What makes readers keep turning pages after chapter one? In this episode, we explore the craft of writing memorable openings that hook readers from the very first line. We discuss how to create curiosity without confusion, establish a compelling voice, and build emotional investment early in your story. Whether you’re drafting a new novel or revising an old manuscript, this episode will help you craft openings readers won’t forget.
327: Why Clean Reads Are Booming: What Christian Readers Really Want
Can you write a powerful, emotionally engaging novel without explicit content?
In this episode of The Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast, we dive into the art of writing clean reads that still captivate readers, create intense emotional connection, and keep pages turning.
We discuss:
• What “clean fiction” really means
• Why readers are increasingly looking for stories without explicit content
• How to create romance, chemistry, and tension without graphic scenes
• Using subtext and emotional vulnerability to deepen relationships
• The difference between realistic storytelling and unnecessary explicitness
• Common mistakes writers make when trying to write “clean”
• How to handle difficult topics authentically without losing hope or heart
Whether you write Christian fiction, sweet romance, cozy mystery, fantasy, or general market fiction, this episode will help you craft stories that are emotionally rich, compelling, and unforgettable—without relying on explicit content.
326: Can Good Characters Save a Bad Plot? (And What Actually Keeps Readers Hooked)
In this episode of The Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast, we tackle a question every writer wrestles with:
Can compelling characters carry a weak plot—or will the story still fall flat?
We break down:
• Why readers fall in love with characters (and when that’s not enough)
• The hidden cost of a weak plot—even with amazing protagonists
• How character and plot are meant to work together, not compete
• Practical ways to strengthen your story without losing your voice
Prompt: lantern, secret, river, promise, shadow
317: How to Write the Five Senses in Fiction
What makes a story unforgettable? It’s not just the plot, it’s the experience!
In this episode, we explore how sensory writing brings fiction to life, helping readers feel the story instead of simply watching it unfold. Join us as we discuss practical ways to use the five senses to deepen emotional connection, reveal character, and create immersive scenes, all without overwhelming your reader.
We’ll cover common pitfalls, share revision strategies you can apply immediately, and talk about how faith and discernment guide us in writing vivid yet purposeful descriptions that reflect the beauty of God’s creation.
Whether you’re drafting or revising, this episode will equip you to craft stories readers don’t just read… but truly experience.
Sprint Prompt: era, restaurant, laboratory, bare, freshman
[Read more…] about 317: How to Write the Five Senses in Fiction316: More Than “Like” and “As”: Using Metaphors and Similes to Strengthen Your Writing
According to Jen, a simile is like a cup of tea made from pre-used grounds. Metaphors, meanwhile, crush it in the comparison competition. Jamie says, “not all metaphors are similes, but all similes are metaphors. Or something.” Confused? You won’t be, after this episode of The Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast.
Sprint Prompt: Spend the entire sprint crafting one extended metaphor.
[Read more…] about 316: More Than “Like” and “As”: Using Metaphors and Similes to Strengthen Your Writing255: The Good and The Bad: Advice from our Listeners
Advice: Harper Lee once said, “Many receive advice, only the wise profit from it.” Well, the wiseguys of this podcast hope you enjoy this episode full of great advice, as well as some terrible advice, from our fans and listeners.
Support this ministry on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/christianindiewriters
30 Days of Writing Sprint Prompts: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08MGR7431
Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/listenersofciwp
Sprint Prompt: stow, traffic, ivy, rubber, coop
Jenifer Carll-Tong is the best-selling author of historical Christian romances and co-host of the Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast.
254: The Author’s Budget – How to decide where to spend your money
When it comes to spending money, the Indie Author has so many options! How does one decide where and when to spend money?
Support this ministry on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/christianindiewriters
30 Days of Writing Sprint Prompts: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08MGR7431
Sprint Prompt: place, penalty, piano, pocket, punch
Jenifer Carll-Tong is the best-selling author of historical Christian romances and co-host of the Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast.
252: Navigating Stoplight Editing for Writers
Whether you are a newbie writer or a seasoned author, chances are you cringe at the word “Editing.” But never fear…the ladies are here! In this episode, the ladies help you navigate the editing process using a system called the Stoplight Method. Don’t miss this episode full of invaluable insight into refining your writing and bringing your story to life.
Support this ministry on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/christianindiewriters
30 Days of Writing Sprint Prompts: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08MGR7431
Sprint Prompt: “Courage and stupidity were all he had.”
Jenifer Carll-Tong is the best-selling author of historical Christian romances and co-host of the Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast.
251: The 4 Ps of Building a Writing Routine Grounded in Faith
Join the ladies as they share practical advice on developing a writing routine that incorporates spiritual practices.
Support this ministry on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/christianindiewriters
30 Days of Writing Sprint Prompts: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08MGR7431
Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/listenersofciwp
Sprint Prompt: prayer, powder, philosophy, plaster, promote
Jenifer Carll-Tong is the best-selling author of historical Christian romances and co-host of the Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast.
250: 6 MORE Christian Tropes for Every Genre
Last episode, the ladies discussed 6 Christian tropes you can use no matter what genre you write, and this week they are back with more! Sometimes seen as cliche and stereotypical, tropes are actually a device used to not only write your story, but to meet reader expectations.When used creatively, tropes can bring freshness and innovation to your writing. In this episode, the ladies discuss tropes and give you concrete examples to use in your own writing, no matter what genre of Christian fiction you write.
Support this ministry on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/christianindiewriters
30 Days of Writing Sprint Prompts: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08MGR7431
Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/listenersofciwp
Sprint Prompt: “As the clock struck midnight, casting shadows across the abandoned mansion, Sarah’s heart pounded with both fear and excitement as she tiptoed down the creaky staircase, clutching tightly to the ancient key she had discovered hidden in the attic.”
Jenifer Carll-Tong is the best-selling author of historical Christian romances and co-host of the Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast.
