Daggers and Daydreams

In this episode of Daggers & Daydreams, we dive into one of the trickiest (and most fun!) aspects of writing: dialogue. How do you make it sound real without being boring? How do you give each character a distinct voice? And what do you do when all your characters sound like…you?

We share our earliest (and cringiest) attempts at writing dialogue, the advice that’s actually helped us improve, and the pitfalls we still fall into. Plus, we shout out some of our favourite authors who nail character conversations and unpack what makes their dialogue so effective.

Timestamps:
00:20 – Intro
00:50 – Earliest memories of writing dialogue (and hilarious fails)
08:52 – Making dialogue sound natural (reading aloud, dictation, stealing from real life)
11:01 – Giving characters distinct voices (quirks, tone, education, personality)
13:55 – Common dialogue pitfalls we’ve fallen into

25:46 – The controversy of dialogue tags
31:45 – Little improv game: can you guess whose character is speaking?
35:46 – Books/resources that helped us level up
37:23 – Dialogue “rules” we’ve happily broken (and why it worked)
39:32 – Authors who nail dialogue according to us

Keywords: writing dialogue tips, character voice, realistic dialogue, novel writing craft, witty banter, subtext in fiction

Welcome to Season 4 of Daggers & Daydreams! We’re kicking things off with one of Helen’s favourite topics—worldbuilding. Whether you’re crafting an elaborate fantasy realm or setting your story in the “real” world, the way you build your world shapes your characters, your plot, and the entire reading experience.

We talk about what worldbuilding really means, how it differs across genres, and why even contemporary fiction needs it. We also dig into our own processes, what comes first (the world or the characters), the common pitfalls we’ve encountered, and whether you really need that fantasy map.

Finally, we share some of our favourite fictional worlds we’d happily live in…and the ones we’d run from screaming.

Timestamps
00:18 – Season 4 welcome & upcoming topics
01:33 – What worldbuilding means to us
02:44 – How the world impacts story and character arcs 

04:31 – Why worldbuilding matters in all genres
10:26 – Differences in worldbuilding between fantasy, sci-fi, and contemporary fiction
15:17 – Our personal worldbuilding processes
18:00 – What comes first: the character or the world?
23:16 – Do you really need a fantasy map?

26:42 – Pitfalls we’ve fallen into when worldbuilding
30:55 – Favourite worlds we’d want to live in and worlds we’d definitely avoid

34:05 – Top tips for Worldbuilding
36:46 – Closing thoughts

Keywords: worldbuilding tips, writing craft, fantasy writing, contemporary fiction, story setting, character development, novel structure, writing advice

In this episode of Daggers & Daydreams, we sit down with Carley Hoffman, YA dystopian author of Providence, the first book in a trilogy she began writing while still in high school. Now a college student, Carley is continuing to build her series while balancing life, studies, and a passion for storytelling.

We chat about her writing journey—from that very first story idea to turning it into a published novel—and how her process has evolved for book two. Carley opens up about the surprises (both good and bad) of indie publishing, what she’s learned about connecting with readers, and the tools that have made the biggest difference for her.

Of course, we couldn’t resist a few fun questions: which character she’d have dinner with, who she’d cast in a Providence adaptation, and the most surprising feedback she’s ever received from a reader.

Timestamps

00:18 – Intro & welcome to Carley Hoffman

02:19 – Has storytelling always been part of your life?

03:43 – Writing process: planner, pantser, or in-between?

05:38 – Writing book two: challenges & changes from book one

07:37 – A typical writing day & fitting writing around life

08:48 – Choosing the indie publishing path

10:19 – Biggest surprises about publishing her first book

12:46 – The most rewarding & most challenging parts of being indie

17:17 – Fun Q: Which character would you have dinner with?

18:15 – Most unexpected feedback from a reader

19:16 – Writing software preferences

20:20 – Writing quirks & surprising rituals

22:02 – Advice to her past self before publishing

22:55 – Outro

Keywords: YA dystopian, debut author, indie publishing, writing process, author interview, young adult fiction, Providence book series, writing advice for beginners

This season, we’ve covered everything from writing advice and editing tips, to feedback, traditional vs indie publishing, mindset, marketing, and money. Now, we’re wrapping up with something a little more fun—and very real.

In this unfiltered Q&A episode, we each brought five unprepared questions to surprise one another with. From honest reflections on our writing careers to dream guests, AI debates, and which ridiculous writing items we secretly want to buy… nothing is off the table.

This is a behind-the-scenes chat about being an author in real life, packed with heart, humour, and the kind of conversations you can only have with your writer bestie.

Timestamps:

01:05 – Q1: Biggest writing lesson we’ve learned in 2025 so far
04:40 – Q2: What does our real dream writing career look like—and could we get there?
11:07 – Q3: Our dream podcast guest (hint: one of us gets specific 👀)
12:50 – Q4: One thing we always say to our coaching/editing clients
14:49 – Q5: Who inspires us creatively, in business, and with mindset?
20:10 – Q6: If we got a million-pound book deal—what’s the most irresponsible thing we’d buy?
22:53 – Q7: A writing rule we secretly love to break
24:06 – Q8: If our inner critics had names and personalities, who would they be?
27:10 – Q9: The most ridiculous writing-related item we’d secretly love to own
29:32 – Q10: Publishing deal via AI… or only ever self-publishing our own words?

Whether you’re here for honest author chat, a dose of writing motivation, or just want to feel a little less alone on the creative journey, this episode is for you.

Keywords: beginner writing, debut authors, author Q&A, writing career, writing mindset, creative process, indie publishing, writing advice, podcast for writers

Let’s talk numbers.

In this candid episode of Daggers & Daydreams, we’re diving into one of the most asked-about but least talked-about parts of the writing journey: money.

Whether you’re just starting out or considering publishing your first book, this episode is packed with honest reflections, real figures, and lessons we’ve learned the hard (and expensive) way. From editing costs to royalties, from first draft to final product, we’re pulling back the curtain on what it takes, financially, to be an indie author.

We’re not financial advisors, but we are writers who’ve walked the path and are here to share the raw, unfiltered truth.

Episode Timestamps:

00:20 – Intro 
03:02 – The True Cost of a Book
12:02 – Surprise Expenses
21:10 – How Much Do You Really Make?

32:51 – Beyond Book Sales

34:42 – Setting Yourself Up for Indie Publishing

39:21 – Pitfalls, Regrets & Smart Spending

42:56 – Why We Still Write (Even When It Doesn’t Pay Much)

45:15 – How Many Books Have We Actually Sold?

50:22 -  Outro

Whether you’re getting ready to publish or just starting your first manuscript, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants the financial side of writing demystified.

Keywords: beginner writing, writing advice, indie publishing, debut authors, book sales, author income, writing costs, self-publishing, personal finance for creatives, creative careers

Links:

Season 1 - Episode 7: The Publishing Journey

Season 2 - Episode 6: Marketing & Personal Branding: The Hardest Part of Being an Author

Reedsy

Fiverr

Scrivener

In this special episode of Daggers & Daydreams, we turn the mic on co-host Helen Worthington-Smith to explore the creative mind behind Skin Deep, a contemporary fantasy debut that dives deep into themes of identity, transformation, and what it means to be truly seen.

Helen shares how the idea for Skin Deep first sparked to life, the storytelling influences that shaped her voice, and how she built a world where mistakes are written on your skin for all to see. We talk about the joys and challenges of worldbuilding, her approach to character, and what’s next in the Skin Deep universe.

From creative rituals to surprise moments in the drafting process, this conversation is a warm, thoughtful deep dive into one author’s path from inspiration to publication. Whether you're a debut author, a beginner writer, or just someone trying to find your voice, Helen’s story is a powerful reminder that the writing journey is never linear, but always worth it.

We also get playful in the final section with imaginative hypotheticals, creative comforts, and some behind-the-scenes fun.

If you're looking for writing advice grounded in personal experience, with a side of heart and honesty, this episode is for you.

Keywords: beginner writing, writing advice, debut authors, books, fantasy writing, character development, worldbuilding, indie publishing, women who write

Let’s be real, writing a book is one thing, selling it is a whole other beast. In this episode of Daggers & Daydreams, we’re diving into one of the most overwhelming (and often confusing) parts of becoming an author: marketing and personal branding.

Whether you’re going the indie route or aiming for traditional publishing, promotion is part of the job now, and for most debut authors, it can feel like a crash course in business, visibility, and identity all rolled into one.

We’re sharing our own experiences: the good, the awkward, the cringe, and the lessons we’ve learned (and are still learning) about how to show up online, talk about our books, and not lose ourselves in the process.

From awkward social media launches to branding identity crises, this one’s for any beginner writer trying to build their presence while staying true to their voice.

Timestamps:
00:00 – Intro: What this episode is really about
01:48 – What is marketing and personal branding for authors?
02:52 – When we realised this was part of the job
04:46 – Early marketing mistakes and what felt weird (or natural)
06:27 – Social media journey 

17:02 – Marketing more than social media
21:33 – What we’ve learned about personal branding so far
28:46 – Our honest thoughts on showing up online and the pressures of social media 
31:54 – Tips for new writers overwhelmed by branding pressure
35:58 – How our relationship with marketing has evolved
39:30 – Outro: Still figuring it out—but here’s what we know

Keywords: beginner writing, writing advice, debut authors, author marketing, personal branding, book promotion, writing community, self-publishing, author platform, social media for writers

Whether you're dreading your first book launch or just trying to figure out what your “brand” even is, this episode is a reminder: you’re allowed to be figuring it out, and you don’t have to do it alone.

PS: If you’re a book marketer or branding specialist who’d love to share your insights with our listeners, get in touch—we’d love to have you on the show!

You can learn all the craft techniques in the world, but without the right mindset, writing can start to feel like a battle you never win. In this episode of Daggers & Daydreams, we’re diving deep into what we believe is the most underrated but essential part of the writing life: mindset.

Whether you’re working on your first book or just beginning to call yourself a writer, this episode explores how your inner world shapes your creative process far more than word count goals or plot outlines ever could.

We answer 13 honest and vulnerable questions about writing mindset, covering everything from fear of failure to imposter syndrome, creative blocks, limiting beliefs, procrastination, perfectionism, and what it really means to move from amateur to professional (no matter where you are in your publishing journey).

We also share the personal rituals and mental shifts that help us stay resilient, creative, and committed to the work, even on the hard days.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Intro: Why mindset is the foundation of writing success

02:19 – Our mindset journeys, what’s changed and what’s still a work in progress

10:43 – Defining a healthy writing mindset

13:29 – How mindset helped, or hurt, our writing

16:24 – Common limiting beliefs and how to challenge them

18:40 – Resistance, rejection, and reframing fear

28:47 – The power of rituals, routines, and energy management

34:56 – Coaching yourself through tough writing days

39:43 – Celebrating small wins and cultivating long-term motivation

44:16 – What it really means to think like a professional

47:21 – One mindset principle we swear by

50:32 – Outro: The role of coaching in your mindset journey

Keywords: beginner writing, writing advice, writing mindset, creative blocks, debut authors, self-belief, motivation, imposter syndrome, writing rituals, mental resilience, writing growth

Writing is hard—but it doesn’t have to be lonely. This episode is a reminder that you’re not the only one struggling—and that with the right mindset, you can keep showing up for your stories, even when doubt creeps in.

Book References:

Grit - Angela Duckworth

Atomic habits - James Clear

The War of Art - Steven Pressfield

Peak - Robert Pool and Andre Ericsson

In this episode of Daggers & Daydreams, we sit down with YA and contemporary romance author Esha Patel—a full-time student, prolific writer, and voice behind Florida’s Finest, Offtrack, Overdrive, and her latest release Cross My Heart. Esha is known for her fresh take on identity, connection, and character-driven storytelling, and she’s just getting started.

We talk about what it’s like balancing college and creativity, the realities of navigating both self-publishing and traditional publishing, and the emotional rollercoaster of launching books while still figuring out your place in the industry. If you’ve ever wondered how to make writing work in the middle of real life or how to keep writing joyful and sustainable, Esha’s story offers a refreshingly grounded look at what’s possible.

From first drafts scribbled between classes to marketing strategies that connect with real readers, this episode is packed with insights, encouragement, and the kind of honest advice we wish we’d had starting out.

Timestamps:
00:18 – Intro: Meet Esha Patel
03:35 – Behind the scenes of Offtrack and earlier books

06:54 – Writing during college and finding a creative rhythm
13:35 – Part Two: Navigating indie and traditional publishing
18:40 – Surprises and lessons from Esha’s publishing journey
20:52 – What changed between debut and latest release
22:53 – Strategies for marketing and building a reader base
31:05 – Casting choices, character dinners, and writing rituals
40:22 – Esha’s advice to her past self (and new authors)

Keywords: beginner writing, writing advice, debut authors, YA books, self-publishing, traditional publishing, writing and studying, book marketing, indie authors, women writers

Whether you’re writing between shifts, classes, or chaos, Esha’s experience proves that there’s no one “right” way to build a writing career. All you need is persistence, passion, and maybe a few sticky notes.

In this episode of Daggers & Daydreams, we’re pulling back the curtain on how we each found our way into indie publishing, and why that journey looked completely different for both of us.

While we’ve both chosen the independent publishing path, one of us made that decision intentionally, while the other fell into it more organically. We’re not here to compare or debate which is “better.” Instead, we’re sharing what our real publishing journeys looked like. The messy bits, the mindset shifts, and the lessons that shaped who we are as authors today.

If you’re standing at the start of your own publishing path and wondering, Should I go indie? Try trad? Do I need to know yet? This conversation is for you.

We talk about the emotional rollercoaster of releasing our first books, the surprises (good and bad), and how our definition of success has evolved. Plus: the behind-the-scenes on marketing, timelines, creative control, and the business side of being your own publisher.

Timestamps:
00:21 – Intro: Two indie authors, two very different journeys

What we hoped for, feared, and felt before releasing book one

16:22 - The Pros and Cons of Indie and Traditional publishing
27:26 - What we've learnt from Indie Publishing, key takeaways

37:09 – Creative vision vs. business mindset—what shaped our approach

44:28 - How indie publishing shaped our careers and confidence
46:22 - Where we stand now
47:14 - What we wish we’d known and what we’re proud of

48:06 - Mindset shifts

50:25 - Things we wanted to know before we started our publishing journey

51:28 - Outro

Keywords: beginner writing, writing advice, debut authors, indie publishing, traditional publishing, self-publishing, book launch tips, creative process, publishing journey, women writers

Whether you’re planning your publishing path or still figuring out what your first step looks like, this episode offers a grounded, honest look at how your writing dreams can take shape in unexpected ways. There’s no one right road—just your road.