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This week we are joined by Maria J. Morillo. Maria J. Morillo is a born and raised Venezuelan ESL teacher, translator, and author of love stories featuring Venezuelan women getting absolutely everything they've always wanted. When she's not writing, you can find her leading the choir at her local church. She currently lives in Maturin, Venezuela, with her family. Her debut novel is The Ex-Perimento. In this episode, Maria J. Morillo shares her journey as a debut author, discussing the excitement and challenges of publishing her first novel. She reflects on her transition from writing in Spanish to English, the influence of fandom on her writing, and the importance of creating relatable characters. Maria also emphasizes her passion for teaching English and her desire to showcase Venezuelan culture through her work. The discussion highlights the significance of community and reader engagement in her writing journey.Recommendations From This Episode:Love ActuallyThe Kissing BoothFollow Maria: @mariajmorilloauthorFollow Carly: @carlyjmontagFollow Emily: @thefunnywalshFollow the podcast: @aloneatlunchpodPlease rate and review the podcast! Spread the word! Tell your friends! Email us: aloneatlunch@gmail.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Is there anything you wouldn't do for your favorite person? That question is at the center of Sarah Harman's debut novel All the Other Mothers Hate Me. The book follows a single mom, Florence, who goes to extreme lengths to defend her son when he becomes a suspect in the disappearance of his school bully. In today's episode, Harman tells NPR's Ayesha Rascoe about her misfit protagonist and her observations of British culture from an outsider's perspective.To listen to Book of the Day sponsor-free and support NPR's book coverage, sign up for Book of the Day+ at plus.npr.org/bookofthedayLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Author Daniyal Mueenuddin has hit the ground running with his debut novel, This is Where the Serpent Lives. Set in modern Pakistan, the story spans generations and explores class, corruption, and crime — themes that Mueenuddin says he believes might resonate with American readers in particular. In today's episode, Mueenuddin speaks with NPR's Scott Simon about his novel-writing process for This is Where the Serpent Lives, and why he sprinkled subtle autobiographical details across its pages.To listen to Book of the Day sponsor-free and support NPR's book coverage, sign up for Book of the Day+ at plus.npr.org/bookofthedayLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.What happens when you don't give up on writing—even after a failed debut attempt, agent rejections, and a long detour through corporate life? In this episode, I'm joined by London-based author Rosie Storey, whose debut novel Dandelion Is Dead is finally making its U.S. release.We talk honestly about Rosie's nonlinear publishing journey, the persistence it takes to keep writing after rejection, and why messy, mid-thirties lives deserve to be at the center of fiction. We also dive into Dandelion Is Dead—a sharp, emotionally layered novel about grief, identity, and the lies we tell when we're trying to survive loss. Plus, Rosie shares three literary recommendations that balance humor and heartbreak beautifully.
Brisa Carleton joins Fresh Fiction to talk about LAST CALL AT THE SAVOY, forgotten women in history, and how a Broadway producer became a debut novelist.
Adam Davies discusses "The Frog King," his 2002 debut novel about a chaotic editorial assistant in New York publishing. The book made a lot of people in the industry mad.
Send us a textIn today's episode, I'm chatting with Connie Richardson. Connie is the debut author of Rapid City Summer. She teaches middle school English and Language Arts in the Chicago suburbs. She has published articles, short stories, and blog posts for the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) and Scribbler. Additionally, Connie is a former graduate and current mentor in author Mary Adkin's MFA-alternate program, The Book Incubator. When she is not teaching or writing, she enjoys fly-fishing out west, running, coaching cross-country and track & field, and cooking for her family and friends. This episode with Connie is so much fun, and her energy and passion for reading shine through the entire conversation. We talk about big life moments, the joy of finally seeing a debut novel out in the world, and what it means to fall in love with stories that open doors to new experiences. Episode Highlights:Writing for the space between middle grade and YA, which Connie calls lower YA.Her work as an ELA teacher and her school's participation in a One Book, One School program that brings authors directly to studentsHow Rapid City Summer is set in South Dakota and centers around the niche topic of fly fishingWhy Connie loves writing and reading niche topics that readers may never experience firsthandA book flight featuring middle grade and YA novels that readers of all ages can connect toConnect with Connie:InstagramFacebookWebsiteBooks and authors mentioned in the episode:The Mystery of Locked Rooms by Lindsay CurrieSlider by Peter HautmanSunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne CollinsAlone by Megan FreemanCarrie Soto is Back by Taylor Jenkins ReidHarry Potter series by J.K. RowlingIt's Not Summer Without You by Jenny HanBook FlightThe Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny HanThe Canyon's Edge by Dusti BowlingThe Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants by Ann Brashares✨ Find Your Next Great Read! We just hit 175 episodes of Bookish Flights, and to celebrate, I created the Bookish Flights Roadmap — a guide to all 175 podcast episodes, sorted by genre to help you find your next great read faster.Explore it here → www.bookishflights.com/read/roadmapSupport the showBe sure to join the Bookish Flights community on social media. Happy listening! Instagram Facebook Website
Quiara Alegría Hudes is the Pulitzer Prize–winning playwright of “Water by the Spoonful” and the musical “In the Heights,” which won the Tony Award for Best Musical, and which she adapted for the screen. Her memoir, “My Broken Language,” was longlisted for the Andrew Carnegie Medal. Her essays have appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Cut, The Nation, and American Theater Magazine.In her debut novel “The White Hot,” published last month by One World, April Soto writes a letter to her 18 year-old daughter, Noelle, explaining what happened - and why - she abandoned her 10 years prior.
Pippa Hudson speaks to British Japanese writer Emma Nanami Strenner, whose debut novel My Other Heart has drawn on her own experience of growing up a child of multiple cultural roots, and the consequent grappling with issues of identity and belonging. Lunch with Pippa Hudson is CapeTalk’s mid-afternoon show. This 2-hour respite from hard news encourages the audience to take the time to explore, taste, read, and reflect. The show - presented by former journalist, baker and water sports enthusiast Pippa Hudson - is unashamedly lifestyle driven. Popular features include a daily profile interview #OnTheCouch at 1:10 pm. Consumer issues are in the spotlight every Wednesday while the team also unpacks all things related to health, wealth & the environment. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Lunch with Pippa Hudson Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays between 13:00 and 15:00 (SA Time) to Lunch with Pippa Hudson broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/MdSlWEs or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/fDJWe69 Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dan Houser, lead writer of Grand Theft Auto, on his debut dystopian novel A Better Paradise, about a video game which goes wrong. Renowned director Katie Mitchell on why she is stepping back from opera due to a culture of misogyny. And we hear how Native American artists and musicians are responding to environmental concerns, with artist Neal Ambrose-Smith and Pulitzer Prize winning composer Raven Chacon. Presenter: Kate Molleson Producer: Mark Crossan
Marisa Kashino turns being new to publishing into a superpower, revealing her surprising journey from first draft to the darkly funny thriller, Best Offer Wins.Being brand-new to publishing turned out to be this author's secret weapon in landing her book deal. This week on Book Gang, we're stepping into the ruthless, dream-chasing world of real estate with Marisa Kashino, journalist and author of Best Offer Wins. She shares how the freedom from expectations fueled her thriller's creativity and story structure, how her query journey unfolded with unexpected serendipity, and why stepping into fiction opened doors she never imagined… including an adaptation already in the works.In this heartwarming and hilarious conversation, we discuss:
Discover the writing hack that Emma Pattee uncovered with a creativity coach, which helped her debut novel, Tilt, transition from her Google Drive to publication.Emma Pattee, climate journalist and fiction writer, joins the Book Gang podcast to discuss her heartpounding debut novel, Tilt. In Tilt, we follow a pregnant woman through a single, intense day as an earthquake hits Portland, where Pattee blends the chaos of the city with the intimate messiness of her marriage and motherhood journey.In our virtual walk with Emma through Portland, we explore:
Salty Chat with Author Heather Colley and her debut novel that dropped on Oct 21, 2025, 'The Gilded Butterfly' a hilarious but unflinching look at today's U.S. college campus experience, from the highs and lows of the non-stop party scene to the absurdities of modern psychiatric care, the implications of prescription drug abuse and campus sexual assault. Heather is a PhD student in English Literature at Oxford University. She holds a master's degree in literature from St Andrews University and a bachelor's degree in the same subject from the University of Michigan Ann Arbor. Her short fiction has won awards including the Oxford Review of Books short fiction prize, the Hopwood Award, the BNU-Oxford short fiction prize (runner-up), and the Desperate Literature Prize shortlist.Book Lovers, grab a copy: The Gilded Butterfly EffectSupport with Tips via Cashapp or PaypalRed Light Therapy BeltAcupressure Mat & Pillow Set Get Hulu FREE for 30 Days Try Armra Colostrum 30% Off80% Off First Order Fabletics50% Off F Factor Meals50% Off AAA The Real Law of AttractionEarth's Healing & Grounding ToolAnti Aging Hacks(aff)
“Conform” author Ariel Sullivan sits down with Jenna Bush Hager to discuss publishing her debut novel through Jenna's publish imprint Thousand Voices and fulfilling her dream of becoming a writer. Sullivan opens up about how she wove her childhood and later struggle as a stay-at-home mom with postpartum depression into the story and introduced the book to Jenna during a playdate for their sons George and Hal. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Notes and Links to Shea Serrano's Work Shea Serrano is an American author, journalist, humorist, and former teacher. He is best known for his work with the sports and pop culture websites, The Ringer and Grantland, as well as his books, including The Rap Year Book, Basketball and Movies, all of which were The New York Times best-sellers. Buy Expensive Basketball Shea Serrano's Wikipedia Page Expensive Basketball Review and Interview for San Antonio Express At about 2:00, Shea notes his accomplishments involving having multiple bestsellers as a Mexican-American writer At about 3:30, Pete remarks on the intensive research process that Shea undertook for this book and notes a possible “typo” At about 5:15, Shea responds to Pete's question about which writers inspired him as a kid, and Shea transitions into talking about writing as an untapped career At about 6:30, Shea gives background on how Chuck Klosterman's work amazed him and inspired him to become a writer, as well as how Bill Simmons' work proved aspirational for Shea At about 8:45, Shea responds to Pete's question about what texts his middle-school students enjoyed, and he details some interesting lessons and points and connections he would teach, and Pete is surprised to learn that Shea taught science At about 10:40, Shea makes an interesting point about why he decided to teach science At about 11:35, Shea highlights his journey in knowing and working with Bill Simmons At about 13:35, Shea expands on the definition of the book's title, Expensive Basketball At about 16:00, Shea details the chapter in the book about Tim Duncan At about 18:20, Shea talks about his chapter on Kobe Bryant and being “overcome with emotion” during Kobe's last game At about 22:10, more about “Timmy” and all that could have been with the 2010s Oklahoma Thunder At about 23:20, Shea expands on “the coolest basketball player in the world” in Allen Iverson At about 26:05, Pete wonders about Sue Bird's staying power, and Shea expands upon being drawn to the WNBA through the dynamic 2018 Playoffs At about 28:25, Pete and Shea discuss different types of trash talk and trash talk preferences At about 30:00, Shea waxes poetic about the “before” and “after” for Ajá Wilson At about 34:45, the two discuss why and why not for Vince Carter's dunk on Frederic Weis as the greatest dunk ever At about 36:05, Shea names his best dunk of all-time At about 36:40, Pete highlights a great dunk from Michael Jordan At about 37:30, the two stan Reggie Miller-both as a broadcaster and a player At about 40:00, Steph Curry's “beautiful” shot is discussed, as well as his possible sunset as a beautiful player At about 41:30, Shea traces the incredible ending of the 2024 Olympics Basketball gold medal game and Curry's At about 43:35, Shea discusses the pain and pleasure of the book's “Grail and Ghost Stories” At about 44:35, Pete highlights the “Miscellaneous” chapter in the book, and Pete and Shea lament the horrors of Robert Horry's dagger At about 46:55, Pete complains about Jason Williams, despite his At about 47:45, Shea responds to Pete's questions about how to properly write about Shaq and his dominance, highlighting the ways in which even the greats talked about their awe of Shaq At about 51:25, The two discuss connections between the 1993 Charlotte Hornets and Steve Urkel, as well as the chapter about this team and its resonance At about 54:00, The two reflect on the singlemindness of the greatest of the great At about 55:10, Pete hits Shea with some rapid-fire questions, and Shea responds with the “0.4 Seconds Game,” Derek Fisher hate, a controversial take on Drake's “Forever,” “off-the-wall bars,” the best concerts he's ever been to, and “Remember[ing] Some Guys” You can now subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, and leave me a five-star review. You can also ask for the podcast by name using Alexa, and find the pod on Stitcher, Spotify, and on Amazon Music. Follow Pete on IG, where he is @chillsatwillpodcast, or on Twitter, where he is @chillsatwillpo1. You can watch other episodes on YouTube-watch and subscribe to The Chills at Will Podcast Channel. Please subscribe to both the YouTube Channel and the podcast while you're checking out this episode. Pete is very excited to have one or two podcast episodes per month featured on the website of Chicago Review of Books. The audio will be posted, along with a written interview culled from the audio. His conversation with Hannah Pittard, a recent guest, is up at Chicago Review. Sign up now for The Chills at Will Podcast Patreon: it can be found at patreon.com/chillsatwillpodcastpeterriehl Check out the page that describes the benefits of a Patreon membership, including cool swag and bonus episodes. Thanks in advance for supporting Pete's one-man show, DIY podcast and extensive reading, research, editing, and promoting to keep this independent podcast pumping out high-quality content! This month's Patreon bonus episode features an exploration of flawed characters, protagonists who are too real in their actions, and horror and noir as being where so much good and realistic writing takes place. Pete has added a $1 a month tier for “Well-Wishers” and Cheerleaders of the Show. This is a passion project, a DIY operation, and Pete would love for your help in promoting what he's convinced is a unique and spirited look at an often-ignored art form. The intro song for The Chills at Will Podcast is “Wind Down” (Instrumental Version), and the other song played on this episode was “Hoops” (Instrumental)” by Matt Weidauer, and both songs are used through ArchesAudio.com. Please tune in for Episode 307 with Nicole Cuffy, the author of Dances, longlisted for the PEN/Hemingway Award for Debut Novel. Her chapbook, Atlas of the Body, won the Chautauqua Janus Prize and was a finalist for the Black River Chapbook Competition. Her 2025 critically-acclaimed novel is O Sinners! The episode is out today, October 28. Please go to ceasefiretoday.org, and/or https://act.uscpr.org/a/letaidin to call your congresspeople and demand an end to the forced famine and destruction of Gaza and the Gazan people.
Episode 607 - M C Paas - Debut novel Broken Rules of The Hunt and of the Fight- Dark romantic suspenseM.C.Paas writes dark romantic suspense where happily ever after is earned through shadows, secrets, and a heartbeat of danger. Her obsession with storytelling began at fourteen with a single poem and has grown into six completed manuscripts that blend pulse pounding stakes with sinful chemistry. Her debut novel Broken Rules of The Hunt strands two broken souls on opposite sides of a crime that could destroy them or bind them forever.When she's not plotting twisted fates, M.C. haunts Estonian coffeehouses, sketches gothic‑tinged art, and spoils her horses to no end. A certified bookworm, she lives for late night page turners and reader DMs.Book: BROKEN RULES OF THE HUNTWildcat is an elite criminal, thriving in a world built on danger and deception. But when an unknown syndicate places a massive bounty on her head, she becomes the hunted. Betrayed by the very criminal society she once ruled, Wildcat is thrust into a high stakes game of survival where every move could be her last.Enter Fox, a seductive and cunning rival. Torn between claiming the bounty or helping her uncover the dark secrets of her past, he becomes both Wildcat's greatest threat and her only chance at survival. With powerful enemies closing in and her heart on the line, Wildcat must decide: can she trust the man who has the power to destroy her? Or will falling for him be her most dangerous gamble yet?In a world where loyalty is deadly and betrayal is currency, the ultimate prize is her life and the cost of love could be her death.This is a pulse pounding tale of passion, betrayal, and high stakes danger, where the price of trust is survival, and the ultimate heist is her heart.Book: BROKEN RULES OF THE FIGHTIn the brutal world of the Undercrowd, Serpent has built his own empire. An underground fighting ring where only men step into the cage. It keeps things simple. Controlled. But when his search for his abducted sister leads him to the Russian Bratva's human trafficking network, his path collides with the last person he ever expected to see alive – Phoenix.Once a rising star in the ring, Phoenix was supposed to be dead. Now, she's an Undercrowder, a ghost in the criminal underworld, fighting for survival. And she might be the key to unraveling the Bratva's secrets. Serpent swore he'd never deal with female fighters again, but Phoenix isn't just any fighter. She's a force of nature.To take down the Bratva and uncover the truth, they'll have to break every rule, fight against their pasts, and trust each other in a world where trust is a death sentence.Because in the Undercrowd, the only thing deadlier than the fight itself… is coming back from the grave.https://mcpaaswrites.com/Support the show___https://livingthenextchapter.com/podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks!https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca
Months after receiving an Oscar nomination for his first feature film, Sugarcane, Julian Brave NoiseCat says the whole experience is still surreal. On this episode of Face to Face, NoiseCat discusses the film and his debut book, We Survived the Night. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/
Welcome to Autumn-ish Book Club! In this flash analysis series, we take an academic approach to some of the most talked-about books in Romantasy and fantasy today. With over 13 years of combined academic literary training, we bring a critical lens to fandom favorites while keeping the discussion fun, thought-provoking, and accessible. In this episode, we're discussing The Jasad Heir by Sara Hashem. We explore how Hashem intertwines Egyptian-inspired mythology with epic fantasy politics to tell a story of rebellion, identity, and survival. Through Sylvia's journey as the last heir of a fallen kingdom forced into hiding, we analyze themes of legacy, vengeance, and the tension between duty and desire. We also unpack how Hashem uses slow-burn romance, political intrigue, and moral ambiguity to craft a richly layered debut that challenges traditional hero narratives within the Romantasy genre. This episode is perfect for listeners looking for a Jasad Heir book discussion or in-depth Sara Hashem analysis, as we explore how her world-building, magic system, and character dynamics position her among the next generation of standout Romantasy authors. Whether you're drawn to stories of secret royalty, forbidden love, or morally gray magic, this conversation dives deep into what makes The Jasad Heir a must-read for fantasy fans and BookTok readers alike. This season, we'll be covering:The Hunger Games by Suzanne CollinsA Cruel Thirst by Angela MontoyaWhen the Moon Hatched by Sarah A. ParkerWhere the Shadows Meet by Patrice CaldwellBlood of Hercules by Jasmin MasBlood Over Bright Haven by M.L. WangRed Queen by Victoria AveyardThe Jasad Heir by Sara Hashem And when book club wraps up, get ready—our next full literary analysis will dive into Heir of Fire by Sarah J. Maas. If you're new here, we also have full seasons analyzing A Court of Thorns and Roses, A Court of Mist and Fury, A Court of Wings and Ruin, A Court of Frost and Starlight, House of Earth and Blood, House of Sky and Breath, Throne of Glass, and Crown of Midnight. Go back and check those out to see how we break down metaphors, symbolism, narrative structure, and character arcs through multiple literary lenses. If you love Sarah J. Maas, Sara Hashem, and smart, accessible Romantasy analysis, you're in the right place. The Subtext Society Journal: https://thesubtextsocietyjournal.substack.com/ We're thrilled to announce our newest venture: The Subtext Society Journal—the first of its kind, dedicated to Romance, Romantasy, and fandom with an academic yet accessible voice. We're publishing original essays and thought pieces, and we encourage listeners to submit their own articles for a chance to be featured. Sponsor: Vionic Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at booktalkforbooktok.com for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show: Patreon: patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok Merch: Etsy Store Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Debut novelist Olivia Muenter joins Book Gang to discuss her hit debut, Such a Bad Influence, and the dark side of online fame in her real and imagined worlds.What happens when your child becomes famous? In Such a Bad Influence, Olivia Muenter pulls back the curtain on the innocent early days of a fictional family's online moment that went viral, to later reveal the insidious nature of the influencer era when fame and fortune find them.A self-described "recovering influencer," Olivia shares how her debut became a sharp, emotional page-turner and the ways her work as an influencer tied into her more complicated truths in this mixed media thriller.In this revealing conversation, we discuss:
In this episode, the Spiders discuss Post Office, the first novel of infamous womanizing, drunkard poet Charles Bukowski. While it shows some promise in a few areas, it is, overall, pretty bad.
Author Ashley Jordan joins Book Gang to share her LitUp Fellowship journey to launch her debut, Once Upon a Time in Dollywood, and how fanfiction paved her path.Ashley Jordan, a Reese's Book Club LitUp Fellow, joins us this week to share the story behind her sparkling debut Once Upon a Time in Dollywood—a romance that pairs laugh-out-loud humor with deeply emotional storytelling.In this light conversation, we discuss:
Laura Dickerman: Last Word (1 1/2 ounces gin, 3/4 ounce green chartreuse, 3/4 ounce maraschino liqueur, 1/2 ounce fresh lime juice, Luxardo cherry)Laura tells some George Plimpton stories from her days as an intern at the Paris Review that inspired, in part, her debut novel HOT DESK, discusses some of the important differences in the publishing world during the 1980s and present day, reveals that the idea for her novel was a sentence in an email from her editor/publisher brother, identifies her favorite books to teach her high school English classes, and shares 3 pieces of advice for anyone trying to write their debut novel. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Join hosts J.D. Barker, Jena Brown, Kevin Tumlinson, and Jena Brown as they discuss the week's entertainment news, including stories about anxiety, Reading Rainbow, and the publishing industry's gambling problem. Then, stick around for a chat with Ariel Sullivan!Ariel Sullivan is the author of Conform. She lives in Connecticut with her husband, two sons, and their two French bulldogs. Growing up a military brat, Ariel moved every two years. As a perpetual new kid, Ariel often observed from the outskirts, where a deep love of reading was born. When she isn't writing, Ariel loves to read everything from poetry to psychology, bake with her sons, listen to live music, and travel.
Send us a textIn this episode, I chat with Noël Stark about her debut romantic comedy novel, LOVE, CAMERA, ACTION.Noël Stark has worked in almost every position in the Film and Television industry, both in front of and behind the camera. Although she's Canadian, she lives in L.A. with her young son, desperately missing winter. She likes chocolate milk in her coffee and gets most of her real-world intel from her three stepkids. Here's the synopsis of Love, Camera, Action:A scrappy TV director lands her big break only to go head-to-head with the surly yet sexy director of photography, in this page-turning romance perfect for fans of Ava Wilder and Tessa Bailey. Up-and-coming TV director Cali Daniels knows sex. Well, okay, she knows how to shoot sex scenes, and she's been hired to direct a highly anticipated steamy episode of the popular series The Demon. This job is her chance at a big-time career in the film and television industry—all she has to do is deliver an unparalleled show using her hard-knock know-how and ample creativity. If only the director of photography—effortlessly sexy Jory Blair—would stop shutting her ideas down at every turn. Jory has spent years cultivating his career as an A-list director of photography, but a recent health scare has him rethinking his life and craving the director spot. Now this creative newbie, who he can't get out of his mind, wants to change the look of his show. Even worse, the friction between them is sparking into blistering chemistry. As collaborating takes on a whole new meaning, and the show's producer not-so-subtly suggests that Jory sabotage Cali in order to achieve his own goals, they'll have to decide if chasing their dream jobs is worth losing the dream of a future together. Noël StarkLOVE, CAMERA, ACTION, Noël StarkProject Hail Mary, Andy Weir Support the showThe Bookshop PodcastMandy Jackson-BeverlySocial Media Links
Audrey Goldberg Ruoff knows a thing or two about living a double life—in the best way possible. By day, she's a middle school teacher, bringing “Ms. Frizzle-level” energy to the classroom. By night (and early mornings, and stolen weekends), she's a novelist who just released her debut adult novel, Hopelessly Devoted. This cozy, witchy rom-com blends love, humor, ghosts, and tea in a way that feels perfect for fall—and forever. In this conversation, Audrey shares the winding journey that led her from journalism to teaching to finally finishing and publishing her first book. We talk about the creative risks she's taken along the way: querying for years, writing stories “just for herself,” and daring to put her real name on her book. From Addams Family inspiration to YA horror recommendations, to thoughtful takes on teaching, sex positivity in literature, and even the ethics of AI, this episode is full of the same warmth and wit you'll find in her writing.
Vanessa Croft's compelling debut novel draws inspiration from a little-known Kiwi colonial adventuress.
Debut author Christine Ma-Kellams talks about her novel The Band, a story that mixes psychology and K-pop. We dig into how real-life experiences can shape your fiction, what it takes to move through self-doubt, and why chasing perfection is the fastest way to stall your draft.Christine shares her perspective on trusting your subconscious, embracing the chaos of the writing process, and staying grounded when social media starts to feel like a trap. This one's equal parts practical advice and encouragement—with a little humor to keep you going.Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to the Write It Scared Podcast 00:27 Meet Christine Ma-Kellams 01:47 Christine's Writing Journey 04:17 The Band: Plot and Themes 06:05 Writing Process and Advice 11:27 The Role of Personal Experience in Writing 18:46 Overcoming Self-Doubt 19:22 The Voice of Doubt and How to Push Back 22:51 Why Reading Matters for Writers 25:02 Creative Advice and Encouragement 28:54 Navigating Social Media as an Author 31:33 What's Next for Christine and Where to Find HerLinks:Novel: THE BAND Atria 2024https://www.christinema-kellams.comhttps://www.instagram.com/choppstixzHave a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you.Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here!To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/wis https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears
Curious about indie publishing? Physician Paria Hassouri shares her debut journey to self-publish Harvesting Rosewater, centering a woman's midlife awakening.If you've ever been interested in the independent publishing process, you're not alone. Today's revealing conversation with Paria Hassouri, a pediatrician, whose self-published debut, Harvesting Rosewater, recently hit bookstores, takes readers inside her remarkable publishing process. Discover how Paria balances medicine and storytelling in today's under-the-radar debut feature, which centers on a physician's midlife awakening that I guarantee you will not be able to put down.In our illuminating conversation, we explore:Independent Publishing Adventures- Paria opens up about her unique indie publishing path, sharing how she navigated editing, securing book blurbs, and the creative freedom that comes with going her own way—plus the surprises that made the process both challenging and rewarding.Uncovering Autofiction Elements From Paria's Life- Drawing on her own childhood in Iran during the Islamic Revolution, Paria shares personal memories and reflections from this challenging period in her young life in her story. She shares how blending real-life experiences with fiction has allowed her to explore her own identity, belonging, and what she hopes readers will take away from her book.The Women's Life Freedom Movement- We explore how themes of women's rights and resistance shaped this story, offering readers deeper insight into lives under restrictive systems and the tragedy that sparked the movement.
Avid readers, numerous genres are served up in this lively episode: Many of the engrossing novels seem primed to be turned into limited-edition streaming series. (Read them first!) Hosts Sarah Bowen Shea and Ellison Weist talk up: -Fifteen Wild Decembers: Karen Powell-The Art of a Lie: Laura Shepherd-Robinson-The Dentist: Tim Sullivan-To the Moon and Back: Eliana Ramage-The Phoebe Variations: Jane Hamilton Here's the half-marathon and marathon nutrition program. When you shop our sponsors, you help AMR.We appreciate your—and their—support! Fuel + stay hydrated: Save 20% with code AMR2520at GUenergy.com through 11/30/25 Get 20% off, plus free shipping, on allIQBAR products by texting AMR to 64-000 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Most Favored Guest Iva-Marie Palmer is back on the podcast, and this time the subject is her upcoming novel "Christmas People", which will be in stores September 30. She talks through her process for writing the novel, and also talks what she's doing now to promote the book. She also talks about the latest project she is working on, and also discusses her attitude towards critics. Tune in!
A Kiwi writer's obsession with all things Art Deco led her to pen a book set in the turbulent inter-war period in France. Jeena Murphy's novel Rue de Paradis is based on a young woman's experience of fleeing her home village for the bright lights of Paris in 1933, where she finds work as a model for one of the best-known sculptors of the era. His name was Demétre Chiparus, a Romanian emigre, whose ivory and bronze figurines often drew inspiration from the ballet world. But the foundries that produced his work largely belonged to Jews, and were forced to shut in World War II. Jeena's novel imagines the difficulties faced by one of those foundries as the pre-war political tensions started to boil.
In Anyone's Ghost, August Thompson captures the ache of growing up while growing as a writer after his hard-won pursuit of the MFA program at NYU.How do you write a coming-of-age story that's both deeply vulnerable and slyly funny, all while resisting clichés about queerness and masculinity? August Thompson joins me to talk about his debut novel, Anyone's Ghost, a Lambda finalist and one of my favorite under-the-radar gems.From his MFA experience at NYU to navigating long COVID while finishing the book, Thompson reflects on the highs and lows of becoming a first-time author and the vulnerable process of rejection. He also shares how humor, bisexuality, and memory shape his storytelling, which major literary prizes have now recognized with adoration.In our funny conversation, August and I discussed:How Art Helped Form the Bones of August's Story – August shares the books, films, and music that inspired his book, which even brought in the lead singer from The National for a book signing moment of his dreams at The Strand.Mining Adolescence for Humor– The role of humor was as imperative as Thompson's love story, and why he wanted to balance this story with this unexpected levity amidst the yearning.The Fresh Perspective on Sexuality For Readers – Thompson discusses his approach to writing about bisexuality and the narratives regarding male bisexuality that he still wishes to see in publishing, while celebrating being longlisted for a Lambda Literary Award.
South Central, Los Angeles author DT West has released his debut novel, Lil Blue Devil, a gripping story inspired by his life growing up in the Hyde Park section of Los Angeles, in the heart of the legendary Rollin 60s Crips territory. Drawing from personal experience, West captures the reality of inner-city Los Angeles gang life including the iconic lowriders on Crenshaw, and the struggles and resilience of the community he calls home.West was raised by his grandmother after being saved from the foster care system. Growing up on Crenshaw, he witnessed the streets firsthand, giving him a unique perspective that he felt was missing in other books about gang culture in Los Angeles written by outsiders.
Join debut novelist Carrie Birde author of A Small Tale of Uncommon Grace (Blydyn Square Books) as she discusses her creative process, her road to publication, and the unique spiritual and artistic practices that help her transmute suffering—her own and the world's—into daily acts of beauty. A literary fairy tale, her novel explores themes of community, connection, and communication. Carrie shares her personal rituals, including yoga, Qigong, and creating paper cranes, which help her manage anxiety and connect with her environment. She offers advice for aspiring writers to stay true to their heart and maintain a sense of aliveness in their creativity.Carrie is a poet, fiction writer, artist, and amateur photographer. Like many characters in those stories, she has personal friendships with wild animals, especially birds, who know her by face. I also interviewed Carrie in written format on Substack where she further explored these topics. I hope you enjoy this heartfelt interview about things ordinary and extraordinary. Attend Carrie's virtual book launch Friday, September 19, 2025, 7:00pm via Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84707033106. Attend her live event at the Boonton Coffee House Saturday, Octboer 11, 2025 at 7pm. Learn more about her work at CarrieBirde.com. Follow her on Instagram.Support the showHost: Tess CallahanSubstack: Writers at the WellInterview Podcast: Writers at the WellMeditations on Insight TimerMeditations on YouTubeTess's novels: https://tesscallahan.com/Music (unless otherwise noted above): Christopher Lloyd ClarkAudio Editing: Eric Fischer By tapping "like" and "follow" you help others find the show. Thank you for listening!DISCLAIMER: Meditation is not a substitute for professional psychological or medical healthcare or therapy. We do not accept any liability for any loss or damage incurred by you acting or not acting as a result of listening to this recording. Use the material provided at your own risk. Do not drive or operate dangerous equipment while listening. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host or the management.
Episode 162 is a recording from conversation with my friend, Michael Jerome Plunkett, at Storyline Bookshop in Upper Arlington, Ohio. Michael shares the journey behind his debut novel “Zone Rouge,” (published by Unnamed Press) chronicling his fascination with Verdun, France and the lingering effects of World War I on its people and landscape. We dive deep into Michael's unique approach to writing in present tense and how our life experiences shape the perspectives we bring to the writing process. In this episode: Valuable insights into the realities of publishing a debut novel The importance of supporting local bookstores The power of literature to connect veterans and civilians Trauma, community, and resilience Drawing connections between historical conflict and modern struggles Episode Sponsors: VM Merch Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order. BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order. True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order. Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order. Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order. Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9. SOCIALS: https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/ https://www.instagram.com/michaeljeromeplunkett/ https://www.instagram.com/storylinebookshop https://www.instagram.com/unnamedpress/
In her dazzling debut novel Aftertaste, Daria Lavelle takes us on a sensory journey where food, grief, & romance intertwine in this inventive ghost story. What if you could taste the ghosts of the people you've lost? In this intimate conversation, Daria shares how her Ukrainian heritage, her childhood food memories, and her love of genre-bending storytelling all shaped one of the most unique novels of the year.You'll love the reveals of how this story took on surprising symbolism, the genre challenges of marketing such a unique book, and the reader stories that have stayed with her long after her tour ended.
In this episode of The Art Coaching Club Podcast, I sit down with Anna Barrington, author of the debut novel The Spectacle—a sharp, fast-paced social thriller inspired by real art world scandals. Anna draws from her seven years working inside galleries, museums, and auction houses to give us a rare insider's perspective on how power, money, and ambition collide in the art world. We discuss: – Why galleries, museums, and auctions often resemble the finance world, with billions moving quietly behind closed doors– The heated auction for The Spectacle and how its cover reveal landed exclusively in People magazine– The allure of the charming conman, and why he feels like a uniquely modern figure– Collecting art: what to know, and what separates the artist who succeeds from one who doesn't– How the art world reflects broader culture, from the Trump era to MeToo, cancel culture, and shifting politics At the heart of The Spectacle is Ingrid, an aspiring artist pulled into the orbit of Rudolph Sullivan, a powerful figure whose debts and lies threaten to unravel everything. It's a novel about art, ambition, and survival in a world where appearances mean everything. If you're fascinated by the intersection of art, money, and culture—or just love a gripping debut novel—this episode will be a favorite. ✨ Learn more about Anna Barrington: https://www.annabarrington.com/
Zoe Dubno's debut novel Happiness & Love evolves over one evening in downtown NY, as the protagonist in town for a funeral. She accepts an invitation to a dinner party and spends it eviscerating the 'beautiful people' who she once looked up to. One reviewer called it "a savage, whip-smart, and genuinely hilarious takedown of New York's culture production ecosystem."
In this episode, we are joined by Canadian author Noreen Nanja, whose debut romance novel, The Summers Between Us, was published this year via Penguin Random House. The Summers Between Us is a dual timeline second-chance romance set in Canadian cottage country and is the perfect read for these late summer days—or anytime of year! We had a wonderful time reading this novel (and chatting with Noreen, of course) about all things writing, editing, and developing your debut novel. Noreen spoke to us about how she got her start as an author, her experience being an author's mentee, writing a dual timeline romance, working with an editor, and much more! Learn more on Noreen's website and grab a copy of The Summers Between Us on Kobo!
For years, TV writer Patrick Tarr has been writing scripts for shows like “Murdoch Mysteries,” “Cardinal” and “Saving Hope” — but his dream was always to write a book. Now, that dream has become a reality. Patrick's debut novel, “The Guest Children,” is a chilling supernatural tale inspired by real-life history: the evacuation of 6,000 British children to Canada during the Second World War. He joins guest host Gill Deacon to talk about reframing these events as a ghost story.
A graduate of Wesleyan University, Melissa Pace is a former editor and writer for Elle, as well as a past finalist for the Humanitas New Voices Fellowship for emerging film and television writers. The mother of three amazing children, Pace lives with her husband in Los Angeles, and when not writing she likes to lace up her cleats and get all her ya-yas out on the soccer field. The Once and Future Me is her first novel.Killer Women Podcast is copyrighted by Authors on the Air Global Radio Network#podcast #author #interview #authors #KillerWomen #KillerWomenPodcast #authorsontheair #podcast #podcaster #killerwomen #killerwomenpodcast #authors #authorsofig #authorsofinstagram #authorinterview #writingcommunity #authorsontheair #suspensebooks #authorssupportingauthors #thrillerbooks #suspense #wip #writers #writersinspiration #books #bookrecommendations #bookaddict #bookaddicted #bookaddiction #bibliophile #read #amreading #lovetoread #daniellegirard #daniellegirardbooks #melissapace #henryholt #debutnovel
A graduate of Wesleyan University, Melissa Pace is a former editor and writer for Elle, as well as a past finalist for the Humanitas New Voices Fellowship for emerging film and television writers. The mother of three amazing children, Pace lives with her husband in Los Angeles, and when not writing she likes to lace up her cleats and get all her ya-yas out on the soccer field. The Once and Future Me is her first novel. Killer Women Podcast is copyrighted by Authors on the Air Global Radio Network #podcast #author #interview #authors #KillerWomen #KillerWomenPodcast #authorsontheair #podcast #podcaster #killerwomen #killerwomenpodcast #authors #authorsofig #authorsofinstagram #authorinterview #writingcommunity #authorsontheair #suspensebooks #authorssupportingauthors #thrillerbooks #suspense #wip #writers #writersinspiration #books #bookrecommendations #bookaddict #bookaddicted #bookaddiction #bibliophile #read #amreading #lovetoread #daniellegirard #daniellegirardbooks #melissapace #henryholt #debutnovel
TANYA SCOTT is a writer, doctor, and medical educator based on the Victorian Surf Coast.She has been writing for many years, including using narrative therapy as a tool to make sense of the world, both personally and with her patients. Many of the ideas for Stillwater stem from her work helping patients with childhood trauma—acknowledging that in reality, recovery is a long and incomplete path.Killer Women Podcast is copyrighted by Authors on the Air Global Radio Network#podcast #author #interview #authors #KillerWomen #KillerWomenPodcast #authorsontheair #podcast #podcaster #killerwomen #killerwomenpodcast #authors #authorsofig #authorsofinstagram #authorinterview #writingcommunity #authorsontheair #suspensebooks #authorssupportingauthors #thrillerbooks #suspense #wip #writers #writersinspiration #books #bookrecommendations #bookaddict #bookaddicted #bookaddiction #bibliophile #read #amreading #lovetoread #daniellegirard #daniellegirardbooks #tanyascott #groveatlantic
Jinwoo Chong is the author of the novels I Leave It Up to You and Flux, a New York Times Editor's Choice and a finalist for the PEN/Hemingway Award for Debut Novel. We really enjoyed I Leave It Up to You. It's a family story set in Fort Lee, New Jersey, and it features a Korean family working in a Japanese-Korean restaurant, with a family dynamic that feels quite realistic. Jinwoo talks about the research that went into writing so colorfully about restaurant culture as well as his own food memories from growing up in New Jersey. And, at the top of the show, it's the return of Three Things, where Aliza and Matt talk about what is exciting them in the world of restaurants, cookbooks, and the food world as a whole. On this episode: David Lebovitz has revised Ready for Dessert, a visit to Pavé NYC, Coffee Project NY is roasting exceptional coffee. Also: One Love Community Fridge launched a CSA, Van Leeuwen is king of non-dairy, and Muteki Udon is serving one of our favorite salads.Subscribe to This Is TASTE: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Defence barrister DeAnne Nicoloso's debut novel examines childhood secrets, lies and vigilante justice
Beth Golay recently spoke with Stephanie Wambugu about her debut novel, Lonely Crowds, which follows a decades-long friendship between Ruth and Maria, from childhood to adulthood.
Lidija Hilje shares how her debut novel, Slanting Towards the Sea, and her own journey is shaped by second chances and the courage it required to begin again.Lidija Hilje brings a rare and powerful perspective to her fiction. After a decade working in Croatian courts, she left the legal field to write in English as her second language and to coach other writers through their own stories. We discuss how that radical life change shaped both her novel and her coaching philosophy.In today's Book Gang episode, Lidija joins me for a profoundly moving and insightful conversation about her first novel, Slanting Towards the Sea. In this week's warm and expansive episode, we discuss:How writing in a second language and through a bicultural lens shaped the emotional and narrative depth of Slanting Towards the SeaThe novel's quiet but powerful thread on broken governmental systems, and how we see the differences and parallels between our American and Croatian experiencesHow Lidija's former legal career informs her current work as a book coach, and how she helps authors clarify and complete the stories they feel called to tellBONUS BOOK LIST: This week, you can set sail with these 34 sea books. From shipwreck survival stories to coastal mysteries, oceanic fantasies, and sweeping seaside romances- this book list has a little something for everyone!Meet Lidija HiljeLidija Hilje is a Croatian writer and certified book coach. After earning a law degree, she spent a decade practicing law in Croatian courts before transitioning to book coaching, and writing in English as her second language. Her writing has appeared in The New York Times and other outlets. She lives in Zadar, Croatia, with her husband and two daughters. SLANTING TOWARDS THE SEA is her first novel.Mentioned in this episode:Browse the 2025 MomAdvice Summer Reading Guide (with ads) or download the 48-page reading guide ($7) to support our show. If you are a show patron, please check your inbox for your copy as part of your member benefits. Thank you for supporting my small business! Download Today's Show TranscriptJoin the July Book Club Chat (Husbands & Lovers)BONUS BOOK LIST: 34 Sea Books (upcoming titles, new releases, and backlist selections to browse)Slanting Towards the Sea by Lidija HiljeThe Maid on NetflixBookshop.org pays a 10% commission on every sale and matches it with 10% to support independent bookstores.Connect With Us:Join the Book Gang PatreonConnect with Lidija Hilje on Instagram or her WebsiteConnect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdviceGet My Happy List NewsletterGet the Daily Kindle Deals NewsletterBuy Me a Coffee (for a one-time donation)
Today on the show, we're focusing on the topic of style with author, body-acceptance advocate, and founder of Megababe Katie Sturino. Sturino began her career in fashion and built her own PR agency when she was just 25 years old. While rising to the top in her field behind the scenes, she also began gaining traction as a creator herself, making meaningful change in the fashion industry with her social media series “Make My Size” and “Supersize the Look.” In 2017, Sturino launched her bodycare brand, Megababe, which is now sold worldwide in retailers including Walmart, Target, and Ulta. On top of everything, this June, she released her debut novel, Sunny Side Up. Today on the show, she reflects on how the fashion industry has changed over the years in regard to size inclusivity, shares her favorite brands that make summer staples in plus sizes, and advises on how to battle the noise of SkinnyTok.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Not knowing the publishing rules helped Austin Taylor sell her debut, Notes on Infinity. From lab notes to spreadsheets, learn her data-driven approach.In today's Book Gang episode, debut author Austin Taylor joins me to discuss her dazzling new novel Notes on Infinity. This high-concept campus novel follows Zoe and Jack, two brilliant students whose late-night collaboration leads to the development of an anti-aging drug, a billion-dollar startup, and a powerful reckoning.Austin brings a unique blend of rigor and vulnerability to her work, drawing from her dual background in chemistry and English, as well as personal experiences with chronic illness that reshaped her academic trajectory. Notes on Infinity may ask how far we'll go to chase our dreams, but this conversation dives into how far Austin went to write them.In this insightful conversation, Austin and I discuss:How not knowing "the rules" of publishing gave her the freedom to query an ambitious debut.The thoughtful strategies she used to distill complex scientific ideas without losing her novel's credibility—or alienating readers.The importance of chronic illness representation and how her own health challenges added urgency and emotional authenticity to the story.BONUS BOOK LIST:This week, I'm sharing a companion list of 32 Unforgettable Campus Novels With All the Drama—from ivy-draped secrets to heady student-faculty dynamics to the unsettling thrill of starting over. If Notes on Infinity sparked something for you, these book titles will keep the conversation going.Meet Austin TaylorAustin Taylor graduated from Harvard University in 2021 with a joint degree in chemistry and English. Notes on Infinity is inspired in part by her undergraduate studies, peers, and lab work in Harvard's chemistry department. She has also worked as a public speaking coach and in science policy. Austin is a private pilot, a registered Maine guide, and a bassist. She grew up in central Maine, where she now lives and writes.Mentioned in this episode:Browse the 2025 MomAdvice Summer Reading Guide (with ads) or download the 48-page reading guide ($7) to support our show. If you are a show patron, please check your inbox for your copy as part of your member benefits. Thank you for supporting my small business! Download Today's Show TranscriptJoin the June Book Club Chat (The Reckless Oath We Made)BONUS BOOK LIST: 32 Unforgettable Campus NovelsNotes on Infinity by Austin TaylorCRISPRThe Epic of GilgameshTomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevinhttps://www.instagram.com/austintaylorwrites/Bookshop.org pays a 10% commission on every sale and matches 10% to independent bookstores!Connect With Us:Join the Book Gang PatreonConnect with Austin Taylor on Instagram or her WebsiteConnect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdviceGet My Happy List NewsletterGet the Daily Kindle Deals NewsletterBuy Me a Coffee (for a one-time donation)