THE FOREVER SEA author Joshua Phillip Johnson discusses the writing & development process for his debut Fantasy novel. We talk about the unique & challenging world-building, and adding in a narrative framing device late in the book's drafts.
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THE FROZEN CROWN author Greta Kelly talks about the creative process for her debut Fantasy novel, the first in a duology. We discuss writing a tightly plotted court-side political drama, layered with tangled romances, conflicting loyalties, and death magic.
FROM UNSEEN FIRE author Cass Morris talks about its sequel, GIVE WAY TO NIGHT, the 2nd book in the AVEN CYCLE. We discuss her creative process for the Ancient Rome-inspired fantasy, the trouble with prophecies, and handling a large cast.
BLACK CANARY: BREAKING SILENCE author Alexandra Monir talks about writing for the DC Icons young adult series, adapting the fan-favorite Black Canary and Court of Owls in a prose novel, and how she got the job of writing a major media tie-in.
The Storytelling Craft of Science Fiction & Fantasy
FICTITIOUS is a YouTube show and podcast that delves into the craft of Science Fiction & Fantasy storytelling through interviews with authors and other professional writers. These conversations examine the writing process, techniques, and work habits of passionate creators and explore their most recent, and most popular, works.
Fictitious is hosted and produced by Adron Buske, co-produced by Wendy Buske, and is a Nerd For A Living production.
More Recent Fictitious Episodes
WE HEAR VOICES author Evie Green talks about creating her new horror / science fiction novel. We discuss her leap into horror after writing many thriller and YA books, juggling complicated thematic elements, and why readers love the 'creepy kids' trope.
MONSTRE VOL. ONE author Duncan Swan talks about launching his debut sci-fi/horror thriller via a successful Kickstarter campaign, the decision to split the long dual-narrative novel into two volumes, and writing for multimedia adaptability.
NOPHEK GLOSS author Essa Hansen discusses writing her debut science fiction novel, how she approached her sci-fi universe's elaborate world-building, and the influence of her work as a movie sound designer on her storytelling.
What’s the best book on writing? A common suggestion is Stephen King's memoir ON WRITING. But I don't think there's a single "best" writing manual. What matters is finding guides with the most useful advice for YOU and your writing style.
Author Alix E. Harrow talks about her new fantasy novel, THE ONCE AND FUTURE WITCHES. We discuss her creative approach for this historically-inspired period piece, the trouble with second novels, and using archetypes from classic mythology.
Leigh Bardugo is the author of the young adult fantasy Grishaverse novels (Shadow & Bone, Six of Crows). THE LIVES OF SAINTS is a collection of Grishaverse religious folklore, a physical manifestation of an item from her stories.