Craft Chat Chronicles

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From childhood notebook scribbles to groundbreaking queer YA novels, New York Times bestselling author Tess Sharpe's journey exemplifies resilience and creativity. On "Craft Chat Chronicles," Tess shares the thrill and challenges of seeing her novel "The Girls I've Been" adapted for Netflix. She discusses the importance of community support and details her role in the adaptation process, highlighting her involvement with the Writers Guild of America to maintain creative control.

In our conversation, Tess explores the intricacies of intellectual property, the art of writing sequels, and the realities of no-compete clauses in publishing contracts. She candidly addresses the industry's undercurrents of privilege and offers insights into crafting resonant endings and tackling the unique challenges of the romance genre. This episode not only inspires but also provides a roadmap for navigating the literary and cinematic worlds through the lens of a pioneering author.

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Keywords: #Tess Sharpe, #The Girls I've Been, Netflix adaptation #queer YA novels #Writers Guild of America # book to screen #publishing insights #crafting sequels #romance genre challenges #Craft Chat #optioned for film #BestsellingAuthorTips #Thrillers #romance novels, #CraftingBestsellers, #PublishingIndustryInsights, #WritingStrategies, #AuthorSuccessStories, #WritingCareerTransition, #WritingCraft  #NarrativeDevelopment, #BookMarketingStrategies,  #CreativeWritingTechniques, #NYTimesBestsellingProcess, #AuthorInterviews, #BookPromotion, #LiteraryAgents, #RealLifeExperiences #Publishing #WritingTips #J.D.Myall

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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
📸 Instagram

🌐 Website & Media Kit

💌 Newsletter

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Watch episodes on YouTube as well.

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

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When the blank page becomes a canvas for a bestselling novel, what's the secret behind the first stroke of genius? Ava Reid, acclaimed author of dark academia's gripping tales, joins us to unravel the artistry of hooking readers from the get-go. She opens up about her own transformation from writing in solitude to embracing the glaring spotlight of success. Her frank discussion on the ebbs and flows of authorship, right down to the Wikipedia page with quirky inaccuracies about her life, offers a rare glimpse into the emotional whirlwind that accompanies literary fame.

Crafting characters that linger in the minds of readers long after the last page is a feat few master, but Ava shares her insights into breathing life into the unhinged protagonists that haunt the corridors of gothic fiction. This episode is not just about the allure of the macabre; it's a roadmap through the labyrinth of the publishing industry, from the mentorship that can change the game for aspiring writers to the pivotal role of agents who champion their authors' careers. The blend of personal anecdotes with practical advice on storytelling structures like the Save the Cat beat sheet ensures that this conversation is both enlightening and grounded in the realities of writing.

As your host, I reflect on my own meandering path to authorship, marked by challenges that resonate with so many who dare to dream of writing. From lessons learned in self-publishing to the revelatory moments that led to a coveted book deal, my story is one of resilience and the relentless pursuit of a passion for storytelling. As we wrap up, the excitement builds for future episodes, where we'll hear from 2025's debut authors. They're gearing up to share the craft that landed them in the publishing world, promising to be an invaluable trove of knowledge for writers at any stage of their journey. Stay tuned as we continue to explore the landscape of literature, one page at a time.

Keywords: writing, traditional publishing, book marketing, making a living with your writing,  writing tips, book marketing, promotion, writing techniques, young adult fiction, dark academia, gothic novels, book promotion, audience engagement, marketing strategies, literary agents, publishing, a writer's journey, writing life, tips, publishing story, Ava Reid, J. D. Myall, Drexel University, Writer's Digest,  author.

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

Join us as New York Times bestselling author Sadiqa Johnson shares lessons on crafting bestsellers. Embark on a literary voyage with us as I, JD Myall, sit down with Sadiqa Johnson, a celebrated author known for her gripping novels like 'The Yellow Wife.' Sadiqa's journey is a testament to the power of storytelling and persistence, marked by her significant accolades, including her most recent novel, 'The House of Eve,' which became an instant New York Times Best Seller, a Target book club pick, Reese’s Book Club selection, and a NAACP Image Award nominee.

In today’s episode of 'Craft Chat Chronicles,' we delve into the nuances of historical fiction, exploring how Sadiqa crafts memorable characters and vivid settings that keep readers enthralled from the first page to the last. Join us as we discuss the intricacies of her writing process, from the initial concept to the final draft, and uncover the strategies behind her successful writing career.

We'll also get a glimpse into the writing rituals that fuel her creativity, from constructing vision boards to creating the perfect ambient setup for writing sessions. Sadiqa generously shares her wisdom on penning novels that resonate deeply with readers and offers invaluable advice for both aspiring and established authors. Don’t miss this inspiring session filled with practical tips and heartfelt stories about overcoming challenges and celebrating the milestones of a literary career.

Join JD Myall from Writer's Digest and Drexel University on 'Craft Chat Chronicles' for an engaging conversation with one of today's leading voices in historical fiction. Tune in for an episode packed with insights on crafting bestsellers and effective strategies for book marketing and publishing success.     

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

 #BestsellingAuthorTips, #HistoricalFiction, #CraftingBestsellers, #PublishingIndustryInsights, #WritingStrategies, #AuthorSuccessStories, #WritingCareerTransition, #WritingCraft  #NarrativeDevelopment, #BookMarketingStrategies,  #CreativeWritingTechniques, #NYTimesBestsellingProcess, #AuthorInterviews, #BookPromotion, #LiteraryAgents, #RealLifeExperiences #Publishing #WritingTips

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

Join us as New York Times best-selling author Gilly Segal shares lessons on crafting bestsellers. Transitioning from law to literary stardom, Gilly unfolds her remarkable journey from hidden manuscripts to her collaboration with Kimberly Jones on the acclaimed YA hit "I'm Not Dying With You Tonight." She offers invaluable insights on persistence, the magic of the right partnership, and the importance of robust critique.

Explore the nuanced dance of co-authorship, highlighting the synergistic power of diverse writing backgrounds and the importance of solid co-writing agreements. Gilly discusses the business side of writing, providing legal insights from resources like the Authors Guild, and how to navigate the publishing industry with finesse.

Discover the art of engaging young readers through meticulous research and savvy marketing techniques. Gilly recounts gathering authentic experiences from riot survivors and law enforcement experts to enrich her narratives. She emphasizes strategic marketing to leverage speaking engagements and the detailed orchestration behind bringing a story to life.

This episode is your guide to mastering literary craft with the insights of a passionate and accomplished author. Join J.D. Myall from Writer's Digest and Drexel University on 'Craft Chat Chronicles' for interviews with best-selling authors. Delve into writing, publishing, and book marketing insights that combine creative writing expertise with real-world publishing experience. Tune in for transformative literary guidance, perfect for aspiring and seasoned writers, and students alike.

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

 #BestsellingAuthorTips, #YoungAdultFiction, #CraftingBestsellers, #PublishingIndustryInsights, #WritingStrategies, #AuthorSuccessStories, #WritingCareerTransition, #WritingCraft  #NarrativeDevelopment, #BookMarketingStrategies,  #CreativeWritingTechniques, #NYTimesBestsellingProcess, #AuthorInterviews, #BookPromotion, #LiteraryAgents, #RealLifeExperiences #Publishing #WritingTips #BestsellingAuthorTips, #YoungAdultFiction, #CraftingBestsellers, #PublishingIndustryInsights, #CoWritingStrategies, #AuthorSuccessStories, #WritingCareerTransition, #YAMarketTrends, #LegalTipsForAuthors, #NarrativeDevelopment, #BookMarketingStrategies  #WritingWorkshops, #LiteraryCollaboration, #CreativeWritingTechniques, #FromLawyerToAuthor, #NYTimesBestsellingProcess, #AuthorInterviews, #BookPromotion, #LiteraryAgents, #RealLifeExperiences.

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 a text

Master the craft of grabbing your readers' attention from the very first page with our special guest, Jaymarie! We promise you'll gain invaluable insights as we dissect the riveting openings of novels like "The Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins and "Legendborn" by Tracy Deon. Explore how these authors hook readers by weaving immediate action, familial bonds, and evocative settings into their narratives, making it impossible to put the book down.

Join us as we delve into the powerful opening of Angie Thomas' "The Hate U Give," where a strong first sentence and a relatable protagonist, Star, draw readers into a world grappling with identity, societal pressure, and race. We'll also discuss the poignant, heart-wrenching scene in Delilah Owens' "Where the Crawdads Sing," where young Kaya’s world is shattered, leaving readers eager to uncover the mysteries of her life. These analyses will highlight the importance of emotional depth and vivid descriptions in making a story compelling.

Finally, we turn our focus to the magic of setting with an analysis of a mysterious circus that appears without warning, captivating readers with its enigmatic atmosphere. Learn how to craft a unique hook, maintain a consistent narrative voice, and polish your first drafts to perfection. Don't miss out on these expert tips and insights that will transform your writing and make your first page unforgettable!

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

🎙️ 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

💜 Level up your writing process with Scrivener — the powerful tool used to draft and organize novels and podcast scripts. 💜

Try it here: https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html?fpr=craf...

Send us a text

Ever wondered why young adult fiction captures the hearts of readers across all ages? Discover the key elements that make YA fiction so compelling on this episode of Craft Chat Chronicles. From the intense emotional rollercoasters of first love and heartbreak to the urgency found in fast-paced storytelling, we’ll break down what makes these narratives irresistible. With excerpts from Emily Hainsworth's "Through to You" and Paula Stokes’s "Liars Inc.," we illustrate the raw, engaging elements that define the genre and discuss the strategic role of teenage protagonists and their often-absent parents.

Buckle up for a discussion on the high-stakes world of teenage decision-making and the nuanced portrayal of sexuality in YA literature. We dive into an adrenaline-pumping scene involving a protagonist's daring escape from FBI agents, exploring how believability and dramatic tension keep readers hooked. Then, we tackle sensitive topics like teenage fatherhood and first romantic encounters with examples from Angie Thomas's "Concrete Rose" and Nicola Yoon's "Everything, Everything." Learn how these narratives handle complex issues responsibly without losing their entertainment value.

Stay ahead of the curve with our insights into the latest trends in YA fiction. Discover the rising popularity of strong female protagonists in fantastical settings, the enduring appeal of dystopian narratives, and the increasing demand for diversity and representation. Whether it's the suspense of YA mysteries or the thrill of YA horror, particularly from Black authors, find out what’s captivating readers today. Join us for a comprehensive dive into the vibrant and ever-evolving world of young adult fiction!

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

🎙️ 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

💜 Level up your writing process with Scrivener — the powerful tool used to draft and organize novels and podcast scripts. 💜

Try it here: https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html?fpr=craf...