Struggling to decide when to use dialogue and when to rely on narration in your writing? In this episode, I break down dialogue vs. narration and how each tool shapes pacing, character development, and reader engagement. Learn when dialogue brings scenes to life through authentic voices and emotional exchanges—and when strong narration provides clarity, depth, and momentum.

I’ll explore common mistakes writers make, such as overloading scenes with exposition or relying too heavily on dialogue without context. You’ll also discover practical tips for balancing show vs. tell, improving character voice, and using narration to enhance your scenes. Whether you’re writing a novel, short story, or screenplay, understanding the strengths of dialogue and narration will help you craft more compelling, immersive stories.

Perfect for fiction writers at any stage, this episode offers actionable writing advice you can apply immediately to your draft. If you want sharper dialogue, smoother narration, and scenes that truly resonate with readers, this conversation is for you.

Helpful links (some are affiliate links):

Scrivener (the writing software I use)

AlbaArango.com (my website and contact information)

The Ruby Diamond (my newest release!)

#WritingDialogue #NarrationInWriting #DialogueVsNarration #CreativeWritingTips #FictionWriting #AuthorPodcast #WritingCraft #ShowDontTell #NovelWriting

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Subplots are more than just side stories—they’re powerful tools for deepening your narrative and enriching your characters. In this episode, I explore how well-crafted subplots can strengthen your main plot, raise stakes, and create a more immersive reading experience. Learn how to use subplots to reveal character backstory, reinforce your central theme, and add emotional complexity to your story.

We’ll break down some different types of subplots, how to weave them seamlessly into your main storyline, and common mistakes writers make when balancing multiple narrative threads. Whether you’re drafting your first novel or revising a manuscript, these storytelling techniques will help you create a layered, cohesive story that keeps readers engaged from beginning to end.

If you’ve ever struggled with a flat middle, underdeveloped characters, or a story that feels too simple, this episode will show you how subplots can transform your writing and elevate your fiction.

Helpful links (some are affiliate links):

Scrivener (the writing software I use)

AlbaArango.com (my website and contact information)

The Ruby Diamond (my newest release!)

#WritingTips #Subplots #StoryStructure #CreativeWriting #FictionWriting #NovelWriting #PlotDevelopment #CharacterArcs #WritingCraft #AuthorPodcast

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A great story needs a great villain. In this episode, I dive deep into writing great villains and explore what makes an antagonist truly unforgettable. From believable motivations and moral gray areas to powerful backstories and personal stakes, you’ll learn how to create villains that challenge your protagonist and elevate your entire story.

Whether you’re writing fantasy, romance, thrillers, or literary fiction, strong antagonists are essential for tension, conflict, and emotional payoff. I’ll discuss common villain tropes, how to avoid one-dimensional “evil for evil’s sake” characters, and ways to craft antagonists readers can understand—even if they don’t agree with them.

Perfect for authors at any stage, this episode offers practical writing tips, character development strategies, and storytelling techniques you can apply to your next draft right away. If you want your villains to feel real, threatening, and unforgettable, this episode is for you.

Helpful links (some are affiliate links):

Scrivener (the writing software I use)

AlbaArango.com (my website and contact information)

The Ruby Diamond (my NEW RELEASE!)

#WritingVillains #CharacterDevelopment #WritingTips #AuthorPodcast #FictionWriting #CreativeWriting #Storytelling #Antagonist #NovelWriting #WritingAdvice

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What if a cold or flu could make your characters stronger? In this episode, we explore how being sick can become a powerful tool for character development in fiction.

On a side note, I was actually sick as I recorded this podcast, so it is a little on the shorter side.

Helpful links (some are affiliate links):

Scrivener (the writing software I use)

AlbaArango.com (my website and contact information)

The Ruby Diamond (my NEW RELEASE!)

#characterdevelopment, #writingcraft, #fictionwritingtips, #usingillnessinfiction, #writingrealisticcharacters, #coldandfluinstories, #novelistadvice, #storytellingtechniques, #creativewriting, #authorpodcast

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In this episode, I explore how using vacations for character development can unlock deeper storytelling and more authentic emotional arcs. Whether your characters are escaping to a sun-soaked beach, trekking through the mountains, or getting lost in a bustling foreign city, travel can reveal who they truly are—and who they might become.

I look at how vacations naturally create conflict, growth, and transformation, and why these journeys are powerful tools for authors crafting immersive fiction.

If you're looking to elevate your novel and create characters readers truly connect with, this episode provides actionable tips you can start using right away. Perfect for authors planning their next book or revising their latest draft!

Helpful links (some are affiliate links):

Scrivener (the writing software I use)

AlbaArango.com (my website and contact information)

The Ruby Diamond (my NEW RELEASE!)

#CharacterDevelopment #WritingTips #AuthorPodcast #FictionWriting #NovelWriting #CreativeWriting #StoryStructure #WritingAdvice #Worldbuilding #WritersLife #PlotDevelopment #CharacterArcs

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Unlock the secrets to getting effective feedback from beta readers in this insightful episode designed for both new and experienced authors. I break down what questions to ask so you can level up your storytelling with confidence.

Learn how to find the right beta readers, set clear expectations, and create feedback forms that help you collect meaningful, actionable insights. Whether you’re writing fiction or nonfiction, this episode offers essential strategies to help you strengthen character development, enhance pacing, and eliminate plot holes.

If you’ve ever struggled to ask for feedback, this episode will help you develop a streamlined, stress-free system for using beta reader input to elevate your book.

Perfect for: authors, self-publishers, novelists, and anyone looking to sharpen their writing skills with high-quality beta reader feedback.

Links from this episode:

Scribophile

Other helpful links (some are affiliate links):

Scrivener (the writing software I use)

AlbaArango.com (my website and contact information)

The Ruby Diamond (my NEW RELEASE!)

#BetaReaders #WritingCommunity #AuthorTips #ManuscriptFeedback #WritingProcess #FictionWriting #SelfPublishing #BookEditing #IndieAuthor #WriterSupport #NovelWriting #PublishingTips

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Struggling to put words on the page during Novel November? You’re not alone. In this episode, I dive into practical, actionable strategies that I used for overcoming writer’s block and reigniting my creative flow.

Whether you’re drafting your first novel or pushing through the middle slump, these tips will help you stay inspired, motivated, and consistent throughout this high-energy writing month.

Perfect for authors, aspiring writers, and anyone participating in Novel November, this episode gives you a couple tools you need to stay confident, focused, and motivated—even on the tough days.

Tags:
#NovelNovember #WritersBlock #WritingTips #AuthorInspiration #CreativeProcess #WritingMotivation #BookWriting #NaNoWriMo #WritingChallenges #OvercomingWritersBlock

Helpful links (some are affiliate links)

Scrivener (the writing software I use)

AlbaArango.com (my website and contact information)

The Ruby Diamond (my NEW RELEASE!)

Social Media links

Instagram

Threads

YouTube

TikTok

Bluesky

Facebook

In this episode, we dive into the advantages of storyboarding for authors and how it can transform your writing process from chaotic to clear. Whether you're drafting your first novel or outlining your next big series, storyboarding your book helps you visualize plot structure, track character arcs, and maintain seamless pacing. We’ll break down why successful writers use storyboarding as a powerful planning tool, how it supports creativity without stifling spontaneity, and the best methods to get started—no artistic skills required.

Discover how a simple storyboard can help you spot plot holes early, define turning points with confidence, and maintain motivation by seeing your story take shape. From index cards to digital tools, we’ll explore multiple approaches so you can choose the method that fits your writing style.

If you're looking to improve your writing workflow, elevate your storytelling, or finally finish your book with less stress, this episode is packed with actionable tips for authors, novel planning strategies, and practical storyboarding techniques to help you write smarter, not harder.

Tune in and bring your story to life—one panel at a time.

Links from this episode (some are affiliate links)

Scrivener (the writing software I use)

AlbaArango.com (my website and contact information)

The Ruby Diamond (my NEW RELEASE!)

#storyboarding #writingtips #authoradvice #novelplanning #writingprocess #plotstructure #writersofinstagram #amwriting #indieauthor #bookdevelopment

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