In this engaging conversation, Nancy chats with bestselling author Kristan Higgins, exploring her journey from aspiring writer to successful novelist. Kristan shares her experiences in the publishing industry, her writing process, and the evolution of her work from romance to women's fiction. The discussion also delves into the importance of social…

Cecelia Mecca, a full-time romance author, shares her journey from being an English teacher to becoming a successful author. She talks about how she transitioned to full-time writing and the challenges she faced along the way. Cecelia also discusses the importance of finding the right genre and niche, and how it has contributed to her success. She …

Julia Jarrett is a Canadian author of spicy romance novels. She started with small-town romance but recently branched out into sports romance, specifically baseball. In this episode, Nancy and Julia talk about where Julia's ideas for her books come from and what goes on in their plot coaching sessions. Julia shares her strategies for launching book…

In this conversation, authors Nancy Smay and Mona Shroff discuss the process of writing contemporary romance novels, sharing insights into their creative process, inspiration, and the challenges they face. Mona Shroff shares her journey from optometry to becoming a writer, her approach to character development, and the unique way she plots her stor…

In this conversation, Ines Johnson discusses her experience as a romance writer and the changes she has observed in the genre. She talks about her journey as an indie author and the challenges she faced in traditional publishing. Ines also shares her insights on the evolving preferences of readers, particularly the TikTok generation, and how she in…

In this conversation, Nancy Smay interviews Denny S. Bryce, a traditionally published author of historical fiction. They discuss Denny's background as a writer and her passion for craft and research. Denny shares her experience as a fan fiction writer and how it led her to join the Romance Writers of America (RWA) and eventually get an agent. They …

In this episode, Nancy chats with spicy small town romance writer Lena Hendrix. Lena, who began publishing just a few years ago, has found success in KU writing multiple series and focusing on cozy settings, relatable characters, time-tested tropes, and an edge. They discuss the importance of considering marketing before beginning to write, explore…

In this conversation, Nancy interviews Kate Nolan about her writing career and process. They discuss topics such as the different genres Kate writes in, her experience with self-publishing and traditional publishing, her decision to use pen names, her approach to wide distribution, and her writing routine. Kate shares that she is a rabid plotter an…

Summary: Pippa Grant discusses her journey as a writer, from querying agents to self-publishing, and shares insights into her writing process and success. She emphasizes the importance of joining writing organizations, like Romance Writers of America, for learning and support. Pippa also talks about the strategic decision to rebrand under a new pen…

Nancy and Sylvie Stewart discuss their pen names, their family histories, and their writing careers. They talk about how they got started in writing and the genres they write in. They also discuss their experience co-writing a series with Marika Ray and the process they use. The conversation touches on the challenges of self-publishing and the impo…

The conversation between Nancy Smay and USA Today bestselling rom-com author Marika Ray delves into the world of writing and publishing, exploring topics such as book production, genre selection, marketing strategies, and writing processes. Marika shares insights into her journey as an author, her approach to writing, and the challenges she faces i…

In this episode, Nancy and author Kelly Collins delve into Kelly's writing process, book series, and publishing experiences. They also explore the concept of 'steaminess' in romance novels, the challenges of writing, and the importance of backups and market research. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including the creative process, bo…

We're flipping the script a bit! Listen in as Nancy interviews working authors who run the gamut of genre and renown. First up? A bit of a multiple personality situation - Delancey Stewart! Hear how she gets ideas, plots her books, tools she uses, and how she approaches marketing. Our new focus gives you a look behind the scenes at your favorite au…

The podcast is taking a break, but I'm still writing breakdowns. You can find them on my Substack at https://ineswrites.substack.comBy Ines Johnson

One of the four types of deceptions in a romantic comedy is the Magic Potion Deception. Magic potion deceptions in romantic comedies like "Splash," "Mannequin," and "Penelope" offer love and acceptance through the lens of magical realism. Be it a mermaid, a mannequin or a cursed woman, each film cleverly uses the magic potion deception to challenge…

One of the four types of deceptions in a romantic comedy is the Bet Deception. The bet deception is all about trying to win against the odds, but the characters wind up falling down hard -falling in love that is!By Ines Johnson

Tropes are a storytelling convention that help us let readers know what to expect from our books. Learn how to use them, combine them, and twist them to make your stories fresh!

One of the four types of deceptions in a romantic comedy is the Identity Deception. Identity deception in romantic comedies can involve characters concealing or misrepresenting their true selves or the nature of their relationship, leading to a series of laugh out loud situations before culminating in an emotional revelation.…

Why do you need to understand comps as an author? Because you can't market a book without understanding the market. This episode of Story Strategy focuses on helping indie authors figure out how to market their books based on identifying where they fit with other books in the market.

One of the four types of deceptions in a romantic comedy is the Merry War. The "Merry War" deception in a romantic comedy happens when the romantic partners engage in a playful, antagonistic, and/or competitive relationship that masks an underlying attraction or affection. This tension-filled interplay is characterized by witty banter, humorous dis…

By treating your setting with the same care and detail as you would a character, you can create a rich, immersive world that captivates readers and enhances the emotional impact of your story known as Anthropomorphizing.By Ines Johnson

The Story Strategy podcast is back, and in this episode, we explore Deep POV - a fiction writing technique that eliminates the narrator and pulls readers directly into the emotion and action of your story. Want to learn how to do it? Practical tips and examples are inside!

The marriage of convenience trope has a rich history that mirrors societal views on marriage, love, and individual agency. From strategic alliances in ancient times to a tool for social critique and exploration of personal desires in modern literature, this trope has evolved significantly, always offering fresh insights into the human experience of…

If we think about scene launches, purposeful middles, and punctuated endings, we can keep readers turning those pages at a fast and satisfying pace.By Ines Johnson

In this special tips and tricks episode, learn some tools to use in crafting a swoony hero and a strong heroine.By Ines Johnson

In this episode, I'm breaking down Marvel's The Guardians of the Galaxy using Blake Snyder's Five Part Finale from the Save the Cat Plotting Method.By Ines Johnson

In this episode, I'm breaking down Marvel's Thor using Blake Snyder's Five Part Finale from the Save the Cat Plotting Method.By Ines Johnson

In this episode, I'm breaking down Marvel's Black Panther using Blake Snyder's Five Part Finale from the Save the Cat Plotting Method.By Ines Johnson

In this episode, I'm breaking down Marvel's Doctor Srtange using Blake Snyder's Five Part Finale from the Save the Cat Plotting Method.By Ines Johnson

In this episode, I'm breaking down Marvel's Incredible Hulk using Blake Snyder's Five Part Finale from the Save the Cat Plotting Method.By Ines Johnson

I've noticed eight rules for packs in shifter romance. Wanna know what they are? Listen to this episode on Paranormal Pack Rules!By Ines Johnson

Have you been paying attention to the evolution of the Cinderella story? Young girls and women are no longer waiting around for a man to come by on his horse, sweep them off their feet, and give them shoes…Okay, I doubt any of us would turn down the shoes!By Ines Johnson

In “Moll Flanders,” Daniel Defoe aimed to pen a tale of a heroine who faced a life of poverty, perversion, and penitence. Instead, the title character was an unlikeable heroine with surprisingly few empathetic qualities and a negative character arc showing that not women are heroines.By Ines Johnson

To become a Darcy, a hero needs the Five M's. Misunderstood Character(istics) Mistreat the Heroine Movement towards Awkwardly Pursuing the Heroine Magnanimity: an Act of Kindness Missive Swoonworthy Declaration of LoveBy Ines Johnson

A BM is a big misunderstanding. What? What did you think it was? This is my least favorite craft technique. I also don't appreciate them as a reader. But I've found that they abound as a plotting device in early romances like "The Flame and the Flower" by Kathleen E Woodiwiss. In this episode, I break it down.…

I presented my first academic paper on romance. It got rave reviews and I'd like to present it to you in two parts. It's entitled From Bodice Rippers to Booktok. Ready? Here's Part 2!By Ines Johnson

I presented my first academic paper on romance. It got rave reviews and I'd like to present it to you in two parts. It's entitled From Bodice Rippers to Booktok. Ready? Here's Part One!By Ines Johnson

Grand gestures are significant in romance as they heighten emotions and often bring about resolution or clarity in relationships. They're powerful tools in a writer's arsenal to amplify the romantic stakes. If you're plotting scenes, integrating such moments can evoke strong reactions from readers. FIVE TYPES OF GRAND GESTURES Declaration: The gest…

The Dark Moment is a crucial scene in a romance novel, where the hero and/or heroine face a major obstacle or challenge that threatens to tear or keep them apart. This moment typically occurs towards the end of the story, and creates a sense of tension and conflict that the hero and/or heroine must overcome in order to achieve a happy ending. Here'…

In the romance genre, the "fun and games" phase is pivotal, marked by budding connections and escalating stakes. 1. Buddy Love: From initial friction to deep bonds, relationships often mirror dynamics from buddy films like Lethal Weapon. 2. Romance Beats: Gwen Hayes highlights the crescendo of feelings, leading to relationship turning points. 3. Ob…

The "Meet Cute" is the memorable first encounter in romance. Four key elements define this moment: 1. Setting: From Pride and Prejudice's Victorian backdrop to Fifty Shades' modern city. 2. Trope: Common narratives, like "opposites attract," set the emotional stakes. 3. Attraction: Mutual allure as in Romeo and Juliet, or one-sided interest like in…

Story beginnings vary, but empathy remains key. How do we make readers connect with our characters instantly? 1. Highlight Extraordinary Qualities: Think Buffy's strength or Sherlock's intellect. 2. Position in a Unique World: Like Mark Watney's survival on Mars or the Gilmores in quirky Stars Hollow. 3. The "Save the Cat" Moment: Showcase a kind a…

Genres like comedy, science fiction, and horror have their classics, but what defines quintessential romance? From iconic authors such as Kathleen E. Woodiwiss to modern BookTok faves, we delve into romance's evolving heart. We'll trace tropes from the 'bodice ripper' era, understand the enduring allure of 'enemies to lovers', and see how societal …

Ines Johnson is having a bit of a breakdown... so she's going on summer break!By Ines Johnson

Grab your copy of my Give Me a Beat worksheet to help you craft your next amazing love story! https://ineswrites.com/give-me-a-beat-docx/By Ines Johnson

These episode is all about the Romance Beats. Want to make sure readers fall in love with your love story? Then be sure and follow these seven beats! ORDINARY WORLD MEET CUTE ADHESION FUN AND GAMES Dark Moment Grand Gesture HEA or HFNBy Ines Johnson

Mysteries and Thrillers are similar in beats with a few differences. Check out this episode to get clued into the mystery beats. THE CRIME ADHESION TO THE CASE INITIAL THEORY THREE SUSPECTS AND A KILLER REMINDER OF DANGER HERO IN PERIL (ALL IS LOST) SPEECH IN PRAISE OF THE VILLAIN/WHO DUNNIT RESOLUTION…

I believe there are 7 Beats -obligatory scenes that readers or viewers expect- in a thriller; particularly romantic suspense. Come learn all about The Crime or Threat Adhesion to the Case The Initial Theory Three Bangs and an Explosion Reminder of Danger Speech in Praise of the Villain (Why/How Dunnit) Resolution…

Want a breakdown of the beats of Paranormal Romance? This episode lists the nine beats I believe are common in all romances that feature werewolves, vampires, fae and other kinds of supernatural beings.By Ines Johnson

You just finished writing thousands and thousands of words in your manuscript and told an emotional love story with kissing. But wait, you're not done. Now you have to write a couple hundred words to sell that story.By Ines Johnson