Writing Break: Recent Episodes

America's Editor

Writing Break is an ad-free, award-winning podcast for writers. Take a break with America’s Editor and learn her best writing tips, catch up on the latest publishing industry news, and recharge with a fellow book lover who understands the plight of the writer.

Welcome to Season 10 of Writing Break! This season is all about voice, which is the thing literary agents, publishers, and readers fall in love with. In this premiere, we're setting up our makeshift Overthinking Conference Room to nail down the vocabulary that will guide us through the entire season.

🛋️ Overthinking Couch Topics:1. Why a whole season about voice? 2. Trying to sound like Hemingway is a waste of your time. 3. AI detectors: why they're flagging human writers as robots 4. The actual difference between style, tone, voice, and mood? 5. What agents mean when they say "the voice isn't working." 6. This season's preview: dialogue as voice, character as voice, voice in nonfiction and memoir, when to break the rules, and how to edit for voice. 7. ElevenLabs' Michael Caine narration of *The Odyssey 8. J.K. Rowling / Robert Galbraith pseudonym

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'The Odyssey': Alternative Audio Versions With Ian McKellen and More
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Season 10 is on hold because the rules for literary agents just changed, and not necessarily in the author's favor. This episode tells you exactly what questions to ask before you sign (or pay for) anything.

🛋️ Overthinking Couch Topics:The New Literary Agent Ethics Rules1. What the Association of American Literary Agents changed and why. 2. Which paid services literary agents may now offer. 3. Why editorial work for represented clients must still remain free. 4. The safeguards built into the revised ethics code. 5. Potential conflicts of interest writers should understand. 6. Practical questions to ask before paying for editorial, marketing, or publicity services. 7. Why due diligence matters more than ever when querying agents.

Publishing News1. Bloomsbury reveals how much it expects to receive from the Anthropic settlement. 2. ISBNdb sources physical books for AI companies, raising new questions about copyright, preservation, and transparency. 3. Hachette launches its Reading Is Golden public service campaign to encourage daily family reading.

AI firms are buying old books for slop-free training data
AI firms are buying old books for slop-free training data
Raising Readers | Reading Is Golden
Judge Gives Final Approval of $1.5 Billion Anthropic Settlement
Major AALA Ethics Update Allows Agents to Offer Paid Editorial, Publicity Services
Hachette’s Raising Readers Initiative Releases PSA
AI Companies Are Buying Tons of Old Books Because They're Free of AI Slop
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Host: Rosemi Mederos, America's Editor

Production: Allon Media

Website: writingbreak.com |

Contact: podcast@writingbreak.com

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We're closing the book on genre, two seasons, dozens of subgenres, and a lot of overthinking later. This week we revisit some highlights: novel architecture and the dreaded middle-of-the-book slump, why cross-genre mashups can backfire if you get too ambitious, the tension between writing what you love and writing what sells, adaptation lessons from film and video games, and how genres evolve to match whatever readers are actually afraid of right now.

Did I miss a genre you wanted covered? Let me know.

Next up: Season 10 is all about voice, including what it actually is and how to find yours. F

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Genres and subgenres are ever-evolving. This week, we trace one horror lineage from a crumbling 1764 castle all the way to today's femgore boom, dig into a detective fiction metamorphosis that spans three centuries and two continents, and sit with a publishing story that should unsettle every working writer, one where AI hijacked a fired journalist's own byline to keep publishing under his name.

Plus: this week's overthinking prompt, built to work whether you write genre fiction or literary fiction.

An AI-generated review of Resident Evil Requiem written by a fake 'iGaming and sports betting analyst' briefly hit Metacritic | PC Gamer
Fired Journalist Finds AI Publishing Under His Name
What Is Femgore? | Book Riot
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How much can you really accomplish in two minutes?

This week on Writing Break, I share a simple exercise I call The Two-Minute Wait, which can help you better understand your relationship with time and improve the way you manage it.

We also discuss this year's International Booker Prize news before exploring storytelling traditions from around the world, including Nordic noir, magical realism, Gothic horror fiction, wuxia, Japanese literary fiction, West African oral storytelling, and the art of translation.

Whether you're looking to become more productive or broaden your understanding of storytelling, this episode offers practical ideas you can apply immediately.

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International Booker Prize Doubles Purse, Changes Name
International Booker Prize winner
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Everyone in your life thinks your book would make a great movie, play, or video game. But adaptation isn't a copy-paste job because every medium solves storytelling problems differently. This week, we put one scene through four different mediums to see what each one reveals about craft, whether or not you ever plan on adapting anything.

🛋️Overthinking Couch Topics:

Why "the book was better" misses the point of what adaptation actually does
The kitchen table scene: one moment, told four ways
What novels can do that film, TV, and stage cannot
The screenwriting habit every novelist should steal
What television teaches about sustaining relationship dynamics across a series
Why playwrights understand subtext better than novelists
What video games can teach you about giving your characters real choices
Environmental storytelling, and why your hostage scene needs more than a metal chair
This week's overthinking prompt: running one scene through four lenses
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Have a question you want overthought on a future episode? Email podcast@writingbreak.com or find us on Instagram at @writingbreakpodcast.

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AI continues reshaping publishing, and writers cannot afford to ignore what's happening. In this week's news episode, we explore the growing legal, ethical, and professional questions surrounding AI, authorship, copyright, and creative ownership.

🛋️Overthinking Couch Topics:

Publishing CEOs warning against an AI "witch hunt"
The increasingly complicated question of what counts as authorship
Copyright lawsuits against Meta over the training of its AI models
The latest legal actions involving pirate libraries, including Anna's Archive and WeLib
AI accessibility tools, speech-to-text software, and the debate over disclosure
The possibility of future human-authorship certification systems
Why proving you wrote your own work may become part of an author's professional life

We also take an in-depth look at a disturbing case involving author John Koenig and his project The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows, examining how AI-generated content, search optimization, and unauthorized websites can affect an author's reputation, visibility, and relationship with readers.

Court Rules Against Anna’s Archive in Copyright Lawsuit
Publishers Sue Pirate Site WeLib for Copyright Infringement
Eminem Publisher Sues Meta
Five major publishers are suing Meta over Llama
Publishers and Authors Sue Meta
Granta stops publishing short story award winners over AI controversy | Granta | The Guardian
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Should you write what you love or write what sells? Is it possible to do both?

In this episode of Writing Break, we explore how writers can stop chasing trends and, instead, find the overlap between personal passion and commercial viability.

🛋️Overthinking Couch Topics:

The Biggest Mistake Writers Make - Writing Break
Identifying Your Ideal Reader - Writing Break
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Cross-genre fiction is thriving, but blending genres successfully requires more than adding a dragon to a murder mystery (sad, but true). If you're writing a cross-genre novel, planning to write one, or wondering whether your manuscript accidentally became one, this episode will help you blend genres without confusing your readers.

🛋️Overthinking Couch Topics:

Combining genres intentionally
What readers expect from different genres
Why understanding those expectations matters.
Popular genre mashups

Next time on Writing Break: Writing What You Want vs. Writing What Sells. What happens when those two things aren't the same?

The Authors Guild
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What keeps a novel interesting after the premise stops being new?

In this episode, I share the most important question to ask yourself while writing, no matter what genre you're writing. I also analyze why some novels start out strong but struggle to sustain themselves to the end.

🛋️Overthinking Couch Topics:

novel architecture
unnecessary subplots
repetitive scenes
the infamous middle-of-a-book sag
writing stamina
reader engagement
why you should NOT think of yourself as a "brand"
What a Good Boy - Barenaked Ladies
Storyblocks AI transparency statement - Storyblocks
Pick a Lane: The Key to Reaching the Right Readers - Writing Break
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This week’s episode is a Writing Break clip show packed with writing advice across multiple genres and storytelling forms.

If you’ve missed part of the recent genre series or just want a concentrated episode full of practical writing insight, this one pulls together some of the strongest segments from recent episodes.

🛋️Overthinking Couch Topics:

paranormal fiction
romantic suspense
cozy mysteries
YA vs. New Adult
graphic narratives
experimental fiction
short stories
novellas
publishing trends
discoverability
and audience ownership
Novella vs Novel: How to Know When Your Story Should Be Shorter - Writing Break
How to Write Powerful Short Stories (Structure, Pacing, and Emotional Impact) - Writing Break
How to Write Experimental and Hybrid Fiction That Works (Without Confusing Readers) - Writing Break
Graphic Narratives: Storytelling in Panels - Writing Break
Writing Modern Westerns: Same Frontier, Different Moral Code - Writing Break
Writing Cozy Mystery: Murder, But Make It Charming - Writing Break
Young Adult fiction vs New Adult fiction - Writing Break
Romantic Suspense: Love in the Line of Fire - Writing Break
Audience Ownership: Why Authors Can’t Rely on Platforms Anymore - Writing Break
Paranormal Fiction: Why the Supernatural Is Dominating the Market - Writing Break
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Some novels should have been novellas. In this episode, we get into the latest publishing and book trend news, and we talk about why shorter forms can create stronger stories. If you’ve ever wondered whether your manuscript is actually a novella in disguise, this episode is for you.

🛋️Overthinking Couch Topics:

Why many novels lose focus when stretched too far
How novellas balance emotional immersion with relentless momentum
TikTok’s struggling publishing imprint
AI flooding discoverability systems
Audio-first storytelling
The growing pressure for authors to prove their work is “meaningfully human”
Audio 'no longer an afterthought' as publishers snap up raft of audio-first acquisitions
Authors Guild Issues Updated AI Best Practices for Writers
The Authors Guild
OpenAI copyright case reveals 'ease with which generative AI can devastate the market', says PA
Anthropic owes authors $1.5B — but the claims process is a mess | Vox
Publishers are unprepared for AI Fiction
TikTok to roll out #BookTok bestseller sticker in the UK
Distressing details coming to light about authors’ experiences with 8th Note Press, owned by ByteDance | Jane Friedman
TikTok publisher 8th Note Press looks set to close as authors 'negotiate rights return'
Predictions: what lies ahead for the book trade in 2026?

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Short stories don’t give you less to do, just fewer places to hide. They are often seen as a stepping stone for writers, but they demand a level of precision many writers underestimate.

In this episode, we look at what short stories are actually designed to do. We explore how strong short fiction is built around a single emotional movement, why focus and constraint matter, and how detail selection, pacing, and endings carry more weight in a limited space.

We also break down short story forms and word counts, from microfiction to novellas, and discuss how length shapes structure, scope, and publishing opportunities.

🛋️Overthinking Couch Topics:

Why a short story is not a compressed novel
How to build a narrative around a single emotional shift
The role of focus, constraint, and intentional detail
How to write stronger openings and endings
Common mistakes, including overexplaining and overcrowding
Short fiction forms and word counts (microfiction to novella)
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What happens when you break the rules of storytelling?

In this episode, we explore how to experiment with intention. We look at nonlinear structure, fragmented narratives, and hybrid forms and why they only work when the writer maintains control over meaning, pacing, and emotion.

Key takeaway: You can break structure, but you cannot abandon it.

🛋️Overthinking Couch Topics:

What defines experimental and hybrid fiction
Why writers are drawn to breaking traditional structure
How to ensure form serves function
The role of fragmentation, nonlinearity, and mixed formats
Why readers must feel guided, not abandoned
Common mistakes that weaken experimental writing
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In this episode, we break down the publishing developments editors and agents are talking about right now and what they mean for working writers.

🛋️Overthinking Couch Topics:

Why audiobooks are now a primary format, not a secondary rights stream
The continued dominance of celebrity books and what it signals about the market
The “hollowing out” of the midlist and what it means for author careers
How Substack and newsletters are changing the path to traditional publishing
Why publishers are acquiring fewer debut novels
The blurred line between self-publishing and traditional publishing
The rise of “aesthetic publishing” and visually driven book sales
The Shy Girl controversy and what it reveals about AI in publishing
A recent plagiarism ruling and what it says about tropes in fiction
Court Rules Tracy Wolff Did Not Plagiarize Crave Series
How a brutal BookTube review got Shy Girl removed from shelves
The Big Five's Midlist Problem: Why 19% of Traditional Publisher Titles Sell 12 Copies or Fewer
The Big Five's Midlist Problem: Why 19% of Traditional Publisher Titles Sell 12 Copies or Fewer
2026 Audie Awards Winners
The Rise of Aesthetic Book Publishing
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Comics, manga, and graphic novels combine image and word to tell stories in a way prose cannot. In this episode, we examine what actually changes when storytelling moves into panels, and why many writers struggle when they approach the form with prose habits.

🛋️Overthinking Couch Topics:

What defines a graphic narrative?
How do readers construct meaning across panels?
What changes in dialogue when images are doing part of the work?
Who is in charge of the story: the writer or the illustrator?
What does it take to excel in this genre?
What common mistakes should you avoid?
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Elements of Western novels are infiltrating other genres and modernizing the mythology of the Wild West. In this episode, we head out to the frontier to explore how classic Western storytelling transformed into the modern neo-Western.

🛋️Overthinking Couch Topics:

• What are the core tropes that define a classic Western?

• How are neo-Westerns reinterpreting these elements in modern settings?

• Why has moral ambiguity replaced clear-cut justice?

• Should writers should blend in or stand out to be successful?

• What are the common pitfalls when writing Westerns and neo-Westerns?

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Want to write a cozy mystery? This episodes explores the way cozy mystery blends charming communities, amateur sleuths, and clever puzzles to create crime stories that feel suspenseful without becoming dark or graphic.

From Murder, She Wrote to modern bookstore-and-bakery mysteries, cozy stories invite readers into tight-knit communities where secrets simmer beneath the surface and clever sleuths piece together the truth.

🛋️Overthinking Couch Topics:

What defines a cozy mystery
Why amateur sleuths are central to the genre
How setting and community become characters in the story
The delicate balance between murder and warmth
Why cozy mysteries feel comforting even though someone dies
Common pitfalls writers should avoid when crafting the genre

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'Winds of Winter': A timeline of George RR Martin's progress | The Week
With New Owner, Tyrant Books Plans to Resume Publishing
Harlequin Ends Historical Romance
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What’s the difference between Young Adult and New Adult fiction? We explore the life stages, voice, and themes that define each genre, plus publishing news on AI copyright, contracts, and book bans.

🛋️Overthinking Couch Topics:

What defines Young Adult fiction
What defines New Adult fiction
The key differences between identity formation and life-building
How voice changes between YA and NA
Why authenticity matters in both genres
Why New Adult remains complicated from a publishing perspective
Common mistakes writers make when writing either category
Supreme Court Denies Certiorari in Thaler v. Perlmutter: AI Cannot Be an Author Under the Copyright Act | Baker Donelson
AI-generated art can’t be copyrighted after Supreme Court declines to review the rule | The Verge
U.S. Supreme Court Rejects Bid to Grant Copyright to A.I.-Generated Artwork
This book written by 10,000 authors is 'empty'
Supreme Court Declines Dispute Over Copyrights for AI-Generated Materila
Unbanned Book Network — We Need Diverse Books
The Rising Tide of Book Bans in American Schools – UAB Institute for Human Rights Blog

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Romantic suspense blends love and danger. Learn how to balance emotional tension with high-stakes conflict, build trust between characters under pressure, and deliver satisfying dual resolutions that keep readers turning pages.

🛋️Overthinking Couch Topics:

The latest publishing news
What defines the romantic suspense genre
What readers expect from romantic suspense novels
Common pitfalls writers should avoid when blending romance and thriller elements
Self-Publishing Facts - The Alliance Independent Authors
Susan Choi and Katie Kitamura among authors longlisted for Women’s prize for fiction | Women's prize for fiction | The Guardian
‘These books are pushing boundaries’: winners of £30,000 Inclusive Books for Children awards announced | Books | The Guardian
UK media groups unite to tackle AI scraping
Condé Nast’s CEO says AI is a “death blow”

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In this business-focused episode, America’s Editor breaks down the major industry shifts that are changing how books are discovered, distributed, and monetized. You’ll learn what recent developments mean for working authors.

🛋️Overthinking Couch Topics:

How today's authors keep their audience
Changes in book-selling platform access
Discoverability vs Visibility
The future of author rights
AI training and creator compensation
The shift toward digital-first library acquisition
Apple automatically downloads U2's Songs of Innocence into Your iTunes.
Authors Guild Raises Concerns About Kindle’s New “Ask This Book” AI Feature - The Authors Guild
Banned Books: Analysis of Censorship on Amazon.com - The Citizen Lab
The AI Clarity Report on Medium
Anthropic Says Chinese AI Companies Improved Models By 'Illicitly' Copying Its Capabilities
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Anthropic to pay authors $1.5bn to settle lawsuit over using pirated books to train AI - Music Business Worldwide
Penguin Random House Simon & Schuster merger | New York Times

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In this episode of Writing Break, we take a deep dive into paranormal fiction's lasting appeal and why stories about ghosts, vampires, and other supernatural beings continue to dominate bestseller lists.

🛋️Overthinking Couch Topics:

What defines paranormal fiction and why it’s thriving
How ghosts, vampires, and other creatures function as modern archetypes
Using the supernatural as metaphor for cultural anxieties and emotional conflict
The rise of cross-genre paranormal (romance, mystery, thriller, and more)
Common pitfalls when writing paranormal fiction
An Overthinking Prompt to help you write a paranormal moment grounded in the ordinary
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Over the past couple of months, we’ve covered dystopia, utopia, action, adventure, magical realism, children’s literature, satire, and a whole lot of fantasy. This clip show puts some of those writing tip segments together for you as a literary aperitif before we begin Season 9, where we'll be talking about blending all of these flavors together to create your signature genre. I'm very much looking forward to that.

🛋️Overthinking Couch Topics:

More Writing Tips

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In this episode of Writing Break, we explore how to use comedy as a storytelling tool without sacrificing character, plot, or emotional weight.

We’ll look at different types of humor on the page, what satire is meant to critique, and why timing, voice, and intention matter more than punchlines. We’ll also cover the most common mistakes writers make when trying to be funny and how to avoid turning clever jokes into narrative dead ends.

🛋️ Overthinking Couch Topics:

The difference between humor and satire
The different types of humor in fiction
Satire as social and cultural commentary
Managing tone so humor supports the story
Common pitfalls when writers try to be funny
A prompt to see if you can use humor to approach serious topics
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In this episode of The Writing Break, we explore dystopian and utopian fiction and discuss the latest publishing news.

🛋️ Overthinking Couch Topics:

Dystopian vs. utopian fiction
Society as the main character
Common pitfalls when writing dystopia & utopia fiction
Amazon’s “Ask This Book” Kindle feature and why the Authors Guild is concerned
The proposed Anthropic AI settlement and what opting in or out means for authors
A major U.S. appeals court ruling expanding copyright termination rights worldwide
The closure of Baker & Taylor and its impact on authors, publishers, and libraries
Why the Authors Guild is condemning bot-driven book bans in Texas
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Authors Guild Raises Concerns About Kindle’s New “Ask This Book” AI Feature - The Authors Guild
Opting Out of the Anthropic Settlement: What Authors Should Know - The Authors Guild
Court of Appeals Agrees with Authors Guild, Rules That Authors’ Copyright Termination Rights Apply Worldwide - The Authors Guild
Authors Guild Condemns Bot-Powered Book Bans in Texas - The Authors Guild

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In this episode of Writing Break, we explore the Action and Adventure genre, which is all about forward motion. If you’re writing adventure novels, action scenes, or fast-paced fiction, this episode breaks down the craft behind the thrill.

🛋️Overthinking Couch Topics:

How to write a compelling adventure
How pacing, escalation, setting, and hero resilience work together
How to avoid action that feels repetitive or hollow

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The episode opens with a look at current publishing news affecting authors, including reading behavior shifts and trends. Then we look at the three major stages of children’s literature and why understanding developmental stages matters. Perfect for writers curious about children’s books, writers who think they already understand the category, and anyone interested in how readers develop.

🛋️ Overthinking Couch Topics:

The latest book trends
Why writing for kids is so hard
Picture books and story economy
Early readers and building confidence
Middle grade and emotional depth
Why “books for all ages” do not exist
More Writing Tips
Leah Williamson and Richard Osman back National Year of Reading | Books | The Guardian
Reading and Publishing Predictions: Book Trends to Watch for in 2026
FT book award enters new partnership with Standard Chartered
Book Clubs Reading Trends
BookTok Trends
Bookstores report sales boom as youth social media ban takes effect
Predictions: what lies ahead for the book trade in 2026?

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This week on Writing Break, we’re exploring how to weave the extraordinary into the ordinary without breaking the spell of magical realism. We're also discussing Amazon's increasing censorship of authors and artists.

🛋️Overthinking Couch Topics:

How it differs from fantasy and why the magic must stay unexplained
Techniques to balance realism and wonder
Common pitfalls that break the spell
The Latin American roots of magical realism and its global legacy
A writing prompt to help you find the extraordinary in the everyday
More Writing Tips
The Biggest Mistake Writers Make - Writing Break
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Who are you becoming as a writer? Forget making a list of New Year's resolutions; instead, write a narrative for 2026. This bonus episode includes prompts for a creative reset to prepare you for the year ahead.

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This Christmas Day bonus episode explores the creative power of stubbornness and includes three reflective prompts to help you close out your year with clarity and intention.

🛋️ Overthinking Couch Topics:

Why writers need stubbornness
How it protects your voice.
How it carries books across the finish line
More Writing Tips
The Biggest Mistake Writers Make - Writing Break
Free Style Sheet Templates

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In the final part of our Fantasy Subgenre Series, we explore the soft side of the genre: Cozy Fantasy, Slice-of-Life Fantasy, Eco-Fantasy, Children’s Fantasy, YA Fantasy, Comical/Satirical Fantasy, Fairy-Tale Fantasy, and Fairy-Tale Retellings.

🛋️ Overthinking Couch Topics:

Creating stillness and gentle magic
Land-based storytelling
Intensity and transformation in YA Fantasy
Why some readers crave gentleness
The paradox at the heart of enchantment
More Writing Tips
"Take This Longing" by Leonard Cohen
Writing Fantasy: Building Worlds That Breathe - Writing Break
The Biggest Mistake Writers Make - Writing Break
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In Part II of our Fantasy Subgenre Series, we explore the darker and more modern branches of fantasy: Dark Fantasy, Grimdark, Urban Fantasy, Contemporary/Modern Fantasy, Paranormal Fantasy, Romantasy, Progression Fantasy, LitRPG, and Gamelit.

🛋️Overthinking Couch Topics:

What defines each subgenre?
Why do readers love them?
How does magic, character, and structure shift across newer fantasy genres?
Is your magic system essential, atmospheric, metaphorical, or structural?
More Writing Tips
Writing Fantasy: Building Worlds That Breathe - Writing Break
The Biggest Mistake Writers Make - Writing Break
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In Part I of this three-episode Fantasy Subgenre Series, we dive into the grand-scale branches of fantasy: Epic Fantasy, High Fantasy, Low Fantasy, Sword & Sorcery, Historical Fantasy, Alternate History, Mythic Fantasy, Indigenous/Mythic-Region Fantasy, Portal Fantasy, Science Fantasy, Steampunk, and Gaslamp Fantasy.

🛋️ Overthinking Couch Topics:

What defines each subgenre?
Why do readers love them?
How can you use world-building, magic systems, and narrative scope to shape your own stories?
Which element of your world is doing the most narrative heavy lifting?

If you love building worlds, bending history, or stepping through portals without warning, this episode is your map.

More Writing Tips
Writing Fantasy: Building Worlds That Breathe - Writing Break
The Biggest Mistake Writers Make - Writing Break
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Pour yourself something spiced and settle in as we revisit writing tips from this season’s genre deep dives.

🛋️ * More Writing Tips * The Biggest Mistake Writers Make - Writing Break * 7 Literary Conflicts Explained (Clip Show #11) - Writing Break * Free Style Sheet Templates

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If your book is “for everyone,” it’s actually for no one.In this sharp yet encouraging episode, we tackle one of the biggest hurdles for new authors: not wanting to be boxed in by genre.

🛋️ Overthinking Couch Topics:

Identify your book’s genre and emotional promise.
Avoid the “genre blender” mistake that confuses readers.
Use genre conventions as creative and marketing tools.
Communicate your book’s identity in one professional sentence.
Decide when and how to blend genres.
More Writing Tips
The Biggest Mistake Writers Make - Writing Break
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Your life is a story, but not every moment needs to be shared. In this episode of Writing Break, we’re exploring memoir and creative nonfiction, the genres where truth becomes art. Learn how to shape your real experiences into stories that captivate readers, how to handle the tricky business of writing about other people, and how to balance honesty with craft.

🛋️ Overthinking Couch Topics:

The top 3 memoir pitfalls
The difference between memoir and creative nonfiction
How to identify the theme or central question behind your life story
The role of voice, reflection, and scene in turning experience into narrative
When memoir becomes autofiction
More Writing Tips
Creative Nonfiction / True stories, well told.
River Teeth | A Journal of Nonfiction Narrative
Brevity: A Journal of Concise Literary Nonfiction | Brevity: The journal devoted exclusively to the concise literary nonfiction.
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memoirwriting #creativenonfiction #writingpodcast #howtowritememoir #writingbreakpodcast #writerslife #writingtips #storytelling #nonfictionwriters #autofiction

In this episode, we’ll unravel what “literary fiction” actually means, what readers expect when they open a literary novel, and how you, as a writer, can approach it without falling into the trap of pretension. We'll also look at how to build your portfolio, no matter what genre you're writing.

🛋️ Overthinking Couch Topics:

Why every sentence matters
Balancing introspection with forward momentum in your writing
The difference and similarities between literary fiction and genre fiction
Giving short stories and contest entries new life
More Writing Tips
Weekly Writing Contests - Reedsy Prompts
» Calls for Submissions
The Submission Grinder
Duotrope: Find publishers and agents. Track submissions. Get published.
The Biggest Mistake Writers Make - Writing Break
Free Style Sheet Templates

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Just in time for Halloween, this episode explores the expectations and pitfalls of writing horror and how to write fear in any genre.

🛋️ Overthinking Couch Topics:

Fear in any genre
The core of horror
Tension as the backbone
Themes and monsters
Horror subgenres
Global horror
Pitfalls to avoid

Next week, we’ll leave the monsters behind and step into Literary Fiction, the genre that insists on finding truth in everyday life.

More Writing Tips
Writing Thrillers and Suspense: Raising the Stakes - Writing Break
These 7 Components Will Set the Perfect Pace for Your Story - Writing Break
The Biggest Mistake Writers Make - Writing Break
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Gothic fiction is where beauty meets terror. In this episode, we explore how to write Gothic stories that grip readers with atmosphere, ambiguity, and desire:

🛋️ Overthinking Couch Topics:

Setting as character
The uncanny and the supernatural
Romance entwined with ruin
Gothic subgenres and global traditions
Pitfalls to avoid
More Writing Tips
The Biggest Mistake Writers Make - Writing Break

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Good historical fiction makes the past feel as alive as the present. In this episode, we explore how to write immersive, character-driven stories that honor history without feeling like a textbook.

First, we talk about the importance of writing contests.

🛋️ Overthinking Couch Topics:

Research as foundation, story as focus
Characters as people, not historical mannequins
Balancing authenticity with modern readability
Pitfalls to avoid, from info-dumps to anachronisms
More Writing Tips
Big List of Writing Contests - NewPages.com
The Best Free Literary Contests - Winning Writers
The Ultimate List of Writing Contests in 2025 • Win Cash Prizes!
Submittable Discover: Writing Contests
Writing Contests, Grants & Awards | Poets & Writers
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Science fiction bends natural laws with speculation grounded in possibility. In this episode, we explore the foundations of sci-fi storytelling. Plus: publishing news on new imprints, prize controversies, AI audiobooks, and why indie presses are thriving.

🛋️ Overthinking Couch Topics:

The “one big lie” principle.
Science as a lens to ask bigger questions.
Balancing ideas with compelling characters.
Avoiding common pitfalls.
A tour of sci-fi’s many subgenres.
Why Creators Are Scrambling to Own Their Own Audience
Bloomberg - AI-narrated books gaining traction
Giller Prize Announces 2025 Longlist Amid Ongoing Financial Uncertainty
Polari Prize organisers cancel book prize over trans controversy
AAP April 2025 StatShot Report
Conduit Books
Storehouse Voices
7 Literary Conflicts Explained (Clip Show #11) - Writing Break
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This week, we journey into the realm of fantasy and uncover how to build worlds that feel alive without overwhelming your readers with exposition. Tune in for writing advice, publishing insights, and a well-deserved writing break.

🛋️ Overthinking Couch Topics:

Roddy Doyle’s blunt remarks about weak submissions, fonts, and page counts
The role of rules when world-building
The common pitfalls of fantasy writing
What takes center-stage when writing fantasy
Booker prize chairman laments poor quality of entries
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In this episode, we’ll explore the chemistry, conflict, and tropes that make romance irresistible, plus hear nine hard-won lessons from debut author Esther Walker. Even if you’re not writing romance, these insights will make you a stronger storyteller and a more resilient writer.

🛋️ Overthinking Couch Topics:

The default response from agents and publishers
Balancing chemistry and conflict
Giving old tropes a fresh spin
The Biggest Mistake Writers Make - Writing Break
How I published a novel — the 9 things I learnt the hard way
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What makes a thriller thrilling? In this episode of Writing Break, we discuss pacing, stakes, suspense, and more. We also look at what, if anything, BookTok can do for you.

Spread a little love by subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing Writing Break with a fellow writer who loves a good thrill.

🛋️ Overthinking Couch Topics:

The key differences between suspense and thrillers
How to raise stakes that truly matter
The secret to pacing that keeps readers hooked without burning them out
Pitfalls to avoid when writing thrillers
Thriller and suspense subgenres
Black British Book Festival born from 'frustration and vision' as festival enters fifth year
Warsaw opens metro station ‘express’ library to get commuters off their phones | Poland | The Guardian
The #BookTok Connection: Examining Cultural and Linguistic Identity Expression in Online Reading Communities
Why I Won’t Quit BookTok | Vogue
The #BookTok Connection: Examining Cultural and Linguistic Identity Expression in Online Reading Communities
The Influence of BookTok on Literary Criticisms and Diversity
BookTok is reviving publishing – but at what cost? | The Week
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Season 8 of Writing Break sets sail with mystery and detective fiction. From archetypal sleuths to red herrings and fair-play clues, learn how to craft puzzles that keep readers guessing. Plus, the latest publishing news, including a $1.5 billion AI copyright settlement and turmoil at the Library of Congress.

🛋️ Overthinking Couch Topics:

Why it matters to revisit genre basics in an AI-dominated landscape
What readers and publishers expect from mystery and detective fiction
Classic detective archetypes: from loners to gentleman sleuths to amateur nosy neighbors
The art of fair-play clues, hidden details, and red herrings
How to reverse-engineer your crime
Delivering the big reveal without cheating your reader
New AI text-to-speech audio app launches with '60% of every sale going to authors'
Anthropic to pay authors $1.5bn to settle lawsuit over using pirated books to train AI - Music Business Worldwide
AAP Endorses the US$1.5 Billion AI Settlement Proposed in Bartz v. Anthropic
Who Is in Charge of the Library of Congress? - UnderstandingCongress.org
Former Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden Speaks Out on CBS
Fresh off Trump firings, Library of Congress stares down a proposed cut
Library of Congress Reaches Major Milestone in Bringing Collections to Users
Welcome to the New Library of Congress Catalog! - Catalog Help and Documentation - Research Guides at Library of Congress
Fired copyright chief lawsuit over Trump powers
Todd Blanche, a Justice Department official, as acting Librarian of Congress
President Trump fires Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden
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In this bonus episode, we’re wrapping up Season 7 with a stitched-together master episode featuring all five segments from our Querying Literary Agent series.

Whether you're just starting your submission journey or navigating the silence after sending your pitch, this complete guide has you covered.

🛋️ Overthinking Couch Topics: Part 1: Big Five Dreams or Indie Vibes? * Part 2: Where the Lit Agents Are and How to Find Yours * Part 3: Writing Your Query Letter * Part 4: What Happens After You Hit Send * Bonus:* What to Do While You Wait

This episode is your one-stop-shop for understanding the querying process from beginning to end.

Plus, I give you a sneak peek into what’s ahead:

Season 8: Mastering fiction genres

Season 9: Breaking the rules with experimental and hybrid work

Season 10: Mastering nonfiction, including memoir, journalism, essays, and more

Support the ShowSubscribe, rate, and share with a fellow writer!

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Querying literary agents and not hearing back can feel like shouting into the void. In this episode, recorded mid-recovery from a concussion (yes, really), we’re turning that creative purgatory into purposeful progress. If you’ve sent out queries and find yourself obsessively refreshing your inbox, this is your antidote.

🛋️ Overthinking Couch Topics:

Overanalyzing the querying blues and becoming better writers for it

Reclaiming control during the waiting game

Reviving your creative energy

Reading like a writer

✨ Support the Show

Enjoying Writing Break? Rate, review, and share with a fellow writer. Every kind word helps more writers find the podcast.

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In the final installment of our four-part series on querying literary agents, we break down what to expect when a literary agent replies to your email. From form rejections and useful feedback to the coveted request for more materials, today’s episode is all about helping you navigate agent responses.

Plus, in publishing news:

A $44 million scam targeting writers has resulted in federal charges
Fan fiction hits the bestseller lists with Dramione-inspired debuts
A bestselling memoir-turned-film faces accusations of fraud and fabrication

🛋️ Overthinking Couch Topics:

The 3 types of literary agent responses
How to recognize a personalized rejection
What it means when agents request more materials
The difference between execution and market viability
What to do next—whether it’s a “yes,” “no,” or radio silence

📫 Also, I share a personal update on my surprise stint in Google Purgatory, and why you may not have heard back from me via email.

🎧 Catch up on the full Literary Agent series:

• Part 1: Should You Query a Literary Agent?

• Part 2: How to Research Literary Agents

• Part 3: How to Write a Query Letter

The Salt Path Scandal
Draco-Hermione Fan Fiction Novels Hit Bestseller Lists
PageTurner's $44 million fraud charges cast spotlight on author services
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In today’s episode of Writing Break, we’re dog-sitting, dodging deadlines, and diving deep into the dreaded query letter.

🛋️ Overthinking Couch Topics:

The classic 3-part structure of a fiction query letter
What makes a strong nonfiction pitch
A breakdown of the 7 essential parts of a book proposal
The 5 most common query mistakes

🎧 Catch up on the series:

Part 1: Should You Query a Literary Agent?
Part 2: How to Research Literary Agents
Querying Literary Agents, Part 2: Where the Lit Agents Are and How to Find Yours - Writing Break
Querying Literary Agents, Part 1: Big Five Dreams or Indie Vibes? - Writing Break
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Today we’re (finally!) continuing our four-part series on querying literary agents. Whether you're writing fiction or nonfiction, querying without doing your homework is like picking a random person off a dock and asking them to captain your boat across the ocean. In this episode, I'm sharing how to research literary agents and find the ones most likely to say yes to your book.

🛋️ Overthinking Couch Topics:

Tools and databases to help you find agents
How to vet an agent’s interests, history, and red flags
An analog method for agent discovery that still hold up
Why being selective can save your sanity and your story

Plus, there's some essential publishing news about the reality of book bans and a hopeful new UK initiative for working-class writers.

Querying Literary Agents, Part 1: Big Five Dreams or Indie Vibes? - Writing Break - Episode 121
7 Tips for Landing a Literary Agent - Writing Break - Episode 75
Literary Agents and Bestselling Books - Writing Break - Episode 70
The Bee - A home for working-class readers and writers
North Carolina advances bill on book bans in public schools
Book Ban Data | Banned Books
U.S. Book Challenges Update: March 2025 Edition - I Love Libraries
PEN America Is Suing against Book Bans in Tennessee
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Welcome to the first installment of a four-part series on querying literary agents. In this episode, we explore the pros and cons of publishing with a Big Five publisher versus an independent press. Whether you're writing fiction or nonfiction, traditionally publishing or submitting directly to publishers, this episode will help you clarify your publishing goals.

Plus: A roundup of the latest publishing news, including the growing backlash against tech giants using books to train AI.

🛋️ Overthinking Couch Topics:

The Big Five publishers: what they offer and what you give up.
Independent presses: creative freedom and community.
Why authors might choose commercial reach vs. a passionate niche.
Important questions to ask yourself before querying.
Ep 84: Query Letters vs Book Proposals - Writing Break
Ep 68: Self-Publishing vs Traditional Publishing - Writing Break
Publishers Accepting Unagented Manuscripts
Crown Publishing Group Launches Book Imprint Dedicated to Black Voices
OpenAI copyright lawsuits from authors, New York Times consolidated in Manhattan
French publishers and authors sue Meta over copyright works used in AI training
‘Meta has stolen books’: authors to protest in London against AI trained using ‘shadow library’ | Books | The Guardian
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It’s time for a heavy dose of writing wisdom, clipped and curated from recent episodes. Whether you’re plotting, editing, procrastinating or just looking for a creative nudge, this episode’s packed with the good stuff: smart takes, helpful reminders, and maybe a little tough love.

Missed a few episodes? I’ve got you covered.

Featuring:

✍️ First-draft and second-draft writing advice

✍️ Actionable writing tips from bestselling authors

✍️ The reality of traditional publishing

✍️ Plus more gems you might’ve forgotten (or ignored 😉)

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Is your story high-concept or low-concept? Understanding this difference can help you refine your pitch, strengthen your storytelling, and position your book effectively in the publishing industry.

🛋️ Overthinking Couch Topics:

What makes a story high-concept
What defines a low-concept story
How to tell which one you’re writing and why it matters
Examples from books and films to illustrate both concepts

As always, I’ll share the latest publishing industry news, including trends, controversies, and shifts that could impact authors.

7 Literary Conflicts Explained (Clip Show #11) - Writing Break
New Jersey Star-Ledger will end print edition in 2025
‘Sign our own death warrant’: Australian writers angry after Melbourne publisher asks them to sign AI agreements | Australian books | The Guardian
Demand for page-turning ‘romantasy’ fuels boom for books
Waiting for the Paperback? Good Luck - WSJ
Gains in the religion and adult fiction segments helped to offset softness in other areas, leading to a 6.5% sales increase at publishers who report to the Association of American Publishers’ StatShot program.
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The publishing world is shifting fast, and as writers, we need to keep up. In this episode, I dive into some of the biggest changes happening in the industry right now, from how AI is reshaping publishing to restrictions that could impact book accessibility. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, understanding these changes will help you navigate publishing smarter.

I also share a piece of writing advice I give to authors that I’m now following myself as I write my first book-length work.

Eight Independent Publishers Form Cooperative to Share Resources, Cut Costs
London Book Fair 2025 to Focus on AI, Developing Readers
Kill Your Darlings - Writing Break
Library Database Providers Clash Over Subscription Models
New Bills in Iowa Threaten to Tighten Obscenity Provisions for Libraries
Will the Diamond Bankruptcy Change the Comics Business Forever?
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We all dream of making it big with our writing, but what happens when that dream doesn’t unfold the way you expect? We’ll talk about how that dream didn’t quite come true for one author. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at the publishing industry and for the latest publishing news.

The debate over blurbs in publishing, explained | Vox
‘It’s quite galling’: children’s authors frustrated by rise in celebrity-penned titles | Children and teenagers | The Guardian
New Romance
Cosy Kink
The acquisition of Text Publishing by Penguin Random House is part of a worrying trend in Australian publishing
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In this episode, we bring you the latest publishing news along with a discussion on finding a balance between inspiration and hard work. I'll let you know where to access tax tips for authors and where to view sessions that took place during the Winter 2024 Book & Author Festival. I also tell you about a literary agent scam preying on authors. Plus, we discuss a significant legal victory protecting creative freedom and highlight resources for creators impacted by the Los Angeles fires.

In the second half, we explore the concept of the muse—what it means to create space for inspiration and how to balance it with the discipline of writing. Drawing from personal insights and Stephen King’s On Writing, we reflect on the dynamic between inspiration and perseverance in the creative process.

Tune in for updates, insights, and encouragement to help you see yourself as the writer you already are.

Authors Guild Federal Court Victory: Arkansas Book Ban Declared Unconstitutional - The Authors Guild
Emergency Aid for Creators Affected by the Los Angeles Fires - The Authors Guild
Publishing Scam Alerts - The Authors Guild
Tax Tips for Authors 2025 - Webinar Registration - Zoom
PRH Winter 2024 Book & Author Festival
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In this episode, we take a look at writing advice from Chuck Palahniuk. Can his approach to storytelling help you craft more immersive scenes, or is it too restrictive for your taste?

Nuts and Bolts: “Thought” Verbs | LitReactor
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Looking for the perfect gift for the writer in your life? Forget notebooks and pens—this episode reveals five priceless gifts that every writer needs. Best of all, they’re completely free! Whether you’re a writer yourself or supporting one, these gifts can make all the difference. Tune in for a fun and insightful holiday episode that celebrates writers and their craft.

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Publishing slows down significantly at the end of each year. So, don’t fret if your query letters remain unanswered this month. Today, we’re exploring 9 practical, actionable writing tips approved by bestselling authors.

As the year winds down, it’s the perfect time to sharpen your writing craft. In this episode of Writing Break, we explore nine practical, actionable writing tips from bestselling authors. From crafting clearer sentences to developing compelling characters and keeping readers hooked, these timeless lessons will help you refine your writing and storytelling.

Get ready to take notes! Great writing starts with great habits, and these authors knew exactly how to make their words count.

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Your first draft is done! Now what? In this episode of Writing Break, we break down eight essential steps for revising your manuscript, regardless of genre. Whether you're on your second or sixth draft, this guide will help you refine your work into a polished, compelling manuscript.

We also cover major publishing industry updates, including HarperCollins’ AI licensing deal and social media shifts in the publishing world. Plus, details on the Faber Action! Prize for children’s action-adventure books.

Bluesky Hits 20 Million Users as People Flee Twitter
HarperCollins AI Licensing Deal - The Authors Guild
Faber launches Action! Prize | Journal, News | Faber
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There is a lot of writing advice out there, but remember that not every piece of writing advice is first-draft writing advice. This episode of Writing Break is all about writing your first draft. Learn how to silence your inner editor, embrace the messy process, and focus on getting the story down before worrying about perfection.

We’ll cover why momentum matters, how to keep moving forward when you get stuck, and why your first draft should be a creative free-for-all. Plus, a quick look at recent publishing trends, including why some YA authors are shifting to adult books.

Next episode: Second-draft writing tips. But first, finish that first draft!

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National Novel Writing Month begins next week, which is why today’s episode is a pep talk of sorts. In this episode of Writing Break, we discuss how turning down distractions can help you prioritize your writing and make real progress on your novel.

We also highlight publishing houses currently accepting unsolicited manuscripts, plus a look at Taylor Swift’s latest self-publishing venture.

If you’ve been struggling to find time to write, this episode is for you. Let’s talk about why your book deserves to be a priority and how you can make it happen.

Dragonblade Publishing | Submissions
Harlequin Medical Romance | Submissions
Black Rose Writing | Submissions
Collective Ink Publishing | Submissions
Dark Dragon Publishing | Submissions
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This season we’ve been covering seven types of literary conflicts, and I thought it might be useful for you to have a bonus episode that has all seven conflicts back to back.

Let’s settle in at the Writing Break cafe and get started on a full episode of writing tips.

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Today we are wrapping up our seven-part series on literary conflicts with the final boss: Character vs Destiny.

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As I record this, a hurricane is sideswiping my city, so if the power stays on, we’ll continue our literary conflict series and discuss, aptly enough, Character versus Technology. We’re also catching up on the Internet Archive court case.

OpenAI looks to shift away from nonprofit roots and convert itself to for-profit company
Update: How to Tell Internet Archive to Remove Your Books - The Authors Guild
Authors Guild Applauds Final Court Decision Affirming Internet Archive's Book Scanning as Copyright Infringement - The Authors Guild
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The Writing Break cafe is open, so let’s gather on the Overthinking Couch to discuss the literary conflict of Character vs Supernatural.

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Welcome back. After last week’s discussion about character vs nature, I hope you managed to work some weather into your current work in progress. In this episode we’re discussing character vs society. The Writing Break cafe is open, so let’s grab a drink and settle into the Overthinking Couch.

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We’re discussing publishing news today, including what’s trending in books. We’re also talking about the fascinating literary conflict of character versus nature.

Generative AI reduces the collective diversity of novel content
Report Finds Customer Traffic Rising at Barnes & Noble
Shelf Awareness for Friday, July 12, 2024 | Shelf Awareness
K-lytics Historical Fiction Market Report
K-lytics Sports Romance Report
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The literary conflict of character versus character seems simple enough, right? Two characters are pitted against each other in some way. This clash can be physical or mental, but it’s best when it’s a bit of both . . . or a lot of both.

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Today we are talking about the literary conflict known as character versus self.

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Whether or not you seek to avoid conflict in real life, avoiding conflict in your writing will make for a boring book.

For the first half of this season we are covering conflict as a literary device and taking a close look at the seven different types. I’ll offer examples, I’ll discuss how conflict should guide your story, and I’ll explain how more than of these conflicts can be at play within your manuscript.

Has the DEI Backlash Come for Publishing? - The Atlantic
WSJ | Kindle is the new must-have accessory (again)
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I discuss the new format for the show moving forward and how I talk myself out of having imposter syndrome.

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Thank you to everyone who filled out the Listener Feedback Survey. I am in the process of reviewing and revising the show’s format accordingly, but there is still a little bit of time to complete our survey and tell me what to do. Check the show notes for a link to the survey, and remember that all responses are anonymous and highly appreciated. For now, it’s review time again.

Writing Break Listener Feedback Survey - Please complete this survey.
The Art of the Mini Sales Pitch: How to Subtitle Your Book So People Will Read It ‹ Literary Hub
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Today we are wrapping up our series on how to write better than AI and insisting on our cup of stars. Please remember to fill out the Writing Break survey. The feedback we're receiving is changing the format of the show. Thank you!

Association of American Literary Agents - Association of American Literary Agents
K-lytics Fantasy Romance Report and Market Seminar Video
Warner Music Loses Appeal In Supreme Court Case Over Copyright Infringement
Sights and Insights from the 2024 U.S. Book Show
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"Tropical Dance" by Sondé

We have a Listener Feedback Survey for you today in addition to our usual publishing news and writing tips. We appreciate you taking a minute to complete the survey.

Writing Break Listener Feedback Survey - Please complete this survey.
Bloomberg - Are you a robot?
Farshore Annual Review
Judge a Book by its Edges | Barnes & Noble
How to get kids to read for fun: People who work on middle-grade books have some ideas.
Yes, People Do Buy Books
PEN America Cancels 2024 World Voices Festival
Readers Take Denver 2025 conference canceled after "Fyre Festival of books"
Authors Guild Supports FTC's Proposed Ban on Non-Compete Clauses - The Authors Guild
FTC Announces Rule Banning Noncompetes | Federal Trade Commission
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“No More Phone Calls” by The Turquoise Moon

“Feel good laid back jazz piano” Gerardo Garcia Jr

It’s break time, writers. We have a lot of publishing news to get through today, and we’re continuing with our four-part series on how to write better than AI.

10 Things Author-Publishers Should Know About Amazon Advantage
AI book publishing platform Spines raises $6.5M to disrupt centuries-old industry - SiliconANGLE
Fake AI law firms are sending fake DMCA threats to generate fake SEO gains | Ars Technica
The Bookseller - News - Trade debates shift towards shorter books for children
How One Author Pushed the Limits of AI Copyright | WIRED
PEN America Cancels 2024 Literary Awards Ceremony
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“Gazing Out of a Café Window on a Rainy Day” by The Turquoise Moon

“Jazz You Up” by Julian Gross

Since the release of ChatGPT, the number of freelance writing jobs is shrinking. Can writers even compete? I hope so, which is why today we are beginning a four-part series that will highlight several writing techniques that elevate any work, be it fiction or nonfiction. Let’s see how many of them you already incorporate into your work.

The Forgotten Painting: A Historical Mystery Novella (The Jack Rogan Mysteries) by Gabriel Farago - Featured Author
Underground Bookstore, Carrollton, GA - Featured Bookstore
The jobs being replaced by AI - an analysis of 5M freelancing jobs - bloomberry
The Boom in Middle Grade Novels Turned Comics
Real Person Fan Fiction
American Library Association reports record number of unique book titles challenged in 2023 | News and Press Center
Where Do We Draw The Line With Real Person Romances in Publishing?
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“Warm Spring Groove: Chill Lo-fi” by The Turquoise Moon

“Our Love Will Fight” by Humans Win

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“Late Night Jam” by Eno Orefice

Today we are looking at innovations in book publishing and discussing subtitles. The Writing Break cafe is open, and we have a lot of publishing news to get through today, so let’s grab a drink and a snack before settling in at our usual table.

The Art of the Mini Sales Pitch: How to Subtitle Your Book So People Will Read It ‹ Literary Hub
The Art of the Mini Sales Pitch: How to Subtitle Your Book So People Will Read It ‹ Literary Hub
Romantasy, AI and Palestinian voices: publishing trends emerge at London book fair | London book fair | The Guardian
The Bookseller - Rights - Transworld wins five-way auction for Antony Johnston's interactive crime novel
Dutch Publisher Develops AI Books - Publishers Lunch
A Rise in Ai-Generated Unauthorized Book Biographies
Authors Guild Response To Findaway and Spotify’s Audiobook Terms of Use - The Authors Guild
Brandon Sanderson Says Deal with Audible Is in the Works
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“Casa De Frio” by Jon Presstone

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As an editor, my authors’ late-night, semi-coherent correspondence, choppy first drafts, and deepest darkest secrets die with me. However, today I am sharing an email exchange between an author and myself, with the author’s permission, of course.

The Touch of Her Voice by Sara Scott - Featured Author
Blush Bookstore, Wichita, Kansas - Featured Bookstore
Why romance novels are having a moment - Marketplace
From Boston to Chicago, romance bookstores are popping up
Sexily ever after: how romance bookstores took over America | Romance books | The Guardian
Tor Books Criticized for Use of AI-Generated Art in 'Gothikana' Cover Design
Thin Margins: The Paper Shortage and Its Toll on the Printing Industry: Episode 1 — Baldwin Technology
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"Space Cassette" by Humans Win

"Wichita" by Humans Win

"Before You Go" by Humans Win

In this episode, we are discussing book awards, book marketing, and the bit of writing advice Neil Gaiman gave out this week.

Science fiction authors were excluded from awards for fear of offending China
Author J.D Barker Apologizes, Dropped by Agent After 'Creepy' BookTok Request
GUNGNIR: tales for the dreamers & thinkers
Book Sales in France
National Book Awards Expand Eligibility to Non–U.S. Citizens
Pulitzer Prize Rules Expanded Eligibility
Akutagawa Prize winner credits ChatGPT for 5% of 'Sympathy Tower Tokyo' | Daily Sabah
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"Cool Jazz Background (Trippy Trombone Version)" by Tencher Music

"Yes Or No" by Precarious Perch

“Jazzy Jingle V1” by bzur

“Little Duke” by Humans Win

Tune in for wall-to-wall writing and publishing tips for authors.

Start Here: How to Write a Book Proposal + Book Proposal Template | Jane Friedman
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In the last episode we discussed what makes a good opening line in fiction, and in this episode we’re doing the same with nonfiction, some of which overlaps with fiction. I also share some examples of good opening lines from nonfiction.

Fit for the Throne: The Trial of Ten Kindle Edition by S. McPherson - Featured Author
Lost Books, Montrose, CA - Featured Bookstore
Big Five Domination of Adult Bestseller Lists Slipped in 2023
In Major Win, Appeals Court Upholds Block on Texas Book Rating Law
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"California Blues" by Style da Kid

"Down to Get Up Again" by Humans Win

This week we begin a two-part series on writing memorable opening lines. Today we’re discussing fiction, and in the next episode we’ll be covering nonfiction.

Hay Festival Cartagena 2024
Ábaco, Cartagena, Colombia - Featured Bookstore
Public Domain Day 2024 | Duke University School of Law
Judge Blocks Key Provisions of Iowa Book Banning Law
The New York Times Complaint Against Microsoft and Open AI
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“Colombian of Latin Music” by Gushito

“The Way You Move” by Sleeping Ghost

This final episode for 2023 is a short one but a juicy one. We are looking at corporations behaving badly, authors behaving badly, and readers behaving well. Because we know readers can do no wrong.

Cait Corrain Goodreads Controversy Explained
Author Apologizes After Review Bombing Books on Goodreads | TIME
The Bookseller - News - Tolkien estate wins two lawsuits against author of unauthorised Lord of the Rings sequel
TikTok's #BookTok trend 'literally changed my life'
Five years and 2m copies later, self-published author lands UK book deal | Crime fiction | The Guardian
Meta Used Copyrighted Books AI Training Despite Warning from Lawyers
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"Atmospheric Auld Lang Syne" by Humans Win

"Stay Right There" by Humans Win

In this holiday episode I share new book trends on Amazon, new publishing awards, and the latest publishing news.

First Year in Estonia Kindle Edition by Pynchon Woo - Featured Author
Rüütel & Matilda, Tallinn, Estonia - Featured Bookstore
The Paranormal Romance eBook Market
The Fantasy Romance Book Market
Screen Door Press - The University Press of Kentucky
The Yale Review | The Yale Nonfiction Book Prize
Penguin Random House, Authors Sue to Block Iowa Anti-LGBTQ Book Banning Law
Julian Sancton v. OpenAI Inc
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"Dreaming of Christmas" by Boomer

"Christmas Happy Home Relaxing Atmosphere [Version 3 | 30 Sec]" by Volodymyr Piddubnyk

"Santa's New Suit" by Humans Win

We are continuing our foreshadowing discussion today, and I might say something about genres that you will not like.

Depot Café and Bookstore, Mill Valley, CA - Featured Bookstore
Salt by Liz Shipton (Adult Version) - Featured Author
Salt Paperback (YA Edition) - Featured Author
57 Writing Contests in December
Workers at Two More B&N Stores Vote to Unionize
Circana BookScan: US Print Book Market 'Slowing a Bit'
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“Morning Coffee Full Mix” by Bobby Cole

"Strawberry Daiquiri (instrumental)" by Sarah Angel

"Blow Off Some Steam" by Ben Bostick

"Sail Away" by zoze

None

We are beginning our discussion on foreshadowing today, in both fiction and nonfiction.

Amazon Sues Publishing Fraudsters
The 'Wall Street Journal' Drops Its Bestseller Lists
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"Calm and Cozy: Lo-fi Vibes" by The Turquoise Moon

“Little Noir Night” by Humans Win

Happy Halloween. In this episode, we’re talking about book proposals, how much writers make, and other such spooky things.

The Ghost of Lilly Pilly Creek by Abbie L. Martin - Featured Author
Hutchinson Public Library, Hutchinson, Kansas - Featured Library
Start Here: How to Write a Book Proposal + Book Proposal Template | Jane Friedman
Writing Books Remains a Tough Way to Make a Living
NEA Survey Finds Decline in Adult Reading
The Bookseller - News - HarperFiction launches crime imprint Hemlock Press
Authors sue Meta, Microsoft, Bloomberg in latest AI copyright clash | Reuters
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“Creepy Halloween” by MoodMode

“Mystery of a Haunted Memory” by Jon Presstone

“Ghost Town” by Jayson Wayne Brown

“Through the Fields” by zoze

"My Dark Room" by Enzo Orefice

Let's review some of this season's publishing tips.

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Today we are catching up on quite a bit of publishing news, including the new Amazon upload limits and book category changes. I’m also sharing what I think is the most important thing to do while marketing your book.

These 183,000 Books Are Fueling the Biggest Fight in Publishing and Tech - The Atlantic
Spotify will use AI to Replicate and Translate Podcasts
‘Harry Potter’ UK Audiobooks Narrator Stephen Fry Warns That AI Ripoff Of His Voice Is Only The Beginning – Deadline
Hatch Press takes flight with Bonnier Books UK - Bonnier Books
The Fanfic-to-Romance Pipeline Goes Mainstream in Publishing
Ed Dept. Hires Book Ban Czar to Monitor Escalating Challenges Over Content
What the Writers Won - The American Prospect
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“Cabin Socks” by Amber Waldron

"Gazing Out of A Cafe Window on a Rainy Day" by Tencher Music

Today we are talking about what wholesale discounts mean for authors, free audiobooks from Spotify, Amazon’s new policy regarding AI-generated books, and a bit more.

Autumn’s Game by Mary Stone - Featured Author
The Montague Bookmill, Montague, MA, USA - Featured Bookstore
Book Profit Calculator
KDP Royalty Calculator
Spotify to Offer Paying Subscribers Free Audiobook Trial - WSJ
Update: How to Tell Internet Archive to Remove Your Books - The Authors Guild
Brooklyn Book Festival, Sept 24 to Oct 2
Free audiobooks | Spotify
Amazon’s New Disclosure Policy for AI-Generated Book Content Is a Welcome First Step - The Authors Guild
New Literary Agent at Martin Literary
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"Strawberry Daiquiri" by Sarah Angel

"I Like You a Latte" by Amber Waldron

"The Calmest River" by The Turquoise Moon

"Slow Water" by Enzo Orefice

"Sweater Weather" by Amber Waldron

In this episode, we’re talking about a predatory publisher. We’re also discussing the difference between a good editor, a great editor, and your ideal editor.

U.S. Book Show: B&N CEO Says Chain Is in Midst of Significant Change
Membership - The Authors Guild
Amazon's Kindle Rewards Beta Program
Adelaide Continues to Ignore Author Complaints
Judge Blocks Texas Book Ban Law
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"Hola Amigos" by Oleksii Abramovych

"Dreamboat Farewell (Trumpet & Acoustic Guitar)" by zoze

"Coast Of Mexico" by Ben Bostick

"Acapulco Sunset" by zoze

"Over The Ocean" by Sondé

Today I’m taking my own advice, plus we’re working on building your publishing team. We’re also learning of a good reason to make sure your print books are also available as ebooks.

Pan Bookstore & Cafe, Izmir, Turkey - Featured Bookstore
The Izmir Situation: Book 4 of the Sauwa Catcher Series by J.E. Higgins - Featured Author
Otto Penzler Announces New True Crime Imprint Crime Ink
Judge Approves Internet Archive Permanent Injunction, Limits It to Works That Have eBook Editions - Publishers Lunch
The Bookseller - News - YouTube narrowly beats TikTok for young adults discovering books online, according to Nielsen report
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"Deep House With Middle Eastern Vibes" by Sondé

"Istanbul Morning Coffee (Oud & Guitar)" by zoze

"The Sound of the Middle East" by Rent Kid

"Turkish Action" by MoodMode

"Shadow Dance (Turkish Oud)" by zoze

Today we are talking about new imprints, working with beta readers and editors, and hiding your expertise.

Hiring - Editorial Freelancers Association
Marilynne Bradley - Featured Author & Illustrator
The Novel Neighbor, St. Louis, Missouri - Featured Bookstore
The Booker Prize 2023 | The Booker Prizes
Hardie Grant Publishing
Baker & Taylor Opens a New Chapter with Paw Prints
Ten Speed Launches New Ten Speed Graphic Imprint
HarperEnfoque is HarperCollins' New Spanish-Language Imprint
The Bookseller - News - Canelo breaks new ground with horror imprint
Fern Press
McGraw Hill Stops Business Book Acquisitions - Publishers Lunch
KKR Wins S&S for $1.62 Billion
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“Sunset in Los Cabos” by Humans Win

“Barcelona Night” by Yagull Music, Storyblocks Label

“Shake It and Break It” by Humans Win

“St Louis Blues” by Humans Win

“Singing the Blues” by Humans Win

We will be talking about is your book’s BISAC categories, the average advance for nonfiction authors, and how to transition from being your book’s author to your book’s publisher.

FREE Complete BISAC Subject Headings List - Book Industry Study Group
DonorsChoose: Support a classroom. Build a future.
Charity Ratings and Donor Resources | Charity Navigator
Seeing Novels from Both the Writing and Publishing Sides
6 Writing Careers To Consider – Forbes Advisor
How big will your book advance be? Results of my nonfiction author survey. - Josh Bernoff
USPS Ground Advantage
Amazon's New European Sourcing Policies Raise Concerns for U.S. Publishers
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“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory

"Road to Cuba" by zoze

“Welcome Home (30 seconds)” by Enzo Orefice

“Shopping Street” by New Library Sounds

“Lofi Beat - The Peace of Mind” by Oleksii Abramovych

Today we're talking about what happens after you've signed a contract with a publishing house. I'm also asking if you're a plotter or a pantser.

Rahva Raamat bookstore in Viru Keskus, Estonia - Featured Bookstore
Death in Tallinn by Allan Martin - Featured Author
Looking Glass Literary & Media Management
Literary — Triangle House
WattPad Introduces Scheduling Feature
Introducing Bookstat's Bestseller Lists
USA TODAY Best-selling Booklist is back: What you need to know
Federal Trade Commission Proposes Rule to Ban Fake Reviews
Simon & Schuster Draws Bid From Investor Backed by Abu Dhabi-Based Sovereign Fund - WSJ
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“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory

"Anything for the Blues" by Humans Win

"You and Me in Paradise" by Humans Win

"Late Summer Night Blues" by The Turquoise Moon

"Night Crawler (Tenor Sax)" by zoze

"Summer Hop" by zoze

We’ve talked this season, and since the inception of this show, about the challenges of landing a literary agent. Today I’m offering 7 practical and actionable tips to help you land an agent.

Freakshow Summer by Anthony Bartley - Featured author
St Rita’s Amazing Traveling Bookstore, Tobacco Valley, Montana - Featured bookstore
Hiring - Editorial Freelancers Association
Query Shark Rates
Query Shark Blog
QueryTracker
Layoffs Begin at Penguin Random House as Buyout Departures Come into Focus
Simon & Schuster Draws Bid From Investor Backed by Abu Dhabi-Based Sovereign Fund - WSJ
Fake books on Amazon
In OpenAI Copyright Lawsuits, Discovery Complications Likely to Take Center Stage | Legaltech News
AI and Hollywood Strikes
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"Note To Self" by Simon Jomphe Lepine

"Blow Off Some Steam" by Ben Bostick

"Wasting Gas" by Ben Bostick

"Quirky Life" by MoodMode

"After All" by Enzo Orefice

I hope you enjoy this bonus episode. Next week, we’re on summer break. Do something fun. The week after that, we’ll be continuing on with season 4.

Thank you so much for listening. As always, you deserved this break.

AG Recommends Clause in Publishing and Distribution Agreements Prohibiting AI Training Uses - The Authors Guild
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Join me on the Overthinking Couch in the Writing Break cafe for what I hope to be a useful overview of artificial intelligence in book publishing today.

AG Recommends Clause in Publishing and Distribution Agreements Prohibiting AI Training Uses - The Authors Guild
ChatGPT Secret Training Data: the Top 50 Books AI Bots Are Reading
Those Fancy Large Language Models Were Trained On eBooks From Smashwords, Without Permission - Publishers Lunch
AI-created images lose U.S. copyrights in test for new technology | Reuters
OpenAI Releases First $20 Subscription Version Of ChatGPT AI Tool
The Age of AI has begun | Bill Gates
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Strawberry Daquiri by Sarah Angel

I Don’t Hate You But Goodbye by Sarah Angel

We are California dreaming today. As usual, I’m bringing you the latest publishing news. Plus, I’m also sharing 3 ways to know that you are ready to seek out an editor, a literary agent, or beta readers.

The Only Black Girls in Town by Brandy Colbert - Featured Author
The Salt Eaters Bookshop, Inglewood, CA - Featured Bookstore
CCBC Releases Statistics Regarding Diversity in Children's Literature Published in 2022
CI2023: Trends in the Children's Market
NaNoWriMo
The Scribe Media Files | Sam Lacrosse | Substack
'Eat, Pray, Love' author Elizabeth Gilbert pulls new Russia book after backlash : NPR
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“Summertime Blues” by Humans Win

The road to publishing is not as narrow as it used to be, and today we’re reviewing evidence of that, and we have publishing news to discuss, of course.

Antigone Books, Tucson, Arizona - Featured Bookstore
GLITCH: Book I of the Static Series by Erin Zak and Jackie D - Featured Authors
Cormac McCarthy, ‘No Country for Old Men’ author, dies at 89
Mobius to Publish Actor Michael Caine's Debut Thriller
Owning Your Voice
Legendary Knopf Editor Robert Gottlieb Dies at 92
NYDOC Rescinds Proposal after PEN Backlash
HarperCollins, KKR Said to Be Eyeing Simon & Schuster
HarperCollins, KKR Emerge as Bidders for Book Publisher Simon & Schuster - WSJ
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"Lofi - Aces" by STÉ

"Lonely Dusty Trail" by Jon Presstone

"Journey Of Wonder" by Jon Presstone

"Yes Or No" by Precarious Perch

We have a lot of news to get through today, including insider information about what makes a bestseller, a review of Amazon KDP’s recent changes, and more. As promised, we’re also discussing literary agents today, the good, the bad, and the ugly.

Authors Guild Issues Update on New Leaf Authors
Authors Guild Statement on New Leaf Literary Letting Authors Go Without Warning - The Authors Guild
Sarah Stusek's 'Three Rivers' Dropped After TikTok Backlash
Scribe Media Clarifies Layoffs, Says Assets Will Be Sold - Publishers Lunch
KDP Categories
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"The Other Funky Shoe" by zoze

"Overtime" by Humans Win

If traditional publishing and self-publishing don't feel quite right for you, this episode presents a third option: hybrid publishing. We also learn about a new subscription platform for writers, rising POD costs, and more. All this while slowly making our way to the beach.

Something Like Summer by Jay Bell - Featured Author
Hello Again Books, Cocoa Village, FL - Featured Bookstore
Printing cost changes FAQ | Amazon KDP
Ream
Record Sales for Bloomsbury | Financial Times
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“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory

"Stay Right There" by Humans Win

"Romantic Beach Weekend (30 Seconds)" by The Turqoise Moon

"Sea Ambient" by jabameister

The theme for this episode is thrillers. We are also discussing traditional publishing versus self-publishing. Which publishing model is the better choice for authors today?

Weepers by Nick Chiakras
The Mysterious Bookshop, New York City - Featured Bookstore
Otto Penzler Sets Up Shop at ThrillerFest
ThrillerFest Returns to New York City
Spotlight on YA Thrillers
The Bookseller - News - James launches Frog Literary Agency dedicated to representing LGBTQIA+ writers
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“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory

"Vlog Lofi HipHop Background" by OKO

"Scorching Action" by Jon Presstone

"Thru the Fields" by zoze

"Samba Dream (Instrumental)" by Sleeping Ghost

This episode offers 5 tips for navigating today's publishing landscape. Also in this episode we are talking about writers on strike, men reading romance, and AI disrupting everything.

Men Confess to Loving Romance Novels. ‘You Can’t Let Anybody Knock You for It.’ - WSJ
Humanity in Fiction
Geoffrey Hinton Leaves Google, AI fears
Geoff Hinton quits Google, says he regrets life’s work | Fortune
Google Is About To Turn The Online Publishing Industry Upside Down
The Hollywood Writers’ Strike Shows A WGA That’s Never Been More Unified
Hollywood Writers on Strike
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“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory

"9 AM: Hurry Up!" by bzur

"Obsessing Over You" by Humans Win

Whether you’re self-published or traditionally published, you're expected to do a lot of your own marketing these days. When and how should an author begin the book marketing process? This episode tells you the hard truth and offers practical tips to get you started.

Distant Transit by Maja Haderlap - Featured Author
Beletrina Bookstore, Ljubljana, Slovenia - Featured Bookstore
Shelf Awareness for Wednesday, April 19, 2023 | Shelf Awareness
Social Studies Textbook Publishers Censor Topics to Comply with Florida Law
Taiwan Publishers Warn Against Visiting China As Editor Held | Barron's
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“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory

"Fun Breezy Disco Transition" by The Turquoise Moon

"Welcome Home" by Enzo Orefice

"Blow Off Some Steam" by Ben Bostick

"Come a Little Closer" by Humans Win

We're kicking off Season 4 with one truth about publishing that serves as the best and worst part of being a writer. Plus, we're finding out who makes more: self-published authors or traditionally published authors.

Ebooks will update automatically
Alliance of Independent Authors Income Survey: Media LInks
Casemate Starts New Imprint, Brookline Books
Orbit Works – Home | Hachette Book Group
New Agent at Martin Literary
Submission Guidelines - P.S. Literary Agency
Max Orders First Ever “Harry Potter” Television Series | Pressroom
Scribner Launches a Poetry Program
IngramSpark
Up to Date list of KDP Global Fund Payouts
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"Little Duke" by Humans Win

"Rational" by Humans Win

“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory

This episode is all about the editing process, from start to finish.

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“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory

"Long Winded Woman" by Jontavious Willis

It is review time again, dear writer. Every week I provide you with at least one writing tip, and I have put together a clip show of the last several weeks’ worth of writing tip segments to help you keep things fresh in your mind.

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I have a trend report update for you mystery, thriller, and suspense writers. We’re also discussing your characters’ names.

Top Baby Names by Year - Gift
Carmel Conundrum: A Liz Adams Mystery by Stacy Wilder - Featured Author
Pilgrim’s Way Community Bookstore & Secret Garden, Carmel-by-the-sea, California - Featured Bookstore
Author Guide to the Mystery Thriller Suspense eBook Market
The disabled villain: why sensitivity reading can’t kill off this ugly trope | Disability | The Guardian
Agatha Christie classics latest to be rewritten for modern sensitivities
Submissions Update – Neil Clarke
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"Funky Break" by Tom Goldstein

"Don't Wanna" by Humans Win

"2020 Blues (The World Is Ending)" by The Turquoise Moon

In this episode, I share three main ways weather enhances a story.

The Space Between Dark and Light by Jan Krause Greene - Featured Author
Rainy Day Books, Victoria, Australia - Featured Bookstore
Book deals and book proposals with Yahdon Israel - Gift 2 of 2
Advanced Readers' Club - Gift 1 of 2
On Naming Characters
10 Most Recession-Proof Businesses In 2023 – Forbes Advisor
Doubleday Announces Sequel to Grisham's 'The Firm'
Where the ‘postman’s motto’ originated | Community News | clearwatertribune.com
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“Say Yes” by Sleeping Ghost

"Something to Say" by Nite Owl

“Gazing Out of a Café Window on a Rainy Day” by The Turquoise Moon

“Jazzy Jingle V1” by bzur

"Naked Trees Blowing Wind (brooding indie folk - w/ vocals)" by Nicholas Rowe

A CIA agent turned fiction author offers writing advice about character development that can be applied to all genres of fiction.

In Espionage Thrillers, Emotional Intelligence Matters, Too
The Internet Archive has lost its first fight to scan and lend e-books like a library - The Verge
Book thief in plot that duped famous authors avoids prison
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“Strawberry Daiquiri” by Sarah Angel

I am reviving an old money-making idea and answering an editing question I’ve refused to answer for 20 years.

The Saga of Roland Inness by Wayne Grant - Featured Author
Hay-on-Wye, Wales - Featured Book Village
How to Write a Blog - Gift
Women are publishing more books than men for the first time
Hachette, HarperCollins Offer Voluntary Severance
See How Many Followers You Have on Amazon
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"It Follows Me" by Humans Win

"By Your Side" by Wild Heart

"Village Morning by zoze

"Ambient for Talking" by Gushito

"The Wonder Years" by Humans Win

In this episode you’ll learn how to write better than any AI-generated content. I’ll also share the latest trend in wellness books, upcoming books for kids, and more.

Smart Until It’s Dumb: Why Artificial Intelligence Keeps Making Epic Mistakes (and Why the AI Bubble Will Burst) by Emmanuel Maggiori, PhD - Featured Author
Cook & Book, Brussels, Belgium - Featured Bookstore
StoriesForKids.ai: Personalized Kid's Books using AI - Gift 2 of 2
Storywizard.ai | Create incredible children`s stories in no time using AI - Gift 1 of 2
ChatGPT, Midjourney Helped a Man Write a Children's Book in 72 Hours
Comics Retailers Navigate a New Normal
Adding Spiritual Depth to Wellness Books
PRH Among New Investors in Rebel Girls
Mattel Will Form Its Own Publishing Imprint
HarperCollins, Elf on the Shelf Sign Deal for a Dozen Books
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“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory

"Little Pastry" by Humans Win

"Smooth Like Butter Lofi" by Ambert Waldron

"Puzzles" by Humans Win

"Chill Belgian" by Gushito

In this episode, I’ll tell you about copyrighting your book. We are also going to talk about Barnes & Noble’s new rewards program, and I’m sharing a pet peeve.

The Ancient Code by T. S. Falk - Featured Author
Wisdom Books and Aroma Shop, Lalitpur, Nepal - Featured Bookstore
Article: How to Copyright a Book
Video: How to get copyright numbers for your book
New Report Puts Online Sales of Books, Audio at $12.13 Billion in 2022
Barnes & Noble membership programs
A Statement on the Changes to the New Editions of Ian Fleming’s Bond Stories - Ian Fleming
"Dilbert" distributor drops comic after Scott Adams' racist comments
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“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory

"Who Even Cares What They Say" by The Turquoise Moon

"They Left Me There For You" by Humans Win

"In Search of Yourself" by Oleksii Abramovych

"Promises I Couldn't Keep (soulful indie folk - w/ vocals)" by

Nicholas Rowe

We are discussing ISBNs, identifying deepfakes, and rewriting dead authors. Plus, I have a few belated gifts for you.

First Look Book Club - Gift #3 of 3
Early Reviewers | Available Now | LibraryThing - Gift #2 of 3
Giveaways | Goodreads - Gift #1 of 3
Death in the Aegean by M.A. Monnin - Featured Author
Little Tree Books & Coffee, Athens, Greece - Featured Bookstore
Bowker | Identifier Services - ISBNs
Penguin to publish "classic" Roald Dahl books after "censorship" backlash - CBS News
Roald Dahl once said he would set an ‘enormous crocodile’ on publishers if they changed his work
Will Artificial Intelligence Make Authors Irrelevant?
Newspapers drop Dilbert comic strip after a racist rant by creator Scott Adams : NPR
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“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory

"Greek Prophet" by Humans Win

"Lunch' by Humans Win

"I don't hate you but goodbye" by Sarah Angel

"The Last Coast" by Ben Bostick

"A Night in Almiros" by Humans Win

What happens when an author does not agree with their sensitivity reader? In the case of one Big Five publisher, the author didn't get a rebuttal.

Bread and Sugar Water by Abi Kobe Zar - Featured Author
Marcus Books, Oakland, CA - Featured Bookstore
The Sensitive Question of Sensitivity Readers
The Mysteries | Book by Bill Watterson, John Kascht | Official Publisher Page | Simon & Schuster
Tor Publishing Group Announces Bramble, a New Romantic Imprint | Tor.com
HarperCollins Union Ratifies New Contract
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“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory

"On the Up" by Humans Win

"Streets Of California" by Oleksii Abramovych

"California Blues" by Style da Kid

"Fighter" by Humans Win

Today we’ll be discussing publishing salaries, book pricing, and since it’s Valentine’s Day, what’s trending in romance books. In honor of our one-year anniversary, we are going somewhere sunny and warm.

Well . . . That Was Awkward by Megan Montgomery - Featured Author
Harry Bookshop, Port Louis, Mauritius - Featured Bookstore
eBook Market Study: Second Chance Romance
ACX announces reduction in prices of audiobooks - Amazon KDP College
Barbra Streisand Memoir
Print Book Sales Fell 6.5% in 2022
HarperCollins Striking Union Reach Tentative Agreement
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“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory

"See Down to the Bottom" by Humans Win

"Down to Get up Again" by Humans Win

"Over the Ocean" by Sondé

"Sail Away" by zoze

"Second Chance" by Humans Win

Well ... That Was Awkward

It is review time again. Every week I provide you with at least one writing tip, and I have put together a clip show of the last 10 week’s worth of writing tip segments as a refresher for you.

How David Baldacci Writes
Six-Month Book Publishing Plan
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“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory

"Chill Out In The Coffee Shop (No Sax)" by Jon Presstone

Today I’m bringing you some great advice from successful authors, so get ready for that. Open your notes app, or if you’re anything like me, take out a pen and one of your many half-used notebooks.

Wang Ping, The Last Communist Virgin - Featured Author
Yu and Me Books, Chinatown, Manhattan - Featured Bookstore
How David Baldacci Writes
Sam Lipsyte on Realizing No One F*cking Cares — Thresholds
Little Free Library World Map
Little Free Library Launches Indigenous Library Program
Dee Snider on the Full Metal Jackie Radio Show! | Full Metal Jackie
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“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory

"You and Me" by Oleksii Abramovych

"Eye of the Storm (Feat. Cicely Parnas) - Instrumental Version" by Humans Win

"Chasing The Sun" by Oleksii Abramovych

"You and Me in Paradise" by Humans Win

Today we’re discussing AI-narrated audiobooks and book awards. We also discuss how getting to the heart of your story will help you identify your writing goals.

Mint by Teresa Swift - Featured Author
Fireside Books, Palmer, Alaska - Featured Bookstore
Audio File's Best Audiobooks of 2022
2023 PEN America Longlists
OverDrive Releases 2022 Digital Book Circulation Data and Highlights - OverDrive
Bookwire Expands Its Text-to-Speech Audiobook Offer With Google
Digital narration for audiobooks - Apple Books for Authors
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“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory

"Robot in the City of the Future" by Valentina Gribanova

“Puzzles” by Humans Win

"You Are Free Now" by Valentina Gribanova

“Nice Dream” by jabameister

We’re talking about books and movies releasing Spring 2023. Plus, the thief who stole my resume is at it again.

Spring 2023 Announcements: Middle Grade Comics & Graphic Novels
Spring 2023 Announcements: Memoirs & Biographies
Spring 2023 Announcements: Manga
Spring 2023 Announcements: Literary Fiction
Spring 2023 Announcements: Lifestyle
Spring 2023 Announcements: Business & Economics
Spring 2023 Announcements: History
Spring 2023 Announcements: Essays & Literary Criticism
Spring Announcements 2023: Cooking & Food
Spring 2023 Announcements: Art, Architecture & Photography
Spring 2023 Announcements: Adult Comics & Graphic Novels
Apply for an eCard | Queens Public Library
Print Book Sales Fell 6.5% in 2022
Book Deals: Week of January 16, 2023
Trailer: Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret.
Cover Reveal: 'Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret.' by Judy Blume
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“Little Duke” by Humans Winwinder

“The Wonder Years” by Humans Win

“Mischievous Days” by New Library Sounds

Rosemi is back from holiday, and she comes bearing gifts for you. She also tells you about a common and easily avoidable first draft mistake rookie writers make.

Mexican Sunset by Rick Jebb - Featured Author
Wanderlust Book Lounge - Bothell, Washington - Featured Bookstore
Select Book Conferences, Fairs & Festivals January–June 2023
Barnes & Noble to Host Inaugural BookTok Festival
“A Sackful of Seeds,” by Salman Rushdie | The New Yorker - Excerpt from Victory City
Trailer for Turn Every Page
Acclaimed Book Editor Robert Gottlieb : Fresh Air : NPR
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Music licensed from Storyblocks:

“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory

"Clever Girl" by Humans Win

"Late Night Drive" by Amber Waldron

"Coast of Mexico by Bostick

"Smoking in the Dark" by Humans Win

This episode contains a quick rundown of some important news from the book world, plus, a little gift for writers.

Six-Month Book Publishing Plan
Amazon to End Print Textbook Rentals, Overhaul Magazine and Newspaper Subscriptions
Ingram to Shut Down Aerio - Publishers Lunch
'Bookforum' to Cease Publication
'USA Today' Pauses Bestseller List, Lays Off Presiding Editor
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"Winter" and "Back to 95" by Humans Win

Learn about several bestselling authors' worst book singing experiences, and learn one thing many aspiring authors fail to do.

The Christmas Spirit: A Novel by Debbie Macomber
Free Holiday Books
Shine a Light by Rebecca Crowley (Orchard Hill Series) - Featured Author
Submissions - Tule Publishing Group |
Mizrahi Book Store, Brooklyn, NY - Featured Bookstore
Me and Orson Welles movie review (2009) | Roger Ebert
Neil Gaiman comforts debut author after two people show up to her book signing | The Independent
Ann Cleeves: Author’s laptop containing draft of novel found in snow | HeraldScotland
James Patterson to Complete Unfinished Michael Crichton Novel
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Music licensed from Storyblocks:

“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory

“Santa in Red” by Loops Lab

“Holiday at Home” by Jon Presstone

"Gift Giving" by Amber Waldron

“In Need of Christmas” by Boomer

"Dance Of The Sugar Plum Fairy" by Craig Austin, Worldwide Public Domain

Rosemi shares 5 last-minute gift ideas for writers and the latest publishing news.

5 Last-Minute Gifts for Writers - Medium article
The ForestGirls, With the World Always - Featured Author
Bookends & Beginnings, Evanston, Illinois - Featured Bookstore
Who will sell the books | SHuSH
Paramount CEO Says Simon & Schuster Will Be Divested
Markus Dohle Steps Down as Penguin Random House CEO
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“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory

"Warm Honey (Holiday Version)" by Jon Presstone

"Santa's New Suit" by Humans Win

"Forest Ambient" by jabameister

"Time to Swing" by Neil Cross

This episode includes the latest publishing news, the etymology of soccer, and a full breakdown of the biggest mistake writers make and how to fix it for free.

Why Do Some People Call It Soccer? - HISTORY
Amazon's Kindle Scribe Bet That Handwriting Is the Future of E-Readers - CNET
Bob Dylan Apologizes Over Autopen Controversy: ‘An Error in Judgement’ – Rolling Stone
Paramount Terminates PRH Bid for S&S
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"Cozy By The Fireside (Christmas Version)" by Jon Presstone

"Big and Uncool" by Humans Win

"London Winter" by Daniel Willett

Get tips on how to break into the book market, and learn how to neutralize your writing obstacles with one little word.

Hobart Book Village on the Today show - VIDEO
Hobart Book Village, Hobart, New York - Featured Bookstore
National Book Awards 2022 - National Book Foundation
HarperCollins Union Workers Bring Strike to the National Book Awards
Is there a Crisis of Confidence in Scientific Research?
K-lytics Romance Report
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Music licensed from Storyblocks:

“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory

“Jazzy Retro Swing Groove” by MoodMode

“Little Noir Mystery” by Humans Win

“gatherings by the fireplace” by Boomer

“Santa in Red” by Loops Lab

Ten weeks' worth of writing tips in one episode.

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Today we’re finding out how many pages your manuscript will be in print form, and we’re working on a fun writing exercise together. Plus, we discuss the latest publishing news.

2022 Royal Palm Literary Awards Finalists | Florida Writers Association - Featured Author
The Book Lady Bookstore, Savannah, Georgia - Featured Bookstore
Kensington Buys Erewhon Books
Turner Buys West Margin Press
RBmedia Buys German Audio Publisher
HarperCollins Buys Cider Mill Press
Rowman & Littlefield Buys Tilbury House's Adult Titles
Scholastic Buys Learning Ovations
Kwame Mbalia on Rick Riordan Presents Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky, the Graphic Novel: Middle Grade Fiction - Miami Book Fair
Kwame Mbalia to Head New Imprint for Disney
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Music licensed from Storyblocks:

“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory

"Puzzles" by Human Win

This episode provides writing tips for better dialogue, an update on the Penguin Random House–Simon & Schuster merger, thoughts about gatekeeping in publishing, and more.

Sarge | Beloved dog brings comfort and joy to veterans at Norman center - Featured Author
Full Circle Bookstore – Oklahoma City, OK - Featured Bookstore
The History of Storytelling — Words Alive - Chauvet cave, earliest representation of storytelling
Penguin Random House Simon & Schuster merger | New York Times
Antitrust-Trial Recap — From Stephen King to Markus Dohle
Penguin Seeks Simon & Schuster’s Support to Fight for Imperiled Book Merger - WSJ
Court Blocks Penguin Random House, S&S Merger
Sri Lankan Author Shehan Karunatilaka Named 2022 Booker Prize Winner
Harlequin Rebrands as Canary Street Press
Dee Alvis, Tattoo VO - Voice Talent
Free Style Sheet Templates
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Music licensed from Storyblocks:

“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory

"Into The Night" by Enzo Orefice

"Cold Mornings, Slow Motion" by Humans Win

"Blow Off Some Steam" by Ben Bostick

"Stay Right There" by Humans Win

"Cozy By The Fireside" by Jon Presstone

Learn what it really means to win NaNoWriMo. Plus, we discuss 7 tips for creating your novel's setting. http://tinyurl.com/mvxm4yax (In conversation: May-lee Chai & Belinda Huijuan Tang (Zoom event)) https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/690668/a-map-for-the-missing-by-belinda-huijuan-tang/ (A Map for the Missing: 9780593300664 | PenguinRandomHouse.com: Books) - Featured Author, Belinda Huijuan Tang https://www.blairpub.com/shop/tomorrow-in-shanghai (Tomorrow in Shanghai — Blair) - Featured Author, May-lee Chai https://www.instagram.com/indigobridgelnk/ (Indigo Bridge, Lincoln, Nebraska) - Featured Bookstore https://www.mheducation.com/sharpen/study-app.html (Study App | Sharpen by McGraw Hill) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/international/Frankfurt-Book-Fair/article/90668-frankfurt-book-fair-2022-romantasy-and-revelry-on-the-fair-floor.html (Frankfurt Book Fair 2022: 'Romantasy' and Revelry on the Fair Floor) https://apnews.com/article/gun-violence-entertainment-shootings-0e1694116023f1d2120eaee1901024da (Demand Soars for kids' books addressing violence, trauma) https://help.audible.com/s/article/can-i-return-exchange-my-book?language=en_US (Audible changes returns policy) https://forms.aweber.com/form/64/1857023764.htm (Free Style Sheet Templates) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory "We Were Meant To Be" by Humans Win "Sunshine" by Simon Jomphe Lepine "A Triumphant Return" by Jon Presstone "Storm On The Plains" by Humans Win

This Halloween episode breaks down the components of the scene and sequel structure to ensure that every scene you write is essential and moves the story and plot along at the right pace. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00YAHXMNG?ref_=dbs_m_mng_rwt_calw_tkin_0&storeType=ebooks&qid=1666527195&sr=1-1 (The Ghost of Normandy Road by John Hennessey) https://www.willardghost.com/ (Home - Grey Lady Ghost) https://willard.lib.in.us/about-us/#grey-lady (Willard Public Library - the oldest public library in Evansville, Indiana) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/international/Frankfurt-Book-Fair/article/90665-frankfurt-book-fair-2022-international-fiction-book-sales-so-far.html (Frankfurt Book Fair 2022: International Fiction Book Sales, So Far) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/international/Frankfurt-Book-Fair/article/90649-frankfurt-book-fair-2022-al-pacino-memoir-makes-the-rounds.html (Frankfurt Book Fair 2022: Al Pacino Memoir Makes the Rounds) https://www.kyivpost.com/ukraine-politics/authors-must-document-russian-terror-zelensky-tells-frankfurt-fair.html (Authors Must Document Russian Terror, Zelensky Tells Frankfurt Fair - Kyiv Post - Ukraine's Global Voice) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/manufacturing/article/90650-ingram-says-shipping-error-was-unintentional.html (Ingram Says Shipping Error Was Unintentional) https://forms.aweber.com/form/64/1857023764.htm (Free Style Sheet Templates) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory “Mystery of a Haunted Memory” by Jon Presstone “Trick or Treat” by MoodMode “Halloween Haunted House” by MoodMode “Halloween Stalker” by Jayson Wayne Brown

Authors often wonder how to end a novel. We'll review the 8 most common ways to end a story. https://brightbirdpress.com/collections/all (Bullet journals for writers) - Bright Bird Press https://worderella.com/ (Belinda Kroll | Cozy Victorian fantasy & fiction) - Featured Author https://www.bookloft.com/ (The Book Loft of German Village, Columbus, Ohio) - Featured Bookstore https://bookriot.com/buying-books-onto-the-bestseller-list/ (A History of Buying Books Onto the Bestseller List) https://www.theatlantic.com/books/archive/2022/09/axios-smart-brevity-best-seller-list/671577/ (Axios's 'Smart Brevity' and Questionable Book-Selling Tactics - The Atlantic) https://mailchi.mp/2660f082d8e7/amazon-kdp-october?e=e1a8012ccc (Amazon & KDP Issues - Special Update) https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2022/09/artist-receives-first-known-us-copyright-registration-for-generative-ai-art/ (Artist receives first known US copyright registration for latent diffusion AI art | Ars Technica) https://forms.aweber.com/form/64/1857023764.htm (Free Style Sheet Templates) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory “Gazing Out of a Cafe Window on a Rainy Day” by Tencher Music “Autumn Leaves” by Simon Sharp “The Wonder Years” by Humans Win “Fancy and Friendly” by Jon Presstone “Beautiful Way to End” by Neil Cross

In this episode, we talk about writing your novel's climax, becoming an award-winning podcast three times over, and the latest publishing news. https://www.amazon.com/Meyers-Authentic-Hungarian-Heirloom-Recipes/dp/1468195271/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1543501542&sr=8-1&keywords=9781468195279 (June Meyer's Authentic Hungarian Heirloom Recipes) - Featured Author http://www.junemeyer.com/recipes.html (June Meyer's Authentic Hungarian Heirloom Recipe Index Page) - Featured Author - Recipes https://www.facebook.com/MassolitBudapest (Massolit Books & Cafe, Budapest, Hungary) - Featured Bookstore https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/childrens/childrens-authors/article/90445-it-s-never-too-late-seven-authors-on-making-their-ya-debuts-after-age-50.html (It's Never Too Late: Seven Authors on Making Their YA Debuts After Age 50) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/new-titles/adult-announcements/article/90490-the-2022-publishers-weekly-holiday-gift-guide.html (The 2022 Publishers Weekly Holiday Gift Guide) https://www.nationalbook.org/2022-national-book-award-finalists-announced/ (2022 National Book Award Finalists Announced - National Book Foundation) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/licensing/article/90466-little-golden-books-plans-100th-anniversary-disney-set.html (Little Golden Books Plans 100th-Anniversary Disney Set) https://www.insidehighered.com/news/2022/10/06/publisher-reinstates-blocked-ebooks-librarians-unsatisfied (Publisher Wiley reinstates ebooks) https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-features/tiktok-penguin-random-house-booktok-creator-1234606626/ (TikTok’s Penguin Random House Collab Has BookTok Creators Worried – Rolling Stone) https://forms.aweber.com/form/64/1857023764.htm (Free Style Sheet Templates) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory “Vibes Just Right” by Jon Presstone “I Only Have a Little Bit Left to Give” by Jon Presstone “Give Me Food” by Bobby Cole “The Hero Within” by Bobby Cole

We begin our discussion of Act 3 of a three-act book, and I share my professional opinion of NaNoWriMo. I also share a rare recording from Ernest Hemingway, which offers his opinion on writer organizations. https://www.amazon.com/Hurricane-Season-Fernanda-Melchor/dp/0811230732 (Fernanda Melchor, Hurricane Season) - Featured Author https://curiousfoxbooks.com/index.php (Curious Fox, Berlin, Germany) - Featured Bookstore https://mjhnyc.org/new-york-jewish-book-festival/ (New York Jewish Book Festival : Museum of Jewish Heritage — A Living Memorial to the Holocaust) https://www.endlessinkbooks.com/blogs/news/short-story-contest-2022-horror-comedy (Short Story Contest 2022 Horror Comedy!!!) https://publishers.org/news/aap-statshot-annual-report-for-2021-book-publishing-revenues-up-12-3-for-the-year-reaching-all-time-high-of-29-33-billion/ (AAP StatShot Annual Report For 2021: Book Publishing Revenues Up 12.3% For the Year, Reaching All-Time High of $29.33 Billion - AAP) https://nanowrimo.org/ (NaNoWriMo) https://forms.aweber.com/form/64/1857023764.htm (Free Style Sheet Templates) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory "A Cafe In Monaco" by Scorehouse Media "A Dreamy Slumber" by Tencher Music "Bay Area Bop" by Q-Rock "Happy Walk" by Simon Jomphe Lepine "Vintage Funky Intro" by Jon Presstone

This episode is filled with good news, including a big win for authors, a new program for debut authors, and a new feature on Spotify. We also review four reasons you might be getting in your own way when writing the Epiphany at the end of Act 2. https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/authors/pw-select/article/90407-new-titles-from-self-publishers-end-of-september-2022.html (New Titles from Self-Publishers: End of September 2022) - Featured Authors https://todomodo.org/ (Todo Modo, Florence, Italy) - Featured Bookstore https://findawayvoices.com/ (Findaway Voices - Create and Sell Audiobooks) https://www.spotify.com/us/audiobooks/ (Spotify Audiobooks - Spotify (US)) https://www.authorsguild.org/industry-advocacy/amazon-changing-ebook-return-policy/ (Amazon Is Changing Its Ebook Return Policy in Major Breakthrough for Authors - The Authors Guild) https://www.darkhorse.com/Blog/3603/dark-horse-expands-partnership-penguin-random (DARK HORSE EXPANDS PARTNERSHIP WITH PENGUIN RANDOM HOUSE PUBLISHER SERVICES :: Blog :: Dark Horse Comics) https://www.pw.org/content/get_the_word_out (Get the Word Out | Poets & Writers) https://forms.aweber.com/form/64/1857023764.htm (Free Style Sheet Templates) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory “Italian Romance” by Keith Anthony Holden “Warm and Cozy” by New Library Sounds “Boccherini Minuet” by Bobby Cole “Magic” by Humans Win

We grapple with the second checkpoint in Act 2 of a three-act novel: the Struggle. Plus, I tell you about giveaways and events taking place during Banned Books Week. https://alabooksandauthors.com/read-an-excerpt/ (Read an Excerpt - The Night in Her Hair) - Featured Author https://thelastwordbks.com/ (The Last Word, Lahore, Pakistan) - Featured Bookstore https://www.bookofthemonth.com/best-books-of-the-year (Best Books of the Year - Book of the Month Club) https://thebookerprizes.com/the-booker-library/prize-years/2022 (The Booker Prize 2022 | The Booker Prizes) https://www.nationalbook.org/2022-national-book-awards-longlist-for-fiction/ (2022 National Book Awards Longlist for Fiction - National Book Foundation) https://www.mackidsschoolandlibrary.com/banned-books/ (Read and Share Banned Books – MacKids School & Library) https://penguinrandomhousesecondaryeducation.com/2022/09/07/dks-banned-books/ (DK’s Banned Books Profiles the Most Controversial Texts Throughout History - Penguin Random House Secondary Education) https://sites.prh.com/bannedbooksdk (DK Banned Books Sweeps) - GIVEAWAY https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/childrens/childrens-industry-news/article/90335-children-s-publishers-rally-to-promote-banned-books-week.html (Children's Publishers Rally to Promote Banned Books Week) https://techcrunch.com/2022/09/08/spotify-begin-testing-audiobooks-very-soon/ (Spotify exec says the company will begin testing audiobooks 'very soon' • TechCrunch) https://bannedbooksweek.org/dont-miss-these-banned-books-week-coalition-facebook-live-events/ (Don’t Miss These Banned Books Week Coalition Facebook Live Events! | Banned Books Week) https://forms.aweber.com/form/64/1857023764.htm (Free Style Sheet Templates) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory “Warm Summer” by Valentina Gribanova “A Dramatic Twist” by Neil Cross (conspiracy theory music) "Hip Hop" by Oleksii Abramovych “Only One” by Humans Win “Summertime Love” by Humans Win

Today I will guide you gently into Act 2 of your novel, and you will talk me down from yet another literary soapbox. And that is why we work well together. https://campfirenyc.com/summer-island/ (SUMMER ISLAND comic, Steve Coulson) - Featured Author https://www.chapter101.in/ (Chapter 101 Bookstore, Gurugram (formerly Gurgaon), India.) - Featured Bookstore https://mashable.com/article/people-over-prime-tiktok-amazon-boycott (TikTok creators and influencers are protesting against Amazon | Mashable) https://mashable.com/article/amazon-sponsor-tiktok-book-club (TikTok's Book Club is now (unsurprisingly) Amazon-sponsored | Mashable) https://corporate.walmart.com/newsroom/2022/08/22/walmart-inspires-new-reading-adventures-with-the-walmart-book-club (Walmart Inspires New Reading Adventures with the Walmart Book Club) https://www.scotsman.com/news/opinion/columnists/val-mcdermid-queen-of-crime-is-probably-not-in-trouble-with-the-law-over-agatha-christie-estate-trademark-claim-colin-hulme-3827554 (Val McDermid, Queen of Crime, is probably not in trouble with the law over Agatha Christie estate trademark claim – Colin Hulme | The Scotsman) https://www.nytimes.com/2022/08/25/books/how-to-get-published.html (How to Get Published - The New York Times) https://forms.aweber.com/form/64/1857023764.htm (Free Style Sheet Templates) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory “Swing it Smooth” by Jon Presstone "Romance" by Enzo Orefice “Happy India” by Neil Cross

Ten week's worth of brainstorming, plotting, character development, and other writing tips from a professional book editor. https://forms.aweber.com/form/64/1857023764.htm (Free Style Sheet Templates) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory "Chill Out In The Coffee Shop (No Sax)" by Jon Presstone

To wrap up our discussion of Act 1 of your book, I am answering listener questions, and you asked some good ones. Also, learn about paid internship opportunities at HarperCollins. https://wrzenie.pl/ (Wrzenie Świata, Warsaw, Poland) - Featured Bookstore https://www.quora.com/What-are-the-twelve-plot-frames/answer/Dan-Hoffmann-1 (12 Plot Frames) https://www.harpercollins.com/pages/careers-internships (HarperCollins Internship US) https://app.beapplied.com/apply/w1fn1ckmrf?utm_source=%5bTheBookseller (The Traineeship 2023 - HarperCollins Publishers (UK)) https://ncac.org/news/keller-texas-isd-removes-more-than-40-challenged-books-including-holy-bible (NCAC challenges Keller, Texas banned books) https://www.rollingstone.com/tv-movies/tv-movie-features/heat-two-sequel-michael-mann-interview-1385744/ (‘Heat 2’: Why Michael Mann’s Sequel to His Classic Crime-Movie Had to Be a Novel – Rolling Stone) https://forms.aweber.com/form/64/1857023764.htm (Free Style Sheet Templates) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory "Party Song With Funky Bass" by Sondé "Hello Memories" by Oleksii Abramovych “Retro 80s Pop Rock” by Bobby Cole

We are continuing our journey through the three-act structure today. I hope you wrote a killer hook last week. This week we’re looking at Backstory and your Act 1 Trigger. The US Department of Justice versus Penguin Random House trial gave their closing remarks, while you and I played catch at the back of the courtroom. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09S65KXRK/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i0 (Pacts & Promises by Noy Levi) - Featured Author https://open.spotify.com/show/5tZrC37aDftZivWvECcrye (The U-NOY-Verse | Podcast on Spotify) - Featured Author https://www.oldfloridabookshop.com/ (Old Florida Book Shop) - Featured Bookstore https://www.amazon.com/Vie-DAmour-Life-Love/dp/B09HFZWYJ3/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2L7SYLFVYMWF9&keywords=la+vie+d%27amour&qid=1660082232&rnid=2941120011&s=books&sprefix=la+vie+d%27amour%2Caps%2C126&sr=1-1 (La Vie D'amour by Noy Levi) - Featured Author https://bleacherreport.com/articles/212819-when-baseballs-best-cultural-critic-turned-his-back-on-the-game (Jacques Barzun, "Baseball's Best Cultural Critic", Turns His Back on the Game | News, Scores, Highlights, Stats, and Rumors | Bleacher Report) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/publisher-news/article/90148-doj-v-prh-ending-where-we-started.html (DOJ v. PRH: Ending Where We Started) https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/crime/salman-rushdie-attack-hadi-matar-satanic-verses-b2147081.html (Salman Rushdie attack suspect says he only read two pages of Satanic Verses | The Independent) https://forms.aweber.com/form/64/1857023764.htm (Free Style Sheet Templates) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory “Paradise Vibes by Jon Presstone “Samba Dream” by Sleeping Ghost “Casa de Frio” by Jon Presstone “Summer” by Mikael Manvelyan

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As promised, we will begin our discussion of Act 1 of your story today. We’re also talking about what you have in common with Stephen King, the antitrust lawsuit against Penguin Random House, and the assasination attempt of Salman Rushdie. https://thecomfortablespotpodcast.com/ (The Comfortable Spot Podcast) - Featured Podcast https://www.woodbinebooks.ie/a-tale-of-three-indies-podcast/ (A Tale of Three Indies Podcast – Latest Episodes – Woodbine Books) - Featured Podcast https://www.woodbinebooks.ie/ (Woodbine Books, Kilcullen, Co. Kildare, Ireland) - Featured Bookstore https://anchor.fm/lidiabooktastic (Lidia's Booktastic Podcast) - Featured Podcast https://theeuropeannetwork.eu/ (The European Network – Our Network Your Network) https://www.opindia.com/2022/08/the-satanic-verses-translators-publishers-salman-rushdie (The aftermath of The Satanic Verses) https://www.cnn.com/2022/08/13/us/salman-rushdie-attacked-saturday/index.html (Salman Rushdie suspect charged with second-degree attempted murder and assault - CNN) https://www.nytimes.com/2020/06/08/books/publishingpaidme-publishing-day-of-action.html#:~:text=Using%20a%20hashtag%2C%20%23PublishingPaidMe%2C,copies%20sold%2C%20start%20coming%20in. (Publishing Paid Me) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/publisher-news/article/90065-doj-v-prh-agents-publishers-move-center-stage.html (DOJ v. PRH: Agents, Publishers Move Center Stage) https://www.vulture.com/2022/08/penguin-random-house-simon-schuster-antitrust-trial-recap.htm (Antitrust-Trial Recap — From Stephen King to Markus Dohle) https://www.courthousenews.com/government-calls-final-witness-in-antitrust-trial-over-penguin-random-house-simon-schuster-merger/ (Courthouse News: DOJ vs PRH) https://www.americanactionforum.org/insight/doj-employs-a-novel-approach-in-antitrust-lawsuit/ (DOJ Employs a Novel Approach in Antitrust Lawsuit - AAF) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/publisher-news/article/89932-doj-vs-prh-and-s-s-book-biz-legal-showdown-of-the-century.html (Showdown: DOJ’s Bid to Block PRH Acquisition of S&S Is Heading to Trial) https://apnews.com/article/salman-rushdie-attacked-9eae99aea82cb0d39628851ecd42227a (Salman Rushdie attacked) https://forms.aweber.com/form/64/1857023764.htm (Free Style Sheet Templates) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory "In Ireland, again!" by bzur "Back To 95 [Remix]" by Humans Win (formerly Lance Conrad) "Searching For A Sign (30 Seconds Intro)" by Simon Jomphe Lepine

America's Editor provides a step-by-step guide to help you solidify your story's structure. We also find out what books are trending and what books are not being printed. https://www.transitbooks.org/books/cowboys (We All Loved Cowboys, Carol Bensimon) - Featured Author https://www.leonardodavinci.com.br/ (Livraria Leonardo da Vinci, downtown Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) - Featured Bookstore https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/editorial_we (editorial we - Wiktionary) https://www.newyorker.com/culture/comma-queen/lessons-on-the-royal-we-from-mary-queen-of-scots-and-the-favourite (Lessons on the Royal We, from “Mary Queen of Scots” and “The Favourite” | The New Yorker) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/religion/article/89917-witch-books-hold-power.html (Witch Books Hold Power) https://k-lytics.com/product/urban-fantasy-ebook-research-report/ (The Urban Fantasy eBook Market) https://www.vanityfair.com/style/2022/07/britney-spears-memoir-is-complete (Britney Spears’s Memoir Is Complete, But There’s a Hold Up. | Vanity Fair) https://www.ft.com/content/8d17ccc7-ab8f-4896-9f54-6d2739b59a8f (Academic Publishers Delay New Titles | Financial Times) https://forms.aweber.com/form/64/1857023764.htm (Free Style Sheet Templates) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory "Plastic Furniture" by Jon Presstone "Late Night Bossa Nova" by Neil Cross "Brazil" by Humans Win "Under a Brazilian Sky" by Daniel

We are taking a look at the supporting characters in books to help you decide if your book has too many, too few, or just enough characters. We are also celebrating romance in the kitchen, new resources for writers, and book award nominees. https://www.llibreriafinestres.com/ (Llibreria Finestres, Barcelona, Spain) - Featured Bookstore https://actar.com/product/outdoor-domesticity/ (Ricardo Devesa) - Featured Author https://centerforfiction.org/book-recs/2022-first-novel-prize/ (Announcing The Center for Fiction 2022 First Novel Prize Longlist | The Center for Fiction) https://thebookerprizes.com/the-booker-library/prize-years/2022 (The Booker Prize 2022 | The Booker Prizes) https://www.eater.com/23188870/summer-romance-novels-baking-cooking (Romance Novels Are Increasingly Getting Hot and Heavy in the Kitchen - Eater) https://disabilityinpublishing.com/ (Disability in Publishing) https://hrishikesh.bulletin.com/introducing-book-exploder/ (Introducing Book Exploder) https://forms.aweber.com/form/64/1857023764.htm (Free Style Sheet Templates) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory "¿Como Estan Mis Amigas?" by Tencher Music "The House" by Adrian Berenguer “Holiday Diaries” by Simon Sharp “Brazilian Summer Full” by Sleeping Ghost

In this law and order episode of Writing Break, I’m dishing out two scoops of courtroom drama with a sprinkling of murder. So, let’s take a break from the summer heat and discuss antagonists, the characters we love to hate. https://medium.com/@dinchamion (Greg Fazekas) - Featured Author https://www.facebook.com/IdaZimsen/ (Iða Zimsen, Reykjavik, Iceland) - Featured Bookstore https://www.theatlantic.com/books/archive/2022/07/where-the-crawdads-sing-delia-mark-owens-zambia-murder/670479/ ('Where the Crawdads Sing' Author Wanted for Questioning in Murder - The Atlantic) https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-07-19/stephen-king-set-to-testify-in-book-publishing-antitrust-trial (Bloomberg - Stephen King Set to Testify in Book Publishing Antitrust Trial) https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-sues-block-penguin-random-house-s-acquisition-rival-publisher-simon (Justice Department Sues to Block Penguin Random House’s Acquisition of Rival Publisher Simon & Schuster | OPA | Department of Justice) https://www.theguardian.com/books/2022/jul/14/alleged-book-thief-filippo-bernardini-may-avoid-trial-in-the-us (Alleged book thief Filippo Bernardini may avoid trial in the US | Books | The Guardian) https://forms.aweber.com/form/64/1857023764.htm (Free Style Sheet Templates) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory “Spirit in the Sunrise” by Jon Presstone “Warm Honey” by Jon Presstone “Summer Funk Disco Madness” by MEDIA MUSIC Group “Action Bravery Music” by Bobby Cole

In this episode, you'll learn 5 things all great protagonists have in common and what people really mean when they say, “Your book will never sell.” https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/comics/article/89772-tuttle-provides-showcase-for-filipino-graphic-novels-and-prose.html (Tuttle Provides Showcase for Filipino Graphic Novels and Prose) - Featured Authors https://www.facebook.com/mtcloud (Mt Cloud Bookshop, Baguio, Philippines) - Featured Bookstore https://www.loc.gov/events/2022-national-book-festival/about-this-event/ (2022 National Book Festival) https://poets.org/united-states-poet-laureate (Ada Limón Named New US Poet Laureate) https://americasnextgreatauthor.com/ (America's Next Great Author | Reality show for writers) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/publisher-news/article/89842-publishing-gets-the-reality-show-treatment-with-america-s-next-great-author.html (Publishing Gets the Reality Show Treatment with 'America’s Next Great Author') https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/publisher-news/article/89825-hc-union-sets-july-20-strike-date.html (HarperCollins Union Sets July 20 Strike Date) https://forms.aweber.com/form/64/1857023764.htm (Free Style Sheet Templates) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory “Gentle Swim” by Jon Presstone “Give Me a Reason” by Gushito “Sunny Mood” by Oleksii Abramovych “Happy Tropical Pop for Summer Vibes” by LiQWYD

Today we’re discussing the difference between story, plot, and premise. We’re also talking about decreased print sales, Amazon’s ebook return policy, and vigilante justice. Plus, we visit the world’s oldest bookstore. https://www.amazon.com/Quitters-Carlo-Matos/dp/0998632570 (Carlo Matos) - Featured Author https://www.bertrand.pt/livrarias/livraria-bertrand-chiado/900 (Livraria Bertrand, Lisbon, Portugal) - Featured Booktore https://k-lytics.com/product/vigilante-justice/ (The Vigilante Justice E-Book Market - Author and Publisher Guide) https://www.npr.org/2022/06/27/1107109243/amazon-kindle-ebook-return-policy (Amazon's e-book return policy comes under criticism from authors : NPR) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/bookselling/article/89763-print-unit-sales-fell-9-4-in-late-june.html (Print Unit Sales Fell 9.4% in Late June) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sie_hYZ8yqc (Paper Shortage & Midterm Elections) https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/money/business/2022/06/24/better-homes-gardens-people-magazine-halt-print-subscriptions-meredith-dotdash/7722759001/ (Better Homes & Gardens, People halt some print subscriptions) https://forms.aweber.com/form/64/1857023764.htm (Free Style Sheet Templates) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory “Poolside in Paradise” by Humans Win “Summer of 2022” by Himanshu Katara “Danza Appassionata” by Humans Win “Gentle Swim” by Jon Presstone

Welcome to Season 2 of Writing Break. We’re beginning our trek through a three-act novel today with five brainstorming tips. We visit a cinema-turned-bookstore and discuss conventions, awards, and ransomware. https://www.nytimes.com/2021/09/05/books/s-a-cosby-razorblade-tears-crime-novelist.html (S. A. Cosby) - Featured Author https://www.instagram.com/norlieldorado/?hl=en (Norli Eldorado, Oslo, Norway) - Featured Bookstore https://womensprizeforfiction.co.uk/ (Women's Prize for Fiction The Women’s Prize for Fiction 2022) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/book-deals/article/89754-book-deals-week-of-july-4-2022.html (Book Deals: Week of July 4, 2022) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/trade-shows-events/article/89741-san-diego-comic-con-is-back.html (San Diego Comic-Con Is Back) https://therecord.media/publishing-giant-macmillan-still-unable-to-process-orders-after-ransomware-attack/ (Publishing giant Macmillan still unable to process orders after ransomware attack - The Record by Recorded Future) https://forms.aweber.com/form/64/1857023764.htm (Free Style Sheet Templates) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory "Summer" by Mikael Manvelyan "Summertime Blues" by Humans Win "Cozy Spring Dreams" by Tencher Music

This is a full episode of writing tips from America's Editor, a professional book editor. These tips are for new writers and published authors alike. https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/hear-text-read-aloud-with-narrator-040f16c1-4632-b64e-110a-da4a0ac56917#:~:text=Narrator%20reads%20aloud%20the%20text,F1%20after%20you%20open%20Narrator (How to Get Microsoft to Read Text Aloud) https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-get-mac-to-read-text (How to Get Your Mac Computer to Read Text Aloud) https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-make-google-docs-read-to-you (How to Make Google Docs Read Your Documents Aloud to You) https://forms.aweber.com/form/64/1857023764.htm (Free Style Sheet Templates) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory "Chill Out In The Coffee Shop (No Sax)" by Jon Presstone

It’s the season 1 finale of Writing Break, and we’re ending with two of America's Editor's favorite writing tips. We have a lot to cover in 15 minutes. As usual, we’re starting with the latest publishing news. Plus, America's Editor asks for your advice. https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/hear-text-read-aloud-with-narrator-040f16c1-4632-b64e-110a-da4a0ac56917#:~:text=Narrator%20reads%20aloud%20the%20text,F1%20after%20you%20open%20Narrator (How to Get Microsoft to Read Text Aloud) https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-get-mac-to-read-text (How to Get Your Mac Computer to Read Text Aloud) https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-make-google-docs-read-to-you (How to Make Google Docs Read Your Documents Aloud to You) https://findawayvoices.com/audiobookmonth2022 (National Audiobook Month 2022) https://lithub.com/life-as-a-book-publisher-in-wartime-ukraine/ (Life As a Book Publisher in Wartime Ukraine ‹ Literary Hub) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/financial-reporting/article/89622-lgbtq-fiction-sales-surge-in-the-u-s.html (LGBTQ Fiction Sales Surge in the U.S.) https://forms.aweber.com/form/64/1857023764.htm (Free Style Sheet Templates) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory “https://www.storyblocks.com/audio/stock/como-estan-mis-amigas-rgvnz2_cvkhu0jbim.html (¿Como Estan Mis Amigas?)” by https://www.storyblocks.com/audio/search?media-type=music&portal_artist_ids=rlxF7zAfrDkf8xwaub (Tencher Music) “https://www.storyblocks.com/audio/stock/unsaid-instrumental-346962242.html (Unsaid” by Humans Wins)

America's Editor has an important update for authors about ISBNs and a self-editing tip for writers that will save them time and money. https://fpc.org.pl/ (Donate to support Ukrainian children and literacy) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/childrens/childrens-industry-news/article/89556-grants-to-ukrainian-publishers-announced.html (Grants to Ukrainian Publishers Announced) https://forms.aweber.com/form/64/1857023764.htm (Free Style Sheet Templates) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory "Slow Coffee Lofi" by Simon Sharp "Do You Believe In Magic" by Precarious Perch Extract from Act 1 of Swan Lake

America's Editor tells you how to start your book or short story. https://hondredpercent.com/ (Hondred Percent – Official site for Poet Rapper Hondred Percent) - Featured Author https://vidyabookstore.com/shop/ (Vidya Bookstore, Accra, Ghana) - Featured Bookstore https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2022/5/26/turkey-book-publishers-struggle-to-survive-amid-economic-crisis (Turkey Book Publishers Struggle to Survive Amid Economic Crisis) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/publisher-news/article/89504-freedom-to-read-advocates-sound-alarm-as-obscenity-lawsuit-advances-in-virginia.html (Freedom to Read Advocates Sound Alarm as Obscenity Lawsuit Advances in Virginia) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/publisher-news/article/89505-freelance-isn-t-free-act-passes-in-new-york-state.html (Freelance Isn’t Free Act Passes in New York State) https://forms.aweber.com/form/64/1857023764.htm (Free Style Sheet Templates) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory "Love you Africa" by Himanshu Katara "Everything Under The Sun" by Humans Win "Afro Summer" by Sleeping Ghost "Highest Peaks - Drums Only" by William Van De Crommert

America's Editor shares the average page count of today’s bestseller and talks about a group of readers who want books with characters their age. Plus, we’ll gossip about the author who murdered her husband. https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/wally-worm-and-the-wool-scarves-william-c-martin/1141114204 (Casey Martin) - Featured Author https://www.merlinlibrary.com/ (Merlin Library, Sliema, Malta) - Featured Bookstore https://www.george-orwell.org/1984 (George Orwell - 1984) https://gutenberg.net.au/ebooks01/0100021.txt (1984 by George Orwell) https://mondopolitico.com/library/1984/1984_c1.htm (Mondo Politico: George Orwell - 1984 (full text, online, free)) https://www.planetebook.com/free-ebooks/1984.pdf (Full version of 1984 (1)) https://wordsrated.com/bestselling-books-have-never-been-shorter/ (Bestselling books have never been shorter [Study of 3,444 NYT bestselling titles] – WordsRated) https://www.thebookseller.com/comment/women-over-45-love-books--its-time-the-book-trade-loved-them-back (The Bookseller - Comment - Women over 45 love books – it's time the book trade loved them back) https://lithub.com/belarus-has-banned-the-sale-of-1984/ (Belarus has banned the sale of 1984. ‹ Literary Hub) https://publishingperspectives.com/2022/05/ipa-fep-eibf-flag-reports-of-belarusian-publishers-detentions/ (IPA, FEP, EIBF Flag Reports of Publishers in Belarus Being Detained) https://www.rferl.org/a/belarus-bookstore-harassment-arrest/31854941.html (Belarusian Publisher, Associate Arrested After Opening New Bookstore) https://www.cnn.com/style/article/india-geetanjali-shree-booker-prize-intl-hnk/index.html (International Booker Prize) https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2022/05/26/how-murder-your-husband-writer-convicted-nancy-crampton-brophy/9939969002/ (‘How to Murder Your Husband’ writer convicted of murdering her husband) https://forms.aweber.com/form/64/1857023764.htm (Free Style Sheet Templates) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory "Slow Me Down" by LiQWYD "I See You" by we20fifty "Magic Found In Nature" by MEDIA MUSIC GROUP "The Simple Things" by Judson Lee "Waiting for Your Train" by Enzo Orefice

In this episode we’re discussing the future of publishing, an author who declined a literary award, and tips for selling books in person. https://toddfahnestock.com/ (Todd Fahnestock Author Page, Fantasy Books) https://www.rfa.org/english/news/vietnam/award-05052022181224.html (Nguyen Thi Tinh Thy) - Featured Author https://cachep.vn/ (Nhà Sách Cá Chép, Ho Chi Minh City) - Featured Bookstore https://foefestival.wsj.com/event/the-future-of-everything-festival/ (WSJ Future of Everything Festival) https://www.forbes.com/sites/gusalexiou/2022/05/10/amazon-adds-new-adult-disability-fiction-category-to-its-online-bookstore/ (Amazon Adds New Adult Disability Fiction Category To Its Online Bookstore) https://www.engadget.com/amazon-kindle-supports-epub-format-002501848.html (Amazon's Kindle will finally add ePub support | Engadget) https://www.greenburger.com/kids (Greenburger Kids — Sanford J. Greenburger Associates) https://abcaudio.com/podcasts/the-book-case/ (The Book Case Podcast - ABC Audio) https://forms.aweber.com/form/64/1857023764.htm (Free Style Sheet Templates) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory “Harmony” by Gushito "Bay Area Bop" by Q-Rock “Daredevil” by Amber Waldron "The Revolution" by Nite Owl "Person to Person 30" by Bruce Zimmerman

We travel to Vilnius, Lithuania, learn about the different types of antiheroes, discuss a disturbing trend on LinkedIn job posts, and catch up on Amazon publishing trends. https://www.amazon.com/Nicole-Banks/e/B00BH2RG20%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share (Nicole Banks) https://www.amazon.com/Hour-Wolf-Steam-Stone-Saga-ebook/dp/B00EZ3QWF0 (Andrius Tapinas, Hour of the Wolf) - Featured Author https://knygynas.biz/ (Eureka! Vilnius, Lithuania) - Featured Bookstore https://k-lytics.com/female-detectives/ (K-lytics Female & Sleuths Market Report) https://k-lytics.com/product/historical-fiction/ (The Historical Fiction eBook Market - Author and Publisher Guide) https://lunch.publishersmarketplace.com/2022/05/storytel-grows-in-q1-with-audiobooks-com-acquisition-confirms-restructuring/ (Storytel Grows in Q1 With Audiobooks.com Acquisition, Confirms Restructuring - Publishers Lunch) https://forms.aweber.com/form/64/1857023764.htm (Free Style Sheet Templates) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory "Lawn Chair" by Humans Win "Overtime" by Humans Win "King Me" by Nite Owl "I Meant That" by Nick Battle "The Battle with the King of the Dead" by Precarious Perch

This episode features publishing profit updates, a burning publishing house, and an ode to the anti-hero. https://jairesims.com/ (Jaire Sims) - Featured Author https://gladdaybookshop.com/ (Glad Day Bookshop, Toronto, Ontario) - Featured Bookstore https://best-books.publishersweekly.com/pw/best-books/summer-reads-2022 (Summer Reads 2022 from Publishers Weekly : Publishers Weekly) https://best-books.publishersweekly.com/pw/best-books/summer-reads-2022 (Summer Reads 2022 from Publishers Weekly : Publishers Weekly) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/childrens/childrens-industry-news/article/89227-baker-taylor-opens-a-new-chapter-with-paw-prints.html (Baker & Taylor Opens a New Chapter with Paw Prints) https://play.google.com/books/publish/autonarrated/ (Auto-narrated audiobooks - Create audiobooks with Google Play Books) https://www.newsweek.com/warehouse-fire-moscow-blaze-pro-kremlin-publishing-house-1702826 (Pro-Kremlin Publishing House Catches Fire in Moscow, Videos Show) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/audio-books/article/89151-google-play-books-expands-ai-audiobook-narration.html (Google Play Books Expands AI Audiobook Narration) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/financial-reporting/article/89203-s-s-defies-gravity-in-first-quarter.html (S&S Defies Gravity in First Quarter) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/financial-reporting/article/89171-bad-news-from-amazon.html (A Bad First Quarter at Amazon) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/financial-reporting/article/89234-profits-fell-16-at-harpercollins.html (Profits Fell 16% at HarperCollins) https://forms.aweber.com/form/64/1857023764.htm (Free Style Sheet Templates) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory "Urban Street Life" by Oleksii Abramovych "Endless" by Enzo Orefice "Chill Out In The Coffee Shop (No Sax)" by Jon Presstone "Heroic Fight Drama" by Rainforest Audio

Get whisked away to the Dutch Caribbean to visit with our listener friends. While we’re there, we discuss beach reads, the impossibility of being a prophet in your own land, and, of course, publishing news. Plus, there are a couple of presents waiting for you at the end of this episode. https://forms.aweber.com/form/64/1857023764.htm (Free Style Sheet Templates) https://plazabookshop.com/ (Plaza Bookshop, Oranjestad, Aruba) - Featured Bookstore https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/japan-anti-procrastination-cafe/index.html (Manuscript Writing Cafe) https://publishingperspectives.com/2022/04/ukraine-a-call-to-buy-rights-to-support-publishers/ (Books from Ukraine: A Call to Buy Rights to Support Publishers) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/libraries/article/89012-blackstone-quietly-ends-library-embargo.html (Blackstone Ends Library Embargo) https://www.timeout.com/newyork/news/nyc-libraries-are-offering-free-digital-library-cards-to-people-across-the-u-s-041322 (NYC libraries are offering free digital library cards to people across the U.S.) https://www.kentucky.com/news/politics-government/article260428187.html (Kentucky Legislature Politicizes Libraries) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/publisher-news/article/89109-authors-guild-launches-a-banned-book-club.html (Authors Guild Launches a Banned Book Club) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory "Over The Ocean" by Sondé "Lullaby Lofi" by OKO "Casa De Frio" by Jon Presstone

This episode features a lot of happy publishing news, a trip to the Land Down Under, and information about style sheets and the people who love them. https://www.shawlinepublishing.com.au/our-titles/non-fiction/display/218-recipe-for-a-healthy-brain (Recipe for a Healthy Brain | Shawline Publishing Group P/L) - Featured Author https://paperbackbooks.com.au/ (Paperback Books, Melbourne, Australia) - Featured Bookstore https://lunch.publishersmarketplace.com/2022/04/first-quarter-deals-sales-remain-at-record-levels-even-as-six-figure-deals-soften/ (First Quarter Deals: Sales Remain At Record Levels, Even As Six-Figure Deals Soften - Publishers Lunch) https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/harpercollins-focus-launches-new-imprint-harper-select-301513686.html (HarperCollins Focus Launches New Imprint Harper Select) https://yalebooks.yale.edu/search-results/?series=yle174-ancient-lives (Ancient Lives from Yale University Press) https://www.barnesandnoble.com/b/audiobooks/_/N-2sgz (B&N Audiobooks) https://www.bloomberg.com/news/features/2022-03-28/bookstores-tap-nostalgia-for-borders-barnes-nobles (Nostalgia for Big Box Bookstores) https://www.themarysue.com/new-york-city-public-library-ends-late-fees-receives-more-than-21000-overdue-items/ (NYPL Ends Late Fees) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory "Warm Honey" by Jon Presstone "Le Passage" by Enzo Orefice "Hair and make up" by C.J. Harris "Walking Through Downtown" by Humans Win

In this episode, we'll catch up on publishing news, continue our global independent bookstore visits, and learn how publishers keep an author's writing style consistent and how you can do the same. https://yiri.com.tw/ (Escents Bookcase) - Featured Bookstore https://islandpress.app.box.com/s/pwy70may609coa912ft4pewilzu0mtxb (Island Press Submission Guidelines) https://www.comicsbeat.com/looking-at-npd-bookscan-2021-and-its-a-doozy/ (Graphic Novel Sales for 2021) https://www.nytimes.com/2022/03/30/books/lgbtq-romance-novels.html (LGBTQIA+ Romance Is Booming) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/libraries/article/88966-congress-investigates-book-bannings-in-schools.html (Congress Investigates Book Banning in Schools) https://www.change.org/p/change-amazon-return-policies-for-completed-e-books-protect-authors-from-theft (Amazon Returns Policy Petition) https://www.cnbc.com/2022/03/31/authors-record-breaking-kickstarter-campaign-closes-at-41point7-million.html (Brandon Sanderson's Record-Breaking Kickstarter) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/libraries/article/88972-pen-america-report-documents-massive-spike-in-book-bans.html (PEN America Report Documents Massive Spike in Book Bans) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory “Prelude (Entering The Thickspace)” by Humans Win “Hip Hop Beat Gushito” by Gushito “The Tune of Nature” by Gushito

Twenty minutes of nothing but writing tips from a book editor and publishing manager. https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory "Shimmy On Over" by Jon Presstone

The Muse takes you to an inspirational bookstore in Denmark, fills you in on publishing news, and shares 4 dos and dont's for working with beta readers. http://arkbooks.dk/ (arkbooks – Home of the best stories you've never heard) - Featured Bookstore https://www.amazon.com/Zombie-Jesus-Vampire-Hunter-Codices-ebook/dp/B086Q1DJB3 (Gustavo Aviles) - Featured Author https://www.zestworld.com/ (Zestworld) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/publisher-news/article/88891-lgbtq-books-removed-from-target-com.html (LGBTQ Books Removed from Target.com) https://www.audiopub.org/winners/2022-audies (2022 Audie Award Winners) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory "Here with You" by Blaine Green "Feeling Melancholy" by Neil Cross "Future Now" by Simon Jomphe Lepine "Cool Bounce" by C.J. Harris "Endless" by Enzo Orefice

The Muse delivers a writing tip that could save your manuscript and maybe even your writing career and reports on AI-generated books. We also head to France for our first international bookstore visit. https://crystalswainbates.com/ (Crystal Swain-Bates) - Featured Author https://theredwheelbarrowbookstore.com/ (The Red Wheelbarrow) - Featured Bookstore https://www.cookiepitch.com/about (#CookiePitch) https://www.walesartsreview.org/university-of-wales-launches-trade-imprint-calon/ (University of Wales launches trade imprint, Calon - Wales Arts Review) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/publisher-news/article/88683-disney-publishing-teams-with-espn-for-new-imprint.html (Disney Publishing Teams with ESPN for New Publishing Imprint) https://ipkitten.blogspot.com/2022/02/us-copyright-office-refuses-to-register.html (US Copyright Office refuses to register AI-generated work, finding that "human authorship is a prerequisite to copyright protection" - The IPKat) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory “Paris Coffee Break” by Style da Kid "Lofi Jazz Beat (Paris Café Version)" by Tencher Music "Cotton Candy Clouds" by Jon Presstone

In this Writing Break, we’re discussing Simon & Schuster’s prediction for book sales in 2022, the end of Pitch Wars, and Brandon Sanderson's mega-success with Kickstarter. Plus, the Muse answers some listener questions. https://www.johnclaytonbooks.com (John Clayton) - Featured Author https://tumbleweedbooksandcafe.weebly.com/ (Tumbleweed Bookstore and Cafe, Gardiner, MT) - Featured Bookstore https://onthebooks.substack.com/p/what-brandon-sandersons-14m-kickstarter?s=r (What Brandon Sanderson's $14M+ Kickstarter Project Means) https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/dragonsteel/surprise-four-secret-novels-by-brandon-sanderson (Brandon Sanderson Kickstarter) https://pitchwars.org/the-future-of-pitch-wars-and-pitmad/ (The Future of Pitch Wars and #PitMad … | Pitch Wars) https://www.amcnetworks.com/press-releases/amc-networks-launches-book-publishing-arm-with-four-new-fan-focused-original-titles/ (AMC NETWORKS LAUNCHES BOOK PUBLISHING ARM WITH FOUR NEW FAN-FOCUSED, ORIGINAL TITLES – AMC Networks Inc.) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/financial-reporting/article/88544-s-s-sales-neared-1-billion-in-2021.html (Simon & Schuster Sales Neared $1 Billion in 2021) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory "Funky Good Times" by Jason Donnelly "Breakin Smooth" by Gar Ashby "Western Adventure" by Volodymyr Piddubnyk “Pop-up” by Humans Win "Storm On The Plains" by Humans Win “The Simple Things” by Judson Lee

The Muse visits your neighborhood and discusses an Amazon fail, a school board win, libraries, your ideal audience, and more. https://www.tcpalm.com/story/news/2022/03/01/five-books-removed-irc-school-libraries-school-board-decides/6943387001/ (Five books removed from Indian River school libraries, but 151 remain) https://selfiesbookawards.com/ (The Selfies US Book Awards – Rewarding the very best in self-publishing each year) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/bookselling/article/88669-amazon-to-close-all-bookstores.html (Amazon to Close All Bookstores) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/publisher-news/article/88639-shawanda-williams-launches-independent-publisher-black-odyssey-media.html (Shawanda Williams Launches Black Odyssey Media) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory “Style and Class” by Amber Waldron “Lucky Day” by Zac Nelson “Retro Styling” by Jon Presstone "Chic" by Amber Waldron

The Muse discusses the paper shortage, big-box bookstores, audiobooks, and self-promotion for writers. https://thebookwormmb.com/ (The Bookworm Used Bookstore, Myrtle Beach, SC) - Featured Bookstore https://www.slj.com/story/as-seen-on-booktok-inspiring-young-readers-tiktok-is-a-boon-for-books-libraries (As Seen on BookTok: Inspiring Young Readers, TikTok is a Boon for Books | School Library Journal) https://www.cnbc.com/2022/02/03/amazon-increases-the-price-of-prime-nearly-17percent-to-139-per-year.html (Amazon Prime Price Increase) https://www.theguardian.com/books/2022/feb/28/waterstones-acquires-blackwells-the-uks-biggest-independent-bookseller (Waterstones acquires Blackwell’s, the UK’s biggest independent bookseller | Waterstones | The Guardian) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/manufacturing/article/88607-looking-for-answers-to-paper-shortages.html (Looking for Answers to Paper Shortages) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory "Samba for Two" by Rent Kid "Your Best Life" by Humans Win

The Muse shares three habits guaranteed to improve your writing. She also discusses rising book prices, writing during wartime, and poetry. https://www.amazon.com/Silence-Your-Witness-Golden-Passage/dp/0990418928 (Charlotte Brady) - Featured Author https://www.grolierpoetrybookshop.org/ (Grolier Poetry Book Shop, Cambridge, MA) - Featured Bookstore https://global.penguinrandomhouse.com/announcements/pyr-to-launch-new-imprint-rocky-pond-books-helmed-by-lauri-hornik/ (PYR to Launch New Imprint, Rocky Pond Books, Helmed by Lauri Hornik) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/publisher-news/article/88438-publishing-remains-predictably-unpredictable-says-ingram.html (Publishing Remains Predictably Unpredictable, says Ingram) https://www.draft2digital.com/blog/draft2digital-has-acquired-smashwords/ (DRAFT2DIGITAL TO ACQUIRE SMASHWORDS - Draft2Digital | Blog) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory "Unbroken" by Enzo Orefice" "Jazzy Jingle V1" by bzur "Gazing Out of A Cafe Window on a Rainy Day" by Tencher Music "Broken Century by Beth Yap "Relaxing Lo Fi Chill" by Jimmy Gunnarsson

In this episode we’re talking print-on-demand price hikes, new imprints, and romance. The Muse also shares some tips on how to write better dialogue. http://minettelauren.com/ (Minette Lauren) - Featured Author https://www.therippedbodicela.com/ (The Ripped Bodice, Culver City, CA) - Featured Bookstore https://www.harlequinplus.com/shop/index.html (Harlequin Plus) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/publisher-news/article/88290-william-morrow-group-announces-harvest-imprint.html (New Morrow Lifestyle Imprint Named Harvest) https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/libraries/article/88275-overdrive-record-number-of-libraries-hit-million-digital-lend-mark.html (OverDrive: Record Number of Libraries Hit Million Digital Lend Mark) https://www.ingramspark.com/hubfs/IngramSpark-pricing-services-march-2022.pdf (IngramSpark Pricing and Services Guide) https://medium.com/writing-break/your-dialogue-tags-are-showing-20999ede3fc6?sk=494234f622b2dd9e7dade8288db272bf (Article on Dialogue Tags) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory "Cozy By The Fireside" by Jon Presstone “California Sun Full Mix” by Bobby Cole "West Coast Girls Full Mix" by Bobby Cole "Sugar Rush" by Humans Win

The Muse talks about sci-fi, NFTs in publishing, & navigating fear when writing your first draft. https://forgottenstars.net/ (Kelly Sedinger) - Featured Author https://starcatbooks.com/ (Star Cat Books, Bradford, VT) - Featured Bookstore https://www.wsj.com/articles/david-steinberger-led-group-buys-ebook-publisher-open-road-11638450000?mod=Searchresults_pos3&page=1 (David Steinberger-Led Group Buys Ebook Publisher Open Road - WSJ) https://www.rollingstone.com/culture-council/articles/nft-trends-expect-2022-1283112/ (NFT Trends to Expect in 2022 - Rolling Stone) https://www.wsj.com/articles/gary-vaynerchuk-promised-fans-an-nft-they-ordered-one-million-books-as-a-result-11636984800?mod=Searchresults_pos5&page=1 (Buy 12 Books, Get an NFT: How One Author Got Orders for a Million Books - WSJ) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory "Journey To The Mountain" by LIVINGFORCE “Morning Coffee Full Mix” by Bobby Cole “Plastic Furniture” by Jon Presstone “Journey of Wonder” by by Jon Presstone “What Would You Say” by Humans Wins (feat. Michael Shynes)

The Muse helps you murder your darlings and tells you about a real-life book thief. https://www.gutenberg.org/cache/epub/17470/pg17470.html (On the Art of Writing) https://www.smryanthewriter.com/ (S.M. Ryan) - Featured Author https://www.baldwinandcobooks.com/ (Baldwin & Co., New Orleans, LA) - Featured Bookstore https://k-lytics.com/product/post-apocalyptic-and-dystopian/ (The Post-apocalyptic and Dystopian eBook Market) https://www.nytimes.com/2022/01/05/books/publishing-manuscripts-phishing-scam-filippo-bernardini.html (FBI Arrests Man Accused of Stealing Unpublished Book Manuscripts) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory "Singin' the Blues" by Humans Win "Alone" by biggrez

The Muse shares her top 3 writing tips and calls for the retirement of the phrase "work–life balance." https://www.nicolebanksauthor.com/ (Nicole Banks) - Featured Author https://www.booksandbooks.com/ (Books & Books, Coral Gables, FL) - Featured Bookstore https://k-lytics.com/teen-young-adult/ (K-lytics Teen Young Adult Report) https://podiumaudio.com/nicole-passage-editorial-director/ (Podium Audio) https://medium.com/@rosemi (Free Writing Tips)

Music licensed from Storyblocks: “More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory "Cool Jazz Background (Trippy Trombone Version)" by Tencher Music "Lofi Shop" by Amber Waldron "Perfect Wave" by Oleksii Abramovych "Waiting On - (with vocals)" by Neil Cross

Trailer for Writing Break, a podcast for writers and readers featuring writing tips, publishing news, and more.

Trailer for Writing Break, a podcast for writers and readers featuring writing tips, publishing news, and more.