The Novel Analyst Podcast: Creative Writing Advice & Author Interviews

Hey there! I'm stoked to finally reveal my latest podcast: Wizards, Warriors, & Words. Jointly hosted by myself, Michael R. Fletcher, Dyrk Ashton, and Rob J. Hayes, each episode we explore an element of writing, editing, publishing, and marketing, with a focus on fantasy stories. Between us, we've published around 25 books - in both the traditional and self-published worlds. The first 3rd episodes are available to listen to for FREE right now. New episodes every week.In this particular Novel Analyst episode, I share episode 1 of the WWW podcast, where we discuss our best tips for writing great characters. Enjoy!Subscribe to the Wizards, Warriors, & Words podcast now:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/wizards-warriors-words-a-fantasy-writing-advice-podcast/id1526146915Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/48tHxinnYSUTm8Z1rCIONfAnchor: https://anchor.fm/wizardswarriorswordsYouTube: http://youtube.com/channel/UCVjB-qFoNxNbQq0S3boWxIAJoin Jed Herne's email newsletter for a free short story & behind-the-scenes updates:https://jedherne.com/lies--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

My in-depth thoughts on Shadows of Self (Mistborn, #5) by Brandon Sanderson.Email: jed@jedherne.comBooknest Reviews: https://booknest.eu/review-2/jed--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I was recently interviewed by Lavender Lass Books about Across the Broken Stars - my entry into this year's Self-Published Fantasy Book-Off, run by Mark Lawrence. This episode is the audio version of that interview. Enjoy!Twitter: @JedHerneEmail: jed(at)jedherne.com--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gabriel Bergmoser and I sat down to discuss The Hunted (his latest thriller novel) in depth. This is the third time I've interviewed him, and somehow he keeps getting better. The Hunted is my favourite book of his and it was enthralling to dive into the mind of its creator. Enjoy! Buy The Hunted here: https://www.gabrielbergmoser.com/novels.html @gobergmoser www.gabrielbergmoser.com ------------------------------ Let me know what you thought on twitter: @jedherne ------------------------------ And if you'd like to try my own books, check out Fires of the Dead - a fast-paced fantasy novella, perfect for fans of The Hunted: https://jedherne.com/firesofthedead/--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I recently did a live video in the Grimdark Fantasy Readers & Writers group, answering Qs about my writing. It was a lot of fun! Here's the audio replay - enjoy!novelanalyst.comAnd if you have any other questions, I love talking with you listeners - email me at:jed(at)jedherne.com--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I chat with Rob for the second time to discuss his latest grimdark fantasy trilogy, The War Eternal. The trilogy follows Eska, a young magician struggling to reconcile her urges for revenge with her longing for human connection. The books include: Along the Razor's Edge The Lessons Never Learned From Cold Ashes RisenWe also talk about overcoming doubts, Rob's techniques for building captivating fantasy worlds, and which of his characters he'd share isolation with. Enjoy!Show Notes:My BookNest review of The Lessons Never Learned: https://bit.ly/jedreviewsRob's twitter: @RoboftheHayesRob's facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheHeresyWithinRob's blog: http://www.robjhayes.co.uk/***My twitter: @JedHerne--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S. Andrew Swann is the pen name of Steven Swiniarski. He has published over 26 novels since 1993. His recent works include Sword of the Slayer – an interactive fiction story from Choice of Games. Show Notes: Steven's website: sandrewswann.comTwitter: @SAndrewSwann Facebook: facebook.com/sandrewswannSword of the Slayer: choiceofgames.com/sword-of-the-slayerSteven's favorite books: - American Gods - Jim Butcher's Dresden Files - Peter F. Hamilton's books - Hyperion - The Fireman by Joe Hill--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Red Country is an innovative and captivating work, merging the fantasy and western genres into something new and fresh. A big part of its success are Abercrombie's vivid and immersive descriptive language. This episode dissects how to write setting descriptions that make readers feel like they're part of your story's world. Show Notes:My fantasy book, Across the Broken Stars, is free on Amazon until 01/05/2020! Get it here: https://amzn.to/2Ya3WEfPrevious episodes on Joe Abercrombie's books: Episode 50: Before They Are Hanged by Joe Abercrombie - A Simple Way to Craft Compelling Characters Episode 7: The Heroes by Joe Abercrombie - Exploring Theme Episode 2: The Blade Itself by Joe Abercrombie - Characterisation through Contradiction--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Use this technique to generate compelling, flawed, three-dimensional characters. Show Notes:Fires of the Dead - available in audiobook, ebook, & paperback. Link to all formats here: jedherne.com/firesofthedeadLink to the audiobook deal: bit.ly/FOTDchirpEpisode 2 - The Blade Itself by Joe Abercrombie - Characterisation through Contradiction: bit.ly/bladeitselfNA7 - The Heroes by Joe Abercrombie - Exploring Theme: bit.ly/theheroesNA--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it take to write stories where readers' decisions affect the outcome? Kate Heartfield is an author of several historical fantasy and interactive fiction stories, including The Road to Canterbury, and The Magician's Workshop, published by Choice of Games. Her fiction has won or been shortlisted for the Nebula, Locus, Aurora and Crawford awards.Twitter: @kateheartfieldWebsite: heartfieldfiction.comShow Notes:The Magician's Workshop - her interactive fiction story set in Renaissance Florence.Jed's twitter: @jedherneJed's email: jed.herne1(at)gmail.com--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I normally analyse novels. On this episode, I'm pulling lessons from another storytelling form to see how it can improve our writing. Enjoy!Show Notes:My email - send me your comments/questions/queries - I respond to every message -> jed.herne1(at)gmail.comTwitter: @jedherneFires of the Dead - just $0.99 on Amazon for a limited time: https://amzn.to/39W9XaqThe Magician's Workshop: https://www.choiceofgames.com/magicians-workshop/Sky Pirates of Actorious: https://www.choiceofgames.com/sky-pirates-of-actorius/--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rob J. Hayes is the author of the Amazon Best Selling The Heresy Within, the SPFBO-winning piratical swashbuckler Where Loyalties Lie, and the critically acclaimed Never Die. Website: www.robjhayes.co.ukTwitter: @RoboftheHayesShow Notes: My grimdark fantasy novella, Fires of the Dead, just became the #1 bestseller on Amazon's 'Fantasy Adventure Fiction', 'Sword & Sorcery', and various other charts. Read it here: https://jedherne.com/firesofthedead My Novel Analyst episode 46 on Never Die by Rob J. Hayes: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/episodes/46--Never-Die-by-Rob-J--Hayes---Choreographing-Excellent-Ensemble-Casts-easrko Novel Analyst episode 41 on The Ember Blade by Chris Wooding: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/episodes/41--The-Ember-Blade-by-Chris-Wooding---Nailing-the-Opening-48-Pages-e96cua--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

My fantasy novella, Fires of the Dead, is free on Amazon for the next 4 days! Check it out here: https://amzn.to/32BIwjCDuring its free period, it's reached: #1 in Gaslamp Fantasy (Kindle Store) #1 in Action & Adventure Fantasy (Kindle Store) #1 in Alternative HistoryIt's only free in eBook form, but you can download the free Kindle app to read it on any device or computer. Enjoy!--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I analyse the brilliant dynamics behind Rob J. Hayes' eclectic crew in his wonderful grimdark fantasy book, Never Die. Enjoy!Show Notes:Listen to me read chapter 1 of my latest fantasy novel, Across the Broken Stars: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/episodes/Sneak-Peek---Chapter-1-of-Across-the-Broken-Stars---My-Upcoming-Space-Fantasy-Novel-ea9cnk/a-a1b1bre (Or just scroll down in this podcast feed to find it manually). --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Buy Across the Broken Stars here: jedherne.com/acrossthebrokenstarsToday's episode features the audio recording from my latest book launch. Enjoy!00:00 - 10:20 - Jed's thoughts on how to become more creature10:20 - 21:12 - Jed reads scene 1 from Across the Broken Stars21:12 - onwards - Q & A from the audience.--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Buy a copy here: https://jedherne.com/brokenAnd if you buy a copy before midnight Feb 9th, email your receipt to jed.herne1@gmail.com to receive free bonuses, including: The unedited first draft (which was 20 000 words shorter than the final novel) My original outline A free companion short story Other behind-the-scenes looks into my process.Enjoy!Full Blurb:Leon has a secret. He was once an angel – a winged warrior sworn to protect Paya, a realm where people live on discs that float in space.He failed.Now, Leon's a broken man, trying to forget the past. He thinks he's the last angel. But then a young fugitive stumbles onto Leon's doorstep. She's an angel, too. And she has a riddle leading to a place where angels still live. Or so the stories claim…Desperate for redemption, Leon begins a perilous quest through myth and folklore. But will Leon and the fugitive find their legendary destination? Or will Leon lose his last chance for salvation?Brutal and gripping, this is a story about a flawed man's search for forgiveness.--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Left Hand of Darkness is a visionary sci-fi story about a lone human ambassador to Winter, an alien world whose inhabitants' biology allows them to choose—and change—their gender. His goal is to facilitate Winter's inclusion in a growing intergalactic civilization. But to do so he must bridge the gulf between his own views and those of the completely different culture that he encounters. Exploring psychology, society, and human emotion on an alien world, The Left Hand of Darkness is as a landmark achievement - especially considering that it came out in 1969!In this episode, I examined how despite being very slow-paced (or, perhaps, because of this), Le Guin's novel is incredibly engaging. Enjoy!Show Notes:Read my latest space fantasy novel, Across the Broken Stars (out today!): https://jedherne.com/brokenGot thoughts? Email me at jed.herne1 (at) gmail.com - I love hearing from you and I respond to as many messages as I can.--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An in-depth look at creating interesting, cohesive magic that improves your story in meaningful ways. Show Notes:My interview with Justin, author of Master of Sorrows: https://novelanalyst.com/2020/01/07/justin-call-interview/My upcoming space fantasy book, Across the Broken Stars: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/49125250-across-the-broken-stars--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

To celebrate the upcoming release of my epic space fantasy novel, Across the Broken Stars, I'm sharing chapter 1 of the book. The actual book releases on Feb 3rd, 2020. Click here to learn more: jedherne.com/acrossthebrokenstarsLeon has a secret. He was once an angel – a winged warrior sworn to protect Paya, a realm where people live on discs that float in space.He failed.Now Leon's a broken man, trying to forget the past. He thinks he's the last angel. But then a young fugitive stumbles onto Leon's doorstep. She's an angel, too. And she has a riddle leading to a place where angels still live. Or so the stories claim…Desperate for redemption, Leon begins a perilous quest through myth and folklore. But will Leon and the fugitive find their legendary destination? Or will Leon lose his last chance for salvation?Brutal and gripping, this is a story about a flawed man's search for forgiveness.“If you are looking for an epic fantasy that has a unique setting, this is it.” – Kate Valent, Reedsy Discovery.--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Justin Call graduated from Harvard University in 2012 with a Master's in Literature and Creative Writing. He has studied fantasy literature for almost two decades and is the author of Master of Sorrows, Book 1 of The Silent Gods tetralogy. Justin is also the CEO of Broomstick Monkey Games and co-designer of the games Imperial Harvest, Royal Strawberries, Royal Scum, and 8 Kingdoms. He currently lives in Park City, Utah with his wife, his two sons, his Great Dane (Pippa) and his St. Bernard-Mastiff (Herbie).Show Notes:https://justintcall.com/https://twitter.com/Justin_T_Callhttps://justintcall.com/master-of-sorrows/Justin's top writing-advice books/resources:- Save the Cat by Blake Snyder- The Power of Myth by Joseph Campbell- The Hero with a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell- The Writing Excuses podcast- 101 Habits of Highly Effective Writers- 101 Habits of Highly Effective ScreenwritersJustin's top books/authors:- 'Crowfall' by Ed McDonald- Book of the Ancestor Series by Mark Lawrence- Anything by Brandon Sanderson (I second this suggestion). My notes:Half-Baked Stories podcast@jedherne (Twitter, Instagram)jedherne.com--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's been 8 years since I started writing in 2012. Here's the 8 biggest lessons I've learned. Show Notes:Across the Broken Stars - goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/49125250-across-the-broken-stars> Best writing advice resources:Anything by K. M. WeilandBrandon Sanderson's online lecturesLessons from the ScreenplayStory by Robert McKeeDialogue by Robert McKeeThe Anatomy of Story by John TrubyThe Emotional Craft of Fiction by Donald Maass(Note: some of those links are affiliate links, which means if you use them, I may receive compensation - at no extra cost to you. It's a win-win!)--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cohesion and resonance. More than anything else, they're what will elevate your story above the rest, and leave readers thinking long after the final page. Show Notes:Send me your questions: https://jedherne.com/question/Or: jed.herne1[at]gmail.comListen to my in-depth analysis of an amazing fight scene: https://novelanalyst.com/2019/10/16/38-words-of-radiance-by-brandon-sanderson-giving-readers-chills/--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A masterclass in writing beginnings that make readers reach your endings. Check out my shiny new instagram account for a behind-the-scenes look into my writing life: https://www.instagram.com/jedherne/--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For months, I've been struggling with how to write a series. See, most of my ideas come to me as stand-alone books, but this current project felt like something bigger than one novel.A few weeks ago, I had an epiphany.Now, I think I've cracked the code on writing a series.And today I'll share it with you.Show Notes:Lessons from the Screenplay video: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=4x9mplwN3Lo My interview on A Writer's Explorations A huge Q & A writing talk I gave to primary school studentsMy previous episode analysing Skulduggery Pleasant Book 6 – Death BringerDerek's 2010 blog article that I quotedThe Anatomy of Story by John TrubySave the Cat Goes to the Movies by Blake SnyderSEND ME A QUESTION:jed.herne1(at)gmail.comOrJedHerne.com/Question--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Science fiction space operas are stories told at an epic scale. How can you make such a vast world accessible to readers? How can you ground these fantastical and strange new worlds in a sense of realism? Balancing the epic with the human is perhaps the greatest strength of Leviathan Wakes by James S. A. Corey (first book in The Expanse). Today's show dives deep into analysing how characters are they key to guiding readers through epic stories. Show Notes:jedherne.com/fires – get a free short story and join my email newsletter to hear about future book giveaways!jedherne.com/question – submit your questions for the show!anchor.fm – what I use to make my podcast for free (note: I am not sponsored by them and I make no money for this – just recommending a useful tool that I use)--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Words of Radiance is the second book in The Stormlight Archive, an epic fantasy series of incredible ambition - and superb execution. What's remarkable about WOR isn't just the world building, the twisting plot, or the amazing characters (although they're all great). No, what made this book remarkable was the emotional response it created within me. In this episode, I explain how you can do the same for your stories. Enjoy!Read Fires of the Dead, my debut fantasy book: jedherne.com/firesofthedeadWin a signed copy of Fires of the Dead: jedherne.com/win (closes 23/10/2019)Ask me a question! I might answer on this show: jedherne.com/questionEmail: jed.herne1(at)gmail.comListen to my episode on The Way of Kings, which is book 1 of The Stormlight Archive.--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hey podcast! Use this link to enter the Fires of the Dead giveaway (closes Oct 30th):jedherne.com/winAnd use this link to leave a question for me to answer on the show:jedherne.com/question(There's also a text form, if you'd rather type instead of talking. However, I'll prioritise voice messages, since they're easier to play on the show). Fires of the Dead - available in all formats!Paperback, Hardback, and eBookAudiobook (narrated by me)--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Subtly conveying information to readers is a delicate skill. It's one that Rowling mastered in the Harry Potter series, where all the information is available to readers well before it's needed, but only coalesces at the required moment. In today's episode, I describe the 4 M's of subtle foreshadowing, in relation to the Potter saga. Enjoy!Read my debut fantasy novella, Fires of the Dead."The perfect read for someone looking to be quickly immersed in a magic system unlike anything else." - Nicole Wallace, editor of Synopses by Sarge.Available in ebook, paperback, hardback, and audio book.Email me - I love hearing from listeners and I respond to every message: jed.herne1(at)gmail.com--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stoked to interview Gareth Hanrahan, author of The Gutter Prayer - which I analysed on the show just a few days ago. We had an excellent in-depth chat about his book, how writing for role-playing games has helped him as an author, and lots more. Enjoy!Show Notes:Gareth's top books/resources: DECLARE, Tim Powers Lavondyss, Robert Holdstock Deep Work, by Cal Newport Hyperfocus, Chris Bailey (more accessible version of Deep Work) Hamlet's Hit Points, Robin D Laws Storyteller Tools, M. Harold Page House of Leaves Wonderbook by Jeff Vandermeer 7 Wonders of the Industrial World (BBC Series)My debut fantasy novella, Fires of the Dead, comes out tomorrow! (Sep 20th, 2019). Read it here: https://jedherne.com/firesofthedeadQuestions, comments, queries? I love hearing from you! I respond to every email sent to: jed.herne1@gmail.com--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today's episode, I outline a guide for world-building amazing fantasy cities - like the one Hanrahan created in The Gutter Prayer. Here's my key world-building lessons learnt from this book:1. Consider the first scene as a microcosm2. The first scene sets the tone3. Explore your interests4. Consider how different characters react to the same world.5. More ideas is better than not enough6. Layer it up!7. Treat the city as a character8. It's about the intertwiningShow Notes:My debut fantasy novella, Fires of the Dead, comes out September 20th! Buy a copy during launch week (between 20th-27th September), then send me your receipt and I'll set you up with exclusive bonuses. My email: jed.herne1@gmail.comGet the book: https://www.amazon.com/Fires-Dead-Fantasy-Jed-Herne-ebook/dp/B07WDBLW9Y--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hey podcast! My debut fantasy novella, Fires of the Dead, releases in 10 days on September 20th! It'll be available in ebook, paperback, and audiobook forms. I'm so stoked to share it with the world :). Can't wait to hear what you think! Blurb: Wisp is a Pyromancer: a magician who draws energy from fires to make his own flames. He's also a criminal, one job away from retirement. And it can't come bloody soon enough.Leading his misfit crew, Wisp ventures into a charred and barren forest to find a relic that could change the realm forever. But they aren't the only ones on the hunt, and the forest isn't as barren as it seems …A jaded gang leader longing for retirementA bloodthirsty magician with a lust for powerA brutish fighter who's smarter than he looksA young thief desperate to prove herselfA cowardly navigator with secrets that won't stay buriedTogether, they must survive fights, fires, and folk tales that prove disturbingly real – if they don't kill each other first.Fires of the Dead is a dark fantasy novella with a unique magic system, perfect for anyone wanting a fast-paced read. ***To stay updated with the book launch (and my writing in general), you can join my free author email newsletter: https://jedherne.com/club/. When you sign up, you'll get some bonus fantasy and sci-fi stories!--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Language of Dying is an elegiac, emotionally moving novella, about a woman whose father is dying. In today's episode, I dive deep into analysing how the author crafted such a profound emotional experience. If you want your words to move your readers, this episode explains how. My debut fantasy novella, Fires of the Dead, is available on amazon! Get it here: http://bit.ly/firesjedherneShow Notes: Fires of the Dead, by Jed Herne - https://jedherne.com/firesofthedead/Watch my YouTube channel for writing advice every weekday: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVjB-qFoNxNbQq0S3boWxIA?view_as=subscriber Join my exclusive free Reader Club email newsletter to stay up to date with my writing projects: https://jedherne.com/club/Twitter: @jedherneEmail: jed.herne1@gmail.com--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

My debut fantasy novella, Fires of the Dead, is available on amazon for pre-order! Get it here: https://amzn.to/31KMCUR Or use this link to read a free sample chapter: https://jedherne.com/dead/ A Canticle for Leibowitz is a 1959 post-apocalyptic sci-fi novel by Walter M. Miller Jr. It's often described as one of the first post-apocalyptic stories. Without it, there would be no Book of Eli, The Stand, or most other post-apocalyptic tales. Don't just take my word for it. It won the 1961 Hugo Award - one of science fiction's highest honours. Legendary scientist Carl Sagan described it as: "so tautly constructed, so rich in the accommodating details of an unfamiliar society that [it] sweep me along before I have even a chance to be critical". It's a remarkable novel. I don't have the space in one episode to fully analyse it, so today I'm focusing on just one thing: how it uses an unconventional structure to explore the theme and emotionally gut-punch readers. Enjoy! Show Notes: Fires of the Dead, by Jed Herne - https://jedherne.com/dead/ Watch my YouTube channel for writing advice every weekday: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVjB-qFoNxNbQq0S3boWxIA?view_as=subscriber Join my exclusive free Reader Club email newsletter to stay up to date with my writing projects: https://jedherne.com/club/Twitter: @jedherneEmail: jed.herne1@gmail.com--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gabriel Bergmoser is a Melbourne based author and playwright. He's written the Boone Shepard trilogy (I analysed book 3 in this episode of the podcast) along with multiple plays. His latest novel is The Hunted (aka Sunburnt Country in the UK), which comes out in mid-2020 from HarperCollins. It was a pleasure to have Gabe back on the podcast to discuss his recent book & movie deals, along with other aspects of his life as a writer. Have a listen if you're interested in:- Gabe's advice for being resilient and overcoming rejection;- What it's like to get a huge book deal with a major publisher (& an equally huge movie deal!);- The biggest writing lesson he learnt from finishing the Boone Shepard trilogy;And loads more!Show Notes:16 - Boone Shepard - The Silhouette and the Sacrifice by Gabriel Bergmoser - Writing Awesome EndingsGabe's review of Tana French's Dublin Murder SquadNews about The Hunted and the film dealGabe's twitter account: https://twitter.com/gobergmoser For writing advice every weekday, check out my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVjB-qFoNxNbQq0S3boWxIA?view_as=subscriber For free sci-fi & fantasy stories, and to stay updated with my writing projects, join my free newsletter: https://jedherne.com/club/ Twitter: @jedherneEmail: jed.herne1@gmail.com--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Enter the free contest to win 7 Joe Abercrombie fantasy novels: http://bit.ly/firstlawgiveaway (Contest ends on 12th August, 2019, so get in quick!)Join my email newsletter to stay updated with my upcoming book launch: https://jedherne.com/club/ To build buzz for the launch on my debut fantasy novella, Fires of the Dead, on September 20th, 2019, I'm giving away a paperback collection of Joe Abercrombie's amazing fantasy novels! I've discussed Abercrombie before, on the following podcast episodes: 2 - The Blade Itself by Joe Abercrombie - Characterisation through Contradiction 7 - The Heroes by Joe Abercrombie - Exploring Theme Hit me up on twitter @JedHerne or email me at jed.herne1[at]gmail.com with any questions. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo is a gritty YA fantasy heist story. It's got a racing plot, an interesting setting, and amazing characters. In this episode, I analyse the relationship between Kaz and Inej, using Mary Robinette Kowal's 6 relationship axes: Mind - Both people have similar levels of intelligence. Money - Both people have similar attitudes about money. They don't both have to have the same amount. This is about what money is for and how it's handled. Morals - Similar moral compasses of right and wrong. Manners - Similar senses of what is polite. So it's possible to have the same manners and wildly different morals. Monogamy - Similar attitudes about the relationship. You know that guy that thinks you are BFFs and you think you're just colleagues? Marx Brothers - You both find the same things funny. Source: https://www.patreon.com/posts/writing-stable-8172456 Show Notes:Go here to see the table I mentioned: https://novelanalyst.com/?p=536 Episode 25 - all about Crooked Kingdom, the sequel to this novel: https://novelanalyst.com/2019/04/30/25-crooked-kingdom-by-leigh-bardugo-the-art-of-setting-descriptions/ Check out my youtube channel for writing advice every weekday: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVjB-qFoNxNbQq0S3boWxIA?view_as=subscriber Join my exclusive free Reader Club email newsletter to stay up to date with my writing projects: https://jedherne.com/club/Twitter: @jedherneEmail: jed.herne1@gmail.com--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After Dale from The Reading Gorilla podcast sent in a listener request, who was I to ignore it? This is an episode about Orson Scott Card's sci-fi classic, Ender's Game. Specifically, I examine how he crafted such an amazing twist. Enjoy!And if you want to request an episode, or just have any feedback on the podcast, email me at jed.herne1@gmail.com, or download the free Anchor app to your phone, then search for 'The Novel Analyst Podcast,' and click the appropriate buttons to send me a voice message. Show Notes:Check out my new youtube channel for writing advice every weekday: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVjB-qFoNxNbQq0S3boWxIA?view_as=subscriber Join my exclusive free Reader Club email newsletter to stay up to date with my writing projects: https://jedherne.com/club/ Twitter: @jedherneEmail: jed.herne1@gmail.com--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it mean to craft epic fantasy? How is it different that other forms of fantasy? What are it's unique strengths, and potential pitfalls? All those questions and more answered in today's episode, which focuses on The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson. Enjoy!Check out my new youtube channel for writing advice every weekday: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVjB-qFoNxNbQq0S3boWxIA?view_as=subscriber Join my exclusive free Reader Club email newsletter to stay up to date with my writing projects: https://jedherne.com/club/ Twitter: @jedherneEmail: jed.herne1@gmail.com--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Let me know what you think of these short bonus episodes by emailing jed.herne1@gmail.com.Also, if you want free sci-fi and fantasy stories written by me, go to jedherne.com/club. It'll let you join my brand new Reader Club, and when you do that I'll send you 5 free short stories, plus exclusive bonus content.--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today's episode is all about secondary characters. What constitutes a great secondary character? How can us writers create amazing side characters that improve the quality of our stories?Show notes:3 - Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince by J. K. Rowling - Creating Suspense Using Question Arcs11 - Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban by J. K. Rowling - Narrative MisdirectionTwitter: @JedHerneEmail: jed.herne1 [at] gmail.comWebsite: novelanalyst.comJoin my VIP email list: novelanalyst.com/email--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Let me know what you think of these short bonus episodes by emailing jed.herne1@gmail.com.Also, if you want free sci-fi and fantasy stories written by me, go to jedherne.com/club. It'll let you join my brand new Reader Club, and when you do that I'll send you 5 free short stories, plus exclusive bonus content. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Let me know what you think of these short bonus episodes by emailing jed.herne1@gmail.com.Also, if you want free sci-fi and fantasy stories written by me, go to jedherne.com/club. It'll let you join my brand new Reader Club, and when you do that I'll send you 5 free short stories, plus exclusive bonus content. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

27 - Skulduggery Pleasant - Death Bringer by Derek Landy - The GapBackstories matter, but they can be hard to execute. This episode deconstructs how Landy uses the idea of the Gap to create intriguing character backstories that readers crave to learn. Enjoy!Shownotes:19 - Skulduggery Pleasant by Derek Landy - The Art of NamingTwitter: @JedHerneEmail: jed.herne1 [at] gmail.comWebsite: novelanalyst.comJoin my VIP email list: novelanalyst.com/email --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Let me know what you think of these short bonus episodes by emailing jed.herne1@gmail.com.Also, if you want free sci-fi and fantasy stories by yours truly, go to jedherne.com/club. It'll let you join my brand new Reader Club, and when you do that I'll send you 5 free short stories, plus some exclusive bonus content. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Starting a new series! In addition to your normal Novel Analyst episodes, for the next month I'll be posting a Quick Writing Tip episode every Monday. Let me know what you think and if you want more of them, email jed.herne1@gmail.com or hit me up on twitter @JedHerne.Also, if you want free sci-fi and fantasy stories by yours truly, go to jedherne.com/club. It'll let you join my brand new Reader Club, and when you do that I'll send you 5 free short stories, plus some exclusive bonus content. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

26 - Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone by J. K. Rowling - Ring Structure I've wanted to do this for a long time, and it's finally here: an analysis of one of my top novels of all time ... In this episode, I dive super deep into the circular structure of Rowling's masterpiece. Be warned: you won't look at Harry Potter the same way after hearing this dissection ... Enjoy!Shownotes:Harry Potter as Ring Composition and Ring Cycle By John Granger http://www.lulu.com/au/en/shop/john-granger/harry-potter-as-ring-composition-and-ring-cycle/paperback/product-13042044.htmlHarry Potter - Hedwig's Theme (Piano Version) Piano Version by Patrik Pietschmann https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jTPXwbDtIpAJohn Williams - Buckbeak's Flight (Extended) | London Symphony Orchestra https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DLiXPbjaZrATwitter: @JedHerneEmail: jed.herne1 [at] gmail.comWebsite: novelanalyst.comJoin my VIP email list: novelanalyst.com/email--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

25 - Crooked Kingdom by Leigh Bardugo - The Art of Setting Descriptions.  In this fantastic YA fantasy novel, the town of Ketterdam is a living, breathing, three-dimensional creation: as much a character as any of the other (brilliant) characters in this story. Bardugo is a master of making a setting come to life. In today's in-depth episode, I analyse a scene to extract key techniques writers can use to improve their setting descriptions. No mourners, no funerals.  Shownotes: Twitter: @JedHerne Email: jed.herne1 [at] gmail.com Website: novelanalyst.com Join my VIP email list: novelanalyst.com/email  --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

24 - The Hitchhikers' Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams pt. 2 - How to Write Funny.  In the second part of my analysis of Hitchhikers I extract micro and macro techniques for creating comedy. (You don't need to have listened to the 1st part for this to make sense). Enjoy! Shownotes: https://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/FunWithHomophones https://www.writersdigest.com/online-editor/humor-writing-filled-novel Twitter: @JedHerne Email: jed.herne1 [at] gmail.com Website: novelanalyst.com Join my VIP email list: novelanalyst.com/email--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

23 - The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams pt. 1 - Why Characters Don't Matter. This absurdly funny sci-fi comedy is a fantastic example of how you don't always need amazing characters to create an amazing story. Buckle up as we use Orson Scott Card's MICE quotient to analyse what makes this novel work. And remember: don't panic! Shownotes: http://www.sfcenter.ku.edu/Workshop-stuff/MICE-Quotient.htm Twitter: @JedHerne Email: jed.herne1 [at] gmail.com Website: novelanalyst.com Join my VIP email list: novelanalyst.com/email--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

22 - The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald - Finding your Perfect Prose.  Fitzgerald's classic chronicle of the Jazz age is often praised for its wonderful prose. In this episode, I examine what makes his prose so stylistically appealing - and we look at how you can write better prose. Keep beating on, boats against the current! Shownotes: Twitter: @JedHerne Email: jed.herne1 [at] gmail.com Website: novelanalyst.com Join my VIP email list: novelanalyst.com/email--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

21 - The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman - Meaningful Endings and the Truth.  Truth. It's one of the most important aspects of story - especially of stories that are fantastical. In this episode, I explore how Gaiman created a truthful, meaningful, and emotional resonant ending to his Hugo and Newberry award-winning novel: The Graveyard Book. (Includes bonus singing from yours truly) Enjoy! Shownotes: Twitter: @JedHerne Email: jed.herne1 [at] gmail.com Website: novelanalyst.com Join my VIP email list: novelanalyst.com/email--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/novelanalyst/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.