Welcome to Story Deep Dive!
In this episode, Rachel and Dana dive into The Things We Never Got Over by Lucy Score.
Whether you're a writer, reader, or storyteller, you’ll gain valuable insights on character development, plot structure, and how to integrate subplots seamlessly.
You can also watch the video version of this podcast on YouTube!
Estimate Timestamps
[00:00] – Introduction: Welcome to Story Deep Dive
Rachel and Dana introduce the book they will analyze over the next three weeks, The Things We Never Got Over. They express excitement about the book’s depth and storytelling nuances, setting the stage for the discussion.
[02:30] – Small Talk: Dana’s Writing and Book Club Updates
Dana shares updates on her Danger Tales activities, including a recent book club discussion on Sin and Chocolate. She discusses her approach to collecting books in the series and a post-discussion deep dive into the book’s first five pages.
[08:45] – The Importance of Breaks in Writing
Rachel and Dana discuss taking time off from writing and how different writing styles affect productivity. Dana shares her process as a binge writer and emphasizes the importance of understanding one's creative rhythm.
[18:10] – Rachel’s Writing and Dialogue Analysis
Rachel discusses her recent Substack post on dialogue techniques from Hell or High Water and how it teaches effective exposition. She breaks down how natural dialogue enhances storytelling.
[23:00] – Netflix Thriller Structure and Pacing
Dana and Rachel analyze narrative structures in Netflix thrillers, particularly The Night Agent, and how late-stage POV shifts increase stakes. They discuss how these strategies create compelling cliffhangers.
[30:15] – Introducing The Things We Never Got Over
Rachel and Dana introduce the novel’s premise and discuss its blend of humor, romance, and small-town charm. They highlight how romance provides meaningful storytelling beyond entertainment.
[40:00] – Tropes and Their Execution in the Novel
Dana describes The Things We Never Got Over as a “trope sandwich,” utilizing multiple romance tropes without feeling repetitive. Rachel emphasizes how to use tropes innovatively to keep a story fresh.
[50:30] – Characters and the Role of Setting
They discuss the novel’s strong character development and how the town of Knockemout feels like a character itself. The world-building keeps the reader invested and engaged.
[01:02:45] – Subplots and Series Setup
Dana and Rachel break down how the book masterfully juggles multiple subplots and sets up future books in the series, making it a compelling first installment.
[01:15:30] – Writing Lessons from the Novel
Key takeaways for writers include pacing, structure, integrating subplots, and creating protagonists with clear flaws while keeping them likable.
[01:28:00] – Final Thoughts and Next Episode Preview
Dana and Rachel encourage listeners to read The Things We Never Got Over and discuss its humor, emotional depth, and engaging storytelling. They preview the next episode, which will focus on the book’s plot structure.
Book Selection
Bearded, bad-boy barber Knox prefers to live his life the way he takes his coffee: Alone. Unless you count his basset hound, Waylon. Knox doesn’t tolerate drama, even when it comes in the form of a stranded runaway bride.
Naomi wasn’t just running away from her wedding. She was riding to the rescue of her estranged twin to Knockemout, Virginia, a rough-around-the-edges town where disputes are settled the old-fashioned way…with fists and beer. Usually in that order.
Too bad for Naomi her evil twin hasn’t changed at all. After helping herself to Naomi’s car and cash, Tina leaves her with something unexpected. The niece Naomi didn’t know she had. Now she’s stuck in town with no car, no job, no plan, and no home with an 11-year-old going on thirty to take care of.
There’s a reason Knox doesn’t do complications or high-maintenance women, especially not the romantic ones. But since Naomi’s life imploded right in front of him, the least he can do is help her out of her jam. And just as soon as she stops getting into new trouble he can leave her alone and get back to his peaceful, solitary life.
At least, that’s the plan until the trouble turns to real danger.
Where to Find the Book
Things We Never Got Over by Lucy Score is available in physical, ebook, and audiobook formats. It’s also widely available in libraries and online retailers. Details on the author’s website.
Next Episode:
In the next episode, Rachel and Dana will explore the plot structure of The Things We Never Got Over, breaking down key moments and how they drive the story forward. Be sure to tune in!
Join the Conversation:
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Connect with Rachel and Dana at www.storydeepdive.com to keep the discussion going!
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