16 episodes
Co-Authoring Chronicles of Serial Fiction Podcast Helen Corvis and Steaphan Kay
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- Education
Step into the narrative labyrinth with Helen Corvis and Steaphan Kay on the "Co-Authoring Chronicles of Serial Fiction Podcast," where the secrets behind penning a captivating serial tale are unraveled. As co-authors of the enthralling series "In the Arms of the Void," Helen and Steaphan offer an unprecedented look at their collaborative journey, sharing their experiences, strategies, and personal anecdotes from their successful partnership.
Each episode is a treasure trove for fans and fellow writers alike, as our hosts delve into the nitty-gritty of co-authoring. They will dissect their writing process, from the initial spark of an idea to the intricate weaving of each serialized installment. Listeners will gain insight into how two authors fuse their ideas, styles, and visions to create a coherent and compelling narrative that keeps readers eagerly awaiting each new release.
Helen remarks, "We're excited to give our listeners a front-row seat to everything that goes into crafting 'In the Arms of the Void,' including how we tackle plot twists, character arcs, and pacing in serial fiction."
Steaphan adds, "And it's not just about our successes; we're sharing our challenges too. From resolving creative differences to meeting tight deadlines—this podcast is about the real experience of being a writing duo."
Beyond storytelling techniques, "Co-Authoring Chronicles of Serial Fiction Podcast" offers practical advice for those interested in exploring serial fiction or collaborative writing projects. Discover how to maintain consistency across multiple episodes or volumes, engage your audience over time, and manage feedback from your growing reader base.
Whether you're an aspiring writer looking to explore serial fiction's unique opportunities or a fan curious about what happens behind the scenes of your favorite series, this podcast is your guide through the episodic world of storytelling.
Subscribe to "Co-Authoring Chronicles of Serial Fiction Podcast" now and join Helen Corvis and Steaphan Kay as they chart the course through their shared literary universe—one chapter at a time.
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Building Suspense
Steaphan Kay and Helen Corvis delve into the art of keeping readers on the edge of their seats in this suspenseful episode. Discover how to introduce high stakes early, escalate tension as the story progresses, use pacing and structure strategically, and employ misdirection and twists to craft page-turning tales. With examples from their own sci-fi novel "In the Arms of the Void," Helen and Steaphan illustrate techniques like shortening time limits, increasing danger, and raising the emotional stakes for characters. They also discuss using short sentences, cliffhangers, and trimmed description to control pacing during tense scenes. Prepare to be gripped by revelations on crafting red herrings, shocking twists, and reversals of fortune that will leave your readers reeling.
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Helen's Bio Site (bio.site/helencorvis)
Steaphan's Bio.Site (bio.site/steaphankay)
Co-Authored Serial Fiction: In the Arms of the Void
Related Content For This Episode:
4+ Tips for Building Suspense in Mysteries Other Content:
For indie authors at: IndieAuthors.Social For readers at steaphankay.com/blog For authors at steaphankay.com/authors For art lovers at deviantart.com/authorsteaphankay -
Mechanics of Co-Authoring Collaboration
In this insightful episode, Helen and Steaphan dive deep into the mechanics of co-authoring collaboration, offering a treasure trove of advice for both seasoned and aspiring authors. Whether you're contemplating a joint writing venture or simply curious about the dynamics behind successful author partnerships, this discussion is packed with valuable takeaways. From practical tips on conducting virtual meetings to enhance story craft, to fostering a harmonious working relationship despite geographical distances, they cover it all. The highlight? An engaging role-play session that not only showcases their witty banter but also provides a real-world glimpse into resolving disagreements with respect and understanding. Join us as we explore how empathy, clear communication, and shared goals can transform co-authoring challenges into rewarding opportunities for growth and creativity.
Please Like & Follow us wherever you listen to this podcast and on social.
Helen's Bio Site (bio.site/helencorvis)
Steaphan's Bio.Site (bio.site/steaphankay)
Co-Authored Serial Fiction: In the Arms of the Void
Other Content:
For indie authors at: IndieAuthors.Social For readers at steaphankay.com/blog For authors at steaphankay.com/authors For art lovers at deviantart.com/authorsteaphankay -
Author Nathan Lowell on Running It Like a Business
In this episode of the podcast, hosts Helen Corvis and Steaphan Kay interview veteran author Nathan Lowell about his journey in indie publishing and the valuable lessons he has learned along the way. Nathan shares insights from his 40+ years as a writer, including his early days of serializing his science fiction novels through podcasting.
The discussion delves into key aspects of the author craft, such as the differences between writing for audio versus the page, and the importance of thinking long-term about your writing career. Nathan emphasizes that success requires patience and persistence, likening the writing journey to a way of life rather than a race with a finish line.
On the business side, Nathan stresses the importance of marketing before you write, and differentiating marketing from sales and promotion. He shares how he positioned his "Solar Clipper" series to stand out in the crowded space opera genre. Other essential advice includes treating your author business like a startup, building a catalog of works, and focusing on reaching dedicated readers.
Whether you're a new writer or an established indie author, Nathan's hard-earned wisdom and engaging storytelling make this an episode not to miss. Tune in for actionable strategies and mindset shifts to help you thrive on your publishing journey.
Please Like & Follow us wherever you listen to this podcast and on social.
Helen's Bio Site (bio.site/helencorvis)
Steaphan's Bio.Site (bio.site/steaphankay)
Co-Authored Serial Fiction: In the Arms of the Void
Related Content For This Episode:
Nathan Lowell's Bio Link (bio.link/nlowell) Other Content:
For indie authors at: IndieAuthors.Social For readers at steaphankay.com/blog For authors at steaphankay.com/authors For art lovers at deviantart.com/authorsteaphankay -
When Should Your Characters Have Sex?
In this episode of their podcast, Helen Corvis and Steaphan Kay dive into the topic of when characters should have sex in fiction. They explore the reasons for including sex scenes, such as expressing a full range of emotions, building tension, and providing a safe space for readers to explore intimacy. Helen emphasizes the importance of portraying sex positively and consensually, while Steaphan quotes Diana Gabaldon on the art of writing sensual scenes with restraint and beautiful imagery.
The hosts also discuss how the timing of sex scenes can depend on the characters' desires and the feasibility within the story. They touch on the expectations set by different genres, from erotica to young adult romance. Helen shares her thoughts on creating realistic and relatable intimate moments, even between "evil" characters.
Throughout the conversation, Helen and Steaphan remind listeners that authors have a limitless palette to portray sex and relationships in unique and meaningful ways. The episode concludes with the thought-provoking sentiment that even evil characters are capable of love and beauty.
Please Like & Follow us wherever you listen to this podcast and on social.
Helen (BlueSky)
Steaphan (IndieAuthors.Social | X | Facebook | Newsletter)
Co-Authored Serial Fiction: In the Arms of the Void
Related Content For This Episode:
"I Give You My Body . . .": How I Write Sex Scenes by Diana Gabaldon Writing a Romance Novel For Dummies by Victorine Lieske (Author), Leslie Wainger Other Content:
For readers at steaphankay.com/blog For authors at steaphankay.com/authors For art lovers at deviantart.com/authorsteaphankay -
What Makes Your Characters Tick?
Join Helen Corvis and Steaphan Kay in this enlightening episode where we look into the psychology behind creating memorable and authentic characters. In "What Makes Your Characters Tick?", we explore the intricate hopes, dreams, fears, and motivations that drive character development in storytelling.
Helen kicks off the discussion by emphasizing the importance of structuring characters' psychological profiles upfront to enhance story craft. She warns against falling into the trap of creating a Mary Sue or Gary Stu – essentially author self-inserts devoid of depth or challenge.
Steaphan introduces us to various tools and frameworks that can aid authors in fleshing out their characters, including insights from H. Claire Taylor's work on enneagrams and personality systems. The conversation also covers using Myers-Briggs types for character creation, with both hosts sharing how these methods have influenced his own writing projects.
The episode is peppered with references to literary giants such as Agatha Christie and Mark Twain, providing listeners with practical examples of how understanding what forms a person's sense of identity can lead to compelling narrative arcs.
Whether you're struggling with character development or looking for new ways to enrich your storytelling arsenal, this episode offers valuable perspectives on making your characters resonate authentically with readers. Tune in for an engaging discussion filled with tips, anecdotes, and much more!
Please Like & Follow us wherever you listen to this podcast and on social.
Helen (BlueSky)
Steaphan (IndieAuthors.Social | X | Facebook | Newsletter)
Co-Authored Serial Fiction: In the Arms of the Void
Related Content For This Episode:
Enneagram & Fiction Masterclass Other Content:
For readers at steaphankay.com/blog For authors at steaphankay.com/authors For art lovers at deviantart.com/authorsteaphankay -
What Not To Write
In this eye-opening episode of the Co Authoring Chronicles of Serial Fiction podcast, hosts Helen Corvis and Steaphan Kay dive into the murky waters of sensitive topics and boundaries in writing. They explore the hidden pitfalls that can await authors who venture into these areas, and they offer practical advice on how to navigate them with respect and authenticity.
Helen and Steaphan discuss the importance of setting expectations for readers, and they share their thoughts on the use of trigger warnings. They also explore the question of whether authors should only write what they know, and they offer their insights on how to write about marginalized or underrepresented groups in a way that is both respectful and inclusive. Whether you're a seasoned author or just starting out, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to write about sensitive topics with confidence and compassion.
Note: When writing sensitive topics where you may not have firsthand experience, consider using sensitivity readers. They are individuals who are hired to read and provide feedback on manuscripts, particularly with regard to the portrayal of marginalized or underrepresented groups. Their feedback can help authors avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes or inaccuracies, and can also help to ensure that the work is respectful and inclusive.
Please Like & Follow us wherever you listen to this podcast and on social.
Helen (BlueSky)
Steaphan (IndieAuthors.Social | X | Facebook | Newsletter)
Co-Authored Serial Fiction: In the Arms of the Void
Related Content For This Episode:
StoryGraph Content Warning Examples Other Content:
For readers at steaphankay.com/blog For authors at steaphankay.com/authors For art lovers at deviantart.com/authorsteaphankay