Novel Writing Tips with Award-Winning Author Joel Burcat
Podcast: Download (Duration: 43:27 — 39.8MB)
In this episode 398, we focus on the craft of novel writing. Our featured guest is award-winning author Joel Burcat. Steve Berry, the New York Times #1 internationally bestselling author of the Cotton Malone series, had this to say: “Joel Burcat’s writing is tight and clean…Gritty, tough, poignant.” His books have won many awards including his novel Strange Fire, the GOLD MEDAL WINNER, Readers’ Favorite International Book Awards for Environmental Fiction (2022).
A version of this recording was released on our exclusive Patreon channel. We thank our Patrons for making it possible for us to release this updated version on the regular podcast.
Also listen to the Author’s Earlier Podcast Episode:
You can listen here:
In this earlier episode that released on July 9, 2021, we visited with Joel about his novel “Amid Rage,” an environmental legal thriller and the second in the Mike Jacobs series. Mike Jacobs is an environmental prosecutor with Pennsylvania’s environmental agency, DEP, and finds himself caught in the middle of a mine permit battle between a psychotic coal mine operator and cynical neighbors with an anti-mining agenda. With offers from both sides and political bosses, Mike must find the courage to do what is right.
Author bio:
Joel Burcat writes environmental thrillers that are both electrifying and accurate. John Lescroart (author of The 13th Juror) calls his writing “complex and intelligent, deftly plotted and character rich.” William Landay (author of Defending Jacob) says, “Burcat writes with an insider’s edge…A treat for thriller fans.”
Burcat’s writings explore many facets of life, although he has a true fascination with unexpected twists. His characters’ reasons for doing things are as important as their actions. From the person lying in bed next to you to psychopathic strip mine operators, each has an underlying motive to be explored and revealed.
Three of Burcat’s novels have been published. DRINK TO EVERY BEAST, AMID RAGE, and STRANGE FIRE (published by Headline Books). They are available at bookstores, Amazon, Barnes & Noble in paperback and electronic formats. REAP THE WIND (published by Sunbury Books, Inc.) is coming out on February 6th, 2024.
Burcat grew up in Philadelphia. He lives with his wife in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, the place that provides the setting for many of his stories.
Author Website: https://joelburcat.com
Show discussion highlights:
- What to think about first when writing a novel
- Think about the characters
- How to get started—just write
- Find the time to write—there has to be a commitment
- Regarding outlining—yes and no
- Avoid passive language
- Avoid head-hopping in point of view
- Hire a good editor
- Take writing courses
- Put some good stuff up front
- Avoid vanity presses
- Don’t share the first draft for feedback until you self-edit
- Sometimes write the ending first
- Writing when legally blind
- If you are going to write, you need to read
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