Lesbians Who Write Podcast

Welcome to this special, one-off episode of Lesbians Who Write. Clare & TB come together  to talk about how the rest of their year has gone, giving updates on books they published, I Heart SapphFic, and how 2024 panned out overall. But as usual, the real gold is in the other conversations: US-UK language differences (and specifically slang words for farting); Clare & TB's laundry issues and heating downers; their favourite Christmas movies and festive songs; and how bad Spurs are, as well as how weird the world is right now. Especially how weird TB's world is at the moment. She couldn't stop from saying the word weird. Listen in to find out TB & Clare's predictions for 2025, plus a whole lot more! Happy holidays! Clare & TB

After a decade in publishing and five years of podcasting, TB's still baffled by how draining books launches can be. She and Miranda are pumping out words in their enemies-to-lovers, fake relationship summer book. TB wishes she could whip up snappy comebacks on the spot instead of three days later. Story of her life, it seems. In Clare's universe, Just Kiss Her is with the ARC team—her first standalone launch in a year! And brace yourself: her latest audiobook sailed through without a single correction. Talk about a shocker! Meanwhile, her Christmas novel's chugging along, set to land on the editor's desk by July. For the last episode, they discuss their final thoughts about the podcast. Find out what the podcast has meant to them, how they'll fill their time now, and what the future holds. Thank you for all the love and support for 200 episodes! Happy listening! Clare & TB Link: TB's German Goodies Patreon Post: https://www.patreon.com/posts/one-of-many-why-103421962 Just Kiss Her: https://www.clarelydon.co.uk/books/just-kiss-her/

Are Your Nipples Centered? (Take Two) The penultimate episode sees our hosts telling tales of their lives. For TB, she spilled the tea (literally), she got spooky, and she's loving getting snarky in her upcoming novel. For Clare, she's readying her upcoming romance, Just Kiss Her, for her ARC team, and the audiobook of London Ever After is so close, she can taste it. Plus, Spurs are on their way to Wembley! This week, the pair answer your questions, including: three things they've learned doing the podcast; their favorite moment of the past five years (it includes nipples); their writing joys; what their writing superpower would be; and what they're going to miss the most. See you next time for the final episode of Lesbians Who Write! Links:  The Sapphic Quill Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thesapphicquill The Sapphic Quill: https://thesapphicquill.com/ Inspiration Episode: https://lesbianswhowrite.com/lww-167-what-was-the-inspiration-for-your-last-3-books/ Another Inspiration Episode: https://lesbianswhowrite.com/lww-3-who-or-what-inspires-you-to-write/

Programming note: TB and Clare make a major LWW announcement right before getting to the episode's topic. In fantastic news, TB and Miranda's latest book is with the editor. What a relief! They're already plotting the next story and TB loves the shiny and new stage before getting words on the page. In surprising news, TB's in a fantastic mood, despite being exhausted, but for an exciting reason. Big announcement, folks! Clare's upcoming book is titled Just Kiss Her. On the flip side, Clare's experience with setting up her Shopify store has been anything but smooth sailing. It seems she's been encountering quite a few frustrations, possibly leading to some colorful language. Before getting to the topic, they rank their top 5 books in their series (Lizzie for TB and London for Clare). They crash on to the topic: how to write the perfect book. Have they kept a secret magic formula hidden throughout five years of this podcast? Regrettably not. However, they do offer valuable advice on crafting the best book possible. Tune in for some golden insights you won't want to overlook. Please send in your comments and questions for the duo to discuss on the next episode. Head over to www.lesbianswhowrite.com and leave us a comment. Happy listening! Clare & TB

TB and Miranda are chugging away on their book and they're getting close to the end. TB's remembering how hard it is to end a story. Also, TB has frustrating Amazon news and a wonderful tax announcement, which is a weird and rare thing to say. Lastly, TB is so over winter, and she just wants to be warm. Clare's newest book is with the editor. Toot toot! She's been keeping busy with admin tasks, the unsexy but vital aspects about being an indie author. Sadly, she's also had to deal with the translation pirates. Clare's going to be on a panel at the Self Publishing Show in London this June. So exciting! They crash on to the topic: future publishing predictions. While the duo doesn't have a crystal ball, they've been in the business long enough to see some trends. Have a listen to hear their predictions and not surprisingly, TB brings the dark while Clare supplies rays of sunshine. What predictions do you have? Head over to www.lesbianswhowrite.com and leave us a comment. Happy listening! Clare & TB Links: Around the World in 80 Days Mini Reading Challenge: https://iheartsapphfic.com/2024/03/20/announcing-the-around-the-world-in-80-days-mini-reading-challenge/ IHS April Sale Submission Form: https://bit.ly/3THNRAC IHS Patreon Author of the Week: https://www.patreon.com/posts/3-truths-lie-by-101364151 Alliance of Independent Authors: https://www.allianceindependentauthors.org/

TB has translation news. Devil's Advocate is now available in French. Oooh la la! TB and Miranda are writing again now that Miranda is on the road to recovery. It's nice to get words on the page again. TB finds herself in another confrontation with Amazon as it appears increasingly challenging to perform basic tasks on KDP. Clare spent the week at London Book Fair and was on a panel. She's hit the big time! Even better, she's met some new sapphic fiction authors and caught up with old friends. Clare's next book is not far from going to the editor. How exciting! More importantly, Spurs women beat Man City! Clare is so happy. They crash on to the topic: when they've broken rules or rebelled conventional wisdom. Both of them aren't inherently inclined to break rules, yet there have been occasions in both their professional and personal lives where they've done so. Listen to the episode to find out when they have gone against the grain and how it worked out. Tell us when you've broken a rule and what happened when you did. Head over to www.lesbianswhowrite.com and leave us a comment. Happy listening! Clare & TB Link: French version of Devil's Advocate: https://www.reinesdecoeur.com/les-livres-lesbiens/l-avocate-du-diable-tb-markinson-miranda-macleod/

Anniversary alert. Our first episode went live five years ago on March 2, 2019. Toot toot! TB is busy per usual, but there's an added complication right now. Miranda recently had surgery and TB's been helping take care of her. In publishing news, Amazon and ACX seem determined to put books into the wrong categories. Keep on eye on your book categories, peeps. In fantastic news, the I Heart Sapphic BookFinder has more than 6,000 books in the database. Amazing! London Ever After is out! Toot toot! Also, the London rebrand has been finalized. Even better, Clare's next book is already under way. She's smashing it this year. To honor her 10-year anniversary, Clare will be celebrating for a year. Keep an eye out for sales, giveaways, and more. She also spent 5 days in Spain and enjoyed some marvellous cheesecake. They crash on to the topic: what they believe has been the biggest change in publishing since the start of this podcast. Join us as we unravel the biggest shifts since 2019. Trends may ebb and flow, but some truths endure. Tune in to explore the evolution of the exciting world of indie publishing. Tell us what you think has been the biggest change in publishing. Head over to www.lesbianswhowrite.com and leave us a comment. Happy listening! Clare & TB Links: A Song in Her Heart: https://mybook.to/SongAudioTBM1 I Heart SapphFic Bookfinder: https://iheartsapphfic.com/bookfinder/ London Ever After: https://www.clarelydon.co.uk/books/london-ever-after/

TB's first audiobook of 2024 is out in the world and TB was amazed when ACX only took 4 days to get it on Audible. Also, she's loving writing the monthly Lizzie instalments for Patreon peeps. In translation news, the French version of Devil's Advocate will be out soon, and the German one won't be too far behind. Clare is frazzled because London Ever After is launching at the end of February, which coincides with Clare's ten-year anniversary of when she published her first book. Toot toot! She's been busy recovering and redoing all the blurbs for all the London books to prepare for the release of London 9. They crash on to the topic: newsletters. Many authors claim newsletters are vital, but are they that important for your writing career? Clare and TB dig into this topic giving their honest assessment. Have a listen to find what they think about newsletters. Tell us what you think about newsletters. Head over to www.lesbianswhowrite.com and leave us a comment. Happy listening! Clare & TB Links:  A Song in Her Heart: https://mybook.to/SongAudioTBM1 Marketing with Sam: https://www.patreon.com/posts/sunday-marketing-98288298 Lizzie Patreon Installments: https://www.patreon.com/posts/latest-lizzie-is-98477616 London Ever After: https://www.clarelydon.co.uk/2024/02/london-ever-after-first-chapter-preview/ Clare's Interview: https://www.mylondon.news/news/real-life/i-laughed-raised-lack-female-28544226  

TB is so over 2024. She's had nothing but battles this year including ones with Amazon, websites, and a cold. The good news, Say Cheese is out in the world! Also, I Heart SapphFic had its best month ever. Only if TB could get over her wretched cold, she might not hate 2024 so much. London Ever After is back from the editor and Clare's sending it to her first readers. Toot toot. Now she needs to set a launch date. In more London romance news, she's in the process of recovering all the books. Exciting! In fun Clare news, she's been going to a lot of football matches. They crash on to the topic: go your own way. In the writing business, there's plenty of advice, tips, and suggestions people tell writers to follow. But should you? Clare recently had a clang of reality that got her thinking about advice. Have a listen to learn how they decide to ignore/implement/tailor advice and tips to suit them. Tell us what you think. Head over to www.lesbianswhowrite.com and leave us a comment. Happy listening! Clare & TB Links: Say Cheese: https://mybook.to/CheeseLWW IHS Valentine / Anti-Valentine Sale Submission form: https://bit.ly/492bHgV

Welcome to the first episode of 2024! TB has had a rough start to the year. An illness over the holidays derailed TB's grand plans of getting ahead. Now she feels like she's a year behind! In good news, Say Cheese, her cowrite with Miranda MacLeod, will be published soon! The I Heart SapphFic 2024 Reading Challenge has begun. Huzzah! Breaking news: London 9 is with the editor. TOOT TOOT! Like TB, Clare got pretty sick over the holidays. Sicker than she's ever been. But she still got London 9 done! She also has a new Italian translation coming out soon. In fantastic news, she's heading to Whitstable for her annual January writing trip. In surprising news, Clare declared war on the sapphic fiction community… They crash on to the topic: 2024 Goals. The duo outlines what they hope to get accomplished this year. While chatting they get distracted by darts, pub meetups, and ice queens. All worthy distractions! Tell us about your 2024 goals. Head over to www.lesbianswhowrite.com and leave us a comment. Happy listening! Clare & TB Links: I Heart SapphFic Reading Challenge: https://iheartsapphfic.com/2024/01/01/announcing-the-2024-reading-challenge/ TB's London Snow Memory: https://www.patreon.com/posts/bad-people-tbs-96166269

Welcome to last episode of the year! Don't worry, we'll be back mid-January. TB and Miranda are buckling down to get their Vermont book to the editor. TB's going to be sad when the story is done. She's loved working on it, and she thinks it boils down to one word: cheese. On the I Heart SapphFic front, several big projects are keeping TB busy, meaning she hasn't been getting much sleep. In happy news, TB has a new reading buddy! Clare has actually been writing (her words). Not only that, but she's also motoring along. Although, she can't narrow down a title for the last London romance and is open to suggestions. With the coming of the new year, Clare needs to map out what books she plans to write in 2024. Exciting times! Clare has also been busy doing Christmassy things, staying true to her love of all things festive. They crash on to the topic: 2023 Roundup. They go over their years, sharing where they smashed it, whiffed, and so-so outcomes. Although, TB doesn't like to be negative, a new twist in LWW podcast history. Wherever your year took you, remember any progress, is good progress. Tell us about your years. Head over to www.lesbianswhowrite.com and leave us a comment. Happy listening! Clare & TB Links: Sam Blog Post: https://www.patreon.com/posts/how-tbs-led-her-93674077 Clare's Christmas Romance Galore: https://www.clarelydon.co.uk/books/christmas-romance-galore/

Welcome to episode 190 – ten off another major milestone! TB is stressed. Why, I hear you cry? The November IHS Mega Sale for one, along with the IHS Sapphic Reading Challenge for 2024. Plus, she's got a co-write to finish. But what's bringing a touch of lightness is her WIP, which is set in Vermont. TB has been able to get out and enjoy the picturesque state. She also has some very sad news to share. Meanwhile, after a couple of months focusing on business, Clare's got back in the writing saddle and aims to get London Romance 9 to her editor before Christmas. You heard it here first. Her paperbacks are still flying off bookshop shelves, and she's determined to finish her year-long reading challenge on a sapphic high! They crash on to the topic at hand: the 20Books Vegas Conference and what did they learn? First, presentation matters. Second, Vegas is expensive and badly carpeted. But mostly, that you can learn a lot at such an intense and varied conference, but none of it matters as much as the people you meet and the connections you make. Bonus lesson: Clare can still play pool. Her lesbian card is still intact. Phew. What do you think are the key points of attending conferences? Let us know by heading over to www.lesbianswhowrite.com and leaving us a comment. Happy listening! Clare & TB Links: 2024 Reading Challenge Submission Form: https://forms.gle/ZLBmJatXgd8NLm9C9 IHS Mega Sale: https://iheartsapphfic.com/2023/11/24/november-mega-sale-page-1/ Top 5 Reads Form: https://forms.gle/ELgbZtDjFcFmRtk88 IHS Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/IHeartSapphFic Clare Lydon website: https://www.clarelydon.co.uk Hotshot: https://www.clarelydon.co.uk/books/hotshot/

Programming note: the duo is taking a break and the next episode will be out on November 20, 2023. All Wrapped Up in You, the cowrite TB did with Adrian J. Smith is out in the world. Toot toot! Lizzie fans get ready. Pretty soon, there's going to be a whole lot of Lizzie. The leaves are turning in New England, so TB's getting out and about in Vermont and New Hampshire to see them! Clare's preparing for her Canadian trip and needs to find her warm clothing. She's still working on London 9 and did more research to help kick it into a higher gear. Hotshot keeps selling out in Gay's the Word, a queer bookshop in London. Finally, Clare is jazzed about listening to audiobooks on Spotify. They crash on to the topic: what's the one golden piece of advice you'd give to a new author? Clare proposed this topic after seeing advice from a hugely successful author on the socials. The thoughtful advice surprised Clare, spurring her thoughts on the topic. Find out their one piece of advice for authors. Let us know what you think. Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com and leave a comment on the episode. Happy listening! Clare and TB Links: All Wrapped Up in You: https://mybook.to/BubbleLWW1 2024 Reading Challenge Submission Form: https://forms.gle/ZLBmJatXgd8NLm9C9 IHS Author Newsletter: https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/400233/102127810225637229/share Hotshot: https://www.clarelydon.co.uk/books/hotshot/ Gay's the Word: https://www.gaystheword.co.uk/  

A Song in Her Heart has been doing well and hit #1, a huge relief for TB. Now she's preparing for her next release, which is the last summer project that made those months extremely challenging. TB might take a moment to have a celebratory drink, but then she'll turn her attention to the next project. Clare is buckling down on London 9. In fact, she's so dedicated, she hasn't watched one holiday movie yet even though the Christmas Channel is live. In a twist, Clare's considering writing a time travel story. Intriguing! They crash on to the ask us anything questions, ranging from writing questions to personal. The duo tackles the questions with honesty and hopefully deliver a few giggles. At least TB gets a laugh and can't stop at one point. Let us know what you think. Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com and leave a comment on the episode. Happy listening! Clare and TB Link: A Song in Her Heart: https://mybook.to/SongLWW1

A Song in Her Heart is out in the world! What a relief. TB has published 2 of the 3 projects that dogged her during the summer and the other one is with the editor. Unfortunately, she's already behind on her fall projects. Such is the life of a writer. Clare has sent a book to the editor. Toot toot toot! Now she's switching back to London 9, but first she must jog her memory about the story. The Italian translation of Change of Heart is out for real this time. That's not all. A Christmas Catch has been uploaded to the audio platforms and should be out soon. Lots of book news for Clare! They crash on to the topic: when you can call yourself a writer and how to find your writing voice. TB takes the reins on this episode, sharing when she first considered herself a writer and explains what it means when people say writer's voice and how to find yours. Let us know if you have any questions on this topic or for the ask us anything episode. Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com and leave a comment on the episode. Happy listening! Clare and TB Link: A Song in Her Heart: https://mybook.to/SongLWW1

Programming note: We're planning an ask us anything episode, so please let us know your burning questions. TB has had an intense summer, but she has status updates on all three of her writing projects. It's possible there's an end in sight for all her deadline misery. There's more good news. There's tennis on the telly and it's finally September. Bring on fall! Clare's had a breakthrough with the book she's working on. Woot! When she finishes this book, she has another she needs to wrap up this autumn. Busy time! As it turns out, Clare's Italian translation isn't live yet, but it's on preorder. Sadly, she's learned a disturbing trend in Italy. They crash on to the topic: writing lessons from the Women's World Cup. Clare, the football fanatic, leads the discussion this time. She shares ten things she learned from watching all the matches. Get a cup of tea, settle in, and have a listen. What have you learned from watching sports? Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com and leave a comment on the episode. Happy listening! Clare and TB Links: Change of Heart (Italian preorder): https://www.amazon.it/Change-Heart-Edizione-Clare-Lydon-ebook/dp/B0CDFGL6TF IHS September Sale Submission Form: https://forms.gle/gf5U3PzcoKA475px6

Programming note: We're planning an ask us anything episode, so please let us know your burning questions. TB recorded with a terrible sinus headache. That doesn't stop her from dropping big news. Lizzie is back! TB had a fun time writing this one, leaning into Lizzie's zaniness. The Lizzie launch is how TB is celebrating her 10-year writing anniversary. Toot toot! Clare has been getting work done in between all the World Cup matches. Don't fret, Clare Lydon fans. She has a plan in place for both books, including deadlines. She's also been forging ahead on the Facebook ads. It's still early days, but there's been an uptick in sales and she's collecting data. Stay tuned for more updates. They crash on to the topic: the shadow self. TB takes the reins of this episode, explaining what the shadow self is and how it impacts not only the author but their creations. Have a listen to learn how you can go deeper with your stories. How do you deal with the shadow self in your writing? Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com and leave a comment on the episode. Happy listening! Clare and TB Links: A Midlife Woman (Lizzie): https://mybook.to/MidlifeLWW Flight Plan: https://mybook.to/FlightPlanLWW The Creative Penn Podcast Episode: https://www.thecreativepenn.com/2023/07/24/writing-from-your-shadow-side-with-michaelbrent-collings/ IHS BookFinder Submission Form: https://forms.gle/DPoSiMn9UzBFCNRt5

What have they been up to since the last episode?  TB has been busy juggling 3 writing projects, including one that's a little terrifying. Also, TB got some island time! Clare's main project right now is watching the Women's World Cup. She's also been trying Facebook ads because she heard a rumor the targeting has improved. Can Clare crack the Facebook ads code for all sapphic authors? They move on to the topic: dealing with disappointment. They focus on not being included on recommendation lists. What's the best way to deal with it? Clare and TB come at the question differently, but they agree on one big point. Have a listen to learn how they deal with it and what they choose to focus on. How do you deal with disappointment? Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com and leave a comment on the episode. Happy listening! Clare and TB

The duo is back! It was fab to have some time away, and TB and Clare had adventures of their own during the break. Like TB's road trip (you won't believe how many miles she traveled) to Denver and Clare's time in Stockholm (including a history museum). It wasn't all fun, though, because there's no escaping work. Before diving into the topic, they share all the highlights and some lows from the past five weeks. They crash on to the topic: it doesn't get easier, you just get better. This topic was inspired by a podcast Clare listened to, reminding Clare about comments slung her way about how things are just easy for her. Why do people believe this and is it true? Have a listen to find out. What has seemingly gotten easier for you when in reality you've simply gotten better? Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com and leave a comment on the episode. Happy listening! Clare and TB

Programming note: The duo is taking a summer break. The next podcast will come out July 24. Die Morning Show has been number 1 in the German store for well over a week, which is a huge relief for TB since this is her first translation. Flight Plan is back from the editor and will go live soon.  Miranda and TB will be sharing daily updates from their GCLS road trip with Patreon peeps. TB's looking forward to finally having some time off! London has sprung into summer, making it too hot for Clare, but it's not raining so she'll take it. She had a magical weekend in Yorkshire with her sister. On the work front, Clare has been doing some writing and editing and more writing and editing. Clare's becoming a celebrity! On the health front, Clare is in training. Wish her luck everyone! In amazing news, Clare saw Beyonce. They crash on to the topic: 5 must haves for the ideal beach read. Not only does TB look forward to summertime, but she also loves a good beach read. What makes them perfect for this time of year? TB breaks it down for the listeners and Clare cautions everyone now's the time to start thinking about their holiday books. What do love about beach reads? Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com and leave a comment on the episode. Happy listening! Clare and TB Links: Sapphic Trailblazers: https://iheartsapphfic.com/category/sapphics-trailblazers/ IHS Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/IHeartSapphFic Die Morning Show: https://www.amazon.de/dp/B0C6B5HT2Z

Happy Pride! To celebrate Pride, every day in June, TB will be posting a Sapphic Trailblazer on I Heart SapphFic. TB and Miranda published their first German Translation: Die Morning Show. Toot toot! IHS is now on Patreon and those who join will be able to follow TB & Miranda on their road trip to the Golden Crown Literary Society Conference. Clare has been ticking along on two projects. One is at 50K and the other is at 30K. With her writing going well, she's been smashing it on the exercise front. Is there a correlation? She just had her third three-day weekend in May. But that's not the most exciting part. Clare is seeing Beyonce! TB is so jealous. They crash on to the topic: What Should Writers Stop Worrying About? Being a creative can be nerve-racking and it's easy to drive oneself insane stressing about all the things. Clare and TB go over a list of things that writers shouldn't dwell on ranging from pirates, one-star reviews, and running out of ideas. Have a listen to learn what you should let go of to focus on what you can control: writing your story. What other things should writers stop worrying about? Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com and leave a comment on the episode. Happy listening! Clare and TB Links: Sapphic Trailblazers: https://iheartsapphfic.com/category/sapphics-trailblazers/ IHS Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/IHeartSapphFic Die Morning Show: https://www.amazon.de/dp/B0C6B5HT2Z

Flight Plan is with the editor, and it was a close call. TB was at her desk at 4 in the morning the day it was due to make last minute tweaks. Now TB's working on the cowrite with Adrian J. Smith and the first draft is almost done. TB's also plotting the next paranormal with Miranda. Finally, TB's putting the big IHS May sale together. Busy busy! Clare is in a writing groove, bashing out 2-3,000 words a day. Hot Shot has a narrator and fingers crossed it comes out before the Women's World Cup. Clare (and TB) is going to 20 Books to 50K in Las Vegas. The South Coast Sapphic Hang Out was epic and Clare got to rub elbows with many fab authors. In maybe fun news, Clare's going to a Tottenham double header: the men and women have back-to-back games. Will Clare be sad on Monday? They crash on to the topic: Top Tips from Screenwriting. One of TB's 2023 goals is to read more writing craft books and she's actually been doing that. TB takes the reins on this episode sharing the writing beats she learned from Save the Cat by Blake Snyder. The book outlines 15 beats that every story should have, and TB walks the listeners through them by using one of her books as an example. What writing tips have you learned from screenwriting? Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com and leave a comment on the episode. Happy listening! Clare and TB Link:  Save the Cat: https://www.amazon.com/Save-Cat-Last-Screenwriting-Youll-ebook/dp/B00340ESIS

TB is scattered, so everything's normal in her world. TB & Miranda are frantically working on Flight Plan to make their editing deadline and TB's feeling overwhelmed. Which is why she's trying really hard to get ahead in other areas of her life. Can the perpetually last-minute finisher crack the code to being prepared? TB has started a cowrite with Adrian J. Smith. Very exciting! Hotshot is doing well. Toot toot! Clare has been squeezing out words on a couple of projects. She realized something about one book: the stakes weren't there in the beginning. This is a pro tip. Always make sure the stakes are in the opener. Clare is conquering Brazil with more translation contracts and she's also smashing it in the podcast world by making an appearance on the Self Publishing Show. They crash on to the topic: Top Ten Indie Publishing Tips. Clare drilled down tips that were shared at the London Book Fair. If you want to be a full-time author, get your pen out, take notes, and learn how to lift your publishing game. What publishing tips do you have? Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com and leave a comment on the episode. Happy listening! Clare and TB Links: What a Year It's Been: https://iheartsapphfic.com/2023/04/24/what-a-year-its-been/ IHS May Sale Submission Form: https://forms.gle/YM7F95pktZRDA6xK9 Self Publishing Show Episode: https://selfpublishingformula.com/episode-381/ Hotshot: https://mybook.to/HotShotLydon

Midlife is the Cat's Meow is out in the world! In bad news, TB has a nasty cold and is exhausted and scattered. In writing news, TB & Miranda have started their next cowrite, a contemporary romance. In award news, Take Two, is a Goldies finalist. While managing her cold, TB also had to wrangle her taxes. After a successful presale, Hotshot is now available on Amazon. Hooray! Clare has been researching for London 9 by doing interviews. Most writers will be horrified by this. Talking to people in real life. Shudders. Clare spoke on two panels at the London Book Fair. She's a big deal! They crash on to the topic: fresh starts. They both just published a book and are starting a new chapter. Add on to that, it's also springtime in the northern hemisphere. It's like fate played a hand coming up with today's episode. Have a listen and get inspired for your own fresh start. Do you like fresh starts? Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com and leave a comment on the episode. Happy listening! Clare and TB Links: Midlife is the Cat's Meow: https://mybook.to/MidlifeCatsMeowIHSAd1 Take Two: https://mybook.to/TakeTwoMacLeod Hotshot: https://mybook.to/HotShotLydon

TB and Miranda are prepping Midlife is the Cat's Meow for launch and TB loves the cover. TB wonders how many hours she wastes whining, but how would she track it? Better yet, how would she nip it in the bud since it's a big part of her personality? In torture news, TB had her mammogram. Boo! Clare's book Hotshot is being prepared for showtime! Despite saying she'd never have an American in a book again, there's one in Hotshot and the US and UK English is driving Clare bonkers. While in France she worked every day, keeping London 9 ticking along. More importantly, she had a lovely time with her wife. They crash on to the topic: quarter one review. They haven't quite mastered the Druid calendar yet, but they managed to remember the first quarter came to a close on March 31. Have a listen to find out how their quarters went including writing, translations, networking, business, and personal goals. How did your first quarter go? Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com and leave a comment on the episode. Happy listening! Clare and TB Links: IHS Favorites Anthology: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/r8wa7z41jd Midlife is the Cat's Meow: https://mybook.to/MidlifeCatsMeowIHSAd1 Hotshot on Clare's Webstore: https://payhip.com/b/uC6yl

What's Been Going On With The Writing Duo The Golden Crown Literary Society event in New Jersey was a smashing success! TB was on the indie publishing panel. She loved catching up with author friends and meeting readers. Sadly, her first day back at work after being away was dreadful. Clare is doing her final read of Hotshot, her footie book. She read the first half after a restful sleep and thought the book was brilliant. By the end of the day, she was tired, and her opinion soured. The emotional rollercoaster for creatives is exhausting, but it's a good reminder that we all go through it, and how your mood can have an impact. They Crash On To The Topic: Ask Us Anything The duo answer questions ranging from character development, newsletters, editing, relaunching a book, and more. Find out what they have to say, even though TB isn't quite sure how she became an adult that people listen to. It's a very odd feeling! Let us know what you think about any of our answers to the questions. Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com and leave a comment on the episode. Happy listening! Clare and TB Link: Show, Don't Tell: https://www.amazon.com/Show-Dont-Tell-descriptions-characters-ebook/dp/B01LXFJ0AC

During the catch-up section, TB share's all her news, and there's a lot, but the biggest takeaway is the latest Lizzie is out in the world. Toot toot! In Clare's world, the football book is back with the editor. In better news, the title is Hotshot. Clare has set an ambitious word count goal for her next London romance. Send her good writing juju! They crash on to the topic: Inspirational Women. In celebration of Women's History Month, the duo shares who have and continue to inspire them. They admire any woman who's been able to beat the odds by becoming successful in a world stacked against women. There are many women in the world who are truly inspirational, and we see and appreciate you. Which women have inspired you? The duo is planning an ask us anything episode so let them know your questions. Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com, and leave a comment on the episode. Happy listening! Clare and TB Links: A Woman in Hiding: https://mybook.to/WomanInHidingLWW The Freelancer's Survival Guide: https://www.amazon.com/Freelancers-Survival-Guide-Kristine-Kathryn-ebook/dp/B004A156PY

During the catch-up section, TB share's she forgot to request a Lizzie book cover, so there's a slight delay in the launch. Whoops! Also, doing book research on different ways to kill people has resulted with some interesting internet responses. Clare's in a different spot when it comes to covers. She has two for the football book. Will she share one with TB? Clare's laser focused on her 2023 goal and has attended a handful of football games. They crash on to the topic: business and marketing books. TB, being the history nut, shares books that helped guide her early on in her career. Clare isn't much of a nonfiction reader, but she has suggestions and bravo to the authors who kept her attention. Showing once again they come at questions differently, TB's book recs are the how-to type and Clare focused on mindset. What books do you recommend on business, marketing, and mindset? The duo is planning an ask us anything episode so let them know your questions. Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com and leave a comment on the episode. Happy listening! Clare and TB Links: How to Market a Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071NPVK28 Let's Get Digital: https://www.amazon.com/Lets-Get-Digital-Self-Publish-Publishing-ebook/dp/B08BTS57PC Atomic Habits: https://www.amazon.com/Atomic-Habits-Proven-Build-Break-ebook/dp/B07D23CFGR The Magic of Thinking Big: https://www.amazon.com/Magic-Thinking-Big-David-Schwartz-ebook/dp/B00NGZIR92 Write. Publish. Repeat.: https://www.amazon.com/Publish-Repeat-No-Luck-Required-Self-Publishing-Success-ebook/dp/B00H26IFJS Dear Writer Series: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B081QCQ5KH Newsletter Ninja: https://www.amazon.com/Newsletter-Ninja-Become-Author-Mailing-ebook/dp/B07C6J8HP9 7 FIGURE FICTION: https://www.amazon.com/FIGURE-FICTION-Universal-Fantasy-ANYONE-ebook/dp/B09FGZQV4D How to Write a Sizzling Synopsis: https://www.amazon.com/Write-Sizzling-Synopsis-Step-Step-ebook/dp/B01HYBWOF6 Get Rich, Lucky Bitch: https://www.amazon.com/Get-Rich-Lucky-Bitch-First-Class-ebook/dp/B078HW6H7K What I Wish I'd Known: https://www.amazon.com/What-Wish-Id-Known-Writers-ebook/dp/B0BRWXTP2F Clare's Valentine's Day Blog: https://www.clarelydon.co.uk/2023/02/sapphic-books-to-make-you-swoon/

In a rare instance, TB is the calmer of the two, even though she's been busy with publishing a box set and the next Lizzie story is with the editor! Clare shares the story of why she's so frazzled. Who knew saying thanks could be so hard? She brilliantly sums up the life of a writer: plot, write, plot, write. Find out what Clare plans to fondle in real life… They move on to the topic: Craft Books. Have we liked them? Have we learned anything from them? Clare finds craft books really dull, but she's the type who learns by doing. They share book titles, but TB cautions the listener to know themselves and to cobble together advice from all different sources to put a system in place that works for you. What craft books do you recommend? Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com to leave a comment on the episode. Happy listening! Clare and TB Links: With Love from London: https://mybook.to/WithLoveMarkinson The Emotion Thesaurus: https://www.amazon.com/Emotion-Thesaurus-Writers-Character-Expression/dp/0999296345 On Writing: https://www.amazon.com/Writing-Memoir-Craft-Stephen-King-ebook/dp/B000FC0SIM Romancing the Beat: https://www.amazon.com/Romancing-Beat-Structure-Romance-Kissing-ebook/dp/B01DSJSURY My Story Can Beat Up Your Story: https://www.amazon.com/Story-Can-Beat-Your-Screenplay/dp/1932907939 Wild Mind: https://www.amazon.com/Wild-Mind-Living-Writers-Life-ebook/dp/B005E834RE Take Off Your Pants!: https://www.amazon.com/Take-Off-Your-Pants-Outline-ebook/dp/B00UKC0GHA How to Write a Dirty Story: https://www.amazon.com/How-Write-Dirty-Story-Publishing-ebook/dp/B000FC0PY4 Story: https://www.amazon.com/Story-Structure-Substance-Principles-Screenwriting-ebook/dp/B0042FZVOY Wired for Story: https://www.amazon.com/Wired-Story-Writers-Science-Sentence-ebook/dp/B005X0JTGI  

They start the episode brilliantly by Clare freezing during the intro, making TB chuckle. TB has a lot going on, including an upcoming in-person GCLS event in New Jersey that she's looking forward to. Clare had a fab time in Whitstable, where she accomplished a lot of plotting. As usual, the duo exchange barbs, support each other, and Clare reveals some fantastic and unexpected perks of doing this podcast. They crash on to the topic: making habits that stick. TB excels at bad habits but wants to get into the swing of forming good habits, so this episode is just what she needs. Starting off can be easy but making a habit stick can be a struggle. The duo shares their own experiences, tips, and honesty. Also, find out what Clare is learning from the Druids, and now they both want to become Druids. Although neither of them knows if Druids were good or bad in history. Have you tried making new habits this year? How are they going? Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com and leave a comment on the episode. Happy listening! Clare and TB Links: GCLS New Jersey Event: https://www.goldencrownliterarysociety.org/2023-njregional-event Clare's Event at The Hive: http://www.thehiveworcester.org/Clare_Lydon/Clare_Lydon.html Favorite Scene Submission Deets: https://iheartsapphfic.com/writerlywednesday/join-the-favorite-scenes-anthology/

Before TB & Clare break down their 2023 goals, they catch the listeners up with what's been going on in their lives since they last spoke way back in December. TB, in shocking news, is stressed. (When isn't she?) It's not all bad in her world because that would be sad. Clare makes a brave declaration about her football book and getting back on track after having a lovely holiday season. During their catchup, there's confusion, jokes, and Clare admitted TB was right once. Victory! They crash on to the topic: 2023 goals. Clare surprises TB yet again in this episode by saying Clare's coming around to TB's way of thinking when it comes to thinking about goals, which is loosey-goosey to allow for pivoting. That doesn't mean they don't have anything to talk about, because the duo is the talkative sort. Have a listen to find out what they're focusing on this year. What are your 2023 goals? Do you have business book recommendations for Clare? Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com, and leave a comment on the episode. Happy listening! Clare and TB Link: Clare's blog post: https://www.clarelydon.co.uk/2023/01/my-goals-for-2023/#more-10399

On the morning of the I Heart SapphFic Mega Sale, the website was down. Yikes! Luckily, the website came back, and the sale was a big success. The launch of Christmas at Rainbow Falls has gone well. Now TB & Miranda are busy organizing the 2023 IHS Reading Challenge, planning the last 99-c sale in 2022, and they've started writing season 2 of A London Love Story. Lots going on! Clare has been unwell and recently underwent surgery, which went off smoothly and she's recuperating. Unfortunately, before the surgery, she had a 4-day migraine. Because of all of that, she doesn't have a lot of work news to report. Clare's in hot demand for podcasts! In good news, she's had some fun and her house is decorated for the holidays. Hooray! They move on to the topic: how has your 2022 gone? They start off by describing their years with 3 words, but they don't leave it at that, naturally. They break down what they've accomplished, the curveballs thrown their way, and how they pivoted. What are your 3 words to sum up your 2022? Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com and leave a comment on the episode. Please note, the next episode will come out on Monday, January 16th. Happy listening! Clare and TB Links: Christmas at Rainbow Falls: https://mybook.to/ChristmasAtRainbowFallsMarkinson

Christmas at Rainbow Falls has been published! In the back of the book is a bonus scene for Take Two, which has a connection to Christmas at Rainbow Falls. TB wants more rainbows and is tired of all the hate in the world. The IHS Mega Sale is going on now through November 29. And, finally, it's the home stretch of NaNo. Write TB. Write! The Christmas Catch launch has settled down, but the narrator fell through. In good Clare audio news, It Started with a Kiss will be out soon! The football book is going on forever, so it needs some work. Clare had a fab time in Portugal, and she played beer pong for the first time. Now that she's rested, it's time to tear into the footy book. TB has a novel solution to the footy book issue that Clare doesn't seem to truly appreciate. They move on to the topic: what to-dos are on your author business list? They share the tasks that must get done, including ones they've been putting off because they don't wanna do them. Recording the episode causes them to freak out and it's depressing how much always needs to get done. Let us know what you think? Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com, and leave a comment on the episode. Or you can email them at: lesbianswhowrite@gmail.com. Happy listening! Clare and TB Links: Christmas at Rainbow Falls: https://mybook.to/ChristmasAtRainbowFallsMarkinson Take Two: https://mybook.to/TakeTwoMarknson IHS Mega Sale: https://iheartsapphfic.com/2022/11/25/mega-sale-page-1/ It Started with a Kiss: https://www.clarelydon.co.uk/books/it-started-with-a-kiss/ The Christmas Catch: https://www.clarelydon.co.uk/books/the-christmas-catch/

TB and Miranda got Christmas at Rainbow Falls to the editor on time, but it was a close call. TB is joining the daily Zoom NaNo sprints every day, and she's getting words on the page. The weather has been on the warm side in November, allowing TB and Miranda to meet up in Concord for their tradition when they start a new project. On a particularly warm day (record-breaker), TB was battling a fever from her Covid and flu jabs. Clare also got her Covid jab, but she didn't get sick. Sadly, things keep going wrong with The Christmas Catch launch. In good writing news, Clare is getting back into the writing swing with the footie book and an author buddy helped her out with some of the plot issues, although TB has the perfect solution. Audio fans: It Started with a Kiss will be available soon! Clare's in Portugal for a week. Exciting times! They crash on to embarrassing stories from their lives that they've put into books. TB recommended this topic because she thinks people could use more laughter and both of them have plenty of silly moments they aren't afraid to share. Let us know what you think? Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com, and leave a comment on the episode. Or you can email them at: lesbianswhowrite@gmail.com. Happy listening! Clare and TB Links: I Heart SapphFic Author Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ihlauthorforum IHS NaNo Sprints: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ihlauthorforum/permalink/521938029357763 It Started with a Kiss: https://www.clarelydon.co.uk/books/it-started-with-a-kiss/ The Christmas Catch: https://www.clarelydon.co.uk/books/the-christmas-catch/

TB and Miranda are furiously working on their November 1 edit, and they can't blow past the deadline because it's a Christmas book and there's no time to waste. This has been the story of TB's year. Needing to make one grueling deadline after another and it's exhausting. Once TB meets this deadline, she starts right in on Nano. There's no rest in sight for TB! Quite a lot is happening in Clare's world. The Christmas Catch has launched, but it wasn't a smooth one. The ebook took five full days to publish, which is highly unusual. Clare attended the Kindle Storyteller Award. She didn't win, but she's a winner to all sapphic readers and authors. The good news, the night was so lovely, and all the authors were supportive of each other. It's beautiful to see! They move on to the topic: What was the inspiration for your last 3 books? This is one of the most common questions authors are asked, so Clare and TB discuss their most recent books. The conversation proves you never know where inspiration will come from, and TB is shocked by one of Clare's admissions. Let us know what you think? Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com, and leave a comment on the episode. Or you can email them at: lesbianswhowrite@gmail.com. Happy listening! Clare and TB Links: I Heart SapphFic Author Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ihlauthorforum IHS Mega Sale Form: https://forms.gle/7pttb1SUT1WHTEqw7 The Christmas Catch: https://www.clarelydon.co.uk/books/the-christmas-catch/

TB is frazzled after a very stressful week that involved launching Devil's Advocate and the new I Heart SapphFic website. In good news, Devil's Advocate reached #1 in Lesbian Romance and Lesbian Fiction and the website debut went well! What a relief! TB is ready for a weekend away and is heading to Ptown for Women's Week. This is the launch week for The Christmas Catch. Toot toot! It's packed with Christmas feels and humor. Clare forgot, again, how time consuming book releases are. Now it's time to turn her attention back to the football book. Sadly, Clare hasn't been feeling all that well. Please send positive thoughts. In exciting news, It Started with a Kiss has been shortlisted for the Kindle Storyteller Award. They move on to the topic. TB asks, if you were offered a mentorship with the leading expert in one area of the writing business (craft, creative skills, time management, marketing, editing, business, etc.), which skill would you choose and who would you want to learn from? Have a listen to learn their answers. Let us know what you think? Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com, and leave a comment on the episode. Or you can email them at: lesbianswhowrite@gmail.com. Happy listening! Clare and TB Links: The Christmas Catch: https://www.clarelydon.co.uk/books/the-christmas-catch/ It Started with a Kiss: https://www.clarelydon.co.uk/books/it-started-with-a-kiss/ Devil's Advocate: https://mybook.to/DevilsAdvocateMarkinson I Heart SapphFic: https://iheartsapphfic.com/

Devil's Advocate is with the ARC team, meaning it'll be live soon! The new website for I Heart SapphFic is about to launch. That means TB is launching a book and website at the same time. The website has a BookFinder that'll make finding sapphic books so much easier. The Christmas Catch is with the ARC team. The good news, the book makes Clare laugh, and she claims it's her funniest one yet. She's zipping along on the football, and she's been doing research by going to women's matches. The audio of Christmas in Mistletoe is out! They crash on to the mystery topic that Clare came up with: if you died tomorrow, what would happen to your business? They discuss the systems they have in place, although one of them is a wee bit more prepared. Have a listen to find out more. Let us know what you think. Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com to leave a comment on the episode. Or you can email them at: lesbianswhowrite@gmail.com. Happy listening! Clare and TB Database BookFinder Form: https://forms.gle/ywBM9WZVHyYGRNUp8 Christmas in Mistletoe: https://www.clarelydon.co.uk/books/christmas-in-mistletoe/

Devil's Advocate is with the editor and TB is enjoying the break. Now TB and Miranda are plotting their next two books. On I Heart SapphFic, there will be a Free Fall Event that runs September 21-23 and spoiler, all the books are free. TB's also organizing the IHS 2023 Reading Challenge, which she hopes will be bigger and better than this year's. There's a lot of pomp and ceremony going on in the UK right now, but Clare was still able to watch Saturday Kitchen. Clare's festive book should be out to the ARC team soon and the book will be published mid-October. The footie story is going strong, and Clare has a ton of audio news. Lastly, Clare celebrated her birthday! Toot toot! They crash on to the topic: universal pleasure buttons. Clare takes the reins and outlines why people are drawn to fictional stories. There's science behind this theory and Clare expertly walks listeners through everything to ensure you're hitting all the right pleasure buttons. Let us know what you think? Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com, and leave a comment on the episode. Or you can email them at: lesbianswhowrite@gmail.com. Happy listening! Clare and TB

TB and Miranda are furiously working on Devil's Advocate, which will be going to the editor soon! In audio news, TB hit approve on two audiobooks on the same day, and she's wondering if both will come out on the same day. On the I Heart SapphFic front, TB shares the name of the company who is redesigning the website and how it's connected to Shonda Rhimes. TB and Pepper, the car, just celebrated their one-year anniversary. Clare had a day of self-care, that included her feet, which TB didn't know was a thing, but is rethinking this oversight. Clare's Christmas novel has a cover, but she's not ready to reveal it yet. She tackled a huge job: sorting out her ARC team and it's possible she threatened them. Clare's still banging on two books and footy fans rejoice. The football story might get done before the next London installment. Don't fret, London fans. She'll get that book done. They bang on to the topic: talent. TB asks: do you think a person is born with talent or can it be nurtured? Clare, who hates being surprised, tackles TB's question with the usual aplomb while TB rambles, even though she knew the question ahead of time. Have a listen to hear their answers and to find out if they agree. What are your thoughts about talent? Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com, and leave a comment on the episode. Or you can email them at: lesbianswhowrite@gmail.com. Happy listening! Clare and TB

TB had problems with her mic, and the duo apologizes for the low volume when TB speaks. TB is back from her Maine writing retreat and she's more relaxed. Miranda & TB worked on Devil's Advocate at the lake house, and the temperatures were nice and cool. Now TB is thinking living in Maine might be a good idea. Another good thing: TB finally has feeling back in her fingers! Clare's got a new lease on the writing life and is working on two new projects. She keeps forgetting that her Christmas book is ready for launch and fingers crossed she doesn't space hitting the publish button in a couple of months. She's commissioned two audiobooks since the last recording. Two seems to be Clare's magic number these days. They crash on to the mystery topic. TB had no idea what question Clare wanted to delve into until Clare asked it live on air. Here's what she asked: What or who has inspired you the most this year? Have a listen to learn their answers and find out the UK football fact that sickens TB. What's inspired you this year and why? Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com, and leave a comment on the episode. Or you can email them at: lesbianswhowrite@gmail.com. Happy listening! Clare and TB Links: Follow Clare's Author Newsletter: www.clarelydon.co.uk/books/free-stuff/ Follow TB's Author Newsletter: https://eepurl.com/hg1ujX

TB and Miranda are working on Devil's Advocate, their next cowrite, but the heat and humidity are killing TB, making her sluggish and cranky. TB survived the IHS Christmas in July sale, which was the best yet. Sadly, Amazon is struggling with rankings yet again, so it was hard to tell by the charts. TB is currently in Maine on a writing retreat. Go TB, go! Clare got the Christmas book from the editor in 5 days! Word is, it's the funniest Clare Lydon book yet. The Brazilian translation of You're My Kind has been released. Unfortunately, it too is getting snagged in the Amazon ranking debacle. Clare went on a rant on Twitter about book returns and many authors cheered her on. Book pirates suck! They move on to the topic: conferences. Clare and TB have both been to conferences recently, so this chat is timely. One of the most popular questions the duo receives is whether conferences are worth the investment (travel, accommodations). It's a difficult question to answer since it's hard to see the return on the investment, but both Clare and TB believe the networking with other authors in real life cements deeper connections. Also, you learn loads of things. Have a listen and find out how they get distracted by a trash truck. Exciting times! What do you think of conferences? Love them? Hate them? Do you go? Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com, and leave a comment on the episode. Or you can email them at: lesbianswhowrite@gmail.com. Happy listening! Clare and TB Links: You're my Kind (Translation): www.clarelydon.co.uk/books/translations/de-volta-para-voce/  

Please note: due to the extreme heat in the UK on the day of recording, the audio cuts out at some points. Apologies! Pride Month is over and just in time since TB's left arm is rebelling about all the long hours at the laptop while launching the Pride Collection. She actually lost feeling in two fingers and it wasn't until heading to New Mexico without the laptop that the pain eased. Miranda threw TB under the bus in front a roomful of people at GCLS while they accepted a Goldie for The AM Show. It's hot as heck in Britain and Clare almost melted during the recording. She's just returned from two weeks off, but dove right back into work on her Christmas story because what better way is there to deal with the heat than to write about Christmas-y weather. Clare's launched a surprise Italian translation of Before You Say I Do. While at GCLS, many people told TB they enjoyed the show, but TB can't remember everyone's names. She wants to say thanks to everyone for being supportive in New Mexico and for being loyal listeners to the podcast. They crack on to the topic: half-year review. Clare did some digging to compare her progress to the goals she set at the beginning of the year, while TB winged it, which sums up their personalities. However, in a surprising twist, TB was much kinder to herself during the episode and it must be the result of the heat wave, making her softer, while Clare was much harsher on herself. Have a listen to learn where they've succeeded and when they pivoted. How was your first half of the year? Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com, and leave a comment on the episode. Or you can email them at: lesbianswhowrite@gmail.com. Next week they'll be back to dish about conferences. Happy listening! Clare and TB Links: Pride Collection: iheartlesfic.com/pride-collection/ Christmas in July Sale: iheartlesfic.com/2022/07/22/christmas-in-july-99c-sale/ Before You Say I Do (Italian Translation): www.clarelydon.co.uk/books/translations/prima-di-dire-si-lo-voglio/ The AM Show: iheartlesfic.com/the-am-show/

TB's halfway through 30 days of Pride, which is part of the launch strategy for the Pride Collection. On the writing front, TB and Miranda have started a new writing project and TB is super excited about tapping out fresh words. In freaky news, TB is stumbling upon more snakes while hiking. Clare has been trying to launch It Started with a Kiss but Amazon is complicating the process. She's also battling Audible to get the correct categories for Change of Heart. It's not all bad news. The Brazilian translation for Before you Say I Do was prominently featured on the socials for a massive bookfair. Toot toot! They crack on to the topic: what's your relationship with money? TB didn't want to discuss this and is pretty sure Clare suggested it only to frustrate TB's aversion to numbers. They break down their relationship with money, starting with their backgrounds. As full-time writers running their own author businesses means they're constantly dealing with money. What's your relationship with money? Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com, and leave a comment on the episode. Or you can email them at: lesbianswhowrite@gmail.com. Programming note: due to scheduling conflicts the next episode will come out on July 25. Happy listening! Clare and TB Links: Pride Collection: iheartlesfic.com/pride-collection/ Change of Heart: www.clarelydon.co.uk/books/change-of-heart/ Before You Say I Do (Translation): www.clarelydon.co.uk/books/translations/antes-que-voce-diga-sim/ It Started with a Kiss: www.clarelydon.co.uk/books/it-started-with-a-kiss/

Programming note: the duo is scaling back and will start releasing episodes every other Monday. Happy Pride! TB's excited to announce the Pride Collection has officially launched!  Toot toot! Abby Craden has finished recording Two of a Kind and TB is excited to see how the audiobook release goes hopefully later this month. In relaxing news, TB's next editing deadline isn't until August. She plans on crashing for a few days to recover from the Pride launch. Clare has had an intense week getting It Started with a Kiss ready for publication, although she's forgotten how to set up direct sales on BookFunnel. Finally, the audio version of Change of Heart is out! Clare has to get her next book off the editor by the end of June because she's going away for two weeks in July. To celebrate getting her book done, she's off to a barbeque party. They crack on to the topic: trigger warnings. They break down what trigger warnings are, when to include them, and discuss how they can be divisive. Have a listen to find out if you should add a trigger warning or not. Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com, and leave a comment on the episode. Or you can email them at: lesbianswhowrite@gmail.com. They'll be back in two weeks to discuss their relationship with money. Happy listening! Clare and TB Links: Pride Collection: iheartlesfic.com/pride-collection/ Change of Heart: www.clarelydon.co.uk/books/change-of-heart/ It Started with a Kiss: www.clarelydon.co.uk/books/it-started-with-a-kiss/

Programming note: the duo is scaling back and will start releasing episodes twice a month. TB just got back from a weekend trip to the beach and she's a bit more relaxed than normal. Shocking!  In great news, Take Two in the Pride Collection, which TB and Miranda cowrote, is back from editing and should be heading to the ARC team soon. Toot toot! Now TB is focused on launching the Pride Collection, which is much more stressful than she thought and she's losing her mind. Clare just returned from Paris, where she'd gone with her lovely wife to celebrate their anniversary. Now she's prepping It Started with a Kiss for publication, but it's been 8 months since the last launch and she's pretty much forgotten everything she needs to do. Given all the turmoil that's happened in her life, Clare is looking forward to getting back to a routine. Her next writing project is her Christmas novel. Holly jolly time! They crack on to the topic: travel in fiction. This episode is timely since both of them recently returned from trips, which is why there wasn't a new episode last Monday. Both love to travel and experience news things and as writers they find inspiration for stories. Come away with them… Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com, and leave a comment on the episode. Or you can email them at: lesbianswhowrite@gmail.com. They'll be back next week with more sparkly conversation. Happy listening! Clare and TB Links: A London Love Story Outtakes: www.mirandamacleod.com/a-london-love-story Pride Collection: iheartlesfic.com/pride-collection/ I Heart SapphFic Amazon Gift Card Entry: iheartlesfic.com/2022/05/20/celebrating-five-years/

TB is neck deep in getting her pride novel ready for the June 1 launch. But it's even more complicated, because there are 8 books in the Pride Collection, so, she's coordinating 8 authors and let's just say, being organized isn't TB's jam. The rebranding of IHL to I Heart SapphFic is making everything take so long and TB is kicking herself for launching the Pride Collection and changing the website all at once. Did we mention she's a terrible planner? Clare's book is back from the editor and she's been avoiding like a pro. It should be noted, her father's funeral is this week, so it's understandable. She's been doing bits and bobs with social media and getting admin work out of the way. In good news, Clare attended a Tottenham match, and they won! In giggling news, Clare rediscovered a beaver fever shirt from her teen years. They crack on to the topic: what are you doing for you this year? It's important to make time for yourself and have a listen to see how Clare and TB spend their “me” time. What are you doing for you this year? Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com, and leave a comment on the episode. Or you can email them at: lesbianswhowrite@gmail.com. They'll be back next week with more sparkly conversation. Happy listening! Clare and TB Link: Pride Collection: iheartlesfic.com/pride-collection/  

The duo is back! TB is super stressed, which seems to be her normal state these days. A London Love Story, the Kindle Vella series, has been published as an ebook and paperback. Somehow TB has gotten herself in the middle of a BDSM debacle. In great news, all 8 books in Pride Collection, which TB and Miranda spearheaded to celebrate IHL's fifth anniversary, are available for preorder, and they'll go live on June 1. Launching two projects just wasn't enough to manage at once, so TB and Miranda are also in the middle of rebranding IHL to I Heart SapphFic. No wonder TB's stressed! Clare just returned from her trip to Jamaica. In fact, she landed hours before recording. (TB said they could wait a week for Clare to recover, but she's that dedicated to LWW listeners.) If she sounds knackered, that's the reason! She did such a fab job emceeing the wedding, and it might become her side gig. Kidding… maybe. While in Jamaica, she finished her book and sent it off to the editor. It wasn't all work. She read two fab books and enjoyed the liquid sunshine, family time, and a cocktail or two. They crack on to the topic: dealing with change. TB suggested this topic since she's been dealing with a lot of change on the professional front, and Clare has been dealing with a lot of change in her personal life, including an emotional announcement. Have a listen, and send love Clare's way. Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com, and leave a comment on the episode. Or you can email them at: lesbianswhowrite@gmail.com. They'll be back next week with more sparkly conversation. Happy listening! Clare and TB Links: A London Love Story: iheartlesfic.com/a-london-love-story-by-miranda-macleod-tb-markinson/ Pride Collection: iheartlesfic.com/pride-collection/ IHL Big Announcement: iheartlesfic.com/2022/04/23/big-announcement/

Programming note: The duo is taking some time off. TB loves it when Clare calls TB coast, instead of co-host. It's an adorable quirk. TB and Miranda MacLeod are working on their pride novella, but both are a wee bit burned out, so they're baby-stepping their way back into another writing project. A London Love Story, the Kindle Vella series, will be published as an ebook on April 25th. Finally, readers outside of the US can read it! Clare's book is heading to the editor. Hooray! She's still not convinced it won't end her career, but TB gently reminds her it's still in the editing stage, meaning things can be fixed, not that the book will have to be fixed. In not so good news, Clare went running and buggered her hip. In possibly the best news ever, a new brewery has opened near Clare's home. Now she can run there, drink some pints to numb the pain, and stumble back home. Brilliant! They crack on to listener questions. The questions range from favorite musicians to how to find an affordable editor. Tune in to learn what listeners were dying to ask them and how Clare and TB answer. Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com, and leave a comment on the episode. Or you can email them at: lesbianswhowrite@gmail.com. Remember, the duo is taking some time off. Happy listening! Clare and TB Links: iReadIndies: ireadindies.com/resources.html Lesfic Marketing Alliance: www.facebook.com/groups/233876183742675 How to Find an Editor Episode: lesbianswhowrite.com/lww-128-how-to-find-an-editor/

TB is very upsetti spaghetti. After some nice warm days, snow and cold temps have returned, and TB is done with winter. In good news, Two of a Kind, the cowrite with Miranda MacLeod has published. Toot toot! In bad news, two episodes ago, TB struggled to get the podcast episode up and running. She had to take down the episode, a couple of times, and then she waited for half a day for the podcast host to fix the problem. So, if you noticed the episode appearing, disappearing, and reappearing, that's why. Clare has also had goods and bads since the last episode. Her vineyard book is almost ready for the editor, and Clare's at the stage where she thinks this book will end her career. It won't, but most authors experience this close to finishing a project. She's also dealing with an IngramSpark hilarity nightmare. Unlike the weather in Massachusetts, spring is happening in London. In fantastic news, Clare had her big movie premier at the BFI, and her scenes weren't cut. Sadly, the same can't be said about the scenes featuring Clare's wife. They bang on to the topic: first quarter review. The duo breaks down how their quarters have gone. Have a listen to find out what's gone according to plan, what obstacles they've encountered and how they pivoted, and what parts need more work, or as TB likes to say, “Big fat fail.” How did your first quarter go? Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com, and leave a comment on the episode. Or you can email them at: lesbianswhowrite@gmail.com. Next week, they'll be answering listener questions. Happy listening! Clare and TB Links: A London Love Story: www.amazon.com/A-London-Love-Story/dp/B09KP4SRJ5/ Two of a Kind: iheartlesfic.com/two-of-a-kind-by-tb-markinson-miranda-macleod/ Jae's Sapphic Author Resources: tinyletter.com/JaeAuthor/letters/helpful-resources-an-anthology-of-excerpts Clare's First Quarter Report: www.clarelydon.co.uk/2022/03/my-first-quarter-report/ Best Sapphic Age Gap Poll: iheartlesfic.com/2022/03/28/vote-for-best-sapphic-age-gap/

TB is full-on panicking. She and Miranda MacLeod are prepping Two of a Kind for publication, and after her last two releases were torpedoed, TB is even more panicky than usual. All 80 episodes of A London Love Story, season 1, are now live on Kindle Vella! TB has started her pride novella for the IHL Pride Collection coming out on June 1 with other fab sapphic authors. Finally, TB went on a walkabout in Boston when the sun was out, something she hasn't seen much of in the past 3 months. Clare has extended her writing deadline due to life happening. The good news, she's on draft three, and she doesn't think it's complete shite. She took a mental health day to read a book, and she's going out for karaoke. Her go-to songs are “Teenage Dirtbag” and “Copacabana.” Speaking of music, Clare is rocking Heardle, a game that's like Wordle, but you have to guess the song after hearing a snippet. They crash on to the topic: write your holiday novel now. Clare, the holiday lover, takes the reins of this episode. She outlines everything to take into account, including when to start writing, ideal time to release, and why to add a holiday story to your backlist. Are you planning to write a festive book? Head over to lesbianswhowrite.com, and leave a comment on the episode. Or you can email them at: lesbianswhowrite@gmail.com. Next week, they'll be answering your burning questions. Happy listening! Clare and TB Links: A London Love Story: https://www.amazon.com/A-London-Love-Story/dp/B09KP4SRJ5/ Two of a Kind: Add link: iheartlesfic.com/two-of-a-kind-by-tb-markinson-miranda-macleod/

We're gathering questions for an Ask Us Anything episode, so please send some our way. This is the last week of season 1 of A London Love Story. For 16 weeks, TB and Miranda have been publishing 5 episodes each week, meaning there are 80 in total. Two of a Kind is heading to the ARC team this week. Toot toot! In bad news, TB just figured out the LWW Buy Us a Coffee account had mysteriously been unconnected from the Stripe account, so all payments submitted in 2022 were never processed. It's been reconnected to Stripe, and payments can go through now. Clare has had a lot of things going on in the background, so she hasn't made as much progress as she wanted to on the vineyard book. In business news, she's testing different prices on platforms. This Friday is Clare's movie debut at the British Film Institute. To refresh your memory, she's part of a butch gang in the film, but she's not sure of how much airtime she'll get or what scenes ended up on the editing floor. In award news, Clare finally received her 2021 Goldie, and it's beautiful. They move on to the topic: the power of finishing. Since TB is finishing two projects, she walks the listener through all the to-dos to get a book to the publication and launch stage. Then, TB shares how she manages everything and what helps her dig deep to find the energy to power through the tedious end stage of a project. Clare came at the question differently and focused on the mindset of the power of finishing. How do you power through? Also, don't forget to send us questions for the Ask Us Anything episode. Head over to www.lesbianswhowrite.com, and leave a comment on the episode. Or you can email them at: lesbianswhowrite@gmail.com. Next week, they'll be back to chat about when to start your holiday novel. Happy listening! Clare and TB Links: A London Love Story: www.amazon.com/A-London-Love-Story/dp/B09KP4SRJ5/