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Novelist and poet, Ocean Vuong, traces his family's path from Vietnam to a refugee camp in the Philippines to a new life in Connecticut. He reflects on the beauty and the brutality of American fast food, and how long days on a tobacco farm shaped both his writing and his sense of self. Plus, he shares his family's recipe for canh chua—a delicious Vietnamese soup that's less time-intensive than pho! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Nancy Sheed, host of HAYVN Hubcast talks with author Betsy Lerner, and she takes us from blue pencils and slush piles to BookTok and bestsellers. She shares how she moved from editorial roles at major houses to agenting for the flexibility publishing didn't offer at the time, and how that entrepreneurial leap paid off. We get her “discoverability” playbook (from magazine racks on the streets of New York to TikTok), candid advice on today's path to publication, the backstory of Shred Sisters, and her refreshingly practical mindset on rejection: don't dwell on no, keep looking for the yes. Nancy's conversation with Betsy covers: Breaking into publishing (then vs. now): The traditional path runs through a literary agent, and today, platform, credentials, or media access often matter (especially in nonfiction). Fiction still benefits from strong pedigree and publication credits. From editor to agent: Betsy left editorial for agenting to gain flexibility while raising a child. She brought authors she'd developed as an editor, pairing editorial instincts with a builder's mindset. Talent discovery, old-school and new: Pre-internet, she scoured magazine racks to spot compelling voices, famously writing to “Merlin” (Neil deGrasse Tyson) after seeing his cosmos cartoons. Today, she finds serious experts on TikTok and checks longer-form writing (e.g., Substack) to validate voice. TikTok is not just “kids dancing”: BookTok (and STEM talk) hosts passionate, informed communities that genuinely move book sales these days. Consistency and a clear “lane” matter; think of it as your own channel. Creating Shred Sisters: After an intensive nonfiction collaboration with Temple Grandin, Betsy unexpectedly drafted her novel over seven months during COVID, then spent two years revising. The story was fueled by profound personal losses and deepened bonds with her sisters. Thick skin required: Even as a well-known agent, Betsy got rejections on her novel and emphasizes not getting mired in the “no.” You only need the right “yes.” Connect with Betsy The Forest for the Trees: An Editors Advice to Writers Website TikTok Connect with Nancy LinkedIn Instagram Website
Writer's Voice: compelling conversations with authors who challenge, inspire, and inform. Episode Summary In this episode of Writer's Voice, we explore the lives and legacies of two giants—Charles Dickens and Plato—through the eyes of authors who reveal new dimensions of their work. Cultural historian Peter Conrad tells us about his biography, Dickens the Enchanter: Dickens … Continue reading Dickens the Enchanter & Plato and the Tyrant: Peter Conrad and James Romm on Imagination, Power, and Authoritarianism →
September 4, 2025 Hello and Happy Day! This is Dr. MaryAnn Diorio, Novelist and Life Coach, welcoming you to another episode of Winning with the Word. Today is Thursday, September 4, 2025, and this is episode #16 in Series 2025. This episode is titled, "The Time of Jacob's Trouble Is Near." Before we get into our message for this week, I want to extend a warm welcome to all of our new subscribers around the world. By the grace of God, Winning with the Word now reaches 85 countries all over the globe! Praise the Lord and glory to God!I want you to know how much I appreciate your support, and I trust that Winning with the Word blesses you and encourages you during these difficult end times. Please share this podcast and blog with your family and friends. I would love to bless them and encourage them as well.Now on to our message for this week, which, by the way is especially for all of my Jewish friends out there. If you are not Jewish, please pass this podcast on to your Jewish friends and acquaintances. Thank you!So, what is the time of Jacob's trouble? This phrase first appears in the Book of Jeremiah, an Old Covenant (or Old Testament) prophet who lived from about 650 BC to 570 BC. He was a prophet during the latter decades of the Kingdom of Judah, and his ministry continued until after the fall of Jerusalem in 586 BC.Referring to the time of Jacob's trouble, Jeremiah wrote the following in chapter 30, verse 7, of his prophetic book: "In all history there has never been such a time of terror. It will be a time of trouble for my people Israel. Yet in the end they will be saved." The time of Jacob's trouble is a seven-year period of intense suffering and torture under the brutal dictatorship of the AntiChrist. It is also called "the 70th week of Daniel" in the prophetic Old Testament book written by the prophet Daniel. I say this with all due respect, but the time of Jacob's Trouble will make the Holocaust look like a picnic."Jacob" in the phrase "the time of Jacob's trouble" includes the entire nation of Israel, comprising both the southern kingdom of Judah and the northern kingdom of Israel. When Jeremiah wrote his prophecy, Israel was in a time of great turmoil. The northern kingdom had already been captured by the Assyrians, and the southern kingdom of Judah was on the verge of being sent into captivity to Babylon because of their disobedience to the Lord's commands. Two Levels of InterpretationBut Jeremiah's prophecy had not only an immediate meaning for the Jewish people living during his time; it also has a prophetic meaning for the Jewish people of our day. This dual level of interpretation means that the Babylonian captivity and other horrendous persecutions of the Jews, such as the Holocaust, served as types of the ultimate pouring out of God's wrath on His people for their continual rebellion in not recognizing Jesus Christ as their Messiah.Jesus Himself also referred to the time of Jacob's trouble in Matthew 24: 21 BLB: "For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been from the beginning of the world until now, and never shall be."The purpose of the seven-year tribulation is to punish the Jews and all non-believers for rejecting Jesus Christ as the true Messiah. In the end, one-third of the Jews will finally acknowledge that Jesus Christ is the true Messiah and will be saved.Whether you are a Jew or a Gentile, there is only one way to be saved. And that way is by acknowledging that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, that He died to take the punishment for our sin upon His shoulders, and that He rose from the dead. There is no other way. Buddha cannot save you. Mohammed cannot save you. Hare Krishna cannot save you. No false god or false belief system can save you. Only Jesus Christ can save you.He Himself said, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." Won't you hear His call to you now? Won't You receive Him as Your Savior and Lord before it is too l...
A new thriller follows Lottie Jones, a retired serial killer, thought she left her life of crime behind but is forced to revisit her actions after details of her past resurface. Novelist Samantha Downing joins us to discuss her latest book, titled Too Old for This.
Most writers dream of quitting their jobs to write full-time. But here's the twist: many of the greatest authors did their best work while juggling day jobs.In this episode, we'll dive into the stories of famous writers who turned paychecks into pages, and how you can, too. Episode Web PageNot sure if your idea has what it takes to become a powerful story? This free quick guide will help you uncover the heart of your idea in just three simple steps. You'll walk away with a one-sentence premise you can build your entire book on, and the clarity and confidence to keep going.Download Your Quick Guide HereWant to join a community of like-minded writers? Need inspiration and support? Join us in our private Writer Unleashed Community Facebook Group. It's totally free to join.
Irish Novelist Naoise Dolan is among those taking part in the Global Sumud Flotilla setting sail this week in an attempt to break Israel's blockade of Gaza and deliver aid. Naoise explained to why she is taking part to Ciara this morning.
Irish Novelist Naoise Dolan is among those taking part in the Global Sumud Flotilla setting sail this week in an attempt to break Israel's blockade of Gaza and deliver aid. Naoise explained to why she is taking part to Ciara this morning.
Michelle Shocklee is the author of several historical novels, including All We Thought We Knew; Count the Nights by Stars, a Christianity Today fiction book award winner; and Under the Tulip Tree, a Christy and Selah Awards finalist. Her work has been featured in numerous Chicken Soup for the Soul books, magazines, and blogs. Married to her college sweetheart and the mother of two grown sons, she makes her home in Tennessee, not far from the historical sites she writes about.Make sure to connect on Instagram with @michelleshocklee
Writer's Voice: compelling conversations with authors who challenge, inspire, and inform. Episode Summary This episode of Writer's Voice brings you two powerful stories of women adventurers who forged their paths in male-dominated outdoor sports. Bridget Crocker's memoir River's Daughter is a story of trauma and healing, rooted in her lifelong connection to rivers. From childhood … Continue reading Breaking Barriers in the Wild: Bridget Crocker on RIVER'S DAUGHTER & Cassidy Randall on THIRTY BELOW →
Egyptian Diplomat turned prize winning Novelist, Ezzedine Fishere offers his path out of the "Israel-estine" nightmare. https://youtu.be/vJDDmZ7j4xA
[REBROADCAST FROM May 5, 2025] Chilean novelist Isabel Allende discusses her latest novel, My Name is Emilia del Valle. The story follows a young journalist who becomes caught up in the Chilean Civil War.
In the spotlight is Vauhini Vara — writer, journalist, editor, fiction writer, essayist and playwright. Her debut novel, The Immortal King Rao, was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize. Her story collection, This is Salvaged, was longlisted for The Story Prize and the Mark Twain American Voice in Literature Award. A nonfiction book, Searches: Selfhood in the Digital Age, was published earlier this year.She began her journalism career as a technology reporter at the Wall Street Journal and later launched, edited and wrote for the business section of the New Yorker's website. Since then, her writing has also appeared in The New York Times Magazine, The Atlantic, Wired, and elsewhere. She is a Businessweek contributing writer and can sometimes be found working as a story editor at the New York Times Magazine. Learn more about Vauhini Vara here: https://www.vauhinivara.com/ Novelist Spotlight is produced and hosted by Mike Consol. Check out his novels here: https://snip.ly/yz18no Write to Mike Consol at novelistspotlight@gmail.com
August 28, 2025Hello and Happy Day! This is Dr. MaryAnn Diorio, Novelist and Life Coach, welcoming you to another episode of Winning with the Word. Today is Thursday, August 28, 2025, and this is episode #15 in Series 2025. This episode is titled, “A Discussion on Daniel 9: 27" with Dr. Dom Diorio. Before we get into our message for this week, I want to extend a warm welcome to all of our new subscribers around the world. By the grace of God, Winning with the Word now reaches 85 countries all over the globe! Praise the Lord and glory to God!I want you to know how much I appreciate your support, and I trust that Winning with the Word blesses you and encourages you during these difficult end times. Please share this podcast and blog with your family and friends. I would love to bless them and encourage them as well.Now on to our message for this week.You will be delighted to know that my wonderful husband is back as a podcast guest. Many of you heard him in former podcasts as he spoke on the end times, and today we're going to focus in on Daniel 9: 27.So help me give a warm welcome to Dr. Dom Diorio. Welcome, honey!OK, let's get started. Please tell us, Dr. Dom, why Daniel 9: 27 is so important, especially today? CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THE END: If you sincerely prayed this prayer from your heart, you are now a born-again child of God. You have been given an inheritance by God Himself that includes hope, peace, and joy. Write to me at drmaryann@maryanndiorio.com, and I will send you a free PDF e-booklet titled After You're Born Again. In case you are not aware, I write heart-mending fiction that deals with the deepest issues of life. In my stories you will find characters just like you who struggle with what look like impossible problems and situations. Check out my books at my online bookstore at shop.maryanndiorio.com. That's shop.maryanndiorio.com. My featured book for this week is titled The Rabbi and Mrs. Goldstein. This powerfully moving novel recounts the story of a 19th-century rabbi's wife who accepts Yeshua as the Messiah and faces her husband's wrath in the form of divorce, destruction, and death. You can get your copy at the link provided HERE.I also invite you to visit me on my other blog, The Relationship Road. There you will find valuable information on creating and cultivating healthful relationships based on God's Word.Winning with the Word is available on Apple Podcasts and other major podcast venues as well as on YouTube. Check out my YouTube channel at youtube.com/drmaryanndiorio.Until next time, remember that God loves you just as you are and just where you are. Yet He doesn't want to keep you there. As you live in Him, He will help you to keep on winning with the Word.________________________________________________________________Copyright 2025 by MaryAnn Diorio, PhD. All Rights Reserved. I also invite you to visit me on my other blog, The Relationship Road. There you will find valuable information on creating and cultivating healthful relationships based on God's Word.Winning with the Word is available on Apple Podcasts and other major podcast venues as well as on YouTube. Check out my YouTube channel at youtube.com/drmaryanndiorio.Until next time, remember that God loves you just as you are and just where you are. Yet He doesn't want to keep you there. As you live in Him, He will help you to keep on winning with the Word. SUBSCRIBE HERE to Winning with the WordSUBSCRIBE HERE to The Relationship RoadVISIT MARYANN'S BOOKSHOP ________________________________________Copyright 2025 by MaryAnn Diorio, PhD. All Rights Reserved.
Novelist and short story writer Marian Thurm joins Zibby to discuss I DON'T KNOW HOW TO TELL YOU THIS, a touching and quirkily humorous book about a family court judge navigating complex cases in the courtroom and the heartbreaking decline of her brilliant husband. Marian shares the deeply personal inspiration for the book, including her parents' struggles with dementia, and opens up about the two decades it took to bring this novel to life. She also reflects on her early career, her first publication in The New Yorker, and the surprising role persistence, luck, and motherhood have played in shaping her journey.Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/45AXw1KShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens!JOIN ME! I'm hosting four events on September 19, 25th and 30th in NYC and on October 4th in Greenwich, CT. Get your tickets here! (Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The great Egyptian writer Sonallah Ibrahim passed away earlier this month. Several years ago, we discussed his novel Warda – the story of a female fighter in the 1960s and 70s Dhofar rebellion in Oman, and of the Egyptian intellectual who, decades later, tries to solve the mystery of what happened to her. We discuss the vibrant and mysterious female character at the heart of one of Ibrahim's most ambitious literary projects with scholar, editor and translator Hosam Aboul-ela. As Aboul-ela writes in his introduction to his new translation, Warda is someone who “somehow manages to embody both the historical and the unimaginable.” Show Notes: Hosam Aboul-ela is a professor of English at the University of Houston and the editor of the Arabic list at Seagull Books, an award-winning Kolkata-based publisher. Ibrahim's first novel, That Smell, and his prison diaries, have been published in a single volume, trans. Robyn Creswell, from New Directions. Warda is available, in Hosam Abou-ela's translation, from Yale University Press.Hosam's translation of Sonallah Ibrahim's Stealth is available from New Directions.Sonallah Ibrahim's Zaat, in Tony Calderbank's translation, is, unfortunately, out of print. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ten child protection organisations have written an urgent letter to the home secretary expressing concern over the omission of child sexual abuse from the upcoming government strategy on violence against women and girls. A draft version of the strategy, due to be published in September, was leaked to Sky News's Mollie Malone, who first broke the story. She joins Nuala McGovern, along with Anna Edmundson from the NSPCC, one of the organisations that signed the letter.Miriam Robinson's debut novel And Notre Dame is Burning tells how Esther, a mother, tries to pick up the pieces of her life after a miscarriage - while her marriage falls apart. It is written in short bursts, in fragments of notes and letters. Miriam joins Nuala to talk about the female experience of losing a baby, betrayal, break-ups and moving on.It's a love story, Taylor just said yes! Pop superstar Taylor Swift is engaged to her American footballer boyfriend Travis Kelce. In photos, which have been liked more than 18 million times, the pair are surrounded by roses, delphiniums and hydrangeas. Taylor's love life has been the inspiration for a huge amount of her music, and the subject of tabloid speculation for years. What does this moment mean and how could it impact her music? Joining Nuala to discuss is freelance journalist and author Olivia Petter and Guardian Deputy Music Editor Laura Barton. With maternity services stretched across the UK, a new startup called Kove aims to address some of the problems in midwifery by providing a pay-as-you-go service at £180 per hour. But why are women opting for private care, and is it a good idea? Nuala talks to Kove co-founder Alakina Mann and NHS midwife and author Leah Hazard. Presenter: Nuala McGovern Producer: Louise Corley
Join novelist Paula Saunders as she discusses her moving autobiographical novel Starting from Here, just out from Penguin Random House. A stand-alone sequel to The Distance Home, the novel follows 15-year old René through the challenges of adolescence within the pressure cooker of cultural and socioeconomic stressors. Saunders draws from her own experiences as a ballet dancer. A long-time practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism, she shares how a Catholic nun introduced her to the work of Thich Nhat Hanh. Paula describes how writing has helped her integrate the past, and instilled in her a more compassionate relationship to her younger self and her family of origin.Paula grew up in Rapid City, South Dakota. She is a graduate of the Syracuse University creative writing program and was awarded a postgraduate Albert Schweitzer Fellowship at SUNY Albany, under Schweitzer chair Toni Morrison. Her first book, The Distance Home, was longlisted for The Center for Fiction First Novel Prize and named one of the best books of the year by Real Simple. She lives in California with her husband. They have two grown daughters.Learn more about her work at paulasaundersbooks.com. 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.
In honor of 20 years of Design Matters, Debbie Millman revisits standout moments from her conversations with some of the most celebrated voices in graphic storytelling—Chris Ware, Alison Bechdel, Roz Chast, Seth, and Lynda Barry. This special retrospective highlights the artistry, humor, and humanity of five groundbreaking creators whose work has transformed the world of comics and beyond.For a chance to give your own TED Talk, fill out the Idea Search Application: ted.com/ideasearch. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Writer's Voice: compelling conversations with authors who challenge, inspire, and inform. Episode Summary In this episode of Writer's Voice, two authors offer vital insights—one about surviving a global pandemic, and the other about surviving the publishing process. ???? Ronald Gruner discusses Covid Wars, his in-depth exploration of how the pandemic reshaped politics, public health, and … Continue reading Covid Wars & How to Submit: Ronald Gruner on Pandemic Lessons + Dennis Sweeney on Getting Published →
Frederik Pohl (1918-2013) recorded at the Octocon Science Fiction Convention, October 15-16, 1978. Interviewers: Richard Wolinsky, Richard A. Lupoff and Lawrence Davidson, for KPFA's Probabilities radio program. Digitized, remastered and re-edited February, 2021 by Richard Wolinsky. Frederik Pohl, who died in 2013 at the age of 93 in September, 2013, did almost everything in the world of science fiction, as a writer, an agent, and a magazine and book editor. He grew up in Brooklyn, began writing at an early age, and in his twenties was a member of a leftist group of science fiction writers known as The Futurians, publishing for pennies a word in the sf pulps of the era. In 1937, in order to make money, he became an agent, and two years later a pulp magazine editor himself, often buying his own stories along with collaborations with various other writers, all under pseudonyms. In the late 1960s, he became editor of Galaxy Magazine, and its sister publication, Worlds of If, and in the 1970s became the science fiction editor at Bantam Books which he left shortly before this interview. In the mid 1970s, Fred Pohl emerged as one of science fictions pre-eminent novelists with Man Plus in 1976 and Gateway in 1977. In 1978, on the heels of novelist Damon Knight's memoir, The Futurians, he came out with his own memoir, The Way the Future Was. And that was where his career stood when the three of us interviewed him. We were all still new at interviewing, particularly in placement of the microphone. Fred Pohl's success continued for many years after this interview. Jem, published in 1979, won the National Book Award the only year there was an award for science fiction. The sequel to Gateway, Beyond the Blue Event Horizon was a finalist for both the Hugo and Nebula Awards in 1980. In all, there eventually were seven novels in the Gateway (Heechee) series, and after 1979, all told, he wrote 17 more novels, the last being The Lives He Led, published in 2011, along with several collections, even more collaborations, and some non-fiction as well. At the time of his death at 93 in 2013, he was working on a second memoir, which has to date not been published. NOTES. Judy Lynn Del Rey was the sf editor at Ballantine Books starting in the early 1970s and soon had her own imprint, Del Rey Books (in collaboration with her husband, writer Lester Del Rey). Judith Merrill was a writer and anthologist, noted for her Year's Best SF Stories collections, which she edited from 1956 to 1968. John Michel was a key member of the Futurians who never fulfilled his promise. John W. Campbell was the editor of Astounding Stories, later Analog, from 1937 into the 1970s, and is credited with discovering such writers as Isaac Asimov and Robert Heinlein. His influence on science fiction was all-encompassing, even as his politics were, as Isaac Asimov quipped, somewhere to the right of Hitler. Horace Gold was the first editor of Galaxy, before Fred Pohl. It was the magazine that brought literary style into science fiction. Other names mentioned are Anthony Boucher and F. Francis McComas, the first editors of the Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, F&SF. This podcast was first posted February 14, 2021. Three Futurians in 1938: Donald Wollheim, later publisher of DAW books, Fred Pohl, and John Michel. Creative Commons photo donated by the Wollheim family. The post The Probabilities Archive: Frederik Pohl (1918-2013) Acclaimed Science Fiction & Fantasy Novelist and Editor appeared first on KPFA.
PASSION COMES WITH AN EXPIRATION DATE. André Aciman is an Italian-American writer. Born and raised in Alexandria, Egypt, he is the New York Times bestselling author of Call Me by Your Name, Out of Egypt, Eight White Nights, False Papers, Alibis, Harvard Square, Enigma Variations, Homo Irrealis, Roman Year, and Find Me. He is currently a distinguished professor at the Graduate Center of the City University of New York, where he teaches the history of literary theory and the works of Marcel Proust. Aciman is the editor of The Proust Project. He lives with his wife Susan Wiviott in Manhattan. His latest book Room on the Sea was recently published by Farrar Straus & Giroux. “My entire life has been one of displacement” “I've always been a very hesitant lover” “I am not interested in the towels and the sheets.”
My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Renee Blodgett, author of the book Magdalene's Journey. Novelist, curator, humanitarian, conscious business leader and modern mystic Renee Blodgett has lived multiple lives in one. Having traveled around the world, she has plenty of stories to share, from riding elephants in the Indian jungle and photographing polar bears in northern Canada to teaching English in Kenya, exploring glaciers in Iceland and selling kilims in Turkey. She has lived in eleven countries, including South Africa during Apartheid and the Gaza Strip. Her multicultural background and years of experience as a communications strategist have led to a career of uplifting others through content, speaking, coaching and leading. Known as a master of storytelling, she has written for several magazines, blog networks, the Huffington Post, and her own award-winning online travel magazine, We Blog the World, which reaches over a half million reach globally. Her love of diversity and the visual arts has resulted in five photo books, her serving as a Travel & Leisure judge and spearheading content for TEDxUN, the only TEDx event held at the United Nations (UN). She has also been the curator and producer of TEDxBerkeley for the last 12 years, one of the largest TEDx events in the United States. CEO World Magazine voted her one of the most powerful women in social media, she was listed as a top social media influencer by both Forbes and the UN, and her blog has won numerous industry awards. She was selected as a top 10 Social Media Mentor by Women Online Magazine, an AlwaysOn Top 150 Business Journalist and a Shorty Awards Business Influencer finalist. A passionate photographer, she has published six photo books on nature, culture and travel. She has shot top names in the technology and entertainment industries, such as Steve Jobs, Freeman Dyson, Tony Robbins, Robin Williams, John Legend, Elvis Costello, Lionel Ritchie, John Perry Barlow, and dozens more. Renee also co-founded Blue Soul Earth with her partner, where they help others through books, digital content, retreats and membership programs that focus on heart-centered living, universal consciousness, masculine and feminine balance, and connecting to the inherent beauty and power of our human existence. Their bestselling book Magdalene's Journey, which blends science and spirituality, invites people to re-think our patriarchal-dictated history through a pivotal woman's eyes. In Carole's book review, she stated: Whatever stories and teachings you've heard of Early Christianity, Magdalene's Journey by Renee Blodgett and Anthony Compagnone, a historical fiction, will make you wonder if there isn't another truth. The authors introduce us to Angelo and Rochelle, an unsuspecting married couple who loved to explore ancient and esoteric wisdom across all cultures. Little did they know they would meet two ancient souls, who would turn their lives upside down. It all began one night when the words, “My name is Miriam of Magdala,” came out of the mouth of Angelo. His voice had changed, and Rochelle responded with, “Mary Magdalene!” Magdalene's Journey channels people who once lived and walked the planet, along with real settings in terms of time and place. This well-written narrative moves from one story to the next with accounts of the lives of Jesus of Nazareth and Mary Magdalene. It guides us through how she taught alongside Jesus, their marriage, and the water birth of their daughter Sarah. It chronicles how the seven female apostles who travelled with Mary by sea to the north after the death and resurrection of Jesus. We learn how they dealt with finding food, clothing, and shelter, and their part in the water birth of Mary's daughter. This page turner is like a blueprint worth studying. Subscribe to Online for Authors to learn about more great books! https://www.youtube.com/@onlineforauthors?sub_confirmation=1 Join the Novels N Latte Book Club community to discuss this and other books with like-minded readers: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3576519880426290 You can follow Author Renee Blodgett Website: www.bluesoulmedia.com FB: @bluesoulearth IG: @magdalenesjourney X: @bluesoulearth LinkedIn: @Renee Blodgett Purchase Magdalene's Journey on Amazon: Paperback: https://amzn.to/44WN0TH Ebook: https://amzn.to/473Kzju Teri M Brown, Author and Podcast Host: https://www.terimbrown.com FB: @TeriMBrownAuthor IG: @terimbrown_author X: @terimbrown1 Want to be a guest on Online for Authors? Send Teri M Brown a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/member/onlineforauthors #reneeblodgett #magdalenesjourney #historicalfiction #terimbrownauthor #authorpodcast #onlineforauthors #characterdriven #researchjunkie #awardwinningauthor #podcasthost #podcast #readerpodcast #bookpodcast #writerpodcast #author #books #goodreads #bookclub #fiction #writer #bookreview *As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Crime novelist and former Columbus Dispatch reporter Robin Yocum joins us to discuss his book The Last Hitman. Plus host Christopher Purdy and guests as they discuss books and offer their recommendations for your next book club selection or nightstand read.
Crime novelist and former Columbus Dispatch reporter Robin Yocum joins us to discuss his book The Last Hitman. Plus host Christopher Purdy and guests as they discuss books and offer their recommendations for your next book club selection or nightstand read.
[REBROADCAST FROM May 14, 2025] Celebrated poet and author Ocean Vuong discusses his new novel, The Emperor of Gladness. It follows the relationship between a young man and an elderly woman who meet after the man's suicide attempt.
This week, we're joined by graphic novelist Orpheus Collar to discuss his work adapting the Riordanverse! Discussion topics may include: the design process, illustrating Tartarus, creating detailed environments, archeology, favorite scenes, the act of adaptation, and looking to the fans.You can find Orpheus on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/orpheuscollar/Check us out on Patreon to submit questions for future interviews, and to get early episodes, cut material, art previews, and more! https://www.patreon.com/MonsterDonutPodcastHave a question? Want to contribute your own analysis? Feel like arguing? Email monsterdonutpodcast@gmail.com.Come say hi and check out the sketches Phoebe made this episode on Twitter, Instagram, or TikTok! @PJOPod on all platforms.Find our new Monster Donut merch here!: https://www.redbubble.com/people/monsterdonut/explore.More information on the show can be found at https://monsterdonut.wixsite.com/podcast.THEME SONG:"The Mask of Sorokin," music and arrangement by Dan CordeGuitars - Dan CordeBass - Quinten MetkeDrums - Todd CummingsRecorded, mixed, & mastered by Todd CummingsOUTRO MUSIC:"Shadow Run," music and arrangement by Dan CordeGuitars - Dan CordeBass - Quinten MetkeDrums - Todd CummingsRecorded, mixed, & mastered by Todd Cummings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In the spotlight are book publicists and Tandem Literary business partners Gretchen Koss and Meg Walker, who have more than 40 years of combined experienced in the business. They have represented authors ranging from Elmore Leonard and Terry McMillan to Suze Orman, Mary Karr and Lance Armstrong. We discuss: >> What book publicists do >> How to choose the right publicist >> What they are expected to deliver to their clients >> When a publicist should be hired >> What book publicists expect of their clients >> The costs involved >> Which genres are hottest >> Etc. Learn more about Tandem Literary here: https://tandemliterary.com/ Novelist Spotlight is produced and hosted by Mike Consol. Check out his novels here: https://snip.ly/yz18no Write to Mike Consol at novelistspotlight@gmail.com
In this episode, recorded in conjunction with Hay Festival, Rachel and Simon speak with the novelist Jacqueline Wilson. Born in 1945, Jacqueline wrote her first (unpublished) novel, "Meet the Maggots", when she was nine and has since gone on to write more than 100 books; her novels have been translated into 34 languages and have sold more than 40m copies in Britain alone. Jacqueline started her career as a journalist for DC Thomson in Dundee—the bestselling teen magazine Jackie was reportedly named after her—and she published her first story for children, "Ricky's Birthday", in 1973. She is the author of several bestselling children's titles, including "The Story of Tracy Beaker", "Double Act", "Vicky Angel", and several popular series, such as "Girls", "Hetty Feather" and "Sleepovers". Jacqueline has won many literary prizes and was the British Children's Laureate from 2005-07. In the 2025 New Year Honours List she was awarded the Dame Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire. We spoke to Jacqueline about starting out in magazines while in her teens, breaking out in children's books in 1991 with "Tracy Beaker" and writing for adults, most recently in "Think Again".We've made another update for those who support the podcast on the crowdfunding site Patreon. We've added 40 pages of new material to the package of successful article pitches that goes to anyone who supports the show with $5 per month or more, including new pitches to the New York Times, the Washington Post and the BBC. The whole compendium now runs to a whopping 160 pages. For Patreons who contribute $10/month we're now also releasing bonus mini-episodes. Thanks to our sponsor, Scrivener, the first ten new signs-ups at $10/month will receive a lifelong license to Scrivener worth £55/$59.99 (seven are left). This specialist word-processing software helps you organise long writing projects such as novels, academic papers and even scripts. Other Patreon rewards include signed copies of the podcast book and the opportunity to take part in a monthly call with Simon and Rachel.A new edition of “Always Take Notes: Advice From Some Of The World's Greatest Writers” - a book drawing on our podcast interviews - is available now. The updated version now includes insights from over 100 past guests on the podcast, with new contributions from Harlan Coben, Victoria Hislop, Lee Child, Megan Nolan, Jhumpa Lahiri, Philippa Gregory, Jo Nesbø, Paul Theroux, Hisham Matar and Bettany Hughes. You can order it via Amazon or Waterstones.You can find us online at alwaystakenotes.com, on Twitter @takenotesalways and on Instagram @alwaystakenotes. Always Take Notes is presented by Simon Akam and Rachel Lloyd, and produced by Artemis Irvine. Our music is by Jessica Dannheisser and our logo was designed by James Edgar.
Inside the mind of a firefighter-turned-author who survived 9/11 and now writes to heal, remember, and educate. We're honored to welcome Andrew Serra, retired FDNY captain and the powerful voice behind Hell's Hundred Acres and Finding John, to the Tactical Living Podcast. After 25 years on the front lines of New York City's Fire Department—including his time as a responder and recovery worker during 9/11—Andrew turned to the written word as a means of processing pain, honoring the past, and shedding light on forgotten chapters of American history.
Bestselling authors William and Lara Bernhardt discuss the latest news from the book world, offer writing tips, and interview Sydney Pruett, a therapist who helps authors make their characters (fiction and nonfiction) psychologically compelling and consistent.00:00 Opening ThoughtsWriterCon is almost here! Come join the best writers conference in the Southwest. Over 60 speakers, over 100 breakout sessions covering every aspect of the writing life, craft, agents, publishers, marketing, and more. Pitching, consults, manuscript reviews, and much more. It is NOT too late to register. For more info, visit: www.writercon.com03:41 News1) Audiobook Walking Clubs Gain Popularity2) Fan Fiction Leads to Controversial Online Chatter13:07 Craft CornerJon Meyers talks about the vaue of writers conferences—and his upcoming MasterClass on memoir.18:18 Interview with Sydney Pruett30:25 Parting WordsHave I said this already? Come join us at WriterCon! www.writercon.com
In Vermont author Amy Klinger's new novel, unlikely connections abound between softball players, migrant farm workers, an experimental art sculptor--and a Scarecrow Jesus.Klinger joins guest host Mitch Wertlieb to talk about about her book Ducks on the Pond. At turns darkly comic and dramatically poignant, it's a story of people from wildly different backgrounds and circumstances trying to find a sense of community and belonging in a fictional Vermont town...one that will feel very real to folks that have been here for generations, or are just arriving now.Then: For more than a decade now, the Middlebury New Filmmakers festival has provided a haven for cinephiles in Vermont to gather together and get a first look at a wide range of new movies. Documentaries, dramas, comedies, experimental films — there's pretty much something for everyone who loves movies to watch and talk about. But this year, the festival will also be hosting speakers who specialize in other forms in which narrative and story play an important role, such as poet Bianca stone and New York Times journalist David Sanger. They're going to apply their knowledge from their respective fields and how they relate to movie making. The Middlebury New Filmmaker's Festival starts this Wednesday and runs through Sunday. Joining us is local filmmaker and the festival's artistic director, Jay Craven, and executive director Caitlin Boyle. Broadcast live on Monday, August 18, 2025, at noon; rebroadcast at 7 p.m.Have questions, comments or tips? Send us a message or check us out on Instagram.
August 21, 2025LISTEN HERESUBSCRIBE HERE to Winning with the WordSUBSCRIBE HERE to The Relationship RoadVISIT MARYANN'S BOOKSHOP Hello and Happy Day! This is Dr. MaryAnn Diorio, Novelist and Life Coach, welcoming you to another episode of Winning with the Word. Today is Thursday, August 21, 2025, and this is episode #14 in Series 2025. This episode is titled, “It's Almost Midnight!” Before we get into our message for this week, I want to extend a warm welcome to all of our new subscribers around the world. By the grace of God, Winning with the Word now reaches 85 countries all over the globe! Praise the Lord and glory to God!I want you to know how much I appreciate your support, and I trust that Winning with the Word blesses you and encourages you during these difficult end times. Please share this podcast and blog with your family and friends. I would love to bless them and encourage them as well.Now on to our message. The World Is AsleepWhile the world sleeps, God's watchmen are at their posts .For the past decade and more, they have been studying the Word, watching the heavens, and keeping their eyes on the geopolitical pulse of the world, especially on the Middle East, and specifically on Israel. Their conclusions coincide: the world is approaching its end as we know it, and approaching its end at warp speed.Something shifted in the world back in 2020, and the world has never been the same. Normal did not come back, as people had hoped. But the watchmen know that Jesus is coming back. And they are risking their names and their reputations to warn us.Why?Because God, in His infinite love, has given the watchmen a mandate to warn the world. We read this mandate spoken by God in the Book of Ezekiel 33: 6:"But if the watchman sees the enemy coming and does not sound the alarm to warn the people, he is responsible for their captivity. They will die in their sins, but I will hold the watchman responsible for their deaths."The Enemy is ComingSo, what enemy is coming that the watchmen are warning us about? They are warning us about the coming Tribulation under the brutal dictatorship of the AntiChrist. More than that, they are warning the world of the eternal fires of Hell which no one will escape unless he is born again.And what are the watchmen getting for their warnings? They are being mocked, ridiculed, and scorned. They are being called alarmists and fanatics and lunatics. But they don't care. Why not? Because they love God and they love you!You may find this hard to believe, but it is the truth. How do I know? I have followed the watchmen for a decade now, and, indeed, I have joined their ranks. So, what are the watchmen seeing as they watch?1) They are seeing that the earth is groaning in labor pains that will only increase before the Tribulation and then result in the birth of the Kingdom in the Millennium, the thousand-year period of time during which Jesus Christ will rule on the earth. These labor pains are appearing in the form of earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, wildfires, monstrous storms, solar flares, falling asteroids, and so on.Romans 8: 20-23 NLT says this: "Against its will, all creation was subjected to God's curse. But with eager hope, the creation looks forward to the day when it will join God's children in glorious freedom from death and decay. For we know that all creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time." And in Luke 21: 11 NLT we read: "There will be great earthquakes, and there will be famines and plagues in many lands, and there will be terrifying things and great miraculous signs from heaven."2) The watchmen are seeing the entire world gang up against Israel and demanding a two-state solution. Scripture clearly warns in the Book of Joel that any nation that divides Israel will itself be divided. Listen to the prophet's sobering warning in Joel chapter 3, verse 2:“I will gather all the nations and bring them down to the valley of Jehoshaphat.
My guest this episode is Yvonne Vincent, who began her path to becoming a full-time author with a Facebook blog called Growing Old Disgracefully, writing humorous posts about everyday life. During lockdown, the Scottish author turned those posts into a book, which unexpectedly became a bestseller. That success led to more books, a loyal readership, and eventually the leap to writing full-time. Today, her work has been optioned for film and television, and she's launched her own podcast. Find more author advice, tips, and tools at our Self-publishing Author Advice Center, with a huge archive of 2,000+ blog posts, and a handy search box to find key info on the topic you need. We invite you to join our organization and become a self-publishing ally. Sponsor Inspirational Indie Authors is proudly sponsored by Bookvault. Sell high-quality, print-on-demand books directly to readers worldwide and earn maximum royalties selling directly. Automate fulfillment and create stunning special editions with BookvaultBespoke. Visit Bookvault.app today for an instant quote. About the Host Howard Lovy has been a journalist for 40 years and now amplifies the voices of independent author-publishers and works with authors as a developmental editor. Find Howard at howardlovy.com, LinkedIn, and X. About the Guest Scottish author Yvonne Vincent was encouraged to write by followers of her cheeky Facebook blog, Growing Old Disgracefully. Known for her Big Blue Jobbie books and Losers Club series, as well as her Hear Me Roar podcast, she lives in the northeast of England with one grumpy husband and two deranged Jack Russells. In 2022, just over two years into her writing career, she quit her job to follow her dream. Since then, Game of Trust, the eighth in the Losers Club series, has been longlisted for the 2025 Comedy Women in Print Prize, and the series has been optioned for film and television.
Host Ruben Navarrette has a candid and far-reaching conversation with his old friend, Alfredo Estrada, the Harvard-educated trailblazing magazine publisher and chronicler of the experience of U.S. Latinos over the last four decades. They talk about how President Donald Trump's war on immigrants is actually a war against Latinos, and the degreee to which Trump has united the different factions of the Latino community. They also discuss whether future generations will still seek to migrate to the United States, or perhaps decide to go elsewhere. And finally, they unpack where Latinos are politically -- and whether Trump's immigration raids are changing things.
The world watches as President Trump meets with Russian President Vladmir Putin in a high stakes summit in Alaska to discuss the future of the Ukraine War. Michael Savage speaks with Jeff Rovin, a renowned novelist behind some of the top selling Tom Clancy novels. Savage and Rovin speculate on how the war will come to an end. They discuss Rovin's 2017 novel 'The Dark Zone,' which eerily predicted the invasion of Ukraine. The conversation delves into historical comparisons, including Vladimir Putin's desire to reassemble the Soviet Union and the impacts of political moves, as seen in the Cuban Missile Crisis. Additionally, the discussion touches on misinformation, the difficulty of separating propaganda from reality, and the influence of media narratives. They also reflect on the societal and psychological effects of continuous global crises, including the parallels with past fears during the Cold War era.
The Writer Files: Writing, Productivity, Creativity, and Neuroscience
Acclaimed debut novelist and English Professor Priscilla Morris spoke to me about finding her voice, and the germ of an idea that became her labor of love, acclaimed debut novel BLACK BUTTERFLIES. Priscilla Morris is a British author and lecturer whose debut novel, Black Butterflies, was shortlisted for a number of major awards. Critics described Black Butterflies as “a story of strife and hope set during the conflict in the Balkans in the early '90s,” and it was shortlisted in 2023 for: the Women's Prize for Fiction, the RSL Ondaatje Prize, among others, and chosen as an Indie Fiction Book of the Month. Black Butterflies is a finalist for the Dayton Literary Peace Prize 2025 (winners to be announced in September). Priscilla teaches creative writing in Ireland and studied Spanish, Italian and social anthropology at Cambridge University and creative writing at the University of East Anglia, where she earned her PhD. [Discover The Writer Files Extra: Get 'The Writer Files' Podcast Delivered Straight to Your Inbox at writerfiles.fm] [If you're a fan of The Writer Files, please click FOLLOW to automatically see new interviews. And drop us a rating or a review wherever you listen] In this file Priscilla Morris and I discussed: How her Grandfather's funeral planted the seed that became her novel Why art helps overcome the tragedies of war Writing a love letter to the place she spent a part of her formative childhood How to cultivate a balanced disposition toward your work over time Why writing is a long game And a lot more! Show Notes: priscillamorris.org Black Butterflies: A Novel by Priscilla Morris (Amazon) Priscilla Morris on Instagram Kelton Reid on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Writer's Voice: compelling conversations with authors who challenge, inspire, and inform. Episode Summary Award-winning author Honorée Fanonne Jeffers joins Writer's Voice to talk about her bold and beautiful nonfiction debut, Misbehaving at the Crossroads—a matrilineal memoir braided with African American history, intersectional feminism, and unflinching truth-telling. “The crossroads represents… a place where trouble meets possibility … Continue reading Honorée Fanonne Jeffers on MISBEHAVING AT THE CROSSROADS & Catherine Coleman Flowers on Environmental Justice →
What happens in Sherlock Holmes' world when the master detective is away and Dr. Watson is kidnapped? In this episode, we sit down with author Jeri Westerson to do a deep dive into her An Irregular Detective Mystery series, a thrilling and historically rich take on the Victorian detective genre. When Dr. Watson goes missing, it's up to Tim Badger, a former Baker Street Irregular, and his partner, the scientifically-minded Ben Watson (no relation!), to solve a case that could make or break their fledgling detective agency.Join us as we explore the foggy streets of Victorian London and beyond with Jeri Westerson, who shares the inspiration behind her unique characters. We discuss how her stories exist as Sherlock Holmes pastiche books, while still carving out their own distinct identity. This interview serves as a fascinating The Misplaced Physician review, detailing the plot where Badger and Watson must unravel cryptic clues left in the untold tales of the Sherlock Holmes canon to save their hero. We also explore the core themes of the Tim Badger and Ben Watson series, including the rigid class differences of the era and the challenges faced by our working-class heroes. Jeri explains the fascinating historical accuracy she weaves into her novels, from the shocking reality of mummy unwrapping parties to the surprising efficiency of 12-times-a-day mail delivery in 1895. A major focus is the character of Miss Ellsie Moira Littleton, a determined and educated Victorian era female journalist modeled on real-life reporters of the day, like Nellie Bly. Finally, Jeri gives us a sneak peek into the future of the series, including the upcoming books "The Vampire Client" and "The Magician's Misadventure."About Our Guest:Jeri Westerson is the author of the critically acclaimed "An Irregular Detective Mystery" series. A former newspaper reporter, Jeri brings her sharp eye for detail and dedication to historical research to her novels. She is known for creating vibrant worlds, from medieval noir to Victorian London, and populating them with relatable characters navigating extraordinary circumstances. Her work, including these brilliant Sherlock Holmes pastiche books, masterfully blends humor, adventure, and meticulous historical authenticity.Timestamps:(00:00) Introduction: The Case of "The Misplaced Physician"(01:30) Introducing the "An Irregular Detective Mystery" Series(06:20) Inspiration: Crafting a Sherlock Holmes Pastiche with a Unique Twist(09:42) Jeri Westerson's Journey from Reporter to Novelist(11:10) Exploring Class Differences in Victorian London(15:06) Miss Littleton: The Rise of the Victorian Era Female Journalist(18:02) Unearthing the "Untold Tales" of the Sherlock Holmes Canon(21:58) Badger & Watson's Scientific Method vs. Holmes's Deduction(26:33) Historical Authenticity: Mummy Parties, Mail Delivery, and More(38:23) What's Next for Badger and Watson?Learn More From Our Guest / Episode Resources:Visit Jeri Westerson's WebsiteGet "The Misplaced Physician" (An Irregular Detective Mystery #3)
Novelist Jordan Harper discusses his favorite film adaptations with Josh Olson and Joe Dante. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Lisa Gardner is a #1 "New York Times" bestselling thriller novelist with over 30 million copies of her books in print worldwide. A self-described research junkie, Lisa has transformed her interest in police procedure and criminal minds into a streak of internationally acclaimed novels, published in over 30 languages.An avid hiker, gardener and cribbage player, Lisa lives with her family in New England. “Kiss Her Goodbye” is her 29th book and we welcome her to the RT this morning.
Poet, novelist, and teacher Joseph Fasano on how to find the unique language and rhythm in our work, building a meaningful online presence, and why he believes that embracing limits in life (and writing) is key to creative freedom.We discuss:Joseph's creative evolution, from astrophysics to poetryWhy studying craft is essentialThe value of constraint and rhythm in unlocking creativityHow he found his voice, and why he writes persona poemsBuilding a meaningful career outside of traditional publishingAdvice for poets starting out (with or without an MFA)The story behind The Magic Words and teaching poetic thinkingHow faith and service shape his creative practiceAbout Joseph FasanoJoseph Fasano is an award-winning poet, novelist, and teacher whose lyrical storytelling has captivated readers on the page and across social media, where he's built a following of over 100,000. His work—translated into more than a dozen languages—includes poetry collections (The Magic Words, Inheritance, The Last Song of the World), novels (The Swallows of Lunetto, The Dark Heart of Every Wild Thing), and lyrical prose. He's received the Rattle Poetry Prize, the Cider Press Review Book Award, and a Poets' Prize nomination. A passionate educator, Joseph teaches poetry workshops through the Fasano Academy and fosters creative community online.Resources and Links:
What happens when you take the Great War, train folks to be cryptographers and spies, and then send them home to live "normal lives" later? Listen in to what Emma Donovan shows in her book, The Victory Party. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. First up--cover. Can I just say it' STUNNING? I bought mine the minute we got off recording and... yeah. Still haven't read it but not for want of trying. Sooooooo looking forward to this one! The Victory Party by Emma Donovan The storm is coming. When the Great War ends, former cryptographer Lady Jill Morgan has only two things remaining: to host a house party for her brother and to decide her future. That changes when she receives a warning from her one-time employer that her guests may not be as they seem. Captain Richard Darnaway comes to Huntingtower with his own plans - plans that don't involve tracking traitors like he did during the war. But he finds he needs all his old skills when a perhaps-not-so-retired fellow agent is murdered. Now Richard and Jill have to navigate a guest list of war heroes and supposedly retired spies to find out which one is a murderer... and a traitor. The Victory Party is a historical mystery with Christian themes and sweet, kisses only romance. Learn more about Emma on her WEBSITE and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub. Don't miss Thoughts from a Novelist on Substack. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon and more!
In this unforgettable episode of The Mike Litton Experience, we sit down with Gary Hamilton, author of Dreamers, The Fixer, and his latest novel Daydreamers. Born in England, raised in Jamaica, and now residing in the UK, Gary shares a jaw-dropping life journey that almost ended during COVID-19—and instead ignited a bold new chapter as […]