A quick update on the recent delay in episode uploads and plans moving forward. The podcast isn't saying goodbye, but we'll be taking a bit of a breather to do some catching up (and meeting some other deadlines!).

Moving forward, we may explore doing the "seasons" setup where we take breaks between batches of episodes, but we'll keep you updated once we settle on a schedule. Thank you so much for sticking with us, and we appreciate you all!

Amy sits down for a chat with author Harvey Oliver Baxter about writing aromantic and asexual characters in fiction. We discuss some of our fave characters, least fave tropes, and more.

Harvey Oliver Baxter is the author of Fallen Thorns, available now.

Find Harvey online:

Instagram: @lastvanillasmile

TikTok: @authorhobaxter

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Episode Drink:

• 2oz gin

*Get the real pomegranate stuff if you can, or you can make your own by heating equal parts 100% unsweetened pomegranate juice and granulated sugar until the sugar dissolves. You can also substitute with creme de cassis or creme de mure if needed.

1) Shake all in cocktail shaker with ice

Amy discusses the miscommunication trope with fellow writer Lesia, which includes our fave (and least fave) ways it can be incorporated, as well as a bit of shared glee over character angst.

Follow Lesia on Instagram

Amy and guest Fiona Fenn discuss fanfiction! They chat about their personal ties to fanfic, as well as shifting perceptions in the traditional publishing industry, and how the community aspect differs between fanfic and trad-pub.

Fiona is the author of the upcoming fantasy novel, The Crack at the Heart of Everything, available for pre-order now!

Find Fiona online here:

• Website

Amy is joined by guest co-host Abi to discuss love triangles (or assorted other shapes). We discuss the "why not all" option, when a love triangle/polygon may actually help serve the plot, and our best tips for making them feel authentic.

Follow Fledgling Books here!

Historical mystery author Jenny Adams joins Amy for a discussion about what it's been like pivoting from young adult fantasy to adult historical mystery, as well as sharing some advice for others thinking about expanding into other genres.

Jenny is the author of the debut adult historical mystery novel A Deadly Endeavor, available now!

Find Jenny Adams and her books online:

• Linktree

Amy sits down with author T.L. Simpson to discuss his YA contemporary debut novel, Strong Like You. We discuss what it's like to tackle darker themes in YA, how journalistic writing can help with fiction, and share a minor digression on a little childhood toy nostalgia.

Find T.L. Simpson online:

• Website: tlsimpson.net

In this special guest episode, Amy sits down with author Jaq Evans to discuss what it's like juggling projects, working with publishing deadlines and long silences, as well as giving yourself grace when choosing which book to work on.

Jaq Evans is the author of the adult horror novel What Grows in the Dark, releasing on March 5, 2024.

Find Jaq online:

• Twitter: @jaqwrites

In this episode, Amy and D.C. chat with special guest Brigitta Estelle Burguess, author of Swipe Up For Secrets. We discuss keeping a positive outlook on writing, marketing a self-published book, and what it's like maintaining a writing career as a parent.

Find Brigitta and her book online:

Swipe Up For Secrets

Instagram

Twitter/X

What do you do when the muse isn't singing and the motivation just isn't sparking? Amy and D.C. discuss some of their favorite tips for getting the mojo back.