The Darling Killers Podcast

The Darling Killers Podcast co-hosts discuss one of the most popular questions they get asked: "Where do you get your book ideas?" Their conversation explores the sources of inspiration for authors, particularly the influence of media like popular TV and movies. Joan, Laura, and Allison discuss their creative processes and the role of unique ideas in storytelling, providing insights into how to generate compelling fiction. They cap off the episode with a quick chat about whether they believe in love at first sight. (S1 E5)TakeawaysInspiration from Personal ExperienceInfluence of TV and MoviesChapters00:00 Inspiration from Personal Experience10:00 Influence of TV and Movies

The Darling Killers Podcast hosts explain what it means to plot fiction, "pants" it, and the hybrid of the two: plants it. Joan, Laura, and Allison discuss the pros and cons of the various methods, including sharing insights on the challenges and rewards of the writing process. As always, they agree you need to know the rules to break them. (S1E4)TakeawaysThe writing process involves a variety of methods and preferences, including plotting, pantsing, and dictation.Choosing a book genre can be a personal and creative decision, influenced by individual interests and storytelling styles.

We all want it, but do you have it?High concept is a buzzphrase in the industry, and this episode of The Darling Killers tackles why. Here, Joan, Laura, and Allison provide a definition for high concept work, its characteristics, and methods to test out if your book idea is one that makes people sit up. The hosts chat stakes, fresh takes on familiar themes, and the need for a compelling and easily pitched idea, sharing their own experiences publishing high versus low concept work. They provide examples of high concept books and media, highlighting the impact of high concept ideas on reader engagement and interest. (S1E3)TakeawaysHigh concept ideas are compelling and grab the reader's attention.High concept books often take a fresh take on something familiar and twist it in a way that is new and exciting.The stakes in high concept are obvious from the beginning, and the idea is easily pitched and sold.High concept ideas can be tested by running them by friends, family, or writing partners to gauge their reaction and interest.Chapters00:00 Introduction to High Concept19:37 Defining High Concept38:11 Testing High Concept Ideas

In this episode of the Darling Killers, Joan, Laura, and Allison explore various themes surrounding writing, career pivots, and personal growth. The conversation delves into the challenges of navigating market trends in the publishing industry, the balance between creativity and business, and the role of agents in making career decisions. The hosts discuss their personal experiences with pivoting, the challenges and opportunities it presents, and the impact of those market trends on creative decisions.TakeawaysPivoting in writing careers involves switching audiences or genres, and can be driven by choice or market trends.Maintaining brand elements and reader recognition is important when pivoting to a new genre or age group. (S1E2)Chapters00:00 Movie Recommendations and Favorite Scenes09:42 Pivoting in Writing Careers16:30 Challenges and Misconceptions of Pivoting22:08 Balancing Creativity and Business in Writing44:39 Rapid Fire Game and Host Personalities

The authors' conversation covers book discussions, writing and publishing excitement, TV shows and comfort viewing, unique critique group dynamics, and critique group safety and trust. The speakers share insights into their collaborative writing process and the dynamics of their critique group, emphasizing the importance of trust and safety in their interactions. Next week, they'll talk the quiet part out loud about whether it's a trend or a reality to pivot in author careers.Follow The Darling Killers podcast on Instagram to join your new writing besties! Comments and questions are encouraged and welcome. https://www.instagram.com/thedarlingkillerspodcast/TakeawaysCollaborative WritingCritique Group DynamicsChapters00:00 Critique Group Safety and Trust

New podcast alert! In this kickoff bonus episode, Joan, Laura, and Allison's chat revolves around the friendship and collaboration between three authors, their writing and publishing journey, and the birth of their podcast The Darling Killers. The authors discuss their virtual connection, the formation of their group, and introduce their author brands, backgrounds, future projects, and engagement with listeners in this bonus content prelude to a fun first season of author chat. (S1E0)Follow The Darling Killers podcast on Instagram to join your new writing besties! Comments and questions are encouraged and welcome. https://www.instagram.com/thedarlingkillerspodcast/TakeawaysFriendship and CollaborationWriting and Publishing JourneyChapters00:00 Engaging with Each Other and Listeners