Writing Age Category: Fix This Before You Query (with Ben Grange) | Episode 52

Writing Age Category: Fix This Before You Query (with Ben Grange) | Episode 52

Author: Heather Davis, Writing Coach, Book Coach, and Developmental Editor, Many Worlds Writing April 1, 2026 Duration: 58:55
Age category feels straightforward… until it really, really isn’t. In this episode, I sit down with Ben Grange to unpack one of the most confusing (and important) decisions a writer can make: how to position your book in the market—and what “age category” actually means behind the scenes. We break down the real differences between middle grade, YA, new adult, and adult fiction… and why those lines are far blurrier (and more business-driven) than most writers realize. We talk candidly about ma...

That moment of staring at a blank page, your incredible idea for a fantasy realm or sci-fi adventure feeling just out of reach, is a shared experience for so many writers. Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple exists to bridge that gap, transforming that initial spark into a finished novel. Hosted by Heather Davis, a writing coach and developmental editor with Many Worlds Writing, this podcast moves past vague inspiration to deliver practical, actionable guidance. Each discussion focuses on a single, tangible craft challenge-from constructing believable magic systems and intricate worlds to navigating complex character arcs and plot structures that hold up under pressure. The aim is to demystify the entire process, breaking down the daunting journey of a debut author into manageable steps. You’ll find conversations that feel like a focused coaching session, dedicated to the unique demands of fantasy, science fiction, and dystopian storytelling. This isn't about theoretical advice; it's about providing the tools to write, revise, and ultimately publish your book. Whether you're struggling with where to begin or how to polish a final draft, this resource meets you where you are in your creative process. Tune in for a clear-eyed, supportive take on building the speculative story that only you can tell.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 53

Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple: How to Write, Edit, and Publish Your Debut Fantasy, Science Fiction, or Dystopian Novel
Podcast Episodes
Writing Scenes: How to Build Mini Stories That Work | Episode 51 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 19:03
Struggling to write scenes that actually work—the kind that keep readers turning pages instead of skimming or putting your book down? You’re not alone. In this episode, I’m breaking down what a scene really is (and what…
Do You Need an MFA to Succeed in Writing? | Episode 49 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 25:31
Think you need an MFA or a creative writing degree to become great at writing? Don't be so sure. In this episode, I’m breaking down why so many aspiring authors believe formal education is the key to success, what MFA pr…
The Art of Writing Irresistible First Lines | Episode 45 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 15:42
Struggling to craft that perfect first sentence? You're not alone. In this episode, I'm sharing why your novel’s opening line matters more than ever in today’s distracted world, how to avoid the most common first-line pi…