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Bestselling romance author Zeo Axelrod takes listeners behind the scenes of contemporary romance writing in this candid, insightful conversation about creativity, publishing paths, and authentic storytelling.

Axelrod reveals her unique "ZeoVision" approach—visualizing characters and scenes like Netflix in her brain—which allows her to deeply inhabit her fictional worlds before writing. Her journey from rewriting a Buffy the Vampire Slayer episode she disliked to becoming a Target Book Club selection demonstrates there's no single path to publishing success.

The contrast between traditional and indie publishing experiences offers valuable perspective for authors navigating both worlds. As a hybrid author, Axelrod discusses how the "hurry up and wait" nature of traditional publishing challenges her creative process compared to the immediate gratification of self-publishing. She shares practical advice on formatting, distribution, and marketing across platforms while emphasizing the importance of building genuine community connections.

Most compelling is Axelrod's perspective on diversity in romance. As a Black female author, she advocates for stories that reflect real-world experiences of marginalized characters without reducing them to their struggles. "These are the same kissing books," she notes, "they just happen to have brown people in them." Her approach to contemporary romance balances acknowledging societal challenges while centering joy and authentic relationships where characters complement rather than complete each other.

For writers at any stage, Axelrod's core message resonates: "Write the book of your heart." Despite industry trends and publisher hesitations, authentic storytelling ultimately finds its audience. Whether crafting conflict, developing characters, or building worlds, the key is creating stories that feel true to your vision while engaging readers seeking both escape and emotional truth.

Ready to bring your romance writing to the next level? Visit jdmyall.com for workshops, show notes, and more resources to help you craft your own bestseller.

https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html?fpr=craftchat

romance writing tips, Xio Axelrod interview, hybrid publishing, indie vs traditional publishing, how to write a romance novel, diverse romance books, Black romance authors, contemporary romance, writing diverse characters, how to become a bestselling author, self-publishing romance, romance book marketing, author branding tips, publishing industry insights, behind the scenes with authors, ZeoVision, writing the book of your heart, romance readers podcast, Black female authors, Target Book Club author, fanfiction to published author, writing for marginalized voices, romance book podcast, how to format and distribute a book, publishing advice for new authors

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🎙️ Craft Chat Chronicles with J.D. Myall
Candid conversations on writing, publishing, and creative life — featuring bestselling authors, MFA students, and writers at every stage of the journey.

About J.D. Myall
J.D. Myall is the co-chair of Drexel University’s MFA Alumni Association and a publishing and library professional. She is the creator and host of Craft Chat Chronicles, where she interviews authors, agents, and industry insiders about the art and business of writing.

Her work has appeared in Ms. Magazine, Writer’s Digest, and HuffPost. Her debut novel, Heart’s Gambit, releases with Wednesday Books/Macmillan in February 2026.

When she’s not conjuring magic, murder, and mayhem on the page, J.D. mentors emerging writers through workshops and alumni programs, fostering community among aspiring and published authors alike.

💜 Connect with J.D. Myall
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Lee Ann Walling and the Silver Dragons of Drexel University's MFA Alumni Association invite you to dive into an unforgettable conversation with bestselling author Ann Garvin!

In this engaging episode, Ann shares her journey from academia—where she spent years studying exercise physiology and health psychology—to the world of literature. With humor as her guiding light, she navigates the complexities of writing beyond 50, tackling ageism in publishing, viral mishaps, and the power of storytelling to break barriers.

With the release of her latest works—seamlessly blending humor and poignancy—Ann proves that creativity knows no age. She candidly discusses the limitations society places on older authors and how she’s defied them with resilience and laughter. From her viral dating mishap to breaking into publishing later in life, Ann’s insights are both inspiring and thought-provoking.

Listeners will also discover the magic of community and collaboration as Ann delves into her role with the Tall Poppy Writers, a collective that uplifts women authors through support and shared success. In a competitive industry, their philosophy proves that rising together is far more powerful than standing alone.

Join us for this insightful conversation, where we challenge stereotypes, embrace creativity, and celebrate resilience in writing. Tune in now, and don’t forget to visit jdmall.com for more writing resources and workshops to fuel your passion!

https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html?fpr=craftchat

Ann Garvin, writing over 50, author interview, publishing industry, humor in writing, resilience in writing, how to become an author, Tall Poppy Writers, ageism in publishing, viral dating story, female authors, women in publishing, writing tips, publishing advice, how to write a book, bestselling authors, Anne Garvin books, creative writing, writing inspiration, book writing advice, writing community, writing journey, book industry secrets, storytelling tips, writer’s life, author career, writing process, breaking into publishing, humor in literature, writing for women, publishing success, book promotion, writer resilience, storytelling wisdom, book marketing, Craft Chat Chronicles, J.D. Myall, writer support groups. Silver Dragons, Drexel MFA Alumni

Support the show

🎙️ Craft Chat Chronicles with J.D. Myall
Candid conversations on writing, publishing, and creative life — featuring bestselling authors, MFA students, and writers at every stage of the journey.

About J.D. Myall
J.D. Myall is the co-chair of Drexel University’s MFA Alumni Association and a publishing and library professional. She is the creator and host of Craft Chat Chronicles, where she interviews authors, agents, and industry insiders about the art and business of writing.

Her work has appeared in Ms. Magazine, Writer’s Digest, and HuffPost. Her debut novel, Heart’s Gambit, releases with Wednesday Books/Macmillan in February 2026.

When she’s not conjuring magic, murder, and mayhem on the page, J.D. mentors emerging writers through workshops and alumni programs, fostering community among aspiring and published authors alike.

💜 Connect with J.D. Myall
📸 Instagram

🌐 Website & Media Kit

💌 Newsletter

🔗 Linktree

Watch episodes on YouTube as well.

💜 Level up your writing process with Scrivener — the ...

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What makes a dystopian world feel terrifyingly real, and why is now the perfect time to write one? In this illuminating episode, we're joined by Rebecca Dazenbaker, debut author of the dystopian novel "Soul Match," who shares her winding path from initial inspiration to publication success.

Rebecca opens up about her surprising journey—how a random thought while passing a cemetery sparked a decade-long creative process that eventually became her debut novel. With remarkable candor, she details the 60 rejections that nearly broke her spirit, the pivotal moment when she almost quit, and the strategic changes that finally landed her an agent and book deal with Simon & Schuster.

The heart of our conversation explores the craft of creating dystopian worlds that resonate with both readers and publishers. Rebecca provides a framework for developing dystopian concepts based on problems you deeply care about, demonstrating how personal passion fuels the persistence needed in publishing. She reveals how to build worlds where things "go wrong in a very specific way," craft characters readers can root for, and balance the darkness with moments of hope and humanity.

For writers who've been told dystopian fiction isn't marketable, this episode delivers exciting news: the market has dramatically shifted. We explore the evidence of dystopian's resurgence, with established authors returning to the genre and romantasy writers pivoting to dystopian projects. Rebecca provides practical advice on positioning your work effectively in query letters and what terms agents are responding to right now.

Whether you're crafting your first manuscript or revising after rejections, this episode offers both technical craft insights and the emotional encouragement to keep going. As Rebecca powerfully reminds us: "Believe in yourself, believe in your story, and you've got this."

https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html?fpr=craftchat

Support the show

🎙️ Craft Chat Chronicles with J.D. Myall
Candid conversations on writing, publishing, and creative life — featuring bestselling authors, MFA students, and writers at every stage of the journey.

About J.D. Myall
J.D. Myall is the co-chair of Drexel University’s MFA Alumni Association and a publishing and library professional. She is the creator and host of Craft Chat Chronicles, where she interviews authors, agents, and industry insiders about the art and business of writing.

Her work has appeared in Ms. Magazine, Writer’s Digest, and HuffPost. Her debut novel, Heart’s Gambit, releases with Wednesday Books/Macmillan in February 2026.

When she’s not conjuring magic, murder, and mayhem on the page, J.D. mentors emerging writers through workshops and alumni programs, fostering community among aspiring and published authors alike.

💜 Connect with J.D. Myall
📸 Instagram

🌐 Website & Media Kit

💌 Newsletter

🔗 Linktree

Watch episodes on YouTube as well.

💜 Level up your writing process with Scrivener — the ...

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When crafting the perfect story climax, what's your character's greatest fear or deepest wound? According to New York Times bestselling author Alan Gratz, that's exactly what they must face in your finale. In this compelling conversation, Gratz reveals his formula for powerful endings: establish early what a character would never do, then force them to do exactly that when the stakes are highest.

But this masterclass in storytelling craft is just the beginning. Gratz takes us behind the scenes of his journey from writing varied genre fiction to creating what he calls "social thrillers" – page-turning adventures that tackle real-world issues like displacement, prejudice, and censorship. His insights on why middle-grade readers respond so powerfully to social justice themes challenge the notion that children should be sheltered from difficult topics.

"Middle schoolers care about justice," Gratz explains. "They have a heightened sense of fairness." This understanding has shaped books like "Refugee" and "Ban This Book" that give young readers windows into complex realities while encouraging empathy and critical thinking.

The conversation takes an urgent turn when discussing the alarming rise in book banning across America. As co-founder of Authors Against Book Bans (AABB), Gratz dispels the myth that banned books automatically sell better, revealing how censorship silently devastates careers, particularly for authors from marginalized communities. His call to action reminds us that defending literary freedom requires showing up – at school board meetings, in our communities, and wherever books are threatened.

Ready to craft more meaningful stories or join the fight against censorship? Gratz offers practical advice for both aspiring authors and concerned citizens. Connect with him at alangratz.com or subscribe to his newsletter to learn more about his upcoming novel "War Games" and how you can help protect the freedom to read.

https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html?fpr=craftchat

Support the show

🎙️ Craft Chat Chronicles with J.D. Myall
Candid conversations on writing, publishing, and creative life — featuring bestselling authors, MFA students, and writers at every stage of the journey.

About J.D. Myall
J.D. Myall is the co-chair of Drexel University’s MFA Alumni Association and a publishing and library professional. She is the creator and host of Craft Chat Chronicles, where she interviews authors, agents, and industry insiders about the art and business of writing.

Her work has appeared in Ms. Magazine, Writer’s Digest, and HuffPost. Her debut novel, Heart’s Gambit, releases with Wednesday Books/Macmillan in February 2026.

When she’s not conjuring magic, murder, and mayhem on the page, J.D. mentors emerging writers through workshops and alumni programs, fostering community among aspiring and published authors alike.

💜 Connect with J.D. Myall
📸 Instagram

🌐 Website & Media Kit

💌 Newsletter

🔗 Linktree

Watch episodes on YouTube as well.

💜 Level up your writing process with Scrivener — the ...

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Unlock the secrets to success in the world of educational publishing with our special guests, Sandra Athens and Mike Downs, authors of "Sell a Children's Book Now: Quick Success in the Educational Market." Discover how they transitioned from teaching and reigniting dormant writing passions to becoming influential voices in this niche market. Hear their personal stories and learn how identifying gaps in educational materials and networking at educational conferences can propel you toward your own success in this field.

Join us as we explore the fascinating differences between educational and trade publishing. Sandra and Mike provide unique insights into the structured guidelines that educational writers must navigate, along with the creative strategies they employ to captivate young readers. We dive into the process of collaboration with editors, and the distinction between teacher and student materials, offering a deeper understanding of the intricate world of educational publishing. Hear firsthand how they craft content that resonates with both educators and students, and the importance of high-interest, low-readability books in today's educational landscape.

For those aspiring to break into children's literature, this episode is a treasure trove of advice and resources. From the significance of organizations like SCBWI to tips on researching publishers and staying current with market trends, Sandra and Mike offer invaluable guidance. They also discuss the benefits of educational publishing, including speed and instructional impact, while highlighting the critical need for diverse books and representation. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just getting started, this episode provides inspiration and practical advice to help you navigate the educational publishing market effectively.

https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html?fpr=craftchat

Support the show

🎙️ Craft Chat Chronicles with J.D. Myall
Candid conversations on writing, publishing, and creative life — featuring bestselling authors, MFA students, and writers at every stage of the journey.

About J.D. Myall
J.D. Myall is the co-chair of Drexel University’s MFA Alumni Association and a publishing and library professional. She is the creator and host of Craft Chat Chronicles, where she interviews authors, agents, and industry insiders about the art and business of writing.

Her work has appeared in Ms. Magazine, Writer’s Digest, and HuffPost. Her debut novel, Heart’s Gambit, releases with Wednesday Books/Macmillan in February 2026.

When she’s not conjuring magic, murder, and mayhem on the page, J.D. mentors emerging writers through workshops and alumni programs, fostering community among aspiring and published authors alike.

💜 Connect with J.D. Myall
📸 Instagram

🌐 Website & Media Kit

💌 Newsletter

🔗 Linktree

Watch episodes on YouTube as well.

💜 Level up your writing process with Scrivener — the ...

Send us Fan Mail

Immerse yourself in our latest episode as we explore the intriguing journey of a literary agent turned author. This captivating discussion reveals firsthand insights on how the writing, publishing, and marketing landscape has evolved through the years. Our special guest dives into the unique challenges she faced while transitioning from a publicist to a successful literary agent and now an author, providing listeners with a rich appreciation for the multifaceted nature of storytelling.

Throughout the episode, we unearth valuable writing tips, such as how to craft the perfect query letter, common pitfalls to avoid, and the essential elements that make a compelling story hook. Our guest also shares her thoughts on current market trends in Young Adult and cozy mysteries, highlighting what resonates with readers today. With her fresh perspective, we gain insights into how authors can navigate the complexities of publishing and find their unique voices in a crowded literary landscape.

Join us as we discuss building suspense, creating believable characters, and the crafting of unforgettable narratives. The episode is brimming with practical advice and personal anecdotes, making it a must-listen for aspiring writers eager to embark on their own journeys in the literary world. With an engaging blend of storytelling and industry insight, we invite you to tune in, subscribe, and share your thoughts with us!

https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html?fpr=craftchat

Rachel Ekstrom Courage, literary agent tips, how to get published, query letter tips, writing advice, publishing industry secrets, cozy mystery market, young adult publishing trends, storytelling tips, book marketing hacks, how to land a literary agent, writing a bestseller, publishing journey, insider publishing tips, aspiring author guide, book industry trends, crafting compelling characters, writing unforgettable stories, building suspense in novels, agent-to-author transition, writing pitfalls to avoid, how to craft the perfect hook, selling your book idea, behind-the-scenes publishing, secrets to a successful book pitch

Support the show

🎙️ Craft Chat Chronicles with J.D. Myall
Candid conversations on writing, publishing, and creative life — featuring bestselling authors, MFA students, and writers at every stage of the journey.

About J.D. Myall
J.D. Myall is the co-chair of Drexel University’s MFA Alumni Association and a publishing and library professional. She is the creator and host of Craft Chat Chronicles, where she interviews authors, agents, and industry insiders about the art and business of writing.

Her work has appeared in Ms. Magazine, Writer’s Digest, and HuffPost. Her debut novel, Heart’s Gambit, releases with Wednesday Books/Macmillan in February 2026.

When she’s not conjuring magic, murder, and mayhem on the page, J.D. mentors emerging writers through workshops and alumni programs, fostering community among aspiring and published authors alike.

💜 Connect with J.D. Myall
📸 Instagram

🌐 Website & Media Kit

💌 Newsletter

🔗 Linktree

Watch episodes on YouTube as well.

💜 Level up your writing process with Scrivener — the ...

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Dive into an inspiring conversation with Josh Silver, an award-winning author who has transitioned from the world of acting to writing poignant fiction that resonates with the complexities of mental health and identity. In this episode, we explore Josh’s journey of self-discovery, which is woven intricately with threads of struggle, creativity, and the quest for authenticity. He reflects upon his formative years in a conservatory acting environment and how his experiences as a nurse shaped his writing.

Listeners will gain insight into the often overlooked challenges of the publishing industry, hear about the inspiration behind his novel "Happy Head," and understand the crucial importance of representation for LGBTQ+ narratives in literature. Josh discusses the impact storytelling can have on personal healing and the responsibility authors have to reflect the diverse experiences of their audience.

From advice on navigating the challenges of writing to thoughts about the importance of authenticity, this episode is a rich tapestry of insight for writers and readers alike. Join us for an enlightening dialogue that encourages everyone to hold true to their passion and craft stories that connect with the human experience. Be sure to subscribe and share your thoughts on the themes discussed!

Josh Silver, Happy Head novel, author interview, writing tips, publishing industry, LGBTQ+ books, mental health in fiction, writing LGBTQ+ characters, young adult fiction, debut author advice, breaking into publishing, writing for healing, storytelling and identity, representation in fiction, writing personal stories, emotional storytelling, acting to writing transition, writing craft, book publishing secrets, how to get published, writing podcast, author struggles, real talk about publishing, authentic storytelling, writing representation, writing advice for authors, fiction writing tips, crafting deep characters, writing for young adults, author success stories, booktok, the craft chat chronicles, book industry secrets, storytelling and mental health

https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html?fpr=craftchat

Support the show

🎙️ Craft Chat Chronicles with J.D. Myall
Candid conversations on writing, publishing, and creative life — featuring bestselling authors, MFA students, and writers at every stage of the journey.

About J.D. Myall
J.D. Myall is the co-chair of Drexel University’s MFA Alumni Association and a publishing and library professional. She is the creator and host of Craft Chat Chronicles, where she interviews authors, agents, and industry insiders about the art and business of writing.

Her work has appeared in Ms. Magazine, Writer’s Digest, and HuffPost. Her debut novel, Heart’s Gambit, releases with Wednesday Books/Macmillan in February 2026.

When she’s not conjuring magic, murder, and mayhem on the page, J.D. mentors emerging writers through workshops and alumni programs, fostering community among aspiring and published authors alike.

💜 Connect with J.D. Myall
📸 Instagram

🌐 Website & Media Kit

💌 Newsletter

🔗 Linktree

Watch episodes on YouTube as well.

💜 Level up your writing process with Scrivener — the ...

Send us Fan Mail

Ever wondered what it’s like to write for major franchises? Join us in this captivating episode as we explore the world of Intellectual Property (IP) writing with Jamie D'Amato and Annie Davenport, experienced authors who share their journeys and insider tips. Discover how authors can blend their passion for beloved narratives with professional writing, providing unique perspectives that fit the canon while exploring their creativity.

We delve into the distinctions between publisher-created IP and packaged books, examining how these different avenues offer opportunities for emerging and established authors alike. Jamie and Annie discuss crucial aspects such as the auditioning process, the importance of having an agent, and how creative freedom can sometimes thrive within the constraints of established lore. They share anecdotes reflecting the ups and downs of IP writing, emphasizing the rewards and challenges of working with existing properties.

With engaging discussions about the role of fandom in their writing processes and insightful tips to guide aspiring authors toward success, this episode serves as a rich resource for anyone interested in IP writing. We also analyze common myths surrounding this form of authorship—to debunk the notion that working in established universes equates to a lack of creativity.

Don't miss this opportunity to gain knowledge and inspiration from seasoned authors who navigate the often-complicated terrain of writing for franchises. Subscribe, share, and leave a review to support our podcast as we continue revealing industry insights for writers everywhere.

https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html?fpr=craftchat

Support the show

🎙️ Craft Chat Chronicles with J.D. Myall
Candid conversations on writing, publishing, and creative life — featuring bestselling authors, MFA students, and writers at every stage of the journey.

About J.D. Myall
J.D. Myall is the co-chair of Drexel University’s MFA Alumni Association and a publishing and library professional. She is the creator and host of Craft Chat Chronicles, where she interviews authors, agents, and industry insiders about the art and business of writing.

Her work has appeared in Ms. Magazine, Writer’s Digest, and HuffPost. Her debut novel, Heart’s Gambit, releases with Wednesday Books/Macmillan in February 2026.

When she’s not conjuring magic, murder, and mayhem on the page, J.D. mentors emerging writers through workshops and alumni programs, fostering community among aspiring and published authors alike.

💜 Connect with J.D. Myall
📸 Instagram

🌐 Website & Media Kit

💌 Newsletter

🔗 Linktree

Watch episodes on YouTube as well.

💜 Level up your writing process with Scrivener — the ...