Deep Dive: A Function of Firepower How do you write the middle of a book? How do you write an ending to a story? For this week’s episode about writing, we focus on Book 19 of Schlock Mercenary, the penultimate book in Howard Tayler’s series. We discuss ways to make a book feel self-contained, rather than just something to keep the beginning and the ending further apart.  For reference, A Function of Firepower is the 19th Schlock Mercenary Book. We highly recommend you read this first, because this episode contains spoilers and in-depth conversations about the book.  Homework:  Writing prompt: try to work these three words into your WIP (work in progress): expeditious, sock, and dragonfly.  Thing of the Week:  Kickstarter for Schlock Mercenary Book 18: https://www.kickstarter.com/profile/howardtayler (It's what Howard said, but "profile" is singular, not plural!) Liner Notes:  Fermi paradox Credits: Your hosts for this episode were Mary Robinette Kowal, DongWon Song, Erin Roberts, Dan Wells, and Howard Tayler. It was produced by Emma Reynolds, recorded by Marshall Carr, Jr., and mastered by Alex Jackson. Join Our Writing Community!  Patreon Instagram YouTube Facebook Twitter Sign up for our newsletter:  https://writingexcuses.com Our Sponsors: * Use code "50WX" at http://hellofresh.com/50WX and get 50% HelloFresh!! Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/writing-excuses2130/exclusive-content Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands