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Soman and Victoria take on the evil green-eyed snake – and consider whether jealousy isn’t so evil after all. Also they discuss the economics of buying books second-hand and whether poor sales can lead a publisher to cut a series short. Victoria is working on a secret project, and Soman thinks he should be the one to own Warner Brothers.

Theme of the Week (07:49)

Goals of the Week (19:25)

Industry Nonsense (26:13) 

Reader Mailbag(47:30)

Plot Twists in Real Life (54:14)

Pup Twist (58:39)

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Soman and Victoria break down what an editor does — and more importantly, shouldn’t do. Also they commiserate over what to do on days where you don’t feel like writing. Soman wants to gain his weight back, and Victoria wants more time to actually read books.

Theme of the Week (07:07)

Goals of the Week (14:39)

Industry Nonsense (22:15) 

Reader Mailbag(48:05)

Plot Twists in Real Life (53:54)

Pup Twist (56:35)

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Soman and Victoria forecast the disturbing future of professionally produced content. Also they discuss rewriting first drafts and what really sells books. Victoria is working on her secret project, and Soman wants to repeat his Smackdown Spectacular at every tour stop for YOUNG WORLD. 

Theme of the Week (06:48)

Goals of the Week (14:50)

Industry Nonsense (28:05) 

Reader Mailbag(43:13)

Plot Twists in Real Life (52:55)

Pup Twist (57:15)

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Soman and Victoria debate why women are so much harder on each other in publishing and entertainment. They also break down editing strategies and bemoan overdone character traits in books. Soman wants to launch a matchmaking service and Victoria wants to know the secret to perfect hair.

Theme of the Week (04:00)

Goals of the Week (09:34)

Industry Nonsense (18:56) 

Reader Mailbag(36:19)

Plot Twists in Real Life (46:35)

Pup Twist (51:26)

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Soman and Victoria discuss the taboo relationship between authors and critics — and cautionary tales where either side crossed the line. They also debate the explosion of special editions and how they determine what project to take on next. Victoria wants to put TEMPEST to sail, and Soman wants Dua Lipa’s back up dancers.

Theme of the Week (06:39)

Goals of the Week (17:33)

Industry Nonsense (25:21) 

Reader Mailbag(44:55)

Plot Twists in Real Life (52:11)

Pup Twist (57:51)

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Soman and Victoria consider whether authors themselves have become part of the book package in the new content economy. Also they discuss how to find the best agent for your book and if it’s possible to switch genres after having success. Soman wants to go back to the farm, and Victoria is ready for a writers’ retreat.

Theme of the Week (05:47)

Goals of the Week (10:44)

Industry Nonsense (26:55) 

Reader Mailbag(44:44)

Plot Twists in Real Life (53:32)

Pup Twist (55:30)

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Soman and Victoria debate whether fandom is good for society or the sign of deeper decline. They also reveal what they talk about with readers at the signing table and how to manage multiple character POVs. Victoria’s closet got invaded, and Soman’s AI problems have him wanting to go back to the 90s again.

Theme of the Week (06:12)

Goals of the Week (12:54)

Industry Nonsense (25:16) 

Reader Mailbag(48:05)

Plot Twists in Real Life (56:36)

Pup Twist (59:43)

SPONSORS

Goals of the Week is sponsored by Wordsmith Workshops. 

This week’s Industry Nonsense is sponsored by First Draft Pro.

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Soman and Victoria present their radically different philosophies on book tour — and debate which one is better. Also they answer questions about physical appearance in books and fantasy contraceptives (really). Soman wants to teleport back to 1997, and Victoria wants Americans to get better at striking.

Theme of the Week (04:50)

Goals of the Week (15:46)

Industry Nonsense (28:55) 

Reader Mailbag(49:21)

Plot Twists in Real Life (55:30)

Pup Twist (58:11)

This week’s Industry nonsense is sponsored by First Draft Pro.

First Draft Pro offer! Use code PLOTTWIST20 (Valid until December 31, 2025)

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