Craft Chat Chronicles

More Insights from Author Amy K Runyon on Crafting Compelling Narratives


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Get ready to be inspired by award-winning historical fiction novelist Amy K Runyon, as she unveils her remarkable transformation from a busy mom to securing a book deal in under two years. Amy's journey is a testament to the power of choosing unique and compelling topics, even those that aren't trending, and she generously shares practical tips on pitching these concepts to publishers. You'll also hear her valuable advice on bringing less popular historical settings, like the Old West, to life and the digital strategies that skyrocketed her book sales.

In this fascinating episode, Amy delves into the art of crafting historical fiction with a contemporary twist. She takes us behind the scenes of her contemporary women's fiction novel, "The Memory of Lavender and Sage," which weaves magical realism into its narrative. Reflecting on the success of "The School for German Brides" and the nuanced reception of "A Bakery in Paris," Amy explores how external tensions, such as school closures in French villages, become pivotal storytelling elements. Her insights into creating emotionally resonant narratives grounded in personal experience are a must-hear for any aspiring writer.

Concluding our episode, Amy tackles the intricacies of crafting satisfying story endings. She discusses the delicate balance of tying up loose ends in a manner that feels authentic and believable, avoiding overly neat conclusions. Amy also shares her expertise on developing multi-dimensional villains that resonate with modern audiences. Lastly, we highlight the significance of a diverse social media presence for writers, featuring Amy's activities on Instagram and TikTok. This episode is packed with invaluable writing and publishing tips from one of the best in the field!

🎙️ 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.

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Craft Chat ChroniclesBy J. D. Myall