So, I wrote a book... Now What?

Jess Mey shares her journey of how a late ADHD diagnosis ultimately led to her writing a book. She shares her path from being a marketing copywriter to writing and selling her debut mystery novel Grace and Jo Have Never Solved a Murder. We talk about her writing process, querying, being on sub and what sh’e working on now. 

If you want to connect with Jess you can check out her website https://jessmey.com/

Or find her on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jessmeywrites/

Or Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/jessmeywrites.bsky.social

You can preorder Grace and Jo Have Never Solved a Murder here: https://angryrobotbooks.my.canva.site/datura-books-grace-and-jo-landing-page

If you’d like to connect with me I’m most likely scrolling when I should be writing on one of these platforms.

IG https://www.instagram.com/ncbartonwrites

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@ncbartonwrites?_r=1&_t=ZT-99VcIJWT2v0

Website https://ncbartonwrites.com/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Jess Mey's background

03:25 Original idea for the book and character agency

06:09 Plotting mysteries: knowing whodunit

07:31 Writing without knowing the killer

08:40 Experimenting with mystery structures

09:25 Querying and selling the debut novel

10:47 The quick sale and publishing experience

12:18 Choosing a publisher and cover design

14:20 Marketing, promotion, and community building

16:51 Balancing multiple projects and genres

18:37 Inspiration from other mystery writers

20:20 Why cozy mysteries appeal to Jess Mey

22:07 Subgenres of cozy mysteries and modern voices

23:50 Favorite cozy mystery series and authors

24:53 Children's exposure to mysteries and play

25:48 Series plans and future books

26:18 Deciding on traditional publishing

28:47 The value of self-editing and free resources

41:17 Jess Mey's advice for new writers

42:21 Upcoming book release and future goals

Author Katie Jung shares her journey from a childhood love of stories to publishing her debut novel, You’re the One That I Haunt. She discusses her writing process, navigating the publishing industry, and balancing creativity with life as a parent. You’re the One That I Haunt comes out September 22nd!

You can connect with Katie on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/katiejungwrites/

Or you can check out her website. https://www.katiejung.com/

If you’d like to connect with me I’m most likely scrolling when I should be writing on one of these platforms.

IG https://www.instagram.com/ncbartonwrites

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@ncbartonwrites?_r=1&_t=ZT-99VcIJWT2v0

Website https://ncbartonwrites.com/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Katie Jung and her writing journey

02:16 Katie's path from hobbyist to published author

03:14 Previous writing experiences and lessons learned

04:23 Deciding between traditional and hybrid publishing

05:44 Managing writing with a busy family life

08:03 Writing routines and finding inspiration

10:08 Outline vs. discovery writing process

11:27 Getting an agent and the submission process

14:37 Working with an editor and revisions

17:29 Book release, marketing, and social media presence

20:07 Cover design and publisher collaboration

21:18 Book deal details and future projects

23:45 Writing with deadlines and creative flow

26:29 Support system: critique partners and community

30:30 Balancing life, work, and writing

35:55 Finding quiet moments and inspiration

41:42 Building tension and stakes in storytelling

45:00 Creating likable yet complex characters

47:00 Final thoughts and upcoming events

Christie Curry shares her journey from deciding to write a book to published author. Her debut novel Love Between the Lectures comes out September 22nd!

In this interview she shares her insights into writing, revising, and navigating the publishing industry, making this a must-listen for aspiring writers.

You can connect with Christie on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ChristieCurryWrites/

And TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@christiecurrywrites

Or you can check out her website. https://www.christiecurrywrites.com/

If you’d like to connect with me I’m most likely scrolling when I should be writing on one of these platforms.

IG https://www.instagram.com/ncbartonwrites

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@ncbartonwrites?_r=1&_t=ZT-99VcIJWT2v0

Website https://ncbartonwrites.com/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Christie Curry’s background

01:56 From poetry and fan fiction to writing a book

04:04 The challenges of querying and rejection

08:06 The importance of critique partners and feedback

11:59 Revising, rewriting, and finding your voice

15:53 Building the plot and using story structure frameworks

20:09 Outlining backwards and discovery writing

23:54 The journey to publication and agent offers

30:08 Working with mentorship and industry professionals

34:01 Final revisions and preparing for submission

37:58 Writing style, POV choices, and inspiration

43:09 Upcoming projects and social media presence

In this engaging conversation, NC Barton shares her journey as a writer, discussing her early experiences with writing, the challenges she faced during the pandemic, and her transition from writing mysteries to romance. She delves into the intricacies of crafting her latest book, 'The Now and Forever,' including the dual timeline structure and character development. The discussion also covers the editing process, the importance of feedback, and her future writing projects, highlighting the emotional and creative aspects of being an author. In this conversation, Lindsay and Nicole discuss the transition from traditional publishing to self-publishing, exploring the challenges and triumphs of each path. They delve into the creative process, the importance of community among writers, and the joy of receiving feedback from readers. Nicole shares her experiences with self-publishing, including the learning curve and the excitement of having her work read by strangers. The discussion highlights the significance of finding one's voice and the unique journey every author undertakes in their writing career.

That you so much Lindsay Barrett. You can buy the Savannah Royals now! 

And The Dravenhearst Brides comes out October 9th. You can preorder here 

or there’s still time to sign up for an Advance Reader Copy

Nicole’s debut novel is out now. You can get it on ebook or KU here

Or order a signed copy here. 

If you's like to sign up to be an arc reader on her Banksy inspired romance you can sign up here.

If you want to connect with me I’d love to hear from you.

Website. https://ncbartonwrites.com/

Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/ncbartonwrites/

Threads.  https://www.threads.net/@ncbartonwrites

Podcast. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/so-i-wrote-a-book-now-what/id178189433

NC Barton | Patreon https://www.patreon.com/c/NCBartonWrites

or my ⁠Substack https://nicolebartonwrites.substack.com/

Chapters

00:00 The Journey to Writing a Book

04:16 Overcoming Challenges in the Writing Process

07:09 The Evolution of Nicole's Writing Style

10:07 Exploring the Setting of 'The Now and Forever'

13:10 The Transition from Mystery to Romance

15:57 Crafting Complex Characters

18:58 The Dual Timeline Structure

21:16 Editing and Refining the Manuscript

24:07 The Evolution of a Story

26:37 Deciding When a Book is Done

29:21 Trusting Your Gut in Publishing

31:06 The Journey to Self-Publishing

34:45 Navigating Traditional Publishing Challenges

38:42 The Freedom of Self-Publishing

41:18 Learning from Mistakes in the Publishing Process

46:10 The Drive to Create: A Writer's Journey

48:07 Diverse Writing Processes: Plotters vs. Pantsers

49:01 Finding Inspiration: Sources of Creativity

50:57 The Editing Process: Revising and Refining

54:31 The Challenges of Rapid Releasing

58:10 The Joy of Reader Feedback

01:02:24 Building Community in Writing

01:04:46 Final Thoughts and Book Recommendations

In this engaging conversation, Arini Vlotman shares her journey to becoming an author, detailing her initial inspiration to write a novel on her 39th birthday. She discusses her writing process, the evolution of her craft, and the importance of reading as a source of inspiration. Arini also delves into her editing techniques, the role of beta readers, and her experiences with publishing. Throughout the discussion, she emphasizes the significance of community and connection in the writing world, as well as her aspirations for future projects.

If you’d like to connect with Arini her website is https://arinivlotman.co.za/

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@arinivlotman

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@arini_author

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arinialwaysbeyou

You can buy her latest book Pretty Bossy here: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/pretty-bossy-arini-vlotman/1146623701

If you want to connect with me I’d love to hear from you.

Website. https://ncbartonwrites.com/

Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/ncbartonwrites/

Threads.  https://www.threads.net/@ncbartonwrites

Podcast. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/so-i-wrote-a-book-now-what/id178189433

NC Barton | Patreon https://www.patreon.com/c/NCBartonWrites

or my ⁠Substack https://nicolebartonwrites.substack.com/

Chapters

00:00 The Birth of a Writer

04:20 Writing Process Evolution

07:02 Editing and Feedback

09:32 Reading Influences and Preferences

12:09 Writing Habits and Mindset

15:00 Crafting Ideas and Inspiration

18:33 The Birth of a Book: Pretty Average

21:15 Navigating Writer's Block and Emotional Spaces

24:58 The Power of Reading: Fueling Creativity

25:44 Crafting the Fame Facade Series

29:09 The Journey to Publication: From Querying to Acceptance

32:47 Defying Industry Norms: Staying True to Your Voice

37:26 Connecting with the Writing Community

39:18 Copy of Andie Smith Pink and White Cute Modern Cartoon Subscribe Bell Button YouTube Intro.mp4

In this conversation, Andie Smith shares her journey as an author and literary agent, discussing her writing process, the importance of beta readers, and navigating the publishing landscape. She reflects on her experiences with Wattpad, the challenges of querying, and the balance between her writing and agency work. Andie also emphasizes the significance of finding inspiration and overcoming creative blocks, while providing insights into what she looks for in queries and the role of a literary agent.

If you's like to know connect with Andie here are here contacts.

Books. Editing.MSWL.Podcast

If you want to connect with me I’d love to hear from you.

Website.

Instagram.

Threads. 

Podcast.

NC Barton | Patreon

or my ⁠Substack

Chapters

00:00 The Journey to Authorship

04:15 Navigating the Publishing Process

06:43 The Role of Beta Readers

09:15 Writing Process and Outlining

11:48 Balancing Writing and Literary Agency Work

14:19 Finding Inspiration and Overcoming Blocks

17:06 The Querying Landscape

19:39 The Role of a Literary Agent

22:34 Final Thoughts and Advice

In this engaging conversation, Catherine Mann and her daughter Haley Catherine (both amazing writers and lovely humans) discuss their journeys as writers, the challenges they faced, and the importance of finding one's voice. They explore the impact of learning disabilities on their writing processes, the significance of feedback and critique, and the intricacies of the querying process. Both share insights on their writing routines and the excitement surrounding Catherine’s upcoming works, emphasizing the power of storytelling in fostering empathy and connection.

You can purchase Lightning in a Mason jar here.

And Charming the Cowboy here.

If you’d like to connect with Catherine you can find it all here. 

If you’d like to connect with Haley you can find her here. 

If you want to connect with me I’d love to hear from you.

Website. https://ncbartonwrites.com/

Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/ncbartonwrites/

Threads.  https://www.threads.net/@ncbartonwrites

Podcast. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/so-i-wrote-a-book-now-what/id178189433

NC Barton | Patreon https://www.patreon.com/c/NCBartonWrites

or my ⁠Substack https://nicolebartonwrites.substack.com/

Chapters

00:00 The Journey to Writing: Overcoming Fear and Doubt

04:13 Finding Your Voice: The Importance of Mentorship

06:58 Embracing Learning Disabilities: A Path to Creativity

09:39 The Writing Process: From First Draft to Publication

12:21 Plotting vs. Pantsing: Different Approaches to Storytelling

14:57 The Role of Feedback: Navigating Critique Relationships

17:58 The Importance of Positive Reinforcement in Writing

20:16 Finding the Right Critique Partner: A Personal Journey

30:31 The Importance of Feedback in Writing

30:46 Choosing the Path of Traditional Publishing

32:17 Exploring New Releases and Themes

33:26 Balancing Multiple Projects

37:36 Establishing a Writing Routine

41:42 Navigating the Querying Process

51:24 Reflections on the Writing Journey

In this conversation, Maggie Eckersley shares her journey from a young reader to a published author, discussing her writing process, the challenges of navigating the publishing world, and the balance between her medical career and her passion for writing. She emphasizes the importance of writing for joy, the role of feedback in her creative process, and her excitement for her upcoming book launch. Maggie also reflects on the significance of reaching a wider audience through translations and the emotional journey of dealing with reviews.

You can purchase Back in the Saddle now. 

https://harpercollins.co.uk/products/back-in-the-saddle-maggie-eckersley?variant=54955686920571

Here’s Maggies reaction to hearing her audiobook ❤️

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DLCpMABoSvq/?igsh=ZTUyZDU2OGFrMWFt

If you want to connect with me I’d love to hear from you.

Website.

Instagram.

Threads.

NC Barton | Patreon

or my ⁠Substack

Chapters

00:00 The Journey to Writing a Book

04:27 The Evolution of 'Back in the Saddle'

07:15 Navigating the Publishing Process

09:49 The Role of Feedback and Revisions

12:17 Finding an Agent and the Querying Experience

15:04 Balancing Writing with Medical Studies

21:18 Balancing Writing and Medical Studies

23:56 Writing Process and Time Management

27:54 Overcoming Writer's Block

31:17 Navigating the Publishing Process

34:17 Family Dynamics and Author Life

36:13 Celebrating Publication Day

38:07 The Excitement of Publication Day

40:06 Music as a Writing Companion

42:36 Navigating Ideas and Writing Process

45:14 The Challenge of Reviews and Feedback

51:06 Finding Joy in Writing

55:41 Upcoming Releases and Translations

01:02:35 Copy of Copy of Lindsay Barrett Pink and White Cute Modern Cartoon Subscribe Bell Button YouTube Intro (1).mp4

In this conversation, I interview Joanna Thurlow, a developmental editor, about her journey into editing, the role of a developmental editor, and the intricacies of the editing process. Joanna shares insights on feedback styles, the importance of character development, and the challenges of querying. We discuss the balance between showing and telling in writing, the impact of editing on personal writing, and the flexibility of writing across genres. 

Joanna is offering a discount for listeners seeking developmental editing services. Email her mention the show! [email protected]

You can also connect with Jo through her website 

https://www.joannathurlow.com/

Or Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/joannalovesbooks/

If you want to connect with me I’d love to hear from you.

Website. https://ncbartonwrites.com/

Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/ncbartonwrites/

Threads.  https://www.threads.net/@ncbartonwrites

Podcast. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/so-i-wrote-a-book-now-what/id178189433

NC Barton | Patreon https://www.patreon.com/c/NCBartonWrites

or my ⁠Substack https://nicolebartonwrites.substack.com/

In this conversation, Kelly shares her journey to becoming an author, detailing her early inspirations, writing process, and the importance of community in finishing her book. She discusses her experiences with beta readers, the decision to self-publish, and her marketing strategies. Kelly also reflects on the challenges of balancing writing with motherhood and her aspirations for future projects, including a potential shift to hybrid publishing.

You can buy Sunshine Kisses here.

And Midnight Wishes here.

If you’e like to connect with Kelly she’s on Instagram. 

Threads: And YouTube.

If you want to connect with me I’d love to hear from you.

Website. https://ncbartonwrites.com/

Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/ncbartonwrites/

Threads.  https://www.threads.net/@ncbartonwrites

Podcast. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/so-i-wrote-a-book-now-what/id178189433

NC Barton | Patreon https://www.patreon.com/c/NCBartonWrites

or my ⁠Substack https://nicolebartonwrites.substack.com/

Chapters

00:00 The Journey to Writing a Book

04:46 Building a Community of Writers

07:45 The Writing Process: Outlining vs. Discovery

10:32 Self-Publishing Decisions and Marketing Strategies

13:10 Feedback and Beta Readers

16:03 The Evolution of Writing: Second Book Insights

19:03 Navigating Reviews and Reader Reactions

24:19 Literary Influences and Inspirations

25:44 Crafting Stories: Learning and Growth

28:22 The Impact of Literary Fiction

30:34 Writing Process and Environment

37:39 Balancing Writing with Parenthood

43:18 Exploring New Genres and Future Projects