Authors Talking Bookish

The first page of a novel can make or break a reader’s attention. In this episode, we explore what goes into crafting an irresistible opening that hooks your audience from the very first line. From setting the tone and establishing stakes to introducing compelling characters and planting questions that beg to be answered, we’ll break down the techniques successful authors use to keep readers turning the page. We’ll also share examples of unforgettable openings, common pitfalls to avoid, and practical strategies you can use to strengthen your own writing. Whether you’re starting your first novel or polishing your next, this episode will help you create an opening that truly captivates.Why Openings MatterKey Elements of a Strong OpeningTechniques That WorkCommon Pitfalls to AvoidPractical Strategies for WritersExamplesSOURCES & LINKS:“100 Best First Lines from Novels,” American Book Review, 2006DO NOW: Read through some of the best first sentences. Notice what you like about them, what is similar among them, what draws you in.Write several versions of your own for one work to see which captures the characteristics for a strong opening.Next Episode: An interview with Joanna Monahan, author of Something BetterFull Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode.Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.comHope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.comIf you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

In this episode, Donna and Hope dive into the ever-evolving world of literary adaptations, exploring why so many novels are making their way to screens—both big and small. They break down the difference between loose and tight adaptations, share the essential qualities that make a novel ripe for adaptation, and examine the rising trend of limited series as the ideal format for complex storytelling. This episode is a must-listen for writers, book lovers and screen buffs alike. Show Notes: Number of films made from novelsUpward trend of series adaptationsLoose vs. tight adaptationWhat characteristics of a novel make for a good adaptation?OUR PICKSSOURCES & LINKSHow to Write a Book Like a Movie, Richard M. CraftSave the Cat! Writes a Novel: The Last Book On Novel Writing You'll Ever Need, Jessica BrodySave the Cat! Goes to the Movies: The Screenwriter's Guide to Every Story Ever Told, Blake SnyderDO NOW:Choose a companion novel and film. Study HOW (using the characteristics mentioned above) the adaptation brings the written work to life.Next Episode: Hooked From Page One, the importance of strong openingsFull Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode.Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.comHope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.comIf you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, COMMENT and SHARE. Thank you

Award-winning author, Gail Priest shares her passion for women’s fiction, inspired by her background in theatre and psychology. Her stories explore healing, family secrets, love, and second chances, set along the New Jersey and Maryland coast. When not writing, she enjoys reading, birdwatching, and beachcombing. She’s the author of Soul Dancing. SHOW NOTES:Soul Dancing themesSupernatural story elementsAwardsInfluence of theater backgroundResearchCommon threads throughout Gail’s workWriting processAdvice for writersSOURCES & LINKShttps://gailpriest.com/Next Episode: From Page to Screen: What Makes a Story Adaptable? Full Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode.Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.comHope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.comIf you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

In this episode, we explore how writers can effectively monetize their work on Substack by leveraging paid subscriptions, exclusive content, and additional products. We also discuss strategies for building an engaged audience and turning their passion for writing into a sustainable income.SHOW NOTES:Substack is an online platform that allows writers and creators to host subscription-based email newsletters. Think of it as a digital publishing house that puts your content directly into your readers’ inboxes, creating a more intimate connection than a typical blog or social media post. Founded in 2017, Substack gained popularity because of its simplicity and the direct monetization it provides. Instead of relying on ad revenue or social media algorithms, you can charge subscribers. Whether that’s a small monthly fee or a one-time payment, keep a much larger share of the revenue. It’s used by journalists, novelists, niche bloggers, and increasingly, book reviewers who want to cultivate a dedicated community around their work. Types of Posts You Can CreateAdvantages of Substack vs. Traditional BloggingHow to Get StartedTips for SuccessSOURCES & LINKSHope’s SubstackDonna’s SubstackDO NOW:Sign up for Substack. Observe what other content creators are doing. Brainstorm ideas for your own substack and create goals. Download our FREE How to SUBSTACK to get you started today!Next Episode: An Interview w/ Gail Priest author of the award-winning Soul DancingFull Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode.Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.comHope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.comIf you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

Ready to finally conquer Scrivener without feeling overwhelmed? In this episode of Authors Talking Bookish, we’re breaking down the basics of Scrivener and showing you how to set up your first project like a pro. From organizing chapters to using the powerful Corkboard and Compile tools, we’ll help you unlock the features that make writing easier—and way more fun. Whether you're a plotter or a pantser, Scrivener can streamline your process and keep your manuscript on track. Tune in for our best tips, real writer-tested advice, and the benefits that’ll make you wonder how you ever wrote without it!SHOW NOTES:1. What Is Scrivener and Why Writers Love It2. Getting Started: Setting Up Your First Project3. Key Features Writers Should Use4. Top Benefits of Using Scrivener5. Tips & Best Practices*NOTE: We are not affiliated with Scrivener, but simply find it a useful tool for writersSOURCES & LINKShttps://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener/overviewhttps://scrivener.app/DO NOW:Download the Free Trial for Scrivener to try it out. And use our SCRIVENER BASICS: FREE DOWNLOAD to get you startedNext Episode: Substack-What it is, why authors are using it and the basics of how to use itFull Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode.Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.comHope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.comIf you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

In this episode, we sit down with James Arnett, acclaimed author of The Monmouth Manifesto and Bean Fate, two gripping works of historical fiction. Arnett opens up about the deeply personal inspirations behind his novels and how his legal career shaped the complex worlds he creates. From intense research to navigating the road to publication, Arnett shares the passion and process behind his writing. Don’t miss this fascinating conversation—and find out why these books belong on your must-read list.The Monmouth Manifesto” delves into the American Revolution through the eyes of Loyalists, revealing a gripping tale of two New Jersey farmers turned soldiers. Their daring exploits against the Patriots lead to deadly reprisals, shattering lives and igniting international tensions in a struggle for survival on the wrong side of history. Congratulations on The Monmouth Manifesto! Can you give us a synopsis of this book and tell us what drew you to this story.The book really dives into loyalty and moral dilemmas. How do you want readers to think differently about those ideas, especially when it comes to understanding people on both sides of a conflict? How much research did you do for this book and your first?Talk about the difficulty that you encountered in writing the dialogue for this book. It’s set 250 years ago. And obviously English today is very different.Are there any historical figures or hidden truths from the Revolution that you wish more people knew about? Did you include any of those in your story? Can you tell us about your first book, Bean Fate? What inspired you to write it, and how was the experience of getting started.As a Canadian, what attracted you to telling stories about American History?You’ve had this impressive career in law and business. What made you decide to pivot to writing after retiring? What was the spark that motivated you to start storytelling? What was your road to getting the book published? Did you face any surprises along the way? What does your typical day look like as a writer/author? What is something, as an author, that you learned the hard way?SOURCES & LINKSJames’ Website: https://www.jamesarnett.ca/Buy Link: https://www.jamesarnett.ca/the-monmouth-manifestoFull Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode.Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.comHope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.comIf you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

In this episode, we pull back the curtain on the editing process with two expert guests: Sarah Rexford, a seasoned editor from a Manhattan publisher and John DeDakis, author, freelance editor, book coach and former CNN editor. Whether you're prepping your manuscript for submission or self-publishing, this conversation offers invaluable insights into what editors really look for. You'll hear their biggest pet peeves, hard-won lessons, and the advice every writer needs before hitting "send." Plus, a peek into a typical day in the life of an editor—and how they balance editing with their own creative work. Writers, this one’s for you!Can you tell us about your experiences as an editor and book coach?What types of editing do each of you do?What’s the most common mistake you see writers make during revisions?What tools or software do you rely on in your editing workflow?How do you handle giving tough feedback to an author?John, does being an author affect your processes as an editor? If so, in what ways?Sarah, you provide a free downloadable eBook for authors on your website, what golden nuggets can they find there?At what stage in the writing or revision process should writers approach an editor?What are your pet peeves in a manuscript?What have you learned the hard way that might help our authors in their writing or in working with editors?SOURCES & LINKSSarah’s website: http://sarahjrexford.com/John’s Website:http://www.johndedakis.com/@johndedakis.bsky.socialX: @johnDeDakisFacebook: https://m.facebook.com/john.dedakis/Instagram: @dedakisjohnCraft Book Recs from John and Sarah:Weekend Novelist by Robert J. RayAnything by Stephen James and DiAnn MillsAnything that delves into the psychology of charactersFull Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode.Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.comHope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.comIf you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

For our 50th episode, we’re turning the mic inward! Join Hope and Donna as they interview each other in a candid, no-holds-barred conversation that dives deep into their lives as writers, readers, and creatives. From the highs and lows of the publishing journey to quirky habits and guilty pleasures, nothing is off-limits. You’ve heard their thoughts on craft and industry—now get ready to meet the women behind the voices in a way you never have before. Honest. Unfiltered. Fun.Next Episode: Editing Uncovered: What Writers Need to KnowFull Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode.Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.comHope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.comIf you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

Bio: Lisa Montanaro is the author of the debut novel, Everything We Thought Was True, which released in January 2025, by Red Adept Publishing, and won first place for LGBTQ Fiction in the International Firebird Book Awards and Honorable Mention from the Los Angeles Book Festival. At turns heartbreaking and hopeful, the novel explores not only the consequences of secrets—even secrets kept out of love—but also the courage it takes to speak the truth, to forgive, and to let go. Lisa is part no-nonsense Italian American New Yorker and part sunny Californian. She has a unique background as a performer, teacher of deaf students, lawyer, coach, speaker, and author. Lisa is also the author of The Ultimate Life Organizer,published by Peter Pauper Press. She serves as webinar host for the Women's Fiction Writers Association and as facilitator of the Retro COLAGE group for adult children of LGBTQ parents. When not writing, Lisa enjoys cycling and hiking with her veterinarian husband, tending to her garden, and chasing after her rescue dogs. Lisa has enjoyed living snow-free since 2012 in Northern California, where she’s made it her mission to sample the wines of the region. SOURCES & LINKSAuthor Website: http://www.LisaMontanaroWrites.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LisaMontanaroAuthorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisa.montanaro/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@lisa.montanaroBlueSky: https://lisamontanaro.bsky.socialTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lisamontanaroauthorAmazon Author Central: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Lisa-Montanaro/author/B00585O2TCGoodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4985348.Lisa_MontanaroBookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/786071194Full Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode.Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.comHope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.comIf you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

In this episode of Authors Talking Bookish, we take a deep dive into The Handmaid’s Tale—not just as readers, but as writers. We explore Margaret Atwood’s masterful craft: her use of voice, world building, and the chilling plausibility that makes this dystopian classic so enduring. We also share our take on the most recent adaptation and how it expands (or shifts) the original narrative. Most importantly, we discuss why stories like this matter now more than ever—especially in today’s cultural and political climate. Whether you're a fan, a critic, or reading it for the first time, this conversation will challenge you to think about the power and responsibility of storytelling.SHOW NOTES:Happy 2 Year Anniversary Episode!Our first exposure to The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret AtwoodThen vs. now impressionsReading in a pre versus post-Roe v. Wade-overturning climateThe Handmaid’s Tale and today’s political climateA writer’s perspective on style, plot, world building & characterDo you prefer stories that lean heavily on internal narration or action?Dystopian fiction genreAlignment and critical view of the 1990 Film & Hulu adaptationThe shift to a visual mediumHow 1st person, stream-of-consciousness is handled differently through visual flashbackFleshed-out storylines (Ofglen, Serena Joy, Nick, Moira)Did the adaptations remain true to the heart of the novel or change too much?The Testaments, Margaret AtwoodSOURCES & LINKSThe Handmaid’s Tale & The Testaments, Margaret AtwoodThe Handmaid’s Tale, 1990, Director Volker SchlöndorffThe Handmaid’s Tale, 2017-2025, TV Series Creator Bruce Miller (6 seasons)“Gilead Revisit: What Went Wrong with The Handmaid’s Tale Movie”, ColliderSarah Grynberg Podcast, “The Dark Truth About The Handmaid’s Tale”DO NOW: Read them. Watch them. Become informed about women’s rights.Full Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode.Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.comHope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.comIf you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

In this episode, we explore how a simple journal can become a novelist’s most powerful tool. From unlocking character secrets to breaking through writer’s block, journaling helps writers tap into their deepest creative instincts. You’ll learn five practical ways journaling can support your novel at every stage—and get inspired with fresh prompts to spark your next breakthrough. Whether you're stuck in the middle or just starting out, this episode will help you turn the blank page into your best ally.SHOW NOTES:Five Journal Writing Methods to Support Novel Writing:BrainstormJournaling allows you to freely explore story ideas, themes, and "what if" scenarios without pressure. This can lead to unexpected insights and help you discover the emotional or philosophical heart of a story.Develop Characters More Deeply Writing from a character’s point of view, or just journaling about them, can reveal their inner lives, motivations, fears, and backstories in a more intimate way than structured outlining.Overcome Writer’s Block Journal writing removes the need for perfection. It’s a private space where you can write without judgment, which often helps break through blocks and get the words flowing again.Track Emotional & Creative Progress Keeping a writing journal can help you reflect on your process, track struggles and breakthroughs, and stay motivated by seeing how far you’ve come.Inspire Authentic Dialogue and Voice Journaling in different voices—your characters’, your narrator’s, or even a fictional letter—can help you nail down tone, dialect, and authentic dialogue that breathes life into scenes.SOURCES & LINKS:Writing Down the Bones, Natalie GoldbergBird by Bird, Ann LamottWrite for Your Life, Anna QuindlenThe Playful Way to Serious Writing, Roberta AllenJuicy Pens, Thirsty Paper, SarkSrivenerDO NOW:Explore the recommended sources and choose one to get you started on your journal writing journey. Also access this FREE Download to give you some ideas throughout your novel writing process: Journal Writing Prompts for NovelistsFull Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode.Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.comHope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.comIf you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

Author Jenn Bouchard is a member of Grub Street and the Women Fiction Writers' Association, as well as a board member for her local Dollars for Scholars chapter. She is an avid cook and is always planning her next adventure. FIRST COURSE was published in 2021 by TouchPoint Press and released as an audiobook in 2023 by Tantor Audio. It is now available in a second edition through Coastal Whisk. You will find her short stories in The Bookends Review, Litbreak Magazine, The Penmen Review, MARY, the Little Patuxent Review, and FOLIO. She also teaches short story classes for adults in the Boston suburbs. Her second novel, CONSIDERING US, was published on February 6, 2025 by Black Rose Writing. SHOW NOTES:Considering Us, February 6, 2025, Black Rose WritingOverviewInspirationFirst CourseFood MotifPublishing the first novel versus the secondOn being a writerPath to publishingPlanning eventsEarly inspiration for writing a novelJuggling teacher, author, mom rolesAdvice for new authorsNext novelSOURCES & LINKSJenn’s Website: jennbouchard.comJenn’s Socials: Facebook, Instagram, X, BlueSky: @JennBouchardBOSThe Author’s GuildFull Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode.Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.comHope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.comIf you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

In this episode, we dive deep into the best resources for writers at every stage of their journey. Whether you're plotting your first novel or preparing for a book launch, we've got you covered with expert recommendations and actionable advice. Tune in for a treasure trove of writing wisdom and get one step closer to achieving your publishing goals!SHOW NOTES:Books on Craft Master the art of structure, character development, and the nuances of showing vs. telling. Plus, find tools for sparking creativity and refining your editing process.Writing and Querying Explore top websites for improving your craft, finding genre-specific tips, engaging in critiques, entering contests, and nailing your queries.Book Marketing & Publishing Learn strategies for building your author platform, leveraging social media, gaining reviews, and creating effective publicity campaigns.SOURCES & LINKSATB: Writing ResourcesDO NOW: Determine where you are in the writing process. Select three-five resources to survey to see what works for you.Next Episode: An Interview with author Jenn Bouchard, Considering Us and First CourseFull Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode.Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.comHope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.comIf you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

When writing a novel, it’s essential to develop complex, authentic characters that your readers come to care about in some way. In this episode, we’ll talk about ways in which you can create nuanced characters your readers can connect to, love or hate. And we’ll provide models of characters as examples and a FREE DOWNLOAD of exercises to help you achieve them in your work.SHOW NOTES:Develop Rich Backstories A character's history shapes their motivations, fears, and desires.Embrace Flaws and Contradictions Complex characters aren't perfect; their inconsistencies make them feel real.Focus on Internal Conflict Characters with layered emotions and dilemmas feel more authentic.Create Distinct Motivations and Goals Well-defined motivations make characters’ actions believable and compelling.Show Relationships and Reactions How characters interact with others and the space around them can reveal hidden aspects of their personality.Examples of Well-Developed CharactersSOURCES & LINKSWriters Helping Writers Series:The Thesaurus Collection by Angela Ackerman & Becca Puglisi (showing vs. telling)The Emotion Thesaurus: A Writer’s Guide to Character ExpressionThe Conflict Thesaurus, The Emotional Wound Thesaurus…Launch Pad: The Countdown to Writing Your Book, Emma Dhesi, Grace SammonStory Genius and Wired for Story, Lisa Cron (structure and character development)DO NOW: Character Development Exercises:Backstory Journaling, Flaw vs. Virtue Chart, Internal Conflict Mapping, Dialogue Scenarios and Relationship SnapshotFREE DOWNLOAD Character Development ExercisesNext Episode: The Write Resources to Set You on the Path to Writing, Publishing & MarketingFull Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode.Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.comHope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.comIf you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

Join us as we interview author J.D .Barker, renowned for his thrilling novels, including Forsaken, The Fourth Monkey, and Dracul (co-authored with Bram Stoker’s family using Bram’s original notes and journals). With a reputation for pushing the boundaries of suspense and supernatural storytelling, his works have appeared on bestseller lists worldwide, and Dracul is currently in development for film by Paramount. J.D. has also collaborated frequently with James Patterson, further cementing his presence in the literary world.SHOW NOTES:“Something I Keep Upstairs”Inspiration & Setting: What inspired you to write Something I Keep Upstairs, and how did the real haunted house influence the story?Unique Elements: Can you share some unique elements of the book that you think set it apart from your previous works?Immersive Experience: How do you think the giveaway of an overnight stay in the haunted house adds a new dimension to your readers' experience with the book?Co-Authoring and CollaborationCo-Authoring with James Patterson: What have you learned from collaborating with James Patterson, and how has that experience shaped your writing style?Stephen King Endorsement: What impact did it have on your career?Collaborating on Dracul using Bram Stoker's original notes What insights did you gain about his writing process?Publishing and the IndustryIndie vs. Traditional Publishing: What are some key differences you’ve observed between indie publishing and traditional publishing in terms of creative freedom and marketing?What are some of the things you learned the hard way?Questions about Writing and FictionBook Doctor & Ghost Writer What are some key lessons you learned from this role that you apply to your own writing today?GIVEAWAY for Something I Keep Upstairs SOURCES & LINKSWebsite: https://www.jdbarker.comGiveaway: https://woobox.com/vcevs2Preorder: https://jdbarker.com/books/something-i-keep-upstairs/Full Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode.Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.comHope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.comIf you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

Writers craft thousands of words to create a novel, so why is it so difficult to write a summary and pitch for books? We’ll delve into the difficulty of whittling down a novel into these necessary tasks which could make-or-break selling a novel. In addition, we’ll discuss the functions of a summary and pitch as well as how to write them.SHOW NOTES:Summary: a concise overview of a book with the purpose of enticing a readerPitch: one sentence that encapsulates story for the purpose of selling it to agents and publishersSummary: Hook, main character(s), setting and/or theme, conflict/stakes, and a teaservoicethird person (no matter the POV of the book)captivate your readerflows100-200 words in lengthExamples:Pitch (also called elevator pitch or logline):character descriptorinciting incidentconflict/stakesgoalmake it memorable & concise1 sentence (approximately 20-30 words)Examples:*Note: a tagline is different & often appears on the bookExamples: “How to Write a Book Pitch No One Can Resist,” Abi Wurdeman“How to Write an Elevator Pitch for Your Novel,” Harry BinghamDO NOW: Write a book jacket summary first, using the models provided. Then, whittle it down to a few different pitches; choose the one that is most enticing. Consider running these by your friends or writing partners to get their perspectives.Next Episode: An interview with author J.D. Barker, author of Something I Keep Upstairs, & you won’t want to miss his amazing GIVEAWAYFull Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode.Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.comHope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.comIf you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

Each year some of the top industry publications predict trends in publishing for the upcoming year. In today’s episode, we’ll share some of these and give you our take on where we think the publishing industry is heading.SHOW NOTES:“Top Ten Publishing Trends of 2025,” Emma Boyer, Written Words Media, 2 JAN 2025“Publishing Leaders Share Nine Bold Predictions for 2025 and Beyond,” Audrey DeRobert, BookBub, 23 JAN 2025Noteworthy PredictionsBuilding loyal audiencesInvestment in email marketing campaigns and subscribers:Meta’s domination over the industryTraditional and Indie publishing convergeBenefits and drawbacks of AIHybrid publishing will be on the risePublishers will continue the fight against censorshipSOURCES & LINKS“Top Ten Publishing Trends of 2025,” Emma Boyer, Written Words Media, 2 JAN 2025“Publishing Leaders Share Nine Bold Predictions for 2025 and Beyond,” Audrey DeRobert, BookBub, 23 JAN 2025Authors Against Book BansAuthor’s GuildDO NOW: Target the trend that is most beneficial to where you are in your writing journey and learn all you can about it to make you better informed.Next Episode: Writing the dreaded book summary and pitchFull Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode.Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.comHope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.comIf you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

Sarahlyn Bruck writes contemporary, book club fiction—slice-of-life stories with heart and humor centered on friendships and family. She is the award-winning author of three novels: Light of the Fire (2024), Daytime Drama (2021), and Designer You (2018). When she’s not writing, Sarahlyn moonlights as a full-time writing and literature professor at a local community college. Originally from the San Francisco Bay Area, she now lives in Philadelphia with her family.Synopsis and Inspiration Writing ProcessPrevious WorksJourney to PublicationWhat have you learned the hard way?Building an Author BrandBalancing RolesLooking AheadSOURCES & LINKS:Website: https://sarahlynbruck.comFB & IG: @sarahlynbruckFull Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode.Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.comHope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.comIf you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

SUMMARY: In this episode, we dive deep into the world of book reviews and blurbs. These essential elements serve as crucial communication tools for authors, helping them convey the value of their work to potential readers. We explore how impactful reviews and compelling blurbs can significantly influence a book's success, while also sharing insights from notable authors about the key components to include and the common pitfalls to avoid. Additionally, we discuss the benefits for readers who take the time to write reviews—from cultivating a deeper appreciation for the stories they read to developing their voices as reviewers, bloggers, or even Bookstagrammers. Engaging with literature in this way enriches the reading experience and fosters a vibrant community of book lovers.DO NOW: The next time you read a book, write a review. Post it in as many places as you can (suggestions: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, BookBub, Goodreads…on your own social media). Not confident about reviewing books yet? Read reviews that others have written for your favorite books.Full Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode.Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.comHope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.comIf you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

SUMMARY:To kick off the new year, we’re talking about our top reads of 2024 and what we’re most looking forward to in 2025. What’s on your TBR list?SHOW NOTES:Top 2024 Reads:DonnaJames, Percival EverettEcho of Old Books, Barbara DavisThe Little Liar, Mitch AlbomMad Honey, Jodi PiccoultHopeThe Housemaid, Freida McFaddenIt’s Hard for Me to Live with Me, Rex ChapmanOf Lies and Honey, Donna Norman Carbone* The Empress of Cooke County, Elizabeth Bass Parman, Soul Dancing, Gail PriestMost anticipated Reads of 2025:DonnaHere One Moment, Liane MoriartyThe Names, Florence KnappTell Me Everything, Elizabeth StroutFrom Here to the Great Unknown, Lisa Marie Presley and Riley KeoughHopeBeach House Rules, Kristy Woodson HarveyReading trackers: Goodreads, Fable, Story Graph, ShepherdSOURCES & LINKS: **See Do NowDO NOW: Sign-up for an online book club on FB (Bookish Road Trip…) and/or download a reading app (Goodreads, Fable, Story Graph…) or check out Shepherd Full Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode.Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.comHope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.comIf you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you