Romancing the Story: Writing Romance, Storytelling, and Book Structure

"....Whenever you are going to write disability or anytime you're going to write outside of your lived experience, first you have to ask yourself: Do you already platform and support this community?"As a romance writer with a disability, Melissa Whitney writes fantastic HEAs for non-typical protagonists - who have disabilities and neurodivergences. In the discussion, we explore the nuances of creating authentic characters with disabilities and how to write with empathy and accuracy while bringing depth to the writing.Connect with Melissa:https://www.melissawhitneywrites.com/Instagram: @Melissa_WhitneyAuthorTikTok: @melissasuewhitneyFacebook: Melissa Whitney AuthorTwitter: @SteamingPlot81Threads: @melissa_whitneyauthorFind "In the Hello and In the Goodbye" on Amazon:https://amzn.to/4bhmOUc---------The YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPcGXevs2NQk3Ab9OD66zuQSupport the Show:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/romancethestoryFind me below:Twitter - @RomancetheStoryInstagram - @RomancetheStoryFacebook - @RomancetheStoryMusic:Strawberry Flavor Love by Daystarhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMi0dxVgqvo Support the Show.

"...I certainly hope that (this book) reaches the people who do, for one reason or another, feel that the world has just been so unfair to them and why can't it pick on somebody else for once..."After both her parents died, Courtney penned those tragedies into a debut book, When Happily Ever After Fails. In the book, she proves all tragedies can be rewritten, and happiness can bloom where you least expect it. We chat revising a happily ever after doesn’t have to be an “all or nothing” mentality and mingling dark and light elements of life is more fact than fiction.Connect with Courtney:https://www.courtneydeane.com/YouTube: @CourtneyDeaneInstragram: @authorcourtneydeaneTikTok: @courtneydeaneFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/authorcourtneydeane/Substack: https://substack.com/@courtneydeaneFind When Happily Ever After Fails on Amazon:https://amzn.to/3Jdi0D0---------The YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPcGXevs2NQk3Ab9OD66zuQSupport the Show:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/romancethestoryFind me below:Twitter - @RomancetheStoryInstagram - @RomancetheStoryFacebook - @RomancetheStoryMusic:Strawberry Flavor Love by Daystarhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMi0dxVgqvo Support the Show.

"...as we're solving problems in our own stories, we're creating problems for the other stories that (Lark and Catrina) had to work in... It made for some really creative outcomes." - Lucy LimonAs critique partners and writers with complementary strengths, romance authors Lark Green, Lucy Limon, and Catrina Bell devised a plan for a holiday novella series where a one author took a different book. We chat how their masterful coordination, thorough world-building, and developmental courtesy helped them stay on track to release the series, even in the midst of last-minute fixes and edits. Connect with Lark Green:https://www.authorlarkgreen.com/Instagram: @authorlarkgreenFacebook: @authorlarkgreenGoodreads: Lark GreenConnect with Lucy Limon:https://www.lucylimon.com/ Instagram: @lucylimon.books BookBub: @LucyLimon_books Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/45367606.Lucy_Lim_nConnect with Catrina Bell:linktr.ee/catrinabell Instagram: @catrinabell Twitter: @catrinabellxoxoFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/catrinabellwritesFind Horned Up for the Holidays on Amazon:https://amzn.to/4aQJefx---------Lark's Other Episode:Ep 45 - Writing while Working Full-Time with Lark Greenhttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1064368/12159925 ---------Other Media Mentioned:Sweet Monster Treats Serieshttps://amzn.to/3SaS7cy---------The YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPcGXevs2NQk3Ab9OD66zuQSupport the Show:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/romancethestoryFind me below:Twitter - @RomancetheStoryInstagram - @RomancetheStoryFacebook - @RomancetheStoryMusic:Strawberry Flavor Love by Daystarhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMi0dxVgqvo Support the Show.

"They always say start your book on a day that's different. That's called an inciting incident. That's what I try to do naturally. Sometimes it works; sometimes it doesn't."A decade into writing her Highlander series, USA Today Bestselling Author C.A. Szarek has built a large cast of interconnected books, and her unorthodox method continues to have no hard and fast rules of writing. We chat about how she gets reacquainted with her books after a period of time away from writing in the world and as an important idea with any writer, how the overall pantsing way of writing her books works best for her.Connect with C.A. Szarek:http://www.caszarek.com/Twitter - @caszarekInstagram - @caszarekFacebook - @caszarekFind C.A. Szarek's books on Amazon:https://amzn.to/3PMXw6m ---------C.A. Szarek's Other Episode:Ep 35 - Highlander Time-Travel Trope and Writing with C.A. Szarekhttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1064368/11426240 ---------Other Authors Mentioned: Cherry Adair:https://amzn.to/46eWfM7--------- The YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPcGXevs2NQk3Ab9OD66zuQSupport the Show:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/romancethestoryFind me below:Twitter - @RomancetheStoryInstagram - @RomancetheStoryFacebook - @RomancetheStoryMusic:Strawberry Flavor Love by Daystarhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMi0dxVgqvo Support the Show.

"We need to see writer's block in a different way. It's really not the enemy, but...it's a sign. And usually, it's that your body and your mind are telling you something is off..."Author and writing coach, Dr. Nicole Janz, helps creatives use their writing voice with breakthroughs on writer's block and procrastination. Straightforward and detailed, we chat about what causes procrastination and how to approach writer's block in a way that is conducive and keeps your story moving forward. The Write Habit: The Undated Annual Planner and Workbook for Busy Writers https://amzn.to/47moyJNConnect with Dr. Nicolenicolejanz.com www.thewritehabitplanner.com Medium:  https://janz-is-writing.medium.com/ Twitter/X:  @camwritinghub Instragram: @janz.is.writing Facebook Group:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/710181483039162 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolejanz/ ---------Media Mentioned: The Art of Impossible: A Peak Performance Primer by Steven Kotlerhttps://amzn.to/3QtF43wThe Art of Impossible Flow Chart https://www.nbforum.com/newsroom/blog/steven-kotler-the-art-of-impossible/ --------- NaNoWriMo Episodes:Ep 15 - Brianstorming, Writing Research, and NaNoWriMo with Kraken Editinghttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1064368/9509081Ep 41 - Novel Prep and Starting NaNoWriMo with Shayla Raquelhttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1064368/11633960Ep 46 - Trope Thesaurus Romance Edition with Jennifer Hilthttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1064368/12191020Ep 37 - Top Tropes in Romance Writing with Aimee Walkerhttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1064368/11519577 --------- The YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPcGXevs2NQk3Ab9OD66zuQSupport the Show:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/romancethestoryFind me below:Twitter - @RomancetheStoryInstagram - @RomancetheStoryFacebook - @RomancetheStoryMusic:Strawberry Flavor Love by Daystarhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMi0dxVgqvo Support the Show.

"(Not) to dive into the core fear...that we're unrelatable that people will not communicate with us...and I think that's one of those things you see get demonstrated with monsters in the history of storytelling."Romance Author Kate Prior fell into writing Monster Romance by accident and now, has three books to show for her Claws and Cubicles series. We discuss writing creatures as an allegory for differences in ourselves and reader's interest in an otherworld romance where Monsters are love interests. Surprisingly, there's a lot of DnD talk too! Claws and Cubicles Serieshttps://amzn.to/46CDJyz Connect with Katehttps://kate-prior.com/ Instagram: @bykateprior Twitter/X: @byKatePrior TikTok: @bykatepriorFacebook: Kate's Priory of Paranormal Romance GoodReads: Author Kate Prior Romance Writer's Therapy Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/romance-writers-therapy/id1595202492 --------- Media Mentioned:Shoshana Rain (Fantasy Romance)https://amzn.to/3QqM7KHDesirée M. Niccoli (Siren/Mermaid Romance)https://amzn.to/46WoW1hFrankenstein (1931 Movie)https://amzn.to/4958o99Strange Love by Ann Aguirre https://amzn.to/491nzAi---------The YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPcGXevs2NQk3Ab9OD66zuQSupport the Show:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/romancethestoryFind me below:Twitter - @RomancetheStoryInstagram - @RomancetheStoryFacebook - @RomancetheStoryMusic:Strawberry Flavor Love by Daystarhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMi0dxVgqvo Support the Show.

"You know it is such a beloved story but the modern twist...it's really a celebration of queer joy and community...like a true Hallmark-y story nothing truly bad happens."We're celebrating the most fabulous time of the year! Contemporary Romance Author Kelly Farmer crafts heart, humor, and depth into her books and gave the premise of "It's a Wonderful Life" a make-over with LGBTQIA+ characters. We chat the process of lightening the mood with Hallmark vibes and the process of switching characters while staying true to the original for a modern re-telling. Connect with Kellyhttps://www.kellyfarmerauthor.com/Twitter/X: @KellyFarmerAuth Instagram: @kellyfarmerauthorFacebook: @kellyfarmerauthorBookBub: @Kelly_Farmer_AuthorIt's a Fabulous Life by Kelly Farmerhttps://amzn.to/3ZUVqqe ---------Amepphire Press Apparelhttps://amepphire-press.myshopify.com?sca_ref=3251246.wdTIggePcN.Use code WELCOME15 for 15% off your first order.---------Media mentioned:We're Here (TV show)https://amzn.to/48XxLda--------- The YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPcGXevs2NQk3Ab9OD66zuQSupport the Showhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/romancethestoryFind me below:Twitter - @RomancetheStoryInstagram - @RomancetheStoryFacebook - @RomancetheStory Support the Show.

"I think the key is either treat the character (animal) as a sounding board...or you treat this as another character on the same level as a human character."Writing instructor and multi-genre author, Amber Royer, incorporates all types of animals in her writing - from an octopus to a cockatoo. She directs us in how writing sidekick animals and pets typically follow the "save the cat" rule. Plus, how an animal can provide development and impact in a story - including her own cozy mystery Bean to Bar Series.Connect with Amberhttp://amberroyer.com/Twitter/X: @amber_royerInstagram: @amberroyerauthorFacebook: @Amber.Royer.AuthorBean to Bar Mysteries Series by Amber Royerhttps://amzn.to/465yUNIAmber Royer - YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoA_29HV2nPmRnox9LPVanw --------- Amepphire Press Apparel https://amepphire-press.myshopify.com?sca_ref=3251246.wdTIggePcN. Use code WELCOME15 for 15% off your first order. ---------Other Books Mentioned:A House-Flipper Mystery Series by Diane Kellyhttps://amzn.to/3rsSh4s Chet and Bernie Mystery Series by Spencer Quinnhttps://amzn.to/3H3bZYl The Cat Who Mysteries by Lilian Jackson Braunhttps://amzn.to/3H3bZYl   ---------  The YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPcGXevs2NQk3Ab9OD66zuQSupport the Showhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/romancethestoryFind me below:Twitter - @RomancetheStoryInstagram - @RomancetheStoryFacebook - @RomancetheStory Support the Show.

"....We need time to think. We need time to research, and we need time to be creative. And so that has to go into our calendar as well."Back in episode 42, Writer, speaker, and social media consultant Kathryn McClatchy provided ways to create realistic, achievable goals and put the right timeframes in place.  Over six months later, we're doing a re-assessing of yearly goals since we're both embarking on new stages of life.  Tag along as we chat ever-changing goals. No matter if you are looking to level up your business, writing, or hobbies, the conversation delves into linking identity with goals and how we manage the shift in our schedule and thinking. Connect with Kathryn:https://kathrynmcclatchy.com/Twitter: @KmmcclatchyInstagram: @kathrynmcclatchyFacebook: @KMMcClatchyTikTok: @kathrynmcclatchyAuthorpreneurs Unleashed PodcastAuthorpreneurs Unleashed (buzzsprout.com) ---------Resources Mentioned: * Atomic Habits by James Clearhttps://amzn.to/3Eo4EkT* Maya Shankarhttps://mayashankar.com/* Building a Second Brain by Tiago Fortehttps://amzn.to/3L8P8gE* The PARA Method by Tiago Fortehttps://amzn.to/3Z7qDpZ* The Bucket List https://amzn.to/482fCug* Trello - Project Management Apphttps://trello.com/* Asana - Platform for Cross-Functional Workhttps://asana.com/* Notion - Note taking Apphttps://www.notion.so/* Evernote - Note Taking Apphttps://evernote.com/---------The YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPcGXevs2NQk3Ab9OD66zuQSupport the Show:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/romancethestoryFind me below:Twitter - @RomancetheStoryInstagram - @RomancetheStoryFacebook - @RomancetheStoryMusic:Strawberry Flavor Love by Daystarhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMi0dxVgqvo Support the Show.

"...What drives the conflict most are the character's goals and motivations. So you have to ask 'what is the main character's top goal in life and the focus of the story?'..." Author and Developmental Editor, Susan Sheehey writes compelling stories by embracing flaws, loving imperfections, and building external conflict. She reminds us of the great storytelling tools, goals, motivations, and conflict, and as we chat, she helps troubleshoot what authors can do if a story gets stuck without a conflict.We also discuss methods for gaging conflict and some of her favorite ways to track conflict while writing.Connect with Susan:https://www.susansheehey.com/ susan@susansheehey.comFacebook - @SusanSheehey BookBub - @susan-sheeheyInstagram - @susansheeheyTwitter/X - @SusieQWriterLink to Susan's books:https://amzn.to/3EieViJ---------MAUI FIRE RELIEF FUNDhttps://mauiunitedway.org/disasterreliefMAUI STRONG FUNDhttps://www.hawaiicommunityfoundation.org/maui-strongHAWAI'I FOOD BANKhttps://hawaiifoodbank.org/Maui-Relief?UNIVERSITY OF HAWAI'I FOUNDATIONhttps://www.uhfoundation.org/give/giving-opportunity/help-mauiWORLD CENTRAL KITCHEN IN MAUIhttps://donate.wck.org/give/508200/---------The YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPcGXevs2NQk3Ab9OD66zuQSupport the Show:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/romancethestoryFind me below:Twitter - @RomancetheStoryInstagram - @RomancetheStoryFacebook - @RomancetheStoryMusic:Strawberry Flavor Love by Daystarhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMi0dxVgqvo Support the Show.

"My book, A Beautiful Game, was...a love story and also, a love story about soccer and playing soccer."Liz Lincoln and Lainey Davis score goals when it comes to soccer romance. Both ladies write other kinds of sports romance, but in honor of the World Cup, we chat making soccer (or football!) romance accessible to the masses, writing from althetic and non-althetic POVs, and incorporating real events - like the World Cup - into your book. Connect with Liz:https://www.lizlincoln.com/Twitter - @TheLizLincolnInstagram - @lizlincolnauthorTikTok - @lizlincoln Facebook - Liz Lincoln Link for Liz's Books - including "Milwaukee Soccer Club":https://amzn.to/44QMjbq Connect with Lainey: https://www.laineydavis.com/ Instagram - @authorlaineydavisFacebook - @authorlaineydavisTikTok - @authorlaineydavis Link for Lainey's Books - including "Beautiful Game": https://amzn.to/3XYd1wB---------Romance Author C. A. Szarek's Fundraiserhttps://www.givesendgo.com/waterworld2023--------The YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPcGXevs2NQk3Ab9OD66zuQSupport the Show:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/romancethestoryFind me below:Twitter - @RomancetheStoryInstagram - @RomancetheStoryFacebook - @RomancetheStoryMusic:Strawberry Flavor Love by Daystarhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMi0dxVgqvo Support the Show.

"Being a pre-published author is to know exactly what your expectations are of yourself and of your writing...Like is this a career for you or do you just have that one story...?" Danika Bloom, USA Today bestselling romance author, coaches authors like she used to coach small business owners. She empowers and creates a community, so authors don't work alone. We chat tips and methods for launching yourself as an author on the path to publication, rebranding, and resources to help authors achieve their dreams. Connect with Danika:https://www.danikabloom.com/Instagram - @authordanikabloom Facebook - @authordanikabloomTwitter - @DanikaBloomHEA Link for Danika's Books - including "The Billionaire's Shrubbery":https://amzn.to/46DCIqfDanika's Business Site:https://www.authoreverafter.com/Danika's free author resource list: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/f1gkyq4vsc---------Previous episodes mentioned:Ep 42 - Setting Successful Writer Goals with Kathryn McClatchyhttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1064368/12057827Ep 39 - Curating a Paranormal Romance Anthology with Patrice Caldwellhttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1064368/11592975Ep 19 - Judging a Book by Its Romance Cover with Sarah Kilhttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1064368/10330813Ep 53 - Evolving and Embracing Change as a Creator with Bree Unabashedlyhttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1064368/12976379--------The YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPcGXevs2NQk3Ab9OD66zuQSupport the Show:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/romancethestoryFind me below:Twitter - @RomancetheStoryInstagram - @RomancetheStoryFacebook - @RomancetheStoryMusic:Strawberry Flavor Love by Daystarhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMi0dxVgqvo Support the Show.

"...Dictating helps me get to the emotional level of my characters a little easier than if I was handwriting or typing on my laptop. It's just for me, dictation takes away a little bit of a barrier..."Heidi McCahan had an interesting path to becoming a Harlequin author and found a smart way to create leverage in writing multiple books a year - dictation. She utilized dictation for her latest release, One Southern Summer, and chats basics of dictation to finish your draft.We discuss Heidi's writing process and a dictation course that she put together; plus, tips and tricks to get your story on the page faster.Connect with Heidi:https://heidimccahan.com/ Instagram - @heidimccahan.authorTwitter - @HeidiMcCahanFacebook - @heidimccahanPinterest - @HeidiMcCahan Link for Heidi's Books - including "One Southern Summer": https://amzn.to/3r14KMaHeidi's blog on dictation: https://heidimccahan.com/dictation-101-use-your-voice-finish-first-draft/ ---------Romance Author C. A. Szarek's Fundraiserhttps://www.givesendgo.com/waterworld2023--------The YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPcGXevs2NQk3Ab9OD66zuQSupport the Show:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/romancethestoryFind me below:Twitter - @RomancetheStoryInstagram - @RomancetheStoryFacebook - @RomancetheStoryMusic:Strawberry Flavor Love by Daystarhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMi0dxVgqvo Support the Show.

"...I really wanted all my characters to have this nice arc...They start at point A and then they're sort of figuring their way through it as the book goes on."Kayla Grosse can't help but write compelling characters with depth - which propelled her previous romance book into a bestseller. Now her cowboy romance, Reign Me In, rides highs and lows as the small-town character's emotional journeys are put front and center; all while hitting all the steamy scenes.We chat exploring different methods of grief, challenges in writing series and how personal experience has impacted Kayla's writing.Connect with Kayla:http://www.kaylagrosse.com/http://www.kaylagrosse.com/newsletterInstagram - @kaylawriteslifeTwitter - @KaylaGrosseFacebook - @kaylagrosseauthorLink for Kayla's Book "Reign Me In":https://amzn.to/42Rb5H7---------Romance Author C. A. Szarek's Fundraiserhttps://www.givesendgo.com/waterworld2023--------The YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPcGXevs2NQk3Ab9OD66zuQSupport the Show:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/romancethestoryFind me below:Twitter - @RomancetheStoryInstagram - @RomancetheStoryFacebook - @RomancetheStoryMusic:Strawberry Flavor Love by Daystarhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMi0dxVgqvo Support the Show.

"...when you can bring your creative brain to marketing, it explodes. There's so much great opportunity to be creative in marketing and think outside the box and try new things."Author and Speaker Carolyn Choate hosts The Financially Free Author Show and has been imbedded in the indie publishing world since the wild west of ebook publishing when Kindle first came out! We discuss about the details of books launch and get off on tangents about our passion for podcasting. Plus, she gives a special glimpse of ways she's implementing her own strategies and writers can too!Book Launch Planner:https://amzn.to/462fMR2Connect with Carolyn:https://www.financiallyfreeauthor.com/ Instagram: @financiallyfreeauthorsFacebook:  @financiallyfreeauthorsYouTube: @Financiallyfreeauthor Pinterest: @FinanciallyFreeAuthor TikTok: @financiallyfreeauthors  --------Instagram Post about Blog Tours:https://www.instagram.com/p/CtWtginAo81/Romance Author C. A. Szarek's Fundraiserhttps://www.givesendgo.com/waterworld2023 ---------- The YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPcGXevs2NQk3Ab9OD66zuQSupport the Showhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/romancethestoryConnect with Me:Twitter - @RomancetheStoryInstagram - @RomancetheStoryFacebook - @RomancetheStoryMusic:Strawberry Flavor Love by Daystarhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMi0dxVgqvo Support the Show.

"We're pretty good at (the podcast)....I have to not be afraid of like stepping out of the intentions of what it looked like....Not being afraid to step out, to do something different. Owning that like "you're good at what you do". I feel like that's where I'm at right now. "Whether you are a romance writer, reader or content creator, Bree knows the struggles that comes with growth and transformation. She co-hosts, produces, edits, and co-created The Categorically Romance Podcast that introduces listeners to Harlequin category romance and authors that write under the brand. Come with us as we swap stories of hard-learned lessons in expectations and the reality of a creative.Give the podcast a listenhttps://linktr.ee/TheCategoricallyRomancePodcast Connect with Bree and TCR:Instagram: @bree.unabashedlyTwitter:  @BreeUnabashedly Instagram: @thecategoricallyromancepod Twitter:  @thecategoricallyromancepod    -------- Romance Author C. A. Szarek's Fundraiserhttps://www.givesendgo.com/waterworld2023 Author mentioned by Sarah who reviewed the Three Little Pigs Re-tellingInstagram: @courtneymccaskillwrites ----------Books Mentioned from BreeThe Rivals of Casper Road by Roan Parrish (A male/male romance from Harlequin Special Edition)https://amzn.to/3MT8dDsTwin Babies to Reunite Them by Ann McIntosh (A female/female romance featuring two Black women from Harlequin's medical line)https://amzn.to/3qsvHbnAwakened by the Wild Billionaire by Bella Mason (The author who wrote her book in one month - with Harlequin Presents)https://amzn.to/43rXkjdThe Match by Sarah Adams (The one Bree couldn’t remember the title but recalled it had a service dog who detected seizures!)https://amzn.to/42llcnqThe Backup Plan by Jill Shalvis (Straddles the line of romance and women’s fiction)https://amzn.to/45KF2euLizzie and Dante by Mary Bly (Eloisa James’ real name and her women’s fiction book) https://amzn.to/42vM58k ----------  The YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPcGXevs2NQk3Ab9OD66zuQSupport the Showhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/romancethestoryConnect with Me:Twitter - @RomancetheStoryInstagram - @RomancetheStoryFacebook - @RomancetheStoryMusic:Strawberry Flavor Love by Daystarhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMi0dxVgqvo Support the Show.

"We kinda get hit with these overnight success stories, whether it's a writer or anyone...but what I think we don't hear about as much is the actual real toil and grind and rejection that goes into so many books and to being an author."Author Megan Tady put a lot of editing and querying into her debut, Super Bloom, and has the book to prove it! We discuss why the story of hope, grief, and starting a-new was important to tell. Plus, she talks how the book changed from draft to final version and what author life looks like now that her book has been published.Super Bloom by Megan Tady:https://amzn.to/42coMzVConnect with Megan:https://www.megantady.com/ Instagram: @megtadyFacebook:  @medtadyTwitter: @MegTady--------Book Blurb Magic (DIY course):Use code ROMANCETHESTORY for 10% offhttps://adoracopyediting.thrivecart.com/book-blurb-magic/?coupon=ROMANCETHESTORYSpicy Blurb Playbook (DIY course):Use code ROMANCETHESTORY for 10% offwww.spicyblurbplaybook.com1:1 Blurb Audit (Separate from DIY course):Use code ROMANCETHESTORY for 10% offhttps://adoracopyediting.thrivecart.com/11-blurb-audit/?coupon=ROMANCETHESTORYCustom Book Blurb Service with Jessie (Separate from DIY course):https://adoracopyediting.thrivecart.com/custom-book-blurb/?coupon=ROMANCETHESTORY----------The YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPcGXevs2NQk3Ab9OD66zuQSupport the Showhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/romancethestoryConnect with Me:Twitter - @RomancetheStoryInstagram - @RomancetheStoryFacebook - @RomancetheStoryMusic:Strawberry Flavor Love by Daystarhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMi0dxVgqvoSupport the Show.

"The city is a beautiful backdrop for (character's) to live their lives in. Whereas in a small town, it's really part of the story."Romance author E.F. Dodd holds a special place in her heart for rural settings and even set her latest book, A Higher Standard, in a small North Carolina town. We chat how specific settings influence your story and tone of a book. Plus, there's discussion on how to avoid the stereotypes of small-town settings and making a romance worthy of a smooth city slicker and a fiery country girl falling for each other. E.F.'s Books:https://amzn.to/3MNqvHJConnect with E.F.:https://www.efdoddwrites.com/ Instagram: @e.f.doddFacebook:  @efdoddwrites --------Spicy Blurb Playbook (DIY course):Use code ROMANCETHESTORY for 10% offwww.spicyblurbplaybook.comBook Blurb Magic (DIY course):Use code ROMANCETHESTORY for 10% offhttps://adoracopyediting.thrivecart.com/book-blurb-magic/?coupon=ROMANCETHESTORY1:1 Blurb Audit (Separate from DIY course):Use code ROMANCETHESTORY for 10% offhttps://adoracopyediting.thrivecart.com/11-blurb-audit/?coupon=ROMANCETHESTORYCustom Book Blurb Service with Jessie (Separate from DIY course):https://adoracopyediting.thrivecart.com/custom-book-blurb/?coupon=ROMANCETHESTORY----------Time Stamps[00:02:25] Indie romance author EF Dodd. [00:04:20] Writing two books at once. [00:09:38] Rural North Carolina. [00:13:55] Equine rescue as unique cause. [00:16:02] Realistic rural setting. [00:19:58] Importance of female friendships. [00:22:14] Importance of community in small towns. [00:26:47] Small town community dynamics. [00:30:56] Romance in rural settings. [00:33:34] Preserving historic buildings. [00:37:13] Love and Business.----------The YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPcGXevs2NQk3Ab9OD66zuQSupport the Showhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/romancethestoryConnect with Me:Twitter - @RomancetheStoryInstagram - @RomancetheStoryFacebook - @RomancetheStoryMusic:Strawberry Flavor Love by Daystarhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMi0dxVgqvoSupport the Show.

"(For erotica) You have to have an escalation for how the s*x scenes build on each other, in that sense of things getting more and more serious."Cassandra Rose Clarke knows how to play with genres. She teaches writing classes across multiple genres and has written over 70 novels - working with official tie-in books like Star Trek, Halo, etc. We chat on what defines an erotica as opposed to a romance - and how language is essential in building the right emotion for salacious scenes. We also theorize on genre-mixing and how stories can incorporate erotic elements.Cassandra's Books:https://amzn.to/3VlZHklConnect with Cassandra:http://www.cassandraroseclarke.com/Instagram: @cassandraroseclarkeTwitter: @seeorseaFacebook: @authorcassandraroseclarkeTumblr: @cassandraroseclarkeGoodreads: 5331983.Cassandra_Rose_Clarke--------Spicy Blurb Playbook (DIY course):Use code ROMANCETHESTORY for 10% offwww.spicyblurbplaybook.comBook Blurb Magic (DIY course):Use code ROMANCETHESTORY for 10% offhttps://adoracopyediting.thrivecart.com/book-blurb-magic/?coupon=ROMANCETHESTORY1:1 Blurb Audit (Separate from DIY course):Use code ROMANCETHESTORY for 10% offhttps://adoracopyediting.thrivecart.com/11-blurb-audit/?coupon=ROMANCETHESTORYCustom Book Blurb Service with Jessie (Separate from DIY course):https://adoracopyediting.thrivecart.com/custom-book-blurb/?coupon=ROMANCETHESTORY----------Time Stamps[0:04:35] Erotica and romance can overlap.[00:06:21] Erotica and romance can overlap.[00:12:39] Erotica should have emotional connection.[00:16:41] Erotica often requires explicit content.[00:21:04 Erotic scenes enhance storytelling experience.[00:26:09] Fantasy romance is legitimate genre.[00:30:56] Exploring sexuality in speculative fiction.[00:36:04] Language and context shape intimacy.[00:44:49] Integrate sex scenes with plot.[00:46:12] Pay attention to language in sex scenes.----------Books Mentioned:Linnea Sinclair's Bookshttps://amzn.to/3pm0e9TFinley Fenn's Bookshttps://amzn.to/41gjoeXStrange Love by Ann Aguirrehttps://amzn.to/3NPOR4AThe Red by Tiffany Reiszhttps://amzn.to/3VIHVbb---------The YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPcGXevs2NQk3Ab9OD66zuQSupport the Showhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/romancethestoryConnect with Me:Twitter - @RomancetheStoryInstagram - @RomancetheStoryFacebook - @RomancetheStory Music: Strawberry Flavor Love by Daystarhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMi0dxVgqvoSupport the Show.

"If (writers) have a problem...we want to help you target that and take actionable steps. One step at a time (in) chunks so that you can actually move forward right away."Megan Haskell keeps author's stories rolling. Co-host of the Author Wheel podcast and fantasy writer, Megan delves into the importance of structuring writing time and finding the right fit for telling your story. We discuss popular resources The Author Wheel has to offer, and Megan discusses their new writing reference guides that save time, find clarity, and build a foundation for your next novel. Kickstarter for The Author Wheel Quick Guideshttps://www.kickstarter.com/projects/authorwheel/preparingtowrite "Search it up!" with The Author Wheel:https://www.authorwheel.com/Podcast: https://authorwheelpodcast.buzzsprout.com/Facebook: @AuthorWheelYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCddVhLNk6gZ1Aj8EsxOE2FwMegan's Books:https://amzn.to/41RQqTsResources from the Author Wheel:https://www.authorwheel.com/stuff--------Book Blurb Magic (DIY course):Use code ROMANCETHESTORY for 10% offhttps://adoracopyediting.thrivecart.com/book-blurb-magic/?coupon=ROMANCETHESTORY1:1 Blurb Audit (Separate from DIY course):Use code ROMANCETHESTORY for 10% offhttps://adoracopyediting.thrivecart.com/11-blurb-audit/?coupon=ROMANCETHESTORYCustom Book Blurb Service with Jessie (Separate from DIY course):https://adoracopyediting.thrivecart.com/custom-book-blurb/?coupon=ROMANCETHESTORY---------The YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPcGXevs2NQk3Ab9OD66zuQSupport the Showhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/romancethestoryConnect with Me:Twitter - @RomancetheStoryInstagram - @RomancetheStoryFacebook - @RomancetheStory Music:Strawberry Flavor Love by Daystarhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMi0dxVgqvoSupport the Show.