Page Fright

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Do you like dark fantasy, messy feelings, and writers who refuse to play by the rules? Then this episode is for you. Join Liza and Sydney as they sit down with Gemma Vale, the up-and-coming indie author behind Daughter of the Night, an immersive fantasy full of dark themes, shadow magic, and complex characters who leave you guessing until the final page. 

But this isn’t just a book chat — it’s also a real look at what it takes to build an author career your own way. Gemma opens up about writing with synesthesia, trusting her vision after rejection, and turning consistency into a massive social media audience primed for her book debut.

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In this episode, Christa pulls back the curtain on her inventive process, showing how she crafts chilling stories that blend the absurd with the terrifying, all rooted in real human emotion.
You’ll discover how she masterfully combines high-stakes psychological terror with laugh-out-loud moments that flicker like ghostly whispers in the night. Christa shares the surprising origins of her hauntingly clever ideas—like faking a supernatural event to escape toxicity—and how her personal experiences influence her spooky storytelling. We break down the delicate balance she strikes between realism and absurdity, making her horror feel both believable and masterful.

Buy her Book: https://bookshop.org/shop/pagefrightpodcast

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Go behind the scenes of a publishing conference, and learn the kind of industry advice agents are actually giving writers right now. From contracts and the business side of publishing to how you can query a book that doesn't fit neatly on the genre shelf, Sydney and Liza unpack the insights that can help authors better understand what it takes to build a career in a crowded market.

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Sydney and Liza are back with a no-fluff episode that digs into the real rules behind bestselling genres—and why breaking them can make or break a book. If you’ve ever wondered what actually makes a thriller feel thrilling, why romance readers expect certain beats, or how cover art and genre tropes shape what sells, this episode is packed with the kind of behind-the-scenes publishing insight writers need.

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Most writers face harsh rejections and industry surprises — but what happens after those low points? In this eye-opening episode, Sydney and Liza reveal their own struggles with doubt, delays, and even near quitting — and how they kept writing anyway. With raw honesty, they dismantle the myths of easy success and expose the messy, unpredictable reality of a writing career that might just save you.

You'll discover the brutal truths behind publishing timelines — from the year-long waits for book deals to the long road of marketing and sales transparency. They break down concrete stories of legendary authors like Stephen King, Dr. Seuss, and Nabokov, who faced rejection after rejection but ultimately changed literature forever. Plus, hear about the infamous 'second book curse,' the intricacies of contracts, and the deception around industry conspiracy theories.

This episode is perfect for writers feeling stuck, disillusioned, or questioning if they’re cut out for the industry. If you’ve ever thought about giving up, or feared your work isn’t good enough, you’ll find a dose of reality — and hope. Sydney and Liza remind you that even in the darkness, persistence turns failure into triumph. Don't miss these hard-won lessons for every writer determined to survive the lows and thrive in the highs.

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Most authors dream of that perfect debut — a catchy premise, a passionate community, a major publisher, and instant bestseller status. Heather Frances just achieved a version of that dream with Chase Me If You Can, a hilarious and heartwarming storm chasing romance that’s already making waves: over 15,000 readers want to read it, and it’s gaining momentum fast.

In this episode, Heather pulls back the curtain on her meteoric rise from fanfiction enthusiast to a debut author with a deal from one of the biggest publishers. She shares the behind-the-scenes journey—her early doubts, the critical lessons from querying and rejection, and how she turned setbacks into a launchpad for success. Heather’s story is a masterclass in resilience, demonstrating that even when the market shifts and rejections pile up, perseverance and authenticity can break through.

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Most writers get trapped in the cycle of chasing the "perfect" advice, but what if the secret to authentic storytelling is actually ignoring all the so-called rules? In this episode, Liza and Sydney rip apart the myth that success comes from following formulas—revealing that your voice and unique perspective are your greatest assets. If you're tired of cookie-cutter advice, aimless plotting, and social media noise, this conversation is a must-listen.

You'll discover how to cultivate your unique storytelling voice even as you navigate the sea of generic "success tips." Liza shares her raw, unconventional approach to plotting—dropping crumbs like Hansel and Gretel toward a story only you can tell. Sydney challenges the idea that writing needs to be perfect right out of the gate, emphasizing that many famous authors agonize over their work publicly—and that’s part of the creative process. They break down how social media and industry advice often promote fear, self-doubt, and conformity, instead of celebrating individual expression.

They cover the importance of trusting your instincts, ignoring the "rules" that silence your voice, and embracing imperfections as part of your artistic identity. Whether you're a debut novelist or a seasoned pro feeling burned out by the endless stream of "must-do" strategies, this episode reminds you that being genuine and true to yourself is often the best way to connect with readers—and find your own success.

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Uncover the hidden fears that hold writers back from sharing their work—and discover the simple mindset shift that can help you overcome them. Whether you're just starting to show your writing or struggling to share with the right people, this episode reveals key insights to help you find your confidence and protect your creative energy.
When is the right time to share your work? Sydney and Lisa dive into their contrasting experiences—Sydney’s confident sharing as a beginner versus Liza’s cautious, trust-based approach. They explore how the people you choose to share with can build you up or break you down, and why surrounding yourself with supportive, wise voices matters more than ever.

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Most indie authors are held back by self-doubt and overwhelming industry noise. But one successful self-publisher reveals the behind-the-scenes secrets that turned her  debut into a hit—and how you can do the same.

In this episode, Erica Vipond shares her journey from medical bills and rejections to hitting shelves in major bookstores like IngramSpark and Barnes & Noble. Discover how she meticulously curates professional covers, navigates legal pitfalls, and builds genuine relationships with readers and bookstore owners—all on her terms. She unpacks the critical first steps for aspiring indie authors, from establishing a business entity to choosing the right publishing platforms, and explains why quality always trumps shortcuts like stock images or AI tools. If you've ever wondered how to make your book stand out in a crowded market, Erica’s insider advice will inspire you to take control of your publishing path.

This episode underscores that success isn’t about luck—it’s about strategic action, relentless quality, and daring to be different. Perfect for writers tired of waiting for permission, eager to grow their authorpreneurship, or anyone ready to turn a low-budget project into a thriving business.

To all aspiring indie authors: your story deserves to be told—and this episode shows you exactly how to make it happen. Whether you dream of bookstore shelves or in-person sales at events, Erica’s honest insights will help you turn passion into profit.

Find Erica Vipond on Instagram: @ericavipondauthor

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Is it okay to chase fame as an author? This episode tackles that big question head-on. Join Sydney Kane and Liza Petrov as they chat about the allure of success and the pressure to conform to industry expectations. While fame can bring recognition and opportunities, it also risks overshadowing your artistic integrity. Even worse, it can feel like a drug, offering highs that leave you wanting more while leaving you burned out and uninspired.

Whether you're just starting out or already established, this episode offers a thoughtful look at the complexities of fame and how to navigate them without losing yourself.