In this episode of Plotopsy: Dissecting Stories, I’m talking with Sarah Fischer, author of The Apothecary’s Dark Fate, to dissect the magic, characters, and emotional depth behind this romantasy adventure.

We discuss how Sarah created realistic magical systems in a world where mortals and magical beings are at odds, the unexpected moments where her characters took over the story, and how she balanced Brooklynne’s strength with her vulnerability. Sarah also shares the personal experiences that shaped her writing, the inspiration behind Drake’s hidden depths, and why sometimes a character’s confidence is actually a mask for something much deeper.

From unlikely heroines and secretive heroes to deleted scenes and the characters who deserve their own stories, this conversation explores what makes these characters feel so real.

Thank you to Sarah Fischer for joining Plotopsy! Be sure to check out The Apothecary’s Dark Fate and follow for more author interviews where we dissect how stories really work.

In this episode of Plotopsy, I’m talking with Melody Wiklund, author of The First Knight of Summer, to dissect the strange, whimsical, and heartfelt world behind this modern fairytale.

We discuss the unusual inspiration behind the story, including the hilarious origins of its disembodied hand protagonist, how Melody balanced magical absurdity with deeper themes of grief and identity, and the challenges of writing multiple perspectives with such distinct characters. Melody also shares how she created the emotional connections between her characters, the importance of finding people who accept you for who you are, and the supporting character she connected with most while writing.

If you love magical realism, found family, quirky characters, and stories that blend humor with heartfelt emotion, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Thank you to Melody Wiklund for joining Plotopsy! Be sure to check out The First Knight of Summer and follow for more author interviews where we dissect how stories really work.

In this episode of Plotopsy, I’m talking with Eliza Benner, author of Vitalia, the first book in the Circus of Souls series!

We’re discussing the characters who surprised her most while writing, the secrets behind Cairos and Naevyn’s complicated relationship, and how she balanced dark fantasy elements with an epic enemies-to-lovers romance. Eliza also shares the inspiration behind the stunning glass forest, the challenges of writing morally complex characters, and what questions she hopes readers will have when they finish the story.

If you love dark romantasy, mysterious fae worlds, soul connections, and characters with hidden depths, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Thank you to Eliza Benner for joining Plotopsy! Be sure to check out Vitalia and follow for more author interviews where we dissect how stories really work.

What does it really mean to claim your own power?

In this episode of Plotopsy: Dissecting Stories, Allie James sits down with Marina Massino to discuss Steal the Sky, a romantasy filled with dragon shifters, political intrigue, and morally complex characters.

Together, they explore Kaisa's journey of self-discovery, the inspiration behind Zhoric's emotional depth, balancing romance with fantasy and political intrigue, and the themes of agency, rebellion, and empowerment that drive the story. Marina also shares how she approached crafting believable relationships and what she hopes readers take away long after they finish the novel.

About Plotopsy: Every story has an anatomy. On Plotopsy, Allie James sits down with authors to dissect the stories behind their books—from inspiration and character development to worldbuilding, themes, and the writing process.

What makes a chaotic demon unforgettable? And how do you write a heroine who grows without losing what makes her strong?

In this episode of Plotopsy: Dissecting Stories, Allie James sits down with Tati B. Alvarez to discuss The Demon's Beauty. They dive into character development, the inspirations behind Oziel and Isabelle, hidden details readers may have missed, and the balance between humor, chaos, and emotional growth.

They also talk about dream casting, which character would make the worst ally, and why readers should keep a close eye on Ender's garden.

About Plotopsy: Every story has an anatomy. On Plotopsy, Allie James sits down with authors to dissect the stories behind their books—from inspiration and character development to worldbuilding, themes, and the writing process.

What happens when a story refuses to let the reader stay comfortable?

In this episode of Plotopsy: Dissecting Stories, Allie James sits down with Quinn K.C. to discuss The Day She Wanted—an experimental novel that challenges readers through its structure, psychology, and emotional impact.

Together, they explore writing a story that demands attention, why discomfort can be an intentional part of the reading experience, how narrative structure shapes meaning, and the questions Quinn hopes readers ask themselves long after they finish the book.

Whether you're interested in experimental fiction, storytelling craft, or the psychology behind unforgettable books, this conversation offers a fascinating look inside The Day She Wanted.

About Plotopsy: Every story has an anatomy. On Plotopsy, Allie James sits down with authors to dissect the stories behind their books—from inspiration and character development to worldbuilding, themes, and the writing process.