This week guest is Raven West (Vashti’s Daughter, indie published, July 2023). Before there was Esther in the Bible there was Vashti, whose story provided the impetus for Raven’s women’s fiction novel set in 366 AD. We discuss why sometimes it’s good when a book takes a long time to germinate, the difficulty in finding comps for certain novels, why she went the indie route, and the four best pieces of advice she has for authors just starting out.

A seasoned guest on radio shows, podcasts, and literary festivals, Raven West has dedicated her career not just to writing but to engaging with her readers, championing independent authorship, and pushing the boundaries of storytelling

With an impressive repertoire spanning multiple genres—from riveting thrillers and espionage novels to historical fiction and deeply personal non-fiction—her storytelling is as compelling as it is diverse. Her works, including Red Wine for Breakfast, First Class Male, Undercover Reunion, and Vashti’s Daughter, have captivated readers with their rich narratives and unforgettable characters.

To learn more about Raven West, click here