Story Deep Dive Podcast

Welcome to Story Deep Dive!In this episode, Dana and Rachel dive into the plot architecture of Mistborn—without spoiling the big reveals.Whether you’re a fantasy writer, romance writer, or storytelling nerd who loves structure, you’ll walk away with practical insight on plot management, how to make subplots do double duty, and how to write Book 1 of a trilogy that still feels satisfying as a standalone.You can also watch the video version of this podcast on YouTube!Estimate Timestamps0:00 – Welcome Back + 2026 Reading KickoffDana and Rachel open the episode by setting the tone: Story Deep Dive is a craft-forward podcast where they discuss books “as writers,” not just as readers. They introduce their 2026 reading slate and confirm this episode will focus on Mistborn plot—but intentionally “around it” to avoid spoilers. Dana jokes she’s riding shotgun because this is one of Rachel’s primary teaching books.1:20 – Story Cypher Updates: The Academy + The New Fellows ProgramRachel shares what’s happening at Story Cypher: after a successful beta cohort, the Academy is returning with improvements built from last year’s lessons. She also introduces the Fellows Program, an invitation-only community for graduates where they shift from foundational drafting and process to deeper craft skills like dialogue, exposition, and fine-tuning—without trying to master advanced techniques before a draft even exists.Notable insight: The program structure reinforces a key creative principle—separate writer brain and editor brain so each can do its job.6:00 – Dana Asks Rachel: What Does It Feel Like After the First Cohort?Dana puts Rachel on the spot with a heartfelt question about what it’s like to cross the finish line of the first cohort and step into the next phase. Rachel shares how proud she is of the work—especially building curriculum while simultaneously writing and recording her own full project. She highlights the transformation of writers who’d been stuck for years finally moving forward with completed drafts and a clear plan.Notable quote energy: “I gave absolutely everything I had to that beta run.”10:30 – Dana’s 2026 Focus: Real-Life Planning, Inner Circle, and Book Club StrategyDana shares how her current Inner Circle and one-on-one work is being shaped by a powerful retreat realization: writers often “fail” plans because the plan was never built around real life capacity. She explains her lens of identifying whether someone is maintaining, scaling, or building foundations, then creating plans that fit that season.Dana also explains the evolution of her book club selection strategy—balancing “tried and true” craft titles with chart-aware reads that keep conversations fresh and relevant.14:40 – Why Dana Won’t Overlap Book Club Reading With Personal ReadingRachel catches a pattern: Dana is choosing not to overlap personal reading with book club picks—meaning more reading. Dana explains that because she’s doing deeper “deep dives,” she wants her thinking to remain untainted until she’s fully formed her own conclusions. She describes her mind as a “sponge” and doesn’t want outside opinions filling in her open loops too soon.18:10 – Mistborn Summary (Spoiler-Light) + Why This Book Rewards RereadsRachel delivers a clean, non-spoilery summary of the setup: Vin, a skaa thief, is recruited by Kelsier—only to discover her “luck” is something more. The job isn’t just a heist; it’s an attempt to overthrow the Lord Ruler. Dana notes this is her third read and emphasizes that books like Mistborn are the kind you reread when they’re a comp or craft reference because the layering is so dense.21:00 – Plot Management: The Core Plot Spine + Nested Subplots That MatterRachel teaches why Mistborn is a “plotter’s dream,” especially for fantasy writers trying to manage multiple threads without the story sprawling. She breaks down the craft move:Identify the inciting incidentAsk what story question it raisesEnsure the climax answers that questionThen build subplots so they influence and are influenced by the core plotShe uses Vin’s Mistborn training arc and the romantic subplot with Elend Venture as examples of subplots that don’t distract—they actively complicate the mission and heighten stakes.Key takeaway: When plot threads are properly nested, every scene feels like it matters.28:30 – Book 1 in a Trilogy: Close the Loop, Crack the DoorDana and Rachel dig into the difference between a trilogy installment and a serial cliffhanger. They emphasize that Book 1 must still feel like a satisfying standalone experience, even while it launches a larger arc. Rachel highlights the danger of ending without answering the core story question—especially in long books—because it can feel antagonistic instead of compelling.Dana adds that trilogies are “advanced mode” because you’re multiplying structure and payoff across three books, which requires clarity about what belongs in Book 1 versus what should carry forward.Key takeaway: Answer the Book 1 question—then let the implications create the momentum for Book 2.35:10 – Draft Reality: This Level of Tightness Comes From IterationRachel offers an important craft reality check: we’re looking at a polished, battle-tested book, and this kind of integration usually emerges across multiple drafts. She explains how early drafts often separate threads into separate scenes, and revision is where writers learn to merge threads so scenes do “double duty.”Dana adds nuance: heavy plotters can get closer on draft one because their plotting functions like a draft, but the core point remains—know your process and give yourself grace.40:10 – Rules as Guardrails: Hard vs. Soft Magic Systems (and Why It Works Here)Dana introduces her favorite plot-adjacent takeaway: Mistborn is deeply rule-based, and those rules shape everything—magic, class structure, economics, power, and consequences. She contrasts this with stories where rules are vague or the protagonist is an exception to everything, which reduces tension.Rachel ties this to the craft concept of hard vs. soft magic systems. Mistborn is a hallmark of hard magic: clear constraints, consistent rules, and creative problem-solving within boundaries. She also highlights a key technique: Sanderson often shows the magic through plot before explaining it, so explanations land as answers to questions the reader already has—rather than an info dump.Key takeaway: Rules create trust, tension, and payoff, because the reader knows the author isn’t cheating.47:20 – Build Your World From the Thing That Excites You MostRachel closes with a practical strategy for fantasy writers (and honestly, any writer building a complex story): start with the element that excites you most and follow the cause-and-effect chain. Ask what that concept would change about governance, economics, warfare, society, and character behavior. Done well, your world “blooms” outward in believable ways and generates plot fuel.Dana agrees, calling this note-taking and mapping process “gold” you’ll return to later—especially when building a trilogy.Book SelectionOnce, a hero arose to save the world. He failed.Ever since, the world has been a wasteland of ash and mist controlled by the immortal emperor known as the Lord Ruler.But hope survives. A new uprising is forming, one built around the ultimate caper, the cunning of a brilliant criminal mastermind, and the determination of an unlikely heroine: a street urchin who must learn to master the power of a Mistborn.Where to Find the BookMistborn by Brandon Sanderson is available in several formats. It’s also widely available in libraries and online retailers. Details on his website.Next Episode:In the next episode, Dana and Rachel will explore Mistborn through character—including how relationship dynamics and character growth are woven so tightly into the plot that separating the two is nearly impossible. Be sure to tune in!Join the Conversation:Like what you heard? Subscribe, leave a review, and share your thoughts. Follow Story Deep Dive on your favorite podcast platform and on YouTube, and connect with Dana and Rachel to keep the craft conversation going.Connect with Dana and Rachel on storydeepdive.com to keep the conversation going! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit storydeepdive.substack.com

Welcome to Story Deep Dive!In this first episode of 2026, Dana and Rachel kick off their January book pick—Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson—with a craft-focused overview designed for writers who want to study why a story works, not just enjoy the ride.Whether you’re a fantasy writer, romance writer, or story-obsessed reader, you’ll walk away with insights on four-act structure and escalating stakes, how a “heist frame” can power a rebellion plot, and how to introduce a big ensemble cast without overwhelming your reader.You can also watch the video version of this podcast on YouTube!Estimate Timestamps00:00 – Welcome Back + New Year KickoffDana welcomes listeners back to Story Deep Dive and sets the tone: bookish besties + editors + coaches breaking stories down like writers. They reveal the first pick of the year—Mistborn—and tease that January is always a “go hard” month for the show.01:10 – Holiday Reads + What They’ve Been ReadingRachel shares her holiday reading recap, including a standout comp read (The Fox Wife) and reflections on noir craft via Devil in a Blue Dress. Dana shares her own reading updates, including Fourth Wing and several nonfiction reads related to YouTube as she ramps up for a busy quarter.08:30 – Building the 2026 Reading List + “Pearl-Clutching” BanterThey talk about finalizing their 2026 reading list, including Dana’s process of sampling books and rejecting picks that don’t meet the “Story Deep Dive” standard. The conversation turns playful when they reference intense books (and Dana’s tolerance levels), joking about easing into wilder picks “maybe in 2027.”10:35 – Why January Picks Go Hard + Introducing MistbornDana and Rachel joke about who should pick January next year, then pivot into why they chose Mistborn as the first study of 2026: it’s big, layered, and packed with craft lessons—especially for writers building plot-heavy stories.12:05 – Spoiler-Light Summary: What Mistborn Is AboutRachel gives a quick, clean setup: Vin, a skaa thief surviving under the Lord Ruler’s brutal empire, is recruited by Kelsier—and discovers her “luck” is something more. The job isn’t just theft… it’s revolution.Notable moment: Rachel jokes that Vin must learn how to be a Mistborn… “and how to wear a dress.”13:20 – Episode Caveat: What This Overview Will (and Won’t) CoverThey set expectations: Mistborn has too much depth to cover in one episode. Rachel notes they will discuss the magic system, but more through the lens of how plot reveals worldbuilding rather than doing a full technical breakdown.16:10 – Four-Act Structure + The Power of a Core Story ThreadRachel explains why she uses Mistborn as a teaching text for four-act structure: it has a clear central plot question(overthrowing the Lord Ruler) and a clean escalation of stakes across acts. She highlights how subplots and complications feed the core mission instead of distracting from it.Key insight: Strong pacing comes from tracking one central story thread and escalating pressure against it.19:35 – “Heist-Flavored Rebellion”: What Makes the Plot Feel FreshRachel breaks down the innovation: Sanderson uses the heist framework (specialists, roles, planning, execution problems) to drive what is fundamentally a rebellion story. Dana adds that this combination gives readers a familiar “container” for expectations while delivering it in an original way.Key takeaway: Take a classic story engine and “flavor” it with another genre’s structure to create something fresh.22:10 – Book One in a Trilogy: Deliver on This Book, Earn Book TwoThey discuss how Mistborn works as a complete story while still setting up the trilogy. Rachel reinforces the principle: the best way to sell book two is to write a strong book one—no bait-and-switch endings, no “read the sequel to get the real payoff.”Key insight: Close the loop on the main promise of this book, then let the ending raise new questions naturally.25:20 – Ensemble Cast: How to Introduce Many Characters Without Confusing ReadersRachel explains how Sanderson layers character introductions across chapters—adding one or two at a time so readers can anchor names, personalities, and roles. Dana notes the heist structure helps because each character is tied to a job, skillset, and story function, making them easier to remember and more distinct.Key takeaway: Readers remember characters faster when they have multiple anchors: role, personality, relationship to the protagonist, and purpose in the mission.30:10 – Training Scenes + Worldbuilding That MultitasksRachel highlights how Mistborn avoids long, repetitive training sequences. Instead, the magic is introduced in layers: overview → action in the story → deeper training later. This keeps worldbuilding scenes from becoming info dumps and ensures they still move plot forward.Key insight: In books, training scenes must multitask—show growth, reveal rules, and advance the story.34:10 – Vin’s Internal Lens: “Who She Is vs. Who She Can Become”Dana calls out one of the most helpful lenses for writers studying Mistborn: Vin begins as an observer and survivor, and every challenge pressures the gap between her current identity and her potential. Kelsier introduces the possibility early, and the story keeps rubbing that tension until she changes.Key takeaway: Transformation is clearest when the story constantly pressures the distance between “now self” and “future self.”37:20 – Craft Encouragement: Masterworks Take TimeRachel closes by reminding writers that Mistborn wasn’t Sanderson’s first draft—or his first book. They encourage listeners not to compare their first drafts to a polished, edited masterwork, but to use the episode as inspiration and a roadmap for skill-building over time.About MistbornAuthor: Brandon SandersonOnce, a hero arose to save the world. He failed.Ever since, the world has been a wasteland of ash and mist controlled by the immortal emperor known as the Lord Ruler.But hope survives. A new uprising is forming, one built around the ultimate caper, the cunning of a brilliant criminal mastermind, and the determination of an unlikely heroine: a street urchin who must learn to master the power of a Mistborn.Where to Find the BookMistborn by Brandon Sanderson is available in several formats. It’s also widely available in libraries and online retailers. Details on his website.Next Episode:In the next episode, Dana and Rachel will dive into plot—including how Mistborn maintains momentum through a central story thread, escalates complications across acts, and uses the heist frame to keep the rebellion storyline tight and propulsive. Be sure to tune in!Join the Conversation:Like what you heard? Subscribe, leave a review, and share your thoughts. Follow Story Deep Dive on your favorite podcast platform and connect with Dana and Rachel to keep the discussion going—then grab the book and read along with us as we break down Mistborn over the next three episodes!Connect with Dana and Rachel on storydeepdive.com to keep the conversation going! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit storydeepdive.substack.com

Welcome to Story Deep Dive!In this episode, Dana and Rachel close out the 2025 season with a big-picture reflection on the books they’ve read, the characters they’ve dissected, and the way a year of eclectic picks has sharpened their instincts as writers, editors, and coaches.Whether you’re a writer, reader, or storyteller, you’ll gain valuable insights on using your reading list as a craft lab, comparing characters across subgenres, and planning your 2026 TBR with intention—especially if you’re writing series or building an author career.You can also watch the video version of this podcast on YouTube!Estimate Timestamps00:00 A Season in Review: 11 Books, Endless ShenanigansDana and Rachel kick off the final episode of 2025 by recapping the full reading lineup for their first season of Story Deep Dive. They run through their eleven picks—Ninth House, Things We Never Got Over, Dead Until Dark, The Whistleblower, Indigo, Cold and Deadly, One for the Money, Beautifully Cruel, Sin and Chocolate, The Woman in the Library, and Twisted Love—and marvel at how wildly varied the list is.From small-town rom-coms and grumpy/sunshine pairings to crime, dark-leaning romance, paranormal, fantasy, and the “Ninth House is its own genre” category, the year has covered a wide spectrum of tone and subgenre. They reflect on how intentional the list feels in retrospect, even though they were initially just choosing books they loved and believed would be helpful to writers. The early picks ended up laying a foundation that later books built on, both in terms of character work and structural choices.05:00 Reading Wide, Asking Why: Using Your TBR as Training GroundRachel talks about how the variety of 2025 picks became a powerful tool for comparing and contrasting genres and subgenres: crime vs. murder mystery, fantasy vs. paranormal romance, and everything in between. She encourages listeners to look back over their own year of reading and ask what they loved, what didn’t work, and—most importantly—why.Those “why” questions help readers better articulate their tastes, but for writers, they’re essential to understanding how to recreate certain effects (or avoid pitfalls) on the page. She shares how she does this with clients, especially when they react differently to two “alpha male” heroes: same archetype, very different reader response. Examining those differences clarifies what kind of character they want to write.Rachel also notes that one of the unexpected joys of the podcast has been how often discussions of one book naturally reach back to previous titles.The individual episodes may be self-contained, but the season as a whole functions like an extended craft conversation where each book becomes a reference point that illuminates the others.11:00 Building a Shared Language: Characters, Plot, and Being Well-ReadDana picks up the thread and expands on the benefits of being well-read as a writer. She talks about how helpful it is to be able to compare characters like Knox from Things We Never Got Over and Liam from Beautifully Cruel: both are grumpy, dominant heroes, but they occupy the page and command attention in different ways. Having multiple examples in your mental library lets you check that you’re “in the pocket” of a trope while also giving you ways to push against it.Dana contrasts The Woman in the Library, where plot and character are so tightly intertwined that she rarely thinks of them separately, with a book like Things We Never Got Over, where the characters dominate her memory and she has to consciously pull the plot into focus beyond “runaway bride.” She reminds writers that their own habits and history on the page shape how they digest story, and that reading books they didn’t personally choose—like she often does for the podcast—stretches both taste and craft.Over the year, she and Rachel have discovered they’ve been building a shared story language without realizing it, layering references and examples that now inform every new conversation.17:00 Looking Ahead to 2026: The Books They Can’t Wait ForTurning toward the future, Dana asks Rachel two questions: what book is she most excited to read, and what book is she most excited to have on the 2026 podcast list. For pure reading joy, Rachel picks The Christmas Fix by Lucy Score, their upcoming Christmas pick. She’s eager to see more of Lucy Score’s work beyond Things We Never Got Over and is especially excited about diving into a seasonal, festive romance that leans into holiday vibes without feeling too Hallmark. For the podcast list, Rachel’s clear winner is Hellbent by Leigh Bardugo, the sequel to Ninth House. She loves the concept and characters of the series and is thrilled to spend more time with them, getting to see new layers, deeper growth, and richer interactions.Dana shares that she’s also excited (and a little nervous) to tackle Hellbent—so much so that she plans to reread Ninth House first. When it’s her turn, Dana names Before I Let Go by Kennedy Ryan as the book she’s most excited to have on the 2026 list. She’s thrilled to bring an emotionally rich contemporary African-American romance to the lineup, especially one centered on a divorced couple and a true second chance romance.As an honorable mention, she picks Tempt Me at Twilight by Lisa Kleypas, a beloved historical romance from a sister-centric series that also features one of her favorite grumpy alpha heroes.23:00 Historical Romance, Representation, and Layered Story WorldsRachel admits she’s never read a Regency romance before and is curious about how Tempt Me at Twilight will handle historical research and context, especially after the high bar set by Beverly Jenkins in Indigo. Dana explains that while Kleypas may not lean as heavily into historical detail as Jenkins, she still layers in technology, social rules, class dynamics, and constraints on women, giving the romance a sense of depth and lift beyond the central love story.They both appreciate how stories like Tempt Me at Twilight blend the emotional core of romance with the richness of historical or cultural worldbuilding, making them great case studies for writers who want multiple layers of meaning and conflict. They circle back to Before I Let Go, highlighting how centering a divorced Black couple in a contemporary setting not only brings representation to the list but also offers a nuanced, emotionally grounded vision of second chance love that will be instructive for writers exploring mature relationships and complex backstory.27:00 Hooks Without Hate: How Book Twos Keep You ReadingThe conversation shifts to series craft, specifically how sequels like Hellbent and Sin and Magic (the follow-up to Sin and Chocolate in the Demigods of San Francisco series) handle endings and hooks. Dana points out that neither Ninth House nor Sin and Chocolate ends with a rage-inducing cliffhanger, and that this matters a lot for reader experience. Both books resolve their primary storylines but leave meaningful threads unresolved—threads that matter deeply to at least one protagonist and naturally pull readers into book two.Rachel breaks down Leigh Bardugo’s approach: in Ninth House, the main plot resolves, but a more subtle plot thread is revealed to be unfinished, effectively becoming the launchpad for Hellbent. The same pattern repeats in Hellbent itself.Dana notes that Sin and Chocolate does something similar: readers get some relief and resolution, but an important underlying issue is still active and emotionally charged.Together they suggest that writers planning trilogies or multi-book series with the same couple should pay attention to how these books balance closure and curiosity—delivering satisfaction while still giving readers a reason to keep going.32:00 Gratitude, Community, and Kicking Off 2026 with MistbornTo close the season, Dana and Rachel turn reflective and grateful. They thank new listeners and long-time followers alike for being part of what Dana calls their “eclectic little book club,” and they acknowledge the learning curve of tech, recording, editing, and show-notes logistics that turned into a “labor of love.” They invite listeners to rate and review the podcast, share it with both reading and writing friends, and stay tuned for everything they have planned for 2026.Rachel officially announces Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson as their January pick, noting the many available formats and gently warning that it’s a hefty ~600-page doorstopper—but a rewarding one. Dana teases Rachel about being allowed to pick doorstoppers, joking that the audience will hold her accountable for letting it happen, while also affirming how much she loves doing this project with her best friend.Dana wraps up with a heartfelt note about being stretched by the reading list and hoping that their conversations send listeners “running to the page,” spark aha moments, and help them see familiar stories in new ways. They both emphasize the joy of reading in community—where talking about plots, characters, and structure can deepen both craft and pleasure.The episode closes with warm holiday wishes, a reminder that next week’s episode will be their overview of Mistborn, and Dana’s signature sign-off: happy writing and goodbye.Next EpisodeIn the next episode, Dana and Rachel will explore Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson, breaking down its worldbuilding, character arcs, and plot structure—and what writers can learn from an epic, series-launching fantasy novel. Be sure to tune in if you’re curious about how to build immersive worlds, manage a large cast, or design a story that can support multiple books.Join the Conversation:Like what you heard? Subscribe, leave a review, and share your thoughts.Follow Story Deep Dive on your favorite podcast app (and YouTube, if you like to watch while you listen), and connect with Dana and Rachel on social media to keep the discussion going.Tell them which 2025 pick stretched you the most, what you’re adding to your 2026 TBR, and how these conversations are shaping your own writing journey!For more information visit www.storydeepdive.com. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit storydeepdive.substack.com

Welcome to Story Deep Dive!In this episode, Dana Pittman and Rachel Arsenault dive into their Best of 2025 – Characters and unpack which protagonists, love interests, and found families refused to leave their brains long after “The End.”Whether you’re a writer, reader, or storyteller, you’ll gain valuable insights on how to craft memorable leads, build empathy for deeply flawed characters, and use worldbuilding to make your cast truly stick with your audience.You can also watch the video version of this podcast on YouTube!Estimate Timestamps00:00 – Best-of Series & Today’s Focus: CharactersDana and Rachel reintroduce the December “Best Of” series, where they look back over the 11 books they read in 2025. Last week’s episode focused on plot; this week, they turn to characters. After some playful banter about Rachel “cheating” by picking whole books instead of single characters, they clarify the game: name their top two character choices from the year, plus any irresistible honorable mentions, and talk about what makes them so unforgettable from a writer’s perspective.02:00 – Dana’s First Pick: Galen from IndigoDana’s first choice is Galen Vachon from Indigo by Beverly Jenkins, a character she calls “the Black Daniel” and one of her favorite male protagonists of all time. She highlights how Galen embodies a strong Black male lead with Creole roots, relative affluence for his time, and a powerful role as an abolitionist involved with the Underground Railroad. Dana loves the balance of strength and vulnerability in his characterization: he has an unshakable moral core, fierce protectiveness (as seen in scenes where he’s ready to take anyone down for Hester), and yet a deep softness in how he loves. She contrasts Galen with many modern “alpha males,” noting that he has “swag on top of swag” without tipping into the “alpha-hole” stereotype. His pairing with Hester and the rich historical world Jenkins builds are, for Dana, a masterclass in how fully realized characters can elevate a good story into a great one.07:00 – Rachel’s First Pick: Things We Never Got Over & Knox MorganRachel’s first pick, framed initially as a best cast, is Things We Never Got Over by Lucy Score, with a special spotlight on Knox Morgan. She talks about how the Knockemout series created some of the most memorable, “sticky” characters she’s read in years—people who feel like they moved into her head and stayed. Knockemout itself reads like a real town full of distinctive personalities. From a craft standpoint, she praises how Naomi Witt’s internal arc is woven through and played against Knox’s growth, and how character choices genuinely shape the plot rather than characters merely walking through pre-set beats. Rachel confesses a personal love of “the grump,” and Knox delivers: he’s deeply grumpy yet completely devoted, and notably stays grumpy even after he falls in love, becoming more endearing because he doesn’t morph into a different person. She references later books in the series where Knox bluntly tells Lucian he’d rather be making out with his wife than hosting guests, but will absolutely destroy anyone who makes her cry—an example of how consistent core personality plus meaningful growth creates a standout romance hero.14:00 – Dana’s Second Pick: Liam Black and the Allure of the Mystery ManDana’s second pick is Liam Black, a choice Rachel doesn’t entirely share, which leads to more playful teasing. Dana, however, stands firm that Liam is one of her favorite characters ever. She’s drawn to his grumpy, mysterious energy and the way his backstory and trauma are used to deepen, rather than excuse, his morally questionable actions. She loves that the book maintains his mystery without turning him into a melodramatic caricature, and that the story’s lighter tone uses humor to pull readers back from darker edges. For Dana, the relationship at the heart of the book is a compelling opposites-attract pairing where surface differences hide deeper similarities in values and wounds. She points out that the character is written so effectively that, as a reader, you know he’s in the wrong at times, yet you find yourself almost justifying his choices—a sign that something powerful is happening on the craft level. Dana encourages writers to pay attention any time they feel this tension in themselves as readers: it’s a clue that the author has nailed empathy-building for a complex, morally gray character.19:00 – Rachel’s Second Pick: The Whistleblower & Gil Peck as a Flawed ProtagonistRachel’s second selection is The Whistleblower, centered on its protagonist Gil Peck. Dana dramatically recalls how intense the reading experience was, joking that Rachel “tried to kill” her with this book, though she ultimately loved it. Rachel describes Gil as a phenomenally executed flawed protagonist—someone who is objectively not a good person. He’s manipulative, cutthroat, fueled by a serious cocaine habit, and has treated his family, including his sister, poorly. By all rights, readers shouldn’t like him. Yet Robert Peston manages to make Gil deeply sympathetic as he grieves his sister, seeks the truth about her death, and struggles to reckon with who he’s been.Rachel talks about the tightrope of writing an unlikable lead without alienating the audience: you watch Gil try to do better and fail, see him face consequences, and still find yourself caring. She also praises the supporting cast and worldbuilding—a shark tank of equally ruthless people that both shaped and rewarded Gil’s worst traits. Dana notes this is a textbook example of how establishing the world’s rules and moral ecosystem makes it easier for readers to accept and even root for a protagonist whose behavior they might otherwise reject. Together, they highlight The Whistleblower as a strong study text for writers interested in morally gray or ethically compromised leads who still compel readers to turn the page.24:00 – Honorable Mention: Found Family Goals in Sin and ChocolateDana slides in an honorable mention for Lexi and her wards Mordecai and Daisy from Sin and Chocolate. She adores the found family trope, and this book, for her, is a standout example. The dynamic between the three is messy, warm, and hilarious: Lexi is technically the adult yet often feels like she’s failing at parenting; Mordecai frequently plays the actual grown-up; Daisy is sassy, manipulative, and utterly endearing. Dana loves that they’re willing to sacrifice for one another, even when it costs them opportunities that might look “better” on paper.Rachel and Dana both emphasize how the world context heightens the emotional stakes. These characters are scraping by on the edges of a dangerous society, and their loyalty to one another becomes even more powerful against that backdrop. Dana also notes the power of the species contrast—Lexi is gifted, Mordecai is a werewolf shifter, and Daisy is human; by rights, they shouldn’t even be in the same region. Yet they defy those boundaries to stay together, fight for medicine, and weather danger side by side. For writers, they frame Sin and Chocolate as a rich study text in how to endear readers to a found family and build connection through banter, sacrifice, and unlikely bonds.27:00 – Other Near-Picks, Character Study Tips, and Reader ReflectionRachel mentions The Woman in the Library as another strong contender for best characters, especially because the book sets readers up to like all of the main players, only to later reveal that one is a murderer. That structural choice creates a fascinating tension between affection and suspicion, offering another smart model for writers studying ensemble casts.From there, the conversation turns more broadly to character craft and self-study. Dana suggests that if you struggle with character, you should intentionally ask: Which characters refuse to leave my mind—and why? She urges writers to articulate what makes those characters so sticky and trace the emotional tethers that run through the story. What worldviews, circumstances, and choices grab you? When do you start excusing their behavior? When do you cheer for them despite yourself? Those answers reveal the kind of characters and arcs that speak most powerfully to you as a writer and can guide your own character design.They both reiterate that all of the books they read in 2025 had strong character work; these are simply the ones that rose to the top. They encourage listeners who read along to do the same exercise: pick your own top two for plot and characters, plus honorable mentions, and notice which stories move you enough to make you want to push your craft further.29:00 – Season Wrap Tease, Mistborn Reminder, and Sign-OffAs they reach the thirty-minute mark, Rachel and Dana begin to wrap the episode. They thank listeners for joining them for the Best of Characters 2025 and tease the final episode of the year: a season wrap-up where they’ll share big-picture takeaways, reflect on their reading year, and peek ahead into 2026. They laugh about their tendency to start “looking ahead” whenever they try to look back, and remind everyone that January’s pick is Mistborn, encouraging listeners to read it in time.Next EpisodeIn the next episode, Dana and Rachel will share their 2025 Season Wrap-Up—revisiting the year’s books, distilling big craft takeaways, and looking ahead to the 2026 reading lineup, including January’s pick, Mistborn. Be sure to tune in for reflections, behind-the-scenes thoughts on running the podcast, and inspiration to shape your own reading and writing plans for the year ahead.Join the Conversation:Like what you heard? Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow story lover. Follow Story Deep Diveon your favorite podcast app and connect with Dana Pittman and Rachel Arsenault on social media to keep the discussion going about plots, characters, and all things story.For more information visit www.storydeepdive.com. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit storydeepdive.substack.com

Welcome to Story Deep Dive!In this episode, Dana Pittman and Rachel Arsenault dive into their picks for Best Plots of 2025 from the 11 books they read and analyzed this year.Whether you’re a writer, editor, or craft-obsessed reader, you’ll gain valuable insights on building narrative drive, balancing romance with external stakes, and structuring a first-in-series book that actually makes readers come back for more.You can also watch the video version of this podcast on YouTube!Estimate Timestamps00:00 – December “Best Of” and Plot FocusDana and Rachel set the stage for their December “blast from the past” series, where they revisit the year’s reads through different craft lenses. For this episode, they zero in on plot and challenge themselves to pick just two standout books each from the 11 they covered in 2025. They explain that these choices aren’t about favorites overall, but specifically about plot construction, narrative drive, and structural execution.03:00 – Why Ninth House Is an Inevitable Plot PickRachel confesses she originally tried to ban herself from choosing Ninth House because everyone already knows it’s one of her all-time favorites. But once she reframed the question as “top plots of the year,” it felt wrong not to include it. She unpacks how Ninth House is a master class in weaving a murder mystery with life-and-death stakes, layered horror elements, and meticulous four-act pacing.She highlights how the book escalates the stakes of the mystery without relying solely on more bodies, and how it manages the dual task of telling a complete story while clearly setting up a series. At over 500 pages, it still feels tight, intentional, and full of narrative drive—never wandering, never bloated. For writers, it’s a powerful example of how to escalate a mystery and sustain momentum across a long novel.Dana jumps in to say Ninth House is also one of her picks. She loves the speculative overlay on real history, the emotional depth of Alex’s journey, and the absolutely wild twists—what she lovingly calls the “ape-shit twists.” Beneath all the magic and horror, she’s drawn to the core of a young woman who doesn’t want to fail again, who feels like she doesn’t belong and is desperate not to waste her second chance. Every reread reveals more, and she has that rare feeling of, “This author is in her bag—nobody else could have told this story like this.”12:30 – A Backstory Masterclass: Handling Trauma Without Info DumpsRachel zooms in on one specific craft lesson from Ninth House: how to integrate difficult backstory. She notes how often writers either dump backstory in lumps or make their protagonist sound whiny and stuck. Leigh Bardugo avoids both traps by having Alex use past experiences to interpret present situations.Instead of pausing the story to “tell us what happened,” Alex looks at what’s happening now and thinks, This is like what happened back in LA… That framing makes the backstory relevant, vivid, and emotionally charged rather than indulgent or repetitive. We learn exactly where Alex comes from, but it never feels like a slog.Dana adds that even though we stay firmly in Alex’s POV, Bardugo maintains mystery around Alex herself. Details of her past come out as the environment and stakes demand it, which keeps reader curiosity alive. Every time the stakes rise, Dana finds herself begging the universe to give Alex a break. She loves how the book juggles so many elements—worldbuilding, horror, mystery, emotional wounds—without ever feeling overwhelming or info-dumpy.18:30 – Dana’s Second Pick: Twisted Love and the Art of Anti-Hero RomanceFor her second plot pick, Dana chooses Twisted Love. She admits she wrestled with this slot, especially since Indigo is her all-time favorite book, but Twisted Love wins here specifically on plot and romance construction.She praises Twisted Love for:Delivering a dark-edged romance that still feels emotionally grounded.Handling an anti-hero lead (Alex) in a way that feels compelling, not cartoonishly cruel.Giving Ava an initial innocence that could easily have been annoying, but instead evolves into genuine strengthwithout sliding into “poor little rich girl” territory.Plot-wise, Dana loves how the threads are organized: the way romantic stakes, emotional wounds, and external pressures rise and intertwine, and the way the climax lands so hard she still feels it on every reread. She jokes that she’d make a terrible negotiator because she’s constantly arguing with the characters: “You don’t have to do this!” Even knowing what’s coming doesn’t dampen the impact, which to her is the mark of a powerful romantic plot.She gives Indigo an “eternal honorable mention” here, reflecting on how she’s been reading it for 30 years and still reacts to its climax with the same gut-deep emotion every time.26:30 – Rachel’s Second Pick: Sin and Chocolate and Plot Born from WorldbuildingRachel’s second pick is Sin and Chocolate, chosen specifically for how its plot springs directly from its worldbuilding. She points out that in some books, the world can feel like a decorative backdrop. In Sin and Chocolate, the story feels like it could only exist in that specific world with its rules, power structures, and dangers.She also loves how the book:Functions as a self-contained story with a clear problem and resolution.Still operates as the start of a longer series, leaving room for higher stakes and deeper conflict in later books.Book one feels, in some ways, like a contemporary romance setup—very character-forward, very focused on personal stakes—and that’s part of its genius. It hooks readers emotionally, makes them invest in Lexi and Kieran, and then quietly plants the seeds for a broader, more action-driven arc that will unfold over future installments.Dana agrees and reframes the craft lesson through a series lens: if you want readers to stay for six books, you have to make them care. Book one is all about getting to know Alex’s wards, understanding what Kieran is up against, and putting their wounds onstage so we’re emotionally invested before the big, overarching plot fully kicks in.They both admire how the romance is steamy but not overdone, how the attraction and emotional growth feel believable, and how the story avoids getting stuck in repetitive romantic loops.34:00 – Clear Goals, Closed Loops, and Series SpringboardsRachel breaks down how Sin and Chocolate gives Lexi a clear, concrete goal—getting medicine for Mordecai—which anchors the entire plot. This clarity ensures that her actions never feel random; every choice traces back to that central motivation.By the end of the book:The immediate problem (Mordecai’s safety) is resolved.But Lexi has had to accept a job with Kieran to secure that safety.This structure closes the primary story loop in a satisfying way while springboarding readers into book two. Rachel compares it to Mistborn: the book feels finished, but the cost of solving the central problem creates consequences and questions that naturally lead into the next installment.Dana notes that readers don’t feel cheated or cliffhung; instead, they feel invited to continue. The first book does its job as both a complete experience and a compelling gateway into the rest of the series.41:00 – Honorable Mentions, Plot Lessons, and What We Take as WritersDana and Rachel circle back to their honorable mentions:Indigo – for its enduring emotional impact and unforgettable, painful climax.Dead Until Dark – for its almost impeccable plotting in how it balances romance and mystery, opening and closing both arcs cleanly and satisfyingly.They reflect on the year’s reading and how their plot picks are influenced by their tastes as writers and editors. They gravitate toward books with strong structure, clear stakes, and emotionally resonant payoffs. Even the titles that didn’t make the official “best plot” list still offer rich tools for writers—from handling timelines and dual threads to integrating romance with external conflict.47:30 – Looking Ahead: 2026 Sneak Peeks and the Beauty of RereadsDana asks whether any upcoming 2026 picks might dethrone Ninth House or rival their current favorites in terms of plot. Rachel suspects it will be hard to top Ninth House, but acknowledges that they’ve already dropped some sneak hints about books on the horizon. She gently encourages listeners to use this inside track to build their TBR lists, request books as gifts, and read ahead.Dana zooms out to the joy of reading as a lifelong practice. She talks about how rereading Indigo over three decades has shown her what “standing the test of time” looks like. As they read across genres and modes—mystery, dark romance, paranormal, contemporary—they’re constantly collecting craft lessons and asking:What made this story hit so hard?How can I recreate that feeling for my readers, in my own voice and style?For her, there’s nothing better than being part of the “making” of those kinds of moments as both writer and coach.54:30 – Sequels, Shock Levels, and Managing Reader ExpectationsThe conversation briefly turns to sequels. Rachel predicts that Sin and Magic (the sequel to Sin and Chocolate) may surpass book one because the groundwork is already laid and now the story can dive into higher-stakes, more action-heavy plot—right in her wheelhouse.They also talk about Hellbent, the sequel to Ninth House. Dana admits she’s nervous, because the twists in Ninth Housewere so intense she’s not sure she wants to be shocked like that again… and yet she kind of does. Rachel reassures her that while Hellbent has its own twists, it doesn’t repeat the same style or level of shock as the wildest moments in Ninth House. Still, she avoids spoilers and encourages Dana to experience it for herself.57:30 – Wrap-Up, Listener Picks, and Calls to ActionDana and Rachel close the episode by acknowledging how hard it was to pick just two books each when so many of this year’s titles had strong plots. They remind listeners that they don’t have to choose: you can go back through all 11 episodes and track plot lessons across the entire year.They invite listeners to:Share which book you think should have made the “best plot” list.Send recommendations as they continue selecting titles for their 2026 lineup.They sign off with reminders to visit storydeepdive.com, leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform, and share the show with your reading and writing friends. As always, they wish everyone a fantastic day and close with their signature: “Happy writing.”Next EpisodeIn the next episode, Dana and Rachel continue their December Best Of series with another craft-focused lens on the 2025 reading list—spotlighting a different aspect of story design and what writers can learn from it. Be sure to tune in for more deep craft analysis, honest opinions, and practical takeaways you can bring straight back to your own work.Join the Conversation:Like what you heard? Subscribe, leave a review, and share your thoughts.Follow Story Deep Dive on your favorite podcast app and visit storydeepdive.com for episodes, resources, and updates. Connect with Dana Pittman and Rachel Arsenault on social media to keep the discussion going, share your favorite reads, and tell them which book you think had the best plot of your year. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit storydeepdive.substack.com