high-stakes storytelling and much more as us writers learn how to edit our book ourselves. In this high-impact episode of 52-Week Story Savvy, editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] and guest host standing in for Christine Nicholas aspiring author Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] break down the crucial role of stakes in storytelling—and how to raise them without losing reader trust.

Together, they define what stakes really are (hint: it's not always life or death!) and how to weave them seamlessly into your plot using tools like Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and stakes spectrums. You’ll discover how to analyze global and chapter-level stakes, keep scenes engaging, and avoid common missteps like artificial plot twists and inconsistent tension.

Whether you're writing a slow-burn fantasy, a fast-paced thriller, or character-driven fiction, this episode will help you pinpoint what your characters stand to lose—and why it matters.

In This Episode:

• The difference between goals, motivations, and stakes

• Using Maslow’s Hierarchy to layer character needs

• Chapter-by-chapter vs. global stakes

• Varying stakes to avoid a flat narrative

• Literal, figurative, and internal life-or-death spectrums

• How to escalate stakes without breaking believability

• Why readers must understand the stakes by the midpoint

• A self-editing checklist for testing stakes scene by scene

Recommended Resources:

• Developmental Editing Services – [https://hartboundediting.com]

• Authors’ Alcove Membership Site – [http://authorsalcove.com]

• Book Giveaway – [http://authorsalcove.org]

• Story Grid – https://storygrid.com

• Save the Cat – https://savethecat.com

• Wired for Story by Lisa Cron

[00:00] Intro

[01:07] Defining Stakes in Storytelling

[03:07] Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and Stakes

[04:10] Chapter vs. Global Stakes

[06:05] Variety in Stakes

[07:59] Identifying and Strengthening Stakes

[09:01] Types of Stakes Beyond Life and Death

[14:14] Exploring Internal and External Stakes

[16:21] Assessing the Power of Stakes

[19:00] Establishing Stakes Without Death

[21:05] Grounding Stakes in the Narrative

[23:01] Raising Stakes Gradually

[26:37] Determining Global Success or Failure

[28:01] Timing the Revelation of Stakes

Curious about first person point of view versus third? Wondering how to self-edit your novel or take your writing to the next level? In this full episode of 52-Week Story Savvy, developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell (hartboundediting.com) and Isla Elrick guest host and award winning author steps in for aspiring fantasy author Agnes Wolfe (authorsalcove.com) dig into how narrative choices shape your story—and how to revise with purpose.This isn't just about fixing grammar; it's about refining your storytelling. Rebecca unpacks how your choice of POV, tense, and narrative depth can elevate or undercut your story, and offers strategies to revise with clarity and intention. You'll learn what works, what doesn't, and how to fix common pitfalls like head-hopping and inconsistent narration—even if you’ve already written your draft.In This Episode:First, second, or third person—what fits your story best?Deep POV vs distant: How to strike the right tonePresent vs past tense: Why it mattersMulti-POV tools (including the creative “Fibonacci method”)Choosing a POV style that strengthens plot and reader connectionHow to revise POV or tense in later drafts without feeling overwhelmedWhether you're just starting or knee-deep in edits, this episode will help you find your narrative voice and fine-tune your manuscript with confidence.Recommended Resources:Developmental Editing Services – hartboundediting.comAuthors’ Alcove Membership Site – authorsalcove.comBook Giveaway – authorsalcove.org

Struggling with first person POV versus third person POV? Wondering what makes a good writer great or how to improve story writing skills? In this advice-packed episode of 52-Week Story Savvy, editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] teams up with aspiring author Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com] to help you master your narrative voice.

Together, they explore the pros and cons of different POVs, tenses, and storytelling perspectives—sharing real examples. You’ll learn how your POV choice shapes your reader’s emotional connection, how to avoid common pitfalls like head-hopping, and when it’s okay to break the rules (and how to fix things if you already have).

Rebecca doesn’t just tell you what works—she explains why, so you can make confident, intentional choices that suit your story and genre. Whether you're writing a sprawling epic or a single-POV middle grade, you’ll walk away from this episode feeling more empowered, more prepared, and more excited to edit.

In This Episode:

• What tense and person choice really say about your story

• Deep POV vs distant narration: how close is too close?

• When to add a secondary POV—and when not to

• Practical self-editing tips for spotting consistency issues

• The head-hopping trap (and how to avoid it!)

• Why choosing the right narrator for each scene can transform your book

Recommended Resources:

• Developmental Editing Services (Expert Feedback) – [https://hartboundediting.com]

• Authors’ Alcove Membership Site – [http://authorsalcove.com]

• Book Giveaway – [http://authorsalcove.org]

• Story Grid – https://storygrid.com

• Save the Cat – https://savethecat.com

• How to Write a Sizzling Synopsis by Brian Cohen

Looking for writer improvement and want to know what makes a good writer great? In this episode, Rebecca shares how to edit your book yourself and offers practical fantasy book blurb advice. Unlike typical writing tutorials, she explores how your blurb can actually shape and strengthen your story while you revise.

In this newest installment of 52-Week Story Savvy, editor Rebecca Hartwell (hartboundediting.com) and aspiring author Agnes Wolfe (authorsalcove.com) talk about how writing your blurb early on can bring clarity to your plot, characters, and emotional arc. Whether you're working on a rough draft or tightening up your final revision, this episode helps you align your manuscript with the promises you’re making to readers in your blurb.

You’ll hear Rebecca break down what a blurb is—and what it definitely isn’t—and walk you through how to craft one that captures the soul of your story. She shares her five-step method for writing blurbs that engage readers, expose weak spots in your narrative, and meet genre expectations. For writers who struggle with blurbs (you’re not alone!), Rebecca also recommends Brian Cohen’s How to Write a Sizzling Synopsis as a must-have tool in your writing toolkit.

In This Episode:

• How to craft a compelling blurb that highlights your story’s conflict, stakes, and emotional drive

• Why distinguishing a blurb from a synopsis matters and how it affects reader interest

• A clear five-step process to help you draft, revise, and polish your book blurb

• Ways to use your blurb as a lens for self-editing and improving story cohesion

• Common blurb pitfalls to avoid, from overcrowded character lists to tone mismatches

Recommended Resources:

• Developmental Editing Services (Expert Feedback) – [https://hartboundediting.com]

• Authors’ Alcove Membership Site – [http://authorsalcove.com]

• Book Giveaway – [http://authorsalcove.org]

• Story Grid – https://storygrid.com

• Save the Cat – https://savethecat.com

• How to Write a Sizzling Synopsis by Brian Cohen

[00:00] Intro

[01:51] What is a blurb—and what isn’t it?

[04:17] When should you write your blurb?

[05:42] Why write a blurb before finishing your book?

[06:34] What resources and steps can help you write a strong blurb?

[14:18] How can your blurb help you reevaluate your story?

[22:28] Is it necessary to write your blurb early in the process?

[29:54] What should you do if your blurb and book don’t match?

Curious about how to structure a story plot to create great pacing? Rebecca reveals what makes a good writer great as she dives into what are some good storytelling techniques, explores how to write a good plot for a story, and offers tips on how to improve story writing skills.

Today, in this newest episode of 52-Week Story Savvy, Rebecca Hartwell (Hart Bound Editing) and aspiring author Agnes Wolfe (Authors’ Alcove) break down one of the trickiest parts of self-editing: pacing. Whether your story drags or moves too fast, Rebecca offers actionable steps to help you fine-tune your emotional rhythm and keep your readers turning pages.

This episode covers everything from identifying when your pacing is off to knowing how (and where) to fix it. You’ll learn how to map emotional highs and lows, structure your scenes for momentum, and avoid the burnout/boredom trap that so many stories fall into. Plus, Rebecca shares pro editor tips like using visual scene mapping, adjusting chapter structure, and avoiding info-dumping while still delivering rich story detail.

In This Episode:

• How to create a visual “pacing map” of your novel using a spreadsheet

• Learn how to ensure every scene moves the story forward

• How to fix pacing without rewriting your entire book

• Solving pacing problems

• Balancing tension with calmer moments.

Recommended Resources:

• Developmental Editing Services (Expert Feedback) – [https://hartboundediting.com]

• Authors’ Alcove Membership Site – [http://authorsalcove.com]

• Book Giveaway – [http://authorsalcove.org]

• Story Grid – https://storygrid.com

• Save the Cat – https://savethecat.com

[00:00] Intro

[01:28] What Is Pacing?

[03:33] How Can We Identify Overwriting and Underwriting?

[06:20] How to Know When to Create a Chapter Break, and When to Break Them?

[10:39] How Can We Prevent Our Reader from Getting Bored or Burning Out?

[15:45] What Patterns Should We Have in Emotional Pacing?

[21:52] How Do You Avoid Plodding Along?

[30:43] Actionable Steps To Correct Pacing

What haunts us—and why do we return to those shadows in fiction? Listen to our interview with Beth Castrodale about horror writing craft and writing supernatural suspense

In this episode of Authors’ Alcove: For Fantasy Writers, I sit down with award-winning author Beth Castrodale to discuss her chilling and emotionally resonant gothic horror novel, The Inhabitants. We explore the art of writing haunted houses and supernatural fiction, how Beth weaves modern themes like the #MeToo movement into the gothic tradition, and the challenges (and joys) of crafting horror stories that linger with readers long after the final page.

Beth shares her writing process, publishing experiences, marketing tips for horror authors, and offers advice for writers ready to take their first step into the horror genre. Plus—a few fun twists along the way, including a haunted house icebreaker and her dream character for our Fantasy Writing Accountability Group!

🔥 Don’t miss our Spring & Summer Book Giveaways at authorsalcove.org—Spring features Sinister Love, and Summer will spotlight The Inhabitants by Beth Castrodale and Angel of Water and Shadow by Tory Gruyon.

🌟 Want early access to episodes and exclusive content? Support the show at patreon.com/authorsalcove.

📝 Writers—join our free Fantasy Writing Accountability Group on Facebook for tips, encouragement, and community: Join Here.

📺 Watch and subscribe on YouTube: Authors' Alcove Fantasy Writing

May your quill stay sharp and your imagination boundless.