Juggling Novel Ideas | LOL 093

Juggling Novel Ideas | LOL 093

Author: Lex Starwalker December 31, 2024 Duration: 1:07:56
I’ve started a few different novels, and I’ve hit some snags. I’ve had a couple new novel ideas as well. I share the ideas with you, my progress, and my thoughts about which of these books I’m going to write next. I also share some musings on the future trajectory of our society and how it’s affecting my worldbuilding. Finally I consider whether courier ships in space make sense.

Ever wondered what really goes on behind the scenes as a science fiction novel comes to life? Lex Out Loud: Writing Science Fiction pulls back the curtain, offering a raw, ongoing audio diary from author Lex Starwalker. Currently deep in the process of crafting a third novel, Lex invites you into the workshop to witness the triumphs, frustrations, and daily decisions that shape a work of speculative fiction. This isn't a polished lecture series; it's a companionable, real-time exploration of the craft. You'll hear Lex think through plot tangles, wrestle with character motivations, and dissect the balance between scientific plausibility and compelling narrative. The discussions naturally extend beyond just writing novels, touching on world-building applicable to game masters and the broader joys and challenges found within the genre. Each episode of this podcast feels like a conversation with a fellow creator, sharing hard-won insights as they are discovered. If you've ever been curious about how stories are built from the ground up, or if you're looking for a thoughtful companion for your own creative endeavors, this is a space where process is celebrated over product. Tune in to follow the journey, episode by episode, as the book-and the writer-evolve.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Lex Out Loud: Writing Science Fiction
Podcast Episodes
Writing for Science Fiction Readers | LOL 080 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:45
Today I talk about why I now think writing Critical Balance for mainstream readers was a mistake. I also talk a bit about beginning the first draft of my new novel.
First Person Perspective & the Saturn System | LOL 079 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:00:51
This week I discuss some of the interesting things I’ve learned about the Saturn system in my research and how I’ll be using them in the novel. I also share some thoughts and revelations I’ve had recently about writing i…
The First Page | LOL 078 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:45
Today I talk about the importance of the first page and the first chapter in a book. I also share a recent realization I’ve had as to differentiating the great and not-so-great books I read. I’ve realized all my favorite…
Curating Ideas & Solar System Travel Times | LOL 077 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:12:42
This week I talk about theoretical propulsion systems and travel times through the solar system. I also talk about how I’ve recently changed my mind about writing down ideas. I am now an idea collector and an idea curato…
Disappointment | LOL 076 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:00:11
The rejections have been piling up, so this week I talk about dealing with disappointment and avoiding discouragement. I also talk a bit about the new Orbit Works imprint.
The Wanderings of Lex | LOL 075 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:08:36
I’ve come up with a completely new and different idea for my next novel, and I’m really excited to share it with you today. I discuss how the first idea you have is often far from the best idea, and how this has been tru…
Sci-Fi vs. Fantasy & Rethinking My Next Novel | LOL 074 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:29:08
I finally found a succinct definition of the difference between science-fiction and fantasy that’s simple, easy to remember & understand, and is accurate in most situations. I’ve also received some insight into why sci-f…
Market Research (aka Reading a Lot) | LOL 073 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:05:05
Today I update you on my progress and talk about how I’m building a reading list to stay apprised on the latest & greatest sci-fi novels being published. I also talk a bit about how, for me at least, social media is larg…
I Completed My Novel Synopsis! | LOL 072 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:27:13
I finally broke down and wrote a two-page synopsis of my novel, and guess what? It wasn’t nearly as bad as I thought it would be! I know, you’re shocked. Things not being as bad as we think seems to be a recurring theme…
Querying Isn't as Bad as You've Heard | LOL 071 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:42:47
This week I talk about my experiences querying agents so far, and I’ve got some good news for you! It’s not nearly as bad as a lot of people make it sound. You’ve got this!