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Most women don't realize how much society has tried to silence and shame our natural desires — until a viral video claims women's fiction is pornography in disguise. Liza and I break down the shocking misinformation in Hilary Layne 's disturbing critique of modern romantic and erotica books, revealing what’s really at stake: freedom, empowerment, and the right to enjoy what we love without judgment.

In this episode, we dissect the claims that books with sex are degenerative and addictive, exploring how such narratives threaten to silence female pleasure and agency. You'll discover how these ideas tie into centuries of oppression — from the suppression of women's voices to the demonization of desire. We analyze the real impact of shame, the myths about erotica causing mental health issues, and why equating fiction with harmful influences is not only wrong but dangerous.

We also dive into debates about how art influences society, the falsehoods around "dumbing down" literature, and whether modern romance is a reflection of societal shifts or a product of industry profit motives. Plus, hear our candid take on the importance of diverse representation, the power of empathy, and the significance of choosing your own entertainment free from guilt.

If you've ever felt judged or silenced for loving romantic fiction or exploring your sexuality through books, this episode is your rallying cry: enjoy your stories—sex-positive, empowering, or simply entertaining—and refuse to let misinformation control your narrative. Perfect for readers, writers, and feminists alike who believe in free expression and the right to pleasure.

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In this episode, Sydney and Liza dive into the nuances of storytelling, character development, pacing, and industry pressures. They explore practical tips for tightening your writing, balancing genre expectations, and maintaining sustainability as an author.

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Is Your Favorite Genre Taboo? Exploring Boundaries in Writing and Society

In this episode, Sydney and Liza dive into the social and artistic implications of writing in genres considered less serious or taboo, such as horror, romance, and dark themes. They discuss how societal perceptions influence genre credibility and how writers can navigate genre boundaries while staying true to their creative vision.

Key Topics:

• How societal views label genres like romance and horror as less serious or 'taboo'
• The impact of genre on perceived literary value and audience expectations
• Exploring why certain topics (e.g., sex, violence, mental health) are taboo and their role in storytelling
• The psychology behind taboo subjects and their cathartic or educational value
• Strategies for writers to handle sensitive or taboo content responsibly
• The influence of gender and societal norms on views about female authors and erotic scenes
• The importance of research versus imagination in writing realistic versus fantastical worlds
• How trigger warnings can both protect and limit storytelling
• Personal approaches to character development and genre exploration
• The evolution of genre respectability through history and publishing trends

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In this episode, Sydney and Lisa delve into travel-inspired writing, the nuances of editing, and common stigmas surrounding self-publishing. They share personal journeys, discuss the realities of the publishing industry, and challenge common stigmas in the literary world.

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Liza and Sydney discuss the unpredictability of Texas weather, share humorous anecdotes about past snowstorms, and delve into the complexities of AI's role in creativity and writing. They explore whether creativity can be taught, the importance of individual voice in storytelling, and the evolving relationship between technology and artistic expression. Sydney and Liza explore the nuances of creative writing, emphasizing the importance of finding one's unique voice and the necessity of breaking traditional writing rules. They discuss the evolution of storytelling, the impact of craft classes, and the challenges of addressing hard topics in literature. The dialogue also touches on the value of traditional publishing versus self-publishing, encouraging authors to embrace their individuality and creativity.

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In this episode of PageFright, hosts Sydney Kain and Liza Petrov focus on writer's block. Is it holding you back from completing your first (or latest) manuscript? Is it even real? Listen for writing hacks and general advice on how to get past that dreaded blank page.

Plus bonus conversation about"The Housemaid", "Gone Girl", and writing tips on how to create a plot from scratch!

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Sydney and Liza explore various aspects of writing, including the use of flashbacks, the significance of happy endings in romance, and the complexities of genre classification. They discuss the importance of empathy in character development and the impact of media on societal perceptions, particularly regarding female representation. The duo emphasizes the necessity of research in writing authentically and the balance between challenging readers while ensuring their safety. Throughout the discussion, they reflect on their personal writing journeys and the lessons learned along the way.

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Join Sydney Kane and Liza Petrov on PageFright as they tackle the highs and lows of the writing world. From handling bad online reviews to beta reader horror stories, they share personal insights and strategies for success. Discover how defiance fuels their creative journey and get tips on querying versus self-publishing.