Witches of Workshop

Why Your Story Isn't Working: Fixing Weak Openings and Tension

For 10% off the Brick, go to: https://www.getbrick.com/WOW10 [https://www.getbrick.com/WOW10] The podcast episode features a live and anonymous critique of a historical crime mystery called 'The Sinners of Shoreline Drive.' The hosts also discuss their writing updates, life experiences, and the challenges of rewriting and refining their stories. They share insights on the process of self-critique, the importance of marketability, and the evolving nature of story setup. The conversation revolves around a detailed critique of two chapters from a book, focusing on what worked and what didn't work. The discussion covers the tone, suspense, character development, and storytelling techniques. The hosts also share their reading preferences and methods for coping with stress. Takeaways * Rewriting and refining a story can be a challenging and iterative process. * The setup of a story is crucial and often evolves over time, requiring flexibility and adaptation. Suspense and tension need to build gradually to create an engaging reading experience. * Character development and relatable protagonists are essential for reader engagement.

How Writers Get Better Ideas (Romance, Structure & Creativity) | RomCom Author Rebecca Seifert

The Witches of Workshop sit down with rom-com author Rebecca Seifert to talk about the writing journey, romance novels, critique groups, and what it really takes to grow as a writer. From finding creative inspiration at a writers retreat to learning how workshops and feedback shape stronger stories, Becca shares honest insights into writing contemporary romance and building a sustainable creative life. The conversation dives into favorite romantic comedies, beloved romance tropes, story structure, pacing, character chemistry, and why community is essential for aspiring authors. Whether you write romance, fantasy with romantic elements, literary fiction, or you simply love behind-the-scenes conversations about publishing and storytelling, this episode is packed with practical advice and encouragement for writers at every stage. Topics include: • Writing romance and romantic tension • How critique groups improve your writing • Story structure and crafting compelling characters • Favorite rom-com books and movies • Writers retreats and creative inspiration • Advice for aspiring authors and new writers • Finding your voice as a storyteller • The importance of writing community Chapters: 00:00 – The Writing Journey 07:53 – How Workshops Shape Better Writers 13:26 – Favorite Rom-Coms and Romance Tropes 29:34 – Advice for New Romance Writers

Why Your Writing Isn't Getting Better (And How to Fix It) | YA Author Leslie Lutz

What actually makes writing good, and how do you know when your story just isn’t working? In this episode of Witches of Workshop with award-winning Young Adult Author Leslie Lutz, we’re unpacking the real writing process: the chaos, the critique, and the moments that force you to start over. From defining literary fiction to surviving workshop feedback, we talk about what it means to be interesting on the page and why that matters more than being perfect. We explore writing habits, creative burnout, character motivation, and why your first book might not be the one that “makes it.” Whether you’re deep in revisions, stuck in perfectionism, or questioning your entire draft, this episode is for writers navigating the messy middle. In this episode, we cover: * How to make your writing more interesting (not just “better”) * The role of workshops and constructive criticism in revision * Why character motivation can make or break your story * Letting go of perfectionism and the sunk cost fallacy * Knowing when to move on from a project * Writing habits, productivity, and creative community ✨ Perfect for fiction writers, aspiring authors, and anyone trying to finish (or fix) a novel. Remember, if you WANT to be critiqued on the podcast, just send 1-10 pages and a synopsis to witchesofworkshop@gmail.com

Bad Drafts & Brutal Feedback: Fixing Our Big Writing Fails

In this episode of The Witches of Workshop Podcast, the conversation spans writing struggles, workshop feedback, and the challenges of revising and refining a manuscript. We also dive into personal updates, including home renovations, hair transformations, and 90s nostalgia, alongside reflections on social behavior and generational differences in the age of technology. A major focus of the episode is the writing process—particularly the difficulty of rewriting chapters, navigating self-doubt, and responding to critique. The discussion highlights how feedback shapes revision, how personal experience influences character development, and why storytelling often requires multiple rounds of restructuring to find the right balance. Want to have your episode critiqued on the podcast? Just send 1-10 pages and synopsis to witcheofworkshop@gmail.com [witcheofworkshop@gmail.com].

Signed on the Spot by a Literary Agent + First Chapter Workshop ft. Mark Dye

In this episode of The Witches of Workshop Podcast, we share writing updates, including revision progress, feedback from rejection letters, productivity habits, and the role of writing community in staying motivated. Guest Mark Dye, an English teacher, author, and illustrator, joins to discuss his path to publication, including being signed by a literary agent after pitching at a writing conference. He shares how teaching informs his storytelling, balancing humor in fiction, and developing character-driven narratives. Mark introduces his adult fiction novel Schoolhouse Madhouse, reads a synopsis, and participates in a live first chapter workshop with feedback focused on structure, characterization, and interiority. The group also discusses writing humor, managing ensemble scenes, and revising opening chapters for stronger impact. Remember, to have your writing critiqued on the podcast, send 1-10 pages and a synopsis to witchesofworkshop@gmail.com [witchesofworkshop@gmail.com]!