Beyond Bad Guys: Exploring Core Conflicts in Fiction
Conflict is what gives your story tension, stakes, and soul—but it’s not always about a cape-wearing villain twirling a mustache. In this post, we’ll revisit the four classic types of conflict every writer should know and explore how you can use them to supercharge your storytelling. Whether your antagonist is a supervillain, a snowstorm, a societal structure, or your hero’s own worst impulses, this breakdown will help you craft richer, more compelling narratives.
How to Structure a Romance: From Subplots to Full-On Love Stories
Learn how to structure a romance story with writing coach Kevin T. Johns. Explore romance beats, plot outlines, and popular frameworks—from simple four-beat subplots to Gwen Hayes’s Romancing the Beat. Perfect for novelists writing full-length romance or adding romantic subplots to other genres.
Stephen Weinstock on Music, Theater, and Writing — The Writing Coach 214
In the latest episode of The Writing Coach podcast, I speak with musician, educator, and author Steve Weinstock.
Douglas Vigliotti on Aristotle for Novelists — The Writing Coach 213
In this The Writing Coach podcast, I speak with author Douglas Vigliotti about his new book, Aristotle for Novelists.
Michael Leonard on Religion & Science-Fiction — The Writing Coach 212
In this latest episode of The Writing Coach Podcast, I have the pleasure of chatting with one of my superstar clients, the multi-talented author Sandy Day. If you’re a fan of heartfelt and relatable stories set against rich Canadian backdrops, you’re going to love this conversation.
Sandy Day on Re-Releasing Books — The Writing Coach 211
In this latest episode of The Writing Coach Podcast, I have the pleasure of chatting with one of my superstar clients, the multi-talented author Sandy Day. If you’re a fan of heartfelt and relatable stories set against rich Canadian backdrops, you’re going to love this conversation.
Emma Dhesi on the Four Pillars of Author Success — The Writing Coach 210
In this episode of The Writing Coach Podcast, I speak with writing coach Emma Dhesi about journey as a writer and coach, her unique approach to storytelling, and her personal and professional insights on crafting a fulfilling writing life.
Rhonda Douglas on Resilient Writing — The Writing Coach 209
In this episode of The Writing Coach Podcast, I sit down with Rhonda Douglas, a Canadian writer and writing coach who is passionate about helping women and non-binary authors complete their first books.
How a Teenager Named ‘Mary’ Invented Science Fiction
Writing Coach Kevin T. Johns explains how a unique set of circumstances led to the creation of the first true science fiction novel.
Unveiling Author Marketing Secrets with Kimberley Grabas — The Writing Coach 208
In this episode of The Writing Coach podcast, I speak with Kimberley Grabas, founder of Your Writer Platform and a veteran in the author marketing world.
