In this episode of the Write It Scared podcast, I discuss overcoming guilt as a parent pursuing creative passions and introduce M.K. Pagano, the author of 'Girls Who Burn,' who shares her journey to becoming a published writer. 

Our conversation highlights the challenges of balancing writing with parenting, dealing with setbacks such as losing an agent, and the importance of community support. 

MK offers practical advice for writing thrillers and emphasizes the significance of persistence and self-compassion in the writing journey. 

00:00 Overcoming Parental Guilt for Creative Fulfillment

01:23 Interview with MK Pagano: Debut Novel 'Girls Who Burn'

04:05 MK Pagano's Writing Journey and Challenges

12:26 Tips for Writing Thrillers

19:17 Balancing Writing and Parenthood

22:38 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Writers

31:19 Conclusion and Resources for Writers

Guest Bio:

MK Pagano writes stories about messy girls, mayhem, and murder. Her debut YA Thriller GIRLS WHO BURN is out now in the US, UK, and more. She is represented by Barbara Poelle of Word One Literary. When she’s not busy pondering the angst of fictional people, she can be found reading (from her own TBR and that of her children), dreaming of restoring an old French chateau, and wandering the weirder parts of New Jersey, where she currently resides with her family.

Contact links:

https://mkpagano.com/ 

https://www.instagram.com/mk_pagano/ 

Resources mentioned on  the show:

Alexa Donne’s Youtube Channel

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