Story Intensity: Are You Doing It Wrong? Tips from a Developmental Editor

Want plot development tips such as how to build tension in a scene, conflict escalation in stories, and how to build character-driven conflict? Listen as Rebecca Hartwell, developmental editor of Hartbound Editing, shares exactly what you need to make your good story into a great one in episode 18 of 52-Week Story Savvy Self-Editing Series

This week, editor Rebecca Hartwell [hartboundediting.com] teams up with Guest host Lindsey Luther [lyndseyluther.com] , author of speculative fiction fantasy book - Greencloack (filling in for aspiring author Agnes Wolfe [authorsalcove.com]) to tackle the essential craft of building character-driven plots that feel inevitable, yet surprising. Together, they unpack why well-motivated characters and escalating conflict are the keys to keeping your narrative taut and emotionally charged.
Rebecca Hartwell explains how to:
Craft character decisions that naturally propel the plot forward.
Align character goals with theme and genre expectations.
Introduce obstacles that reveal character growth, not just add drama.
They also explore how to layer internal and external stakes so that every scene matters, and why pacing is about more than just “action.” You’ll get practical tips for revising passive scenes, enriching your midpoint, and making sure your climax delivers both a payoff and a punch.
If you’re struggling with meandering plots or flat character arcs, this episode will give you the tools to restructure and reinvigorate your story.
In This Episode:
What Story Intensity Really Means
Finding the Right Intensity for Your Genre & Audience
Easy Ways to Dial Intensity Up (or Down)
Why Your Descriptions Can Make or Break Intensity
Matching Emotional Feels with Physical Action
How to Let Intensity Flow Naturally
Pacing vs. Intensity — Making Them Dance Together
Tips for Keeping Your Intensity Fresh and Varied
Boosting (or Soothing) Intensity Without Raising the Stakes
Recommended Resources:
Hartbound Editing Services – [https://hartboundediting.com]
Authors’ Alcove Membership Community – [http://authorsalcove.com]
Book Giveaway – [http://authorsalcove.org]
Story Grid – https://storygrid.com
Save the Cat – https://savethecat.com
[00:00] Intro
[01:00] What Story Intensity Really Means
[02:22] Finding the Right Intensity for Your Genre & Audience
[05:00] Easy Ways to Dial Intensity Up (or Down)
[08:40] Why Your Descriptions Can Make or Break Intensity
[10:40] Matching Emotional Feels with Physical Action
[12:12] How to Let Intensity Flow Naturally
[15:52] Pacing vs. Intensity — Making Them Dance Together
[17:40] Tips for Keeping Your Intensity Fresh and Varied
[21:50] Boosting (or Soothing) Intensity Without Raising the Stakes