Foundational Fiction is a guided program covering the foundations of crafting fiction.

Do you...

  • Have an incredible idea for a literary project that has been simmering in your head for years?

  • Struggle to find time and motivation to write when life keeps "getting in the way"?

  • Dream of completing a big literary project and becoming a professional author?

  • Want to relearn the basics of storytelling you last encountered in high school English Lit classes?

  • Feel like you would benefit from accountability and expert guidance?

  • If you said “yes!” to any of the above, this is the program for you.

This program guides you through the steps of starting and finishing a literary project.

Work at your own pace through bite-sized, actionable lessons on each stage of the process. You’ll learn about…

🖊️ Different plotting methods and approaches to outlining (because one size does not fit all!)

🖊️ What it really means to be a “discovery” writer

🖊️ Navigating the “messy middle” so you can get to the finish line

🖊️ How to gain and maintain momentum

🖊️ Understanding your chosen genre(s) and embracing/subverting tropes

Foundational Fiction offers three types of memberships

Crafted to be accessible and affordable for writers of all levels

  • Free: Craft Book Club

    For writers still testing the waters!

    Not ready to take the leap? Sign up for Bibliopothecary, our 100% free quarterly craft book club. Participate in a guided group read of four beloved writing books.

  • Core Membership

    For writers who need structure and guidance while solidifying their project

    Includes full access to all course material

    Monthly check-in emails from the Storytelling Collective team

    Access to the private community with fellow members and the Storytelling Collective team

  • Writing Circle Mentorship

    For writers who want hands-on support through small group mentorship

    Includes the full Foundational Fiction curriculum plus:

    Monthly live calls with mentor and mentees

    Quarterly guest talks with professional writers

    Quarterly critique opportunities

    Hands-on support and guidance for your project

Meet Your Mentor

Hey, writer! I’m Ashley Warren and I can’t wait to get to know you and help you fulfill your creative dreams!

I’ve spent the last 15 years of my career working with writers like you. I hold a Master’s degree in Literacy with an emphasis on writing support and have served as the founder/director of the Storytelling Collective since 2018. You may recognize me from my contributions to TTRPG projects including the Uncaged Anthology; Icewind Dale: Rime of the Frostmaiden; Heckna; and more. I produce all of our books published through StoCo’s imprint, and my own publishing company, Fleuron Books, launches in 2026. The whole StoCo team is mega-nerdy about all things creativity and we are here to support you every step of the way!

Not sure if you're ready for the full program? Join the FREE craft book club, Bibliopothecary

We'll be reading and studying four beloved writing guides this year

Here's what we'll be reading and studying this year:

FAQs about Foundational Fiction

We're happy to answer additional questions about this program. Just email us at [email protected]

  • When does my annual membership start and end?

    Your membership starts the day you register and lasts a full 365 day year! For example, if you sign up on February 12, 2026, your membership ends on February 12, 2027.

  • If I sign up halfway through the year, does that mean I miss the other units?

    All previous units and live call recordings will remain available to you in the Program Library, so you can always revisit material we've already covered.

  • How does the mentorship component work?

    You'll receive mentorship through the private community (where our team will actively answer your questions and share resources with you frequently) and through live calls with Beth and the team. Plus, as you get to know your fellow authors, you'll develop a supportive community!

  • Is there an option for one-on-one mentorship?

    Currently, mentorship is provided through group calls and the private community; however, if there is enough interest in one-on-one mentorship, we will definitely consider making that available.

  • If I choose the monthly payment option, does that mean I can cancel at any time?

    The monthly payment option still requires an annual commitment. If you need to leave the program early, please email [email protected] so we can provide you with some options.

  • I don't know what I want to work on yet. Will you help me figure it out?

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