Talk Spicy To Me

Welcome back to Talk Spicy to Me: The podcast where two bestselling romance authors go rogue and talk all things romance: the good, the bad, the unbearably hot, and everything in between. In this season finale episode, Kandi and Giana discuss the realities of life in the publishing trenches, the importance of genuine author friendships, what really happens at writing retreats, and answer reader questions about writing and the romance genre. The podcast will return this summer after Giana begins maternity leave.   Timestamps: 00:00 – Season finale announcement & Giana starting maternity leave early 01:36 – Life in the indie publishing trenches 08:45 – Season sponsors: Lena Hendrix & Willow Aster 10:07 – The Spice Report (current reads, shows, and obsessions) 27:58 – Kandi's word of the year: "Rooted" 30:11 – Industry advice: building genuine friendships 32:25 – Why meeting in person matters ("vibe checks") 43:56 – What really happens at writing retreats 52:58 – How to organize your own writing retreat 01:08:17 - Sponsor: Brittanee Nicole 01:12:59 – Red Flag / Green Flag trope discussion 01:18:11 – Reader question: why write romance? 01:23:29 – Book club discussion: Deep Pockets by Nana Malone 01:35:29 – Final Bump-Date   BOOK CLUB PICK Deep Pockets by Nana Malone Tropes for that book: Mafia/Assassin romance, Best friend's sister, Age Gap, Forced Proximity, Enemies to Lovers Link: https://www.amazon.com/Deep-Pockets-Forced-Proximity-Romance-ebook/dp/B0DDGX814Q Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nanamalonewriter/ Website: https://nanamalone.com/ Join us for the Deep Pockets deep dive on March18th.       SEASON SPONSORS Brittanee Nicole Darling Daffodils Farm :https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/808533/darling-daffodils-farm-a-hope-harbor-novel-by-brittanee-nicole/ Website: https://www.brittaneenicole.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorbrittaneenicole/   Lena Hendrix Chasing the Sun (Star Harbor, Book 1) Link: https://geni.us/chasingthesun1 Website: https://www.lenahendrix.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorlenahendrix   Willow Aster What It Takes (Windy Harbor Series, Book 2) Link: https://geni.us/WhatItTakes Website: https://www.willowaster.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willowaster/     WHERE TO FIND EVERYONE Talk Spicy to Me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkspicytomepodcast Spotify/Apple: @talkspicytomepodcast Youtube: @talkspicytomepodcast   HOSTS Giana Darling Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gianadarlingauthor Website: https://gianadarling.com/ Kandi Steiner Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kandisteiner Website: https://kandisteiner.com/   🔥 AFTER DARK (Patreon Exclusive) Want the extended, unfiltered conversation? Each week's After Dark mini-episode dives deeper into topics we don't cover on the main feed. Join the Patreon for early access and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/c/TalkSpicytoMePodcast   Listen, watch, and don't forget to subscribe for weekly episodes, author conversations, and honest discussions about romance, publishing, and storytelling craft.

Welcome back to Talk Spicy to Me: The podcast where two bestselling romance authors go rogue and talk all things romance: the good, the bad, the unbearably hot, and everything in between. In Season 2, Episode 9, the hosts are joined by bestselling romance author Liz Tomforde to break down the anatomy of a bestseller. They also share personal updates, reality TV obsessions, and the importance of author friendships while navigating pregnancy, publishing, and the chaos of a writing career.   Liz Tomforde Upcoming Release: In Her Own League https://liztomforde.com/in-her-own-league Website - https://liztomforde.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/liztomforde.author/   💬 Got a question you'd like us to answer on the podcast? Submit it here → Send us a voice message on SpeakPipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/TalkSpicytoMe       TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Welcome to Talk Spicy to Me 01:05 – Pregnancy updates & baby shower weekend 02:06 – Prenatal classes and unexpected anxiety 03:07 – Why friendships matter in pregnancy and writing 04:15 – Season sponsors: Lena Hendrix & Willow Aster 05:20 – Surprise guest reveal: Liz Tomforde 17:39 – The Spice Report 17:45 – Kandi's obsession: Below Deck 21:38 – Giana's obsession: Bridgerton 25:46 – Liz's obsession: Love Is Blind 28:57 – The Anatomy of a Bestseller 32:49 – Why characters are the heart of a great romance 37:49 – Avoiding self-insert characters 38:89 – Writing empathy into character choices 40:14 – Purposeful pacing and emotional tension 44:45 – Building highs and lows in storytelling 46:26 – Adding compelling elements beyond the romance 51:03 – Conflict as the "bones" of a bestseller 01:17:50 – Red Flag / Green Flag 01:22:28 – Reader Question   BOOK CLUB PICK Deep Pockets by Nana Malone Tropes for that book: Mafia/Assassin romance, Best friend's sister, Age Gap, Forced Proximity, Enemies to Lovers Link: https://www.amazon.com/Deep-Pockets-Forced-Proximity-Romance-ebook/dp/B0DDGX814Q Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nanamalonewriter/ Website: https://nanamalone.com/ Join us for the Deep Pockets deep dive on March18th.   SEASON SPONSORS Lena Hendrix Chasing the Sun (Star Harbor, Book 1) Link: https://geni.us/chasingthesun1 Website: https://www.lenahendrix.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorlenahendrix       Willow Aster What It Takes (Windy Harbor Series, Book 2) Link: https://geni.us/WhatItTakes Website: https://www.willowaster.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willowaster/   WHERE TO FIND EVERYONE Talk Spicy to Me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkspicytomepodcast Spotify/Apple: @talkspicytomepodcast Youtube: @talkspicytomepodcast       HOSTS Giana Darling Intagram: https://www.instagram.com/gianadarlingauthor Website: https://gianadarling.com/ Kandi Steiner Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kandisteiner Website: https://kandisteiner.com/ 🔥 AFTER DARK (Patreon Exclusive) Want the extended, unfiltered conversation? Each week's After Dark mini-episode dives deeper into topics we don't cover on the main feed. Join the Patreon for early access and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/c/TalkSpicytoMePodcast   Listen, watch, and don't forget to subscribe for weekly episodes, author conversations, and honest discussions about romance, publishing, and storytelling craft.

Welcome back to Talk Spicy to Me: The podcast where two bestselling romance authors go rogue and talk all things romance: the good, the bad, the unbearably hot, and everything in between. This week, we're joined by New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Shanora Williams for an honest, vulnerable conversation about boundaries, burnout, publishing contracts, and whether you can actually balance it all as a modern author.   Shanora Williams New York Times & USA Today bestselling author known for emotionally immersive romance across contemporary and high-stakes worlds. Upcoming Release: Mayhem and the Mortal: https://www.shanorawilliams.com/mayhemandthemortal Website - shanorawilliams.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/reallyshanora/ Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Shanora-Williams/author/B00BHQUULU 💬 Got a question you'd like us to answer on the podcast? Submit it here → Send us a voice message on SpeakPipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/TalkSpicytoMe   TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Welcome to Talk Spicy to Me 01:01 – Chaos, travel, deadlines & overwhelm 02:56 – Season Sponsors: Lena Hendrix & Willow Aster 04:10 – Introducing Shanora Williams 07:02 – Indie vs Traditional Publishing Speed 09:11 – Protecting Yourself in Publishing Contracts 10:27 – Why You Shouldn't Accept Every Deal 11:43 – Turning Down a Major Publisher (And Why It Paid Off) 12:44 – The Spice Report 13:27 – Interview with the Vampire 18:50 – Night of the Seven Kingdoms 21:26 – Wuthering Heights Film Adaptation 22:20 – Can You Actually Balance It All? 25:51 – Productivity Guilt & Burnout 27:11 – "Rest Is Productive" 31:07 – The Irregular Life of an Author 37:10 – Series Deep Dive: Anna B. Doe 40:10 – Motherhood & Writing with Three Kids 45:40 – The Invisible Load Women Carry 49:00 – Delegation & Building a Support System 01:13:49 – Red Flag / Green Flag 01:17:40 – Reader Question: Steamy Scenes   BOOK CLUB PICK Deep Pockets by Nana Malone Tropes for that book: Mafia/Assassin romance, Best friend's sister, Age Gap, Forced Proximity, Enemies to Lovers Link: https://www.amazon.com/Deep-Pockets-Forced-Proximity-Romance-ebook/dp/B0DDGX814Q Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nanamalonewriter/ Website: https://nanamalone.com/ Join us for the Deep Pockets deep dive on March18th.   SEASON SPONSORS Anna B Doe Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annabdoe/ Website: https://www.annabdoe.com/ Lena Hendrix Chasing the Sun (Star Harbor, Book 1) Link: https://geni.us/chasingthesun1 Website: https://www.lenahendrix.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorlenahendrix Willow Aster What It Takes (Windy Harbor Series, Book 2) Link: https://geni.us/WhatItTakes Website: https://www.willowaster.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willowaster/   WHERE TO FIND EVERYONE Talk Spicy to Me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkspicytomepodcast Spotify/Apple: @talkspicytomepodcast Youtube: @talkspicytomepodcast   HOSTS Giana Darling Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gianadarlingauthor Website: https://gianadarling.com/ Kandi Steiner Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kandisteiner Website: https://kandisteiner.com/   🔥 AFTER DARK (Patreon Exclusive) Want the extended, unfiltered conversation? Each week's After Dark mini-episode dives deeper into topics we don't cover on the main feed. Join the Patreon for early access and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/c/TalkSpicytoMePodcast   Listen, watch, and don't forget to subscribe for weekly episodes, author conversations, and honest discussions about romance, publishing, and storytelling craft.  

Welcome back to Talk Spicy to Me: The podcast where two bestselling romance authors go rogue and talk all things romance: the good, the bad, the unbearably hot, and everything in between. In Season 2, Episode 5, hosts Kandi Steiner and Giana Darling are joined by special guest Ambar Cordova for a deeply honest conversation about messy characters, third-act breakups, reader reactions, and why raw, emotionally complicated romances hit harder Please note: Due to technical difficulties, audio quality may not be up to par in the first half of the episode. We appreciate your patience. Ambar Cordova •NEWSLETTER: acordovabooks.com/newsletter •FACEBOOK: facebook.com/acordovabooks •FACEBOOK READER GROUP: facebook.com/groups/735186988190607 •INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/acordovabooks •TIKTOK: tiktok.com/@authorambarcordova •WEBSITE: www.acordovabooks.com   💬 Got a question you'd like us to answer on the podcast? Submit it here → Send us a voice message on SpeakPipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/TalkSpicytoMe   TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Welcome to Talk Spicy to Me 01:31 – Pregnancy updates & writing while sick 02:46 – Balancing indie and traditional publishing 05:17 – Patreon shoutouts: Ghost Pepper Goddesses 06:23 – Season sponsors: Willow Aster & Lena Hendrix 07:28 – Introducing Ambar Cordova 11:20 – The Spice Report 19:06 – Motherhood, high-risk pregnancies & body changes 21:31 – Discovering romance in 2020 22:16 – Writing the stories you wish existed 23:41 – Reader reactions to messy characters 31:38 – Writing as therapy & emotional processing 37:45 – Why women write men who show up 40:19 – Writing slow-burn spice & emotional tension 42:52 – The third-act breakup debate 46:17 – Why flawed heroines get more hate 50:00 – Sunshine heroines who are secretly struggling 52:15 – The miscommunication trope discussion 58:05 – S.J. Sylvis 59:19 – Red Flag / Green Flag: When he texts you constantly 01:05:11 – TSTM Book Club: Deep Pockets by Nana Malone 01:07:03 – Reader Question: Special Editions   BOOK CLUB PICK Deep Pockets by Nana Malone Tropes for that book: Mafia/Assassin romance, Best friend's sister, Age Gap, Forced Proximity, Enemies to Lovers Link: https://www.amazon.com/Deep-Pockets-Forced-Proximity-Romance-ebook/dp/B0DDGX814Q Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nanamalonewriter/ Website: https://nanamalone.com/ Join us for the Deep Pockets deep dive on March18th.   SEASON SPONSORS S.J. Sylvis Overtake: A Rivals to Lovers F1 Romance (Vanstone Racing) Tropes: Rivals to Lovers/Enemies to Lovers, F1 Romance, Workplace Romance, Forced Proximity, link: mybook.to/vanstoneracing1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorsjsylvis/?hl=en Website: https://www.sjsylvis.com/   Lena Hendrix Chasing the Sun (Star Harbor, Book 1) Link: https://geni.us/chasingthesun1 Website: https://www.lenahendrix.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorlenahendrix   Willow Aster What It Takes (Windy Harbor Series, Book 2) Link: https://geni.us/WhatItTakes Website: https://www.willowaster.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willowaster/   WHERE TO FIND EVERYONE Talk Spicy to Me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkspicytomepodcast Spotify/Apple: @talkspicytomepodcast Youtube: @talkspicytomepodcast   HOSTS Giana Darling Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gianadarlingauthor Website: https://gianadarling.com/ Kandi Steiner Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kandisteiner Website: https://kandisteiner.com/   🔥 AFTER DARK (Patreon Exclusive) Want the extended, unfiltered conversation? Each week's After Dark mini-episode dives deeper into topics we don't cover on the main feed. Join the Patreon for early access and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/c/TalkSpicytoMePodcast   Listen, watch, and don't forget to subscribe for weekly episodes, author conversations, and honest discussions about romance, publishing, and storytelling craft.

Welcome back to Talk Spicy to Me: The podcast where two bestselling romance authors go rogue and talk all things romance: the good, the bad, the unbearably hot, and everything in between. In Season 2, Episode 6, hosts Kandi Steiner and Giana Darling share life updates, celebrate publishing milestones, and break down exactly what they would do differently if they were building an indie author career from scratch today.   💬 Got a question you'd like us to answer on the podcast? Submit it here → Send us a voice message on SpeakPipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/TalkSpicytoMe   00:00 – Welcome to Talk Spicy to Me 00:55 – Travel episode & Kandi's ski trip in Deer Valley 02:31 – Learning to ski 04:38 – Season sponsors 05:18 – Spice Report 18:03 – Main Topic: Building an indie career from scratch 18:34 – Step 1: Identify your author identity 20:37 – Step 2: Start with a series of standalones 22:28 – Series strategy & saving the fan favorite for last 23:42 – Step 3: Market research & branding 25:52 – Recovering covers & packaging pivots 27:40 – Thinking like a business person 29:16 – Testing covers, blurbs & ads 31:02 – New Release Spotlight: Safe Haven by Kristen Proby 32:00 – Courses & free resources 36:11 – Write more than one book 37:45 – Rapid release strategy 39:02 – Newsletter & reader funnel 41:20 – Film everything (sell the journey) 42:43 – Building super fans 44:02 – Stay positive in the community 45:36 – Sponsor spotlight: Piper Rayne 46:34 – Red Flag / Green Flag: Office Romance 50:32 – Reader Question: Special edition book process       NEW RELEASE SPOTLIGHT Safe Haven by Kristen Proby Hockey romance, best friends to lovers, found family, and a protective hero. Link: https://amzn.to/4gkydGd   SEASON SPONSORS Piper Rayne – The Hot Shot Link: https://www.amazon.com/Hotshot-Piper-Rayne-ebook/dp/B0F3FP2WHQ Lena Hendrix   Chasing the Sun (Star Harbor, Book 1) Link: https://geni.us/chasingthesun1 Website: https://www.lenahendrix.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorlenahendrix     Willow Aster What It Takes (Windy Harbor Series, Book 2) Link: https://geni.us/WhatItTakes Website: https://www.willowaster.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willowaster/   WHERE TO FIND EVERYONE Talk Spicy to Me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkspicytomepodcast Spotify/Apple: @talkspicytomepodcast  Youtube: @talkspicytomepodcast    Hosts Giana Darling Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gianadarlingauthor Website: https://gianadarling.com/ Kandi Steiner  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kandisteiner Website: https://kandisteiner.com/   AFTER DARK (Patreon Exclusive) Want the uncensored conversation?   Join the Patreon for bonus episodes, extended conversations, and exclusive content:https://www.patreon.com/c/TalkSpicytoMePodcast   Listen, watch, and don't forget to subscribe for weekly episodes, author conversations, writing advice, and unapologetically honest romance talk.  

Welcome back to Talk Spicy to Me: The podcast where two bestselling romance authors go rogue and talk all things romance: the good, the bad, the unbearably hot, and everything in between.   In Season 2, Episode 5, hosts Giana Darling and Kandi Steiner catch up on life updates, celebrate major career milestones, and dive deep into one of the most important (and underrated) moments in romance writing: The Meet Cute!   💬 Got a question you'd like us to answer on the podcast? Submit it here → Send us a voice message on SpeakPipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/TalkSpicytoMe   00:00 – Welcome to Talk Spicy to Me 01:23 – Life updates & Kandi's 10-year publishing anniversary 03:03 – Why authors struggle to celebrate success 05:56 – Season sponsor spotlight: Willow Aster & Lena Hendrix 10:35 – Valentine Vaults: favorite Valentine's Day memories 15:12 – Why your partner should also be your best friend 17:47 – Generational shifts in parenting & partnership 19:06 – What is a "meet cute"? 23:29 – How meet cutes shape a story from page one 26:47 – Tips for writing a strong meet cute 35:54 – Favorite meet cute examples in romance 46:40 – Writing exercise: crafting your meet cute 49:32 – Sponsor spotlight: Jessica Prince 51:14 – Red Flag / Green Flag: Insta-love 59:03 - Reader Question: What's your favorite part about being an author?   BOOK CLUB PICK A.L. Jackson From Here to Eternity (Moonlit Ridge, Book 1) Link: https://geni.us/FHTEAmznOP Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aljacksonig Website: https://www.aljacksonauthor.com/ Join us for the From Here to Eternity discussion on February 18th.     SEASON SPONSORS Jessica Prince Beautifully Broken Pieces Link: https://geni.us/BeautBrokenPieceebook Website: https://authorjessicaprince.com/   Lena Hendrix Chasing the Sun (Star Harbor, Book 1) Link: https://geni.us/chasingthesun1 Website: https://www.lenahendrix.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorlenahendrix   Willow Aster What It Takes (Windy Harbor Series, Book 2) Link: https://geni.us/WhatItTakes Website: https://www.willowaster.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willowaster/     WHERE TO FIND EVERYONE Talk Spicy to Me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkspicytomepodcast Spotify/Apple: @talkspicytomepodcast Youtube: @talkspicytomepodcast Hosts Giana Darling Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gianadarlingauthor Website: https://gianadarling.com/   Kandi Steiner Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kandisteiner Website: https://kandisteiner.com/   AFTER DARK (Patreon Exclusive) Want the uncensored conversation? This week: Reality TV Join the Patreon for bonus episodes, extended conversations, and exclusive content:https://www.patreon.com/c/TalkSpicytoMePodcast   Listen, watch, and don't forget to subscribe for weekly episodes, author conversations, writing advice, and unapologetically honest romance talk.  

Welcome back to Talk Spicy to Me: The podcast where two bestselling romance authors go rogue and talk all things romance: the good, the bad, the unbearably hot, and everything in between. In Season 2, Episode 4, hosts Giana Darling and Kandi Steiner are joined by a surprise guest, USA Today bestselling author Sara Kate, for an honest, thoughtful conversation about kink   Sara Cate Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saracatebooks Website: https://saracatebooks.com/ 💬 Got a question you'd like us to answer on the podcast? Submit it here → Send us a voice message on SpeakPipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/TalkSpicytoMe   TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Welcome to Talk Spicy to Me 02:10 – Season sponsors 03:07 – Surprise guest reveal: Sara Cate 09:06 – The Spice Report (Hot Salsa) 20:54 – Kink as a narrative and character tool 23:32 – Writing kink responsibly & research 25:28 – Kink and mental health themes 28:29 – Trauma, healing, and power dynamics 30:06 – Kink and empowerment in romance 33:10 – Why romance (and kink) are still trivialized 43:11 – Researching kink and sensitivity readers 44:21 – Exploring new dynamics in upcoming work 48:07 – Writing second-generation characters 53:34 – Aftercare and emotional intimacy 01:18:04 – Red Flag & Green Flag 01:25:00 – Reader Question: how we go about writing with characters in a shared world or another author's world   BOOK CLUB PICK A.L. Jackson From Here to Eternity (Moonlit Ridge, Book 1) Link: https://geni.us/FHTEAmznOP Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aljacksonig Website: https://www.aljacksonauthor.com/ Join us for the From Here to Eternity discussion on February 18th.   SEASON SPONSORS Lena Hendrix Chasing the Sun (Star Harbor, Book 1) Link: https://geni.us/chasingthesun1 Website: https://www.lenahendrix.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorlenahendrix   Willow Aster What It Takes (Windy Harbor Series, Book 2) Link: https://geni.us/WhatItTakes Website: https://www.willowaster.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willowaster/   WHERE TO FIND EVERYONE Talk Spicy to Me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkspicytomepodcast Spotify/Apple: @talkspicytomepodcast Youtube: @talkspicytomepodcast   Hosts Giana Darling Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gianadarlingauthor Website: https://gianadarling.com/   Kandi Steiner Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kandisteiner Website: https://kandisteiner.com/   AFTER DARK (Patreon Exclusive) Want the uncensored conversation? This week: Our Favorite Spicy Scenes     Join the Patreon for bonus episodes, extended conversations, and exclusive content:https://www.patreon.com/c/TalkSpicytoMePodcast   Listen, watch, and don't forget to subscribe for weekly episodes, author interviews, and spicy romance discussions.

Welcome back to Talk Spicy to Me: The podcast where two bestselling romance authors go rogue and talk all things romance: the good, the bad, the unbearably hot, and everything in between. In Season 2, Episode 3, hosts Giana Darling and Kandi Steiner are joined by special guest Melanie Harlow for a candid, behind-the-scenes conversation about surviving a decade in romance publishing. 💬 Got a question you'd like us to answer on the podcast? Submit it here → Send us a voice message on SpeakPipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/TalkSpicytoMe   TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Welcome back to Talk Spicy to Me 02:35 – Patreon & After Dark episodes 03:20 – Season sponsors 04:23 – Introducing Melanie Harlow 10:47 – The Spice Report (Hot Salsa only) 22:36 – Melanie Harlow's origin story 27:17 – Changing covers & reader backlash 35:11 – Staying in your lane & long-term growth 36:10 – Balancing creativity and business 49:28 – Discipline, routine & keeping joy in writing 53:14 – Taking risks & trying traditional publishing 56:06 – Adaptation vs emulation of trends 57:20 – Protecting your peace & consistency 01:17:31 - Red Flag / Green Flag 01:23:52 - Reader Question: Have you ever completely abandoned a project?   Melanie Harlow Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melanie_harlow/ Website: https://www.melanieharlow.com/   BOOK CLUB PICK A.L. Jackson From Here to Eternity (Moonlit Ridge, Book 1) Link: https://geni.us/FHTEAmznOP Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aljacksonig Website: https://www.aljacksonauthor.com/ Join us for the From Here to Eternity discussion on February 18th.   SEASON SPONSORS Lena Hendrix Chasing the Sun (Star Harbor, Book 1) Link: https://geni.us/chasingthesun1 Website: https://www.lenahendrix.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorlenahendrix   Willow Aster What It Takes (Windy Harbor Series, Book 2) Link: https://geni.us/WhatItTakes Website: https://www.willowaster.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willowaster/   WHERE TO FIND EVERYONE Talk Spicy to Me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkspicytomepodcast Spotify/Apple: @talkspicytomepodcast Youtube: @talkspicytomepodcast   Hosts Giana Darling Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gianadarlingauthor Website: https://gianadarling.com/ Kandi Steiner Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kandisteiner Website: https://kandisteiner.com/   AFTER DARK (Patreon Exclusive) Want the uncensored conversation? This week: Aging With An Audience Join the Patreon for bonus episodes, extended conversations, and exclusive content:https://www.patreon.com/c/TalkSpicytoMePodcast   Listen, watch, and don't forget to subscribe for weekly episodes, author interviews, and spicy romance discussions.  

Welcome back to Talk Spicy to Me: The podcast where two bestselling romance authors go rogue and talk all things romance: the good, the bad, the unbearably hot, and everything in between. In Season 2, Episode 2, hosts Giana Darling and Kandi Steiner are back for a full solo episode covering real-life updates, spicy media recommendations, and a deep-dive discussion on building an author team as an indie author.  💬 Got a question you'd like us to answer on the podcast? Submit it here → Send us a voice message on SpeakPipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/TalkSpicytoMe TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Welcome to Talk Spicy to Me  07:13 – Season Sponsors Shoutouts 07:34 – The Spice Report  08:35 – Heated Rivalry adaptation discussion 23:39 – Building an author team as an indie author 28:30 – Why delegation is necessary to scale 29:07 – Finding editors & designers 46:53 – The importance of a personal assistant 52:27 – Kandi's PA story & long-term growth 50:10 – Backlist Deep Dive: Jillian Dodd 01:09:57 – Book Club: A.L. Jackson 01:11:06 – Red & Green Flag 01:14:49 – Reader Question   BACKLIST DEEP DIVE Author: Jillian Dodd Series: The Keatyn Chronicles Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0753CT91Q   BOOK CLUB PICK A.L. Jackson From Here to Eternity (Moonlit Ridge, Book 1) Link: https://geni.us/FHTEAmznOP Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aljacksonig Website: https://www.aljacksonauthor.com/ Join us for the From Here to Eternity discussion on February 18th.   SEASON SPONSORS Lena Hendrix Chasing the Sun (Star Harbor, Book 1) Link: https://geni.us/chasingthesun1 Website: https://www.lenahendrix.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorlenahendrix Willow Aster What It Takes (Windy Harbor Series, Book 2) Link: https://geni.us/WhatItTakes Website: https://www.willowaster.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willowaster/   WHERE TO FIND EVERYONE Talk Spicy to Me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkspicytomepodcast Spotify/Apple: @talkspicytomepodcast  Youtube: @talkspicytomepodcast    Hosts Giana Darling Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gianadarlingauthor Website: https://gianadarling.com/ Kandi Steiner  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kandisteiner Website: https://kandisteiner.com/   AFTER DARK (Patreon Exclusive) Want the uncensored conversation? This week's After Dark episode dives into our Spring TBR's!  Join the Patreon for bonus episodes, extended conversations, and exclusive content:https://www.patreon.com/c/TalkSpicytoMePodcast   Listen, watch, and don't forget to subscribe for weekly episodes, author interviews, and spicy romance discussions.  

Welcome back to Talk Spicy to Me, the podcast where two bestselling romance authors go rogue and talk all things romance: the good, the bad, and everything in between. Season 2 kicks off with a deep dive into writing a romance series, featuring special guest Laura Pavlov. We talk series vs standalones, series bibles, character continuity, managing reader expectations, and what it takes to keep readers hooked across multiple books. Plus, a new release spotlight, book club announcement, red & green flags, and a reader Q&A. CHAPTERS 00:00 – Season 2 premiere 02:51 – Season sponsors 05:45 – Laura Pavlov joins the show 07:34 – The Spice Report 20:50 – Series vs standalone romance 34:18 – Building a series bible 40:37 – Second-generation characters 43:52 – Managing reader expectations 50:10 – New release: Jennifer Millikin 01:14:15 – Book club pick: A.L. Jackson 01:15:26 – Red & Green Flags 01:20:27 – Reader Q&A: matchmaking New Release Spotlight: Jennifer Millikin: Hard Feelings (Serendipity & Shenanigans) Book Club Pick: A.L. Jackson: From Here to Eternity (Moonlit Ridge, Book 1) Join us for the discussion on February 18th. Season Sponsors: Lena Hendrix:  Chasing the Sun Willow Aster: What It Takes After Dark (Patreon Exclusive): This week's bonus episode explores how sex evolves over time in real-life relationships, from new love to long-term commitment. Join the Patreon for extended, uncensored episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/c/TalkSpicytoMePodcast Follow Talk Spicy to Me on Instagram, YouTube, and your favorite podcast platforms for weekly episodes, author interviews, and spicy romance conversations. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkspicytomepodcast  Youtube: @talkspicytomepodcast

Welcome to Talk Spicy to Me: A podcast where two bestselling authors go rogue and talk all things romance: the good, the bad, the unbearably hot, and everything in between. In Episode 10, It's Giving Influential: How Life Impacts Art, we're hanging out with Elsie Silver to talk about all the ways real life finds its way into our books: the funny moments, the emotional ones, and the things readers swear are based on our husbands (they're not, we promise). We get into creativity, inspiration, writing joy, and what it looks like to protect your spark when the world always wants "more." Spice Report: • Kandi – hockey playoffs (Panthers vs Oilers) • Giana – second wedding anniversary • Elsie – getting a puppy next month… and Amazon adapting the Rosehill Series   Timestamps  00:00 – Patreon Thank You 01:02 – Welcome to Talk Spicy to Me 05:07 – It's Giving Influential with Elsie Silver 08:25 – The Spice Report 15:37 – How Life Impacts Art 01:09:16 – Red Flag / Green Flag: When a Hero spoils the Heroine 💬 Got a question you'd like us to answer on the podcast? Submit it here → Send us a voice message on SpeakPipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/TalkSpicytoMe Links Follow us on Instagram: @talkspicytomepodcast Spotify/Apple: @talkspicytomepodcast  Youtube: @talkspicytomepodcast  Connect with the Hosts:  Giana Darling Instagram: @gianadarlingauthor Website: https://gianadarling.com/ Kandi Steiner Instagram: @kandisteiner Website: https://kandisteiner.com/ Elsie Silver Instagram: @tauthorelsiesilver Website: https://www.elsiesilver.com/ Want even more spice? Join us on Patreon for our weekly After Dark bonus episode: plus behind-the-scenes content and unfiltered chats you won't hear anywhere else: https://www.patreon.com/c/TalkSpicytoMePodcast Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review: it helps more romance lovers find us!

Welcome to Talk Spicy to Me: A podcast where two bestselling authors go rogue and talk all things romance: the good, the bad, the unbearably hot, and everything in between.   In Episode 9, It's Giving Swoon & Doom: Dating as a Romance Author, Kandi and Giana are getting real about love, heartbreak, and the hard-earned happily ever afters behind the scenes. From how Giana and Hayden met and navigated long distance to Kandi's dating eras and writing through pain, they're discussing what it's really like to date *and fall in love* as romance authors. Spice Report: • Kandi – The Gilded Age • Giana – Threads • Kandi – Laney Wilson • Giana – PNR books • Kandi – Plotting Stand Your Ground • Giana – Gym and movement   Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to Talk Spicy to Me 03:58 – Spice Report (Mild → Hot) 25:48 – Swoon & Doom: Dating as a Romance Author 57:12 – Red/Green Flag: Grand gestures in public 1:02:49 – Reader Q & A: Favorite book of each other's (Anti-Heroes Duet and Close Quarters)   💬 Got a question you'd like us to answer on the podcast? Submit it here → Send us a voice message on SpeakPipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/TalkSpicytoMe   Links Follow us on Instagram: @talkspicytomepodcast Spotify/Apple: @talkspicytomepodcast Youtube: @talkspicytomepodcast   Connect with the Hosts: Giana Darling Instagram: @gianadarlingauthor Website: https://gianadarling.com/ Kandi Steiner Instagram: @kandisteiner Website: https://kandisteiner.com/   Want even more spice? Join us on Patreon for our weekly After Dark bonus episode: plus behind-the-scenes content and unfiltered chats you won't hear anywhere else: https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkSpicytoMePodcast   Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review: it helps more romance lovers find us!  

Welcome to Talk Spicy to Me: A podcast where two bestselling authors go rogue and talk all things romance: the good, the bad, the unbearably hot, and everything in between. In Episode 9, It's Giving Magic, we're hanging out with the one and only Sierra Simone to talk about books that just have that thing. You know, the ones that feel a little enchanted and stick with you long after you finish them. We get into everything from indie vs. trad publishing and taking creative risks to sisterhood, super fans, and what really makes a story feel magical. Spice Report: • Kandi – Sabrina Carpenter's new song • Sierra – custom embroidery on the Ariana Grande Wicked moment • Giana – audiobook "it's not hysterical" Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to Talk Spicy to Me 02:10 – It's Giving Magic with Sierra Simone 06:10 – The Spice Report 19:26 – What Makes a Book Magical 34:58 – Sisterhood, Support & Super Fans 01:18:07 – Green Flag / Red Flag: Sexual Punishments 💬 Got a question you'd like us to answer on the podcast? Submit it here → Send us a voice message on SpeakPipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/TalkSpicytoMe Links Follow us on Instagram: @talkspicytomepodcast Spotify/Apple: @talkspicytomepodcast  Youtube: @talkspicytomepodcast  Connect with the Hosts:  Giana Darling Instagram: @gianadarlingauthor Website: https://gianadarling.com/ Kandi Steiner Instagram: @kandisteiner Website: https://kandisteiner.com/ Sierra Simone Instagram: @thesierrasimone Website: https://www.thesierrasimone.com/ Want even more spice? Join us on Patreon for our weekly After Dark bonus episode: plus behind-the-scenes content and unfiltered chats you won't hear anywhere else: https://www.patreon.com/c/TalkSpicytoMePodcast Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review: it helps more romance lovers find us!

Welcome to Talk Spicy to Me: A podcast where two bestselling authors go rogue and talk all things romance: the good, the bad, the unbearably hot, and everything in between. In Episode 6: Getting Personal: Choosing to Let Readers Into Our Lives, we're discussing what it really means to share pieces of our personal lives online as authors and creators. From boundaries and vulnerability to parasocial dynamics, burnout, and how much is too much! Timestamps  00:00 – Welcome to Talk Spicy to Me 03:17 – Spice Report (Mild → Hot) 17:53 – Getting Personal: Choosing to Let Readers Into Our Lives 57:07 – Red/Green Flag: Instantly Bonding with Your Kid 1:02:13 – Reader Q & A: Have you ever written a scene and thought, "I'm not sure how this is going to go over…" ? 💬 Got a question you'd like us to answer on the podcast? Submit it here → Send us a voice message on SpeakPipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/TalkSpicytoMe  Links Follow us on Instagram: @talkspicytomepodcast Spotify/Apple: @talkspicytomepodcast Youtube: @talkspicytomepodcast Connect with the Hosts: Giana Darling Instagram: @gianadarlingauthor Website: https://gianadarling.com/ Kandi Steiner Instagram: @kandisteiner Website: https://kandisteiner.com/ Want even more spice? Join us on Patreon for our weekly After Dark bonus episode: plus behind-the-scenes content and unfiltered chats you won't hear anywhere else: https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkSpicytoMePodcast Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review: it helps more romance lovers find us!

Welcome to Talk Spicy to Me: A podcast where two bestselling authors go rogue and talk all things romance: the good, the bad, the unbearably hot, and everything in between. In episode 5, It's Giving The Truth About Book Signings: The Expense, Exhaustion & Euphoria. We're spilling everything about romance book signings: from the financial chaos of tickets, travel, and special editions… to the emotional high of meeting readers and authors, and the crash that comes after. Timestamps 00:00 - Patron Shoutout & Gratitude 01:19 – Welcome to Talk Spicy to Me 03:44 – Spice Report (Mild → Hot) 18:10 – Book Signings (Expense, Exhaustion, and Euphoria) 57:29 – Red/Green Flag: Birth Control Tampering 1:04:01 – Reader Q&A: Infidelity Backlash?! 💬 Got a question you'd like us to answer on the podcast? Submit it here → Send us a voice message on SpeakPipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/TalkSpicytoMe  Links  Follow us on Instagram: @talkspicytomepodcast  Spotify/Apple: @talkspicytomepodcast Youtube: @talkspicytomepodcast Connect with the Hosts: Giana Darling Instagram: @gianadarlingauthor Website: https://gianadarling.com/ Kandi Steiner  Instagram: @kandisteiner Website: https://kandisteiner.com/ Want even more spice? Join us on Patreon for our weekly After Dark bonus episode: plus behind-the-scenes content and unfiltered chats you won't hear anywhere else: / talkspicytomepodcast Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review: it helps more romance lovers find us!

Welcome to Talk Spicy to Me: A podcast where two bestselling authors go rogue and talk all things romance: the good, the bad, the unbearably hot, and everything in between. In episode 4, It's Giving Not So Romantic: Bursting the Bubble on how Romantic the writing career is. From the hustle behind the scenes to the friendships (and "mean girl" dynamics) that shape the industry, we're getting real about what it means to be both a writer and a businessperson. We talk about editing, navigating a lack of support from friends and family, deciphering true friends vs. users, and why this industry never stops demanding your hustle. Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to Talk Spicy to Me 00:51 – Mother's Day & Golf Trip 06:14 – Spice Report (Med → Hot) 17:40 – Writing (bursting the bubble on how romantic the writing career is) 46:30 – Red/Green Flag: When he spits in your mouth 50:34 – Reader Question: Writing rituals 💬 Got a question you'd like us to answer on the podcast? Submit it here → Send us a voice message on SpeakPipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/TalkSpicytoMe Links Follow us on Instagram: @talkspicytomepodcast Spotify/Apple: @talkspicytomepodcast  Youtube: @talkspicytomepodcast  Connect with the Hosts:  Giana Darling Instagram: @gianadarlingauthor Website: https://gianadarling.com/ Kandi Steiner  Instagram: @kandisteiner Website: https://kandisteiner.com/ Want even more spice? Join us on Patreon for our weekly After Dark bonus episode: plus behind-the-scenes content and unfiltered chats you won't hear anywhere else: https://www.patreon.com/c/TalkSpicytoMePodcast Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review: it helps more romance lovers find us!

Welcome to Talk Spicy to Me: A podcast where two bestselling authors go rogue and talk all things romance: the good, the bad, the unbearably hot, and everything in between. In this episode, It's Giving Angst, we're unpacking all the messy, emotional, gut-wrenching sides of romance. From miscommunication and flawed characters to villains looking for redemption, we talk about why angst hits so hard for both writers and readers, and why we can't stop craving it!  This one's packed with spice levels, cliffhangers, cheating books, and the art of writing good angst. ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to Talk Spicy to Me  00:55– Writing Retreats & Author Relationships 08:20 – The Spice Report 23:33 – Writing Good Angst  41:07 – Villains, Redemption & Miscommunication 56:55 – Red Flag / Green Flag: Your man getting in a Fight for You  01:01:15 – Question from reader: Dating Our Characters 💬  Got a question you'd like us to answer on the podcast? Submit it here → Send us a voice message on SpeakPipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/TalkSpicytoMe Links  Follow us on Instagram: @talkspicytomepodcast Spotify/Apple: @talkspicytomepodcast Youtube: @talkspicytomepodcast Connect with the Hosts: Giana Darling Instagram: @gianadarlingauthor Website: https://gianadarling.com/ Kandi Steiner  Instagram: @kandisteiner  Website: https://kandisteiner.com/ Want even more spice? Join us on Patreon for our weekly After Dark bonus episode: plus behind-the-scenes content and unfiltered chats you won't hear anywhere else: https://www.patreon.com/c/TalkSpicytoMePodcast Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review: it helps more romance lovers find us!

Welcome to Talk Spicy to Me: A podcast where two bestselling authors go rogue and talk all things romance: the good, the bad, the unbearably hot, and everything in between. In our very first episode, It's Giving Twin Flames, we're pulling back the curtain. We share how this podcast came to life, what inspired us to become writers, the journeys (and chaos) that brought us here, plus a few glimpses into our personal lives. This is the start of something equal parts unhinged and unforgettable..and you've got the best seat in the house!    Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to Talk Spicy to Me 00:53 – How the idea for the podcast was born 08:29 – The Spice Report 23:12 – Social Media (Content Creation) 28:14 – Our Writing Journey 59:45  – Green Flag / Red Flag 💬 Got a question you'd like us to answer on the podcast? Submit it here → Send us a voice message on SpeakPipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/TalkSpicytoMe   Links Follow us on Instagram: @talkspicytomepodcast Spotify/Apple: @talkspicytomepodcast  Youtube: @talkspicytomepodcast  Connect with the Hosts:  Giana Darling Instagram: @gianadarlingauthor  Website: https://gianadarling.com/ Kandi Steiner Instagram: @kandisteiner  Website: https://kandisteiner.com/ Want even more spice? Join us on Patreon for our weekly After Dark bonus episode: plus behind-the-scenes content and unfiltered chats you won't hear anywhere else: https://www.patreon.com/c/TalkSpicytoMePodcast Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review: it helps more romance lovers find us!

Welcome to Talk Spicy to Me: A podcast where two bestselling authors go rogue and talk all things romance: the good, the bad, the unbearably hot, and everything in between. In Episode 2, It's Giving Daddy, we're joined by none other than Q.B. Tyler for a super spicy conversation, chatting all about writing the kind of heat that makes readers beg for more. We get into everything from age gaps and love triangles to writing taboo and forbidden romance.   If you've ever wondered what goes into crafting the perfect spicy scene, this one's for you. Guest Spotlight: Q.B. Tyler Amazon Top 15 Bestselling Author and lover of forbidden romances, tacos, coffee, and wine, Q.B. Tyler gives readers sometimes angsty, sometimes emotional but always deliciously steamy romances featuring sassy heroines and the heroes that worship them. She's best known for writing forbidden (and sometimes taboo) romances. Find Q.B. Tyler here: Website: https://authorqbtyler.com/ Instagram: @qbtyler.author Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to Talk Spicy to Me 01:44  – Guest Spotlight: Q.B. Tyler 03:45  – The Spice Report 08:36  – Writing Spice 24:26  24:26 – Daddy Kink / Taboo Romance 36:18 – A Spicy Dynamic We Haven't Written Yet 01:16:31 – Red Flag / Green Flag   💬 Got a question you'd like us to answer on the podcast? Submit it here → Send us a voice message on SpeakPipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/TalkSpicytoMe  Links Follow us on Instagram: @talkspicytomepodcast Spotify/Apple: @talkspicytomepodcast  Youtube: @talkspicytomepodcast Connect with the Hosts: Giana Darling Instagram: @gianadarlingauthor Website: https://gianadarling.com/ Kandi Steiner Instagram: @kandisteiner Website: https://kandisteiner.com/   Want even more spice? Join us on Patreon for our weekly After Dark bonus episode: plus behind-the-scenes content and unfiltered chats you won't hear anywhere else: https://www.patreon.com/c/TalkSpicytoMePodcast Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review: it helps more romance lovers find us!    

Welcome to Talk Spicy to Me: A podcast where two bestselling authors go rogue and talk all things romance: the good, the bad, the unbearably hot, and everything in between. In Episode 7, It's Giving Ever-Changing Days in the Life of a Romance Author, we're joined by Brittany C. Cherry for an honest look at what it's like to live, write, and love as a romance novelist. This episode highlights the mix of creativity, growth, and daily life that shapes every author's process, offering a thoughtful look at how storytelling evolves over time. The hosts and Brittany discuss how personal experiences shape storytelling, how writers grow alongside their characters, and what an average writing day looks like, filled with coffee, workouts, and moments of reflection. The Spice Report Kandi: Everything 90's after attending a rave party, focusing on mindful shopping this year (only five new clothing items total) and using her new 7-point styling system. Brittany: Sinners! Giana: Final Reckoning and her undying love for Tom Cruise's running scenes. Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to Talk Spicy to Me 07:52 – Real-life love for a romance novelist 09:34 – The evolution of writing and growth as an author 10:53 – How who you are shapes the story you're writing 15:05 – Writing as an escape from emotional landscapes 17:43 – The Spice Report 22:10 – A day in the life of Brittany C. Cherry 27:05 – Writing routines, gym life, and finding balance 01:25:32 – Red Flag / Green Flag: Alpha Behavior  💬 Got a question you'd like us to answer on the podcast? Send us a voice message on SpeakPipe → https://www.speakpipe.com/TalkSpicytoMe Links Follow us on Instagram: @talkspicytomepodcast Listen on Spotify & Apple: @talkspicytomepodcast YouTube: @talkspicytomepodcast Connect with the Hosts Giana Darling Instagram: @gianadarlingauthor Website: https://gianadarling.com/  Kandi Steiner Instagram: @kandisteiner Website: https://kandisteiner.com/ Connect with our Guest Brittany C. Cherry Instagram: @bcherryauthor Website: https://bcherrybooks.com/