Words & Pictures Podcast: Recent Episodes
D J Bowman-Smith
Words & Pictures Podcast is for writers to talk about their writing and the images, pictures, book covers, illustrations and artwork that they use to support their words. And also it is for artists who work in the book industry.
This week I’m having a chat about asset packs. What they are and why you need them. Basically its a quick chat about getting your social media advertising off to a good start.
Find DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com
This week a solo episode where I chat about some of the downsides of independent publishing.
I’ll be talking about work ethic, distribution, marketing, publishing platforms and hiringing your own professionals. And much more. So if you are undecided about which way to go Indie or Trad - here is the honest truth about some of the not so good bits of doing it yourself.
Mentioned in this episode:
Anna Sharples - www.sharpsightedgrammar.co.uk
Mark Dawson - www.selfpublishingformula.com
Joanna Penn - www.thecreativepenn.com
Dave Chesson - www.kindlepreneur.com
Find DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com and www.tigermolly.com
Lou explains what Steampunk is and then discusses her writing and her protagonists journeys through the seven books she has written in this world.
We discuss automats, Booktok, marketing, book covers, blurbs and cats and much more in the writing life.
In the intro, DJ talks about proof copies and email lists.
DJ is here: www.djbowmansmith.com
Find Lou here: www.loukemp.com
Amazon page: Amazon.com: Lou Kemp: books, biography, latest update
Karen talks about her memoir, Growth: A mother, her son and the brain tumour they survived. Karen felt compelled to share her story of how she overcame ingrained people pleasing tendencies to convince doctors that her son needed help. She discusses medical gaslighting and how this memoir has enabled her to come to terms with what happened and recognise her own journey.
We also chat about book marketing, napping, and the joys of small press publishing.
Find Karen DeBonis here: www.karendebonis.com
Growth: A Mother, Her Son, and the Brain Tumor They Survived: Debonis, Karen: 9781627204354: Amazon.com: Books
Also mentioned, Melissa Addey: www.melissaaddey.com
DJ is here: www.djbowmansmith.com and here www.tigermolly.com
Angela M Herrick tells me about her background as a playwright and what draws her to create time travel fiction. She talks about her enjoyment of research and how to make the fiction world believable. She shares her take on marketing her books and her recent experience of attending Twenty Books Vegas.
In the intro: DJ is still deep within the editing process.
Find Angela M Herrick here: Amazon.com: Angela M. Herrick: books, biography, latest update
www.angelamherrick.com
Find DJ: www.djbowmansmith.com
Also mentioned: www.20booksvegas.com
The Self Publishing Show LIVE! 2024
This week I’m having a chat about why I am an independent author. I discuss some pros incorporating the following points. Time, ownership of IP, deadlines, creative control, marketing and royalties.
Find DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com
And here: www.tigermolly.com
Jay tells me what scares him and why he likes to write dark fiction. He explains why he hates trigger warnings and his discovery writing process.
We discuss the benefits of independent publishing whilst acknowledging the hard work and knowledge base required for success.
He tells me about his latest published book and what he is working on right now.
In the intro, DJ talks about her new desk, her latest book cover and the ongoing edits.
Find Jay here: About — Jay Darkmoore - The Darker Side of Fiction (jaydarkmooreauthor.com)
Find DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com
Hybrid author Hallie Christensen shares why she writes for children and the highs and lows of the author life. She tells me about her new middle-grade book and how it was inspired. We discuss book covers, social media and the tricky business of marketing children's books. Hallie tells me about her WIP, which is a cosy, middle-grade fantasy. Hallie explains how she discovered her audiobook narrator.
In the intro DJ talks about editing her second book in the Mid Witch trilogy.
Find Hallie here:
Tiktok: @halliechris_writes
Twitter: hallie_christen
Instagram: @halliechris_writes
Facebook: Hallie Christensen, Author
http://authorhalliechristensen.com/
Find DJ: www.djbowmansmith.com
Annie Fox is a writer, educator, podcaster and all-round advocate for children's and young people's well-being. Recently, she has switched from non-fiction self-help books to write a fiction book for teens with a message for our times.
Her latest book, The Little Things That Kill, is out on Gallantines Day, February 13th - Annie reads a compelling excerpt from her novel. She shares her inspiration for this unique story.
She tells me about her writing process, her love of dialogue, and why she's now hooked on writing fiction. We discuss modern society and how technology can instigate much unkindness, particularly in the lives of young people.
In the intro, DJ talks about the editing process.
Find Annie Fox here: www.anniefox.com
www.thelittlethingsthatkill.com
Find DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com
Also mentioned: National Novel Writing Month (nanowrimo.org)
After a chat about my horrid computer crash - what I learnt in hindsight. I jump right in and discuss the four books you need to be a writer. That’s it. Just four.
Find DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com
Book links
Save the Cat! Writes a Novel: The Last Book On Novel Writing You'll Ever Need eBook : Brody, Jessica: Amazon.co.uk: Kindle Store
The Emotion Thesaurus: A Writer's Guide to Character Expression (Second Edition): 1 (Writers Helping Writers Series): Amazon.co.uk: Puglisi, Becca, Ackerman, Angela: 9780999296349: Books
How to Market a Book: Overperform in a Crowded Market (Reedsy Marketing Guides Book 1) eBook : Fayet, Ricardo: Amazon.co.uk: Kindle Store
This week, I'm sharing my thoughts on this year and how my writing and publishing life went. The good bits. The bad bits, what worked and what didn't. And how I'm staying on top of things by letting some stuff go and ditching the deadlines.
Find DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com and www.tigermolly.com
Angela tells me about her current WIP, the third book in her YA series. Her main character can see the dead – so of course, we talk about ghosts and what inspires her to write for this age group.
We discuss finding the right designer for her book covers. Her writing process and how social media is such a help to independent authors like us.
Fitting in writing with a busy family life and a full-time job is challenging – yet possible if you're as dedicated as Angela.
In the intro, DJ talks about giving her mind some thinking space while she indulges in her guilty pleasure.
Find Angela here: www.dawn-publishing.com
Amazon page: Amazon.com: Angela van Liempt: books, biography, latest update
Her book cover designer: Natasha MacKenzie, Designer in Manchester, UK | Reedsy
Find DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com and www.tigermolly.com
Also mentioned: www.reedsy.com
Traditionally published author Hazel Prior tells me about her books, which are hard to categorise as they feature animals and diverse characters. Uplit is a term often used to describe them.
Hazel writes first and foremost from her own heart and likes to add humour and a sense of place to her writing.
She tells me about being a part of the Richard and Judy Book Club. Her cat Purrsy. Her writing process and so much more.
In the intro, DJ talks about making a soundproof room to create audiobooks. DJ mistakenly says this is episode 72. Sorry!
Find Hazel here: www.hazelprior.co.uk
Find DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com & www.tigermolly.com
Emma talks about her new Christmas romance A Christmas Truce. She tells me about her YouTube channel and how it led to writing a how-to book about X for authors. Find this and more on her Amazon page below. She talks me through taking part in National Novel Writing Month and being a hybrid author.
Find Emma here: www.emma-bennet.co.uk
www.joffebooks.com
Find DJ: www.djbowmansmith.com & www.tigermolly.com
Amazon page: Amazon.co.uk: Emma Bennet: books, biography, latest update
Indy tells me about his two MC's, one a detective and the other a criminal and how they are both a mixture of good and bad. The world they inhabit, Central City, is a character in itself. He explains why he uses an imagined as opposed to a real place for his stories.
We talk about his excellent book covers and branding. His writing process and his plans for the future.
In the intro DJ talks about making new flat lays and seasonal adverts.
Find Indy here: www.indyperro.com
www.centralcitybooks.com
His book designer: Nicolae Negura https://nicolaenegura.com
Find DJ: www.djbowmansmith.com & www.tigermolly.com
Also mentioned: Bookbrush www.bookbrush.com
Sheryl Bass tells me about creating her rhyming picture books. Her writing process and the social learning she wishes to convey within the stories. We talked about the importance of rhyme for reading acquisition. She shares how she chose the artist for the illustrations. We discuss the ongoing problems of book marketing.
In the intro DJ chats about making new covers for her kidlit.
Find Sheryl Bass: Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheryl-bass-m-a-m-s-w-221b0413/
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100087176800294
Website: www.be-kindpublishing.com
Her illustrator Remesh Ram can be found here: Prayan Animation www.prayananimation.com
Find DJ: www.djbowmansmith.com & www.tigermolly.com
Also mentioned: www.pubby.co (for book reviews)
Her mentor, April Cox: www.selfpubmadesimple.com
Tara tells me about her new series of spicey and cosy romance. The first book, Just Like Magic, is out on November 17th. We chat about romance genre language and she clarifies what a cinnamon roll hero is and why she chose this type of love interest for her latest book.
We talk about the differences between erotica and romance with spice. Her writing schedule, book covers, social media and author newsletters.
In the intro DJ chats about drawing chapter illustrations for her upcoming book.
Find Tara here: www.tara-wyatt.com
Her cover designer: www.crocodesigns.com
Find DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com & here: www.tigermolly.com
Also mentioned : www.rosaleeauthor.com
Helen tells me about the worlds she has created and some of the creatures in her fantasy books. We discuss the joy of inventing low-tech/no-tech worlds as escapism for ourselves and our readers.
We talk about book marketing, self-publishing and the impact social media has on modern authors and readers. Audiobooks, book covers, how to fit a writing life around a full-time job, and the value of the indie author community.
Find Helen Garraway here: Helen Garraway – USA Today Bestselling Fantasy author
Her Amazon page: Amazon.co.uk: Helen Garraway: Books, Biography, Blogs, Audiobooks, Kindle
Her linktree: https://Linktr.ee/HelenGarraway
And find her in person signing books at Stroud Indie Book fair on October 21st, at Lansdown Hall, (2023)
Find DJ: www.djbowmansmith.com
Also mentioned: Book Dragon: https://the-bookdragon.com
Alliance of independent authors: www.allianceindependentauthors.org
Dare talks about her latest book, Abilene, which is set in a small Texas town. We discuss the difficulties of creating books with more than one protagonist. Dare tells me about her methods for making each character real.
Dare works full-time and must fit her writing around a busy working life and her family. She talks about making the most of every moment and writing anywhere she can.
She discusses writing middle-grade fiction and the joys of being published by a local press.
In the Intro DJ chats about her WIP and getting a bit of writing in on holiday.
Find Dare here: Home - Dare DeLano
Find DJ Here: www.djbowmansmith.com
Jennifer has written a memoir of her experiences living aboard a sailboat. Honeymoon at Sea – How I found myself living on a small boat tells the story of early marriage and adventure. We discuss sea sickness – naturally, and the difficulties of creating a readable memoir. Jennifer is a professional book editor, and her husband also writes. How do they manage a creative life in a small space? A lot of give and take and a good set of noise-cancelling headphones. We also chat about British accents, book editing, audiobooks and marketing.
In the Intro, DJ is excited to share completing her first draft and what happens next.
Find Jennifer:
www.jennyredbug.com
Amazon.co.uk: Jennifer Silva Redmond: Books, Biography, Blogs, Audiobooks, Kindle
Honeymoon at Sea | Jennifer Silva Redmond | Substack
Find DJ: www.djbowmansmith.com
Richard talks about finishing the Book of Imaginari, his trilogy- how it feels and explains the basic premise of the storyline. He discusses how important imagination is for everyone and discusses his writing process. Richard is gearing up to write a science fiction book next – just as soon as he’s had a break.
We chat about the importance of supportive people in our writing life.
Also in this episode, audiobooks, marketing, school visits and scarecrows.
In the intro, DJ chats about social media for authors and book marketing.
Find Richard Hayden:
Richard Hayden’s Amazon page: Amazon.co.uk: Richard Hayden: Books, Biography, Blogs, Audiobooks, Kindle
Find DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com
Also mentioned: www.bookbrush.com
Joel has returned to the podcast to discuss his new release, Fairy Court in Exile, which is out now. We also chat about our writing process, particularly the nuances of creating believable dialogue and our ideal reader.
Joel talks about his audiobooks and why he was inspired to bring out his work in this format, and how it informs the way he writes.
In the intro, DJ chats about book categories and her new book's progress and the troubles of using new equipment.
Find Joel Flanagan-Grannemann: Servants of the Moon and Sun – An Epic Fantasy Adventure Series Retelling of the Sleeping Beauty Fairy Tale
His Amazon page: Amazon.com: Joel C. Flanagan-Grannemann: books, biography, latest update
Find DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com
Also mentioned:
(1) How to Choose Amazon Book Categories in 2023 - YouTube
That microphone is a Samson Q9U
Jane Johnson describes the storyline of her latest book, The Black Crescent, which is set in Morrocco. She has used her research of Moroccan history and firsthand knowledge of the place to tell this story. This has been one of the quickest books she has written because her husband was keen to hear each new instalment. We talk about the detail in the beautiful book cover and her plans to write more for her MC.
Working as a full-time editor means she only has the weekends in which to write. All projects are begun in longhand, and she prefers writing outdoors if possible.
We also discuss mountaineering, the creative process and tomatoes.
In the intro, DJ talks about what she’s been up to at her desk this week – Marketing.
Find Jane Johnson here: Home - Jane Johnson (janejohnsonbooks.com)
Her Amazon page: Amazon.co.uk: Jane Johnson: Books, Biography, Blogs, Audiobooks, Kindle
DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com & www.tigermolly.com
Also mentioned: www.selfpublishingformula.com
Kindlepreneur - Book Marketing for Self-Publishing Authors
Ricardo Fayet’s Amazon page: Amazon.co.uk: Ricardo Fayet: Books, Biography, Blogs, Audiobooks, Kindle
Caroline chats about the joy she has found writing her paranormal women’s fiction. She is having fun examining fantasy tropes from a mature woman's point of view with plenty of wisdom, humour and a few aches and pains thrown in. With the second book in the series finished, she plans more fantasy adventures for her heroine.
In the intro, DJ talks about what she listens to when she needs to concentrate.
Find Carrie Noe here: www.carolinenoe.org
Amazon page: Amazon.co.uk: Caroline Noe: Books, Biography, Blogs, Audiobooks, Kindle
DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com & www.tigermolly.com
Also mentioned: More Visual - Book Cover Design (bookartwork.com)
Natali Simmonds is a multi-genre author. She has written paranormal romance, Manga comics, and fantasy.
Good Girls Die Last, is her debut thriller which is shortlisted for TV production. Natali tells me all about it. Why it is a feminist thriller. How her book covers were created and how she trains her kids to be independent so she can focus on her creativity and encourage their wellbeing at the same time.
We chat about author branding, social media and the workings of a creative mind.
In the intro, DJ talks about her new Book, The Mid Witch and using Bookbrush to create images for adverts.
Find Natali Simmonds book Good Girls Die Last, here: Good Girls Die Last by Natali Simmonds (geni.us)
Her website: www.njsimmonds.com
Find DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com & www.tigermolly.com
Also mentioned: www.bookbrush.com
Rosie talks about her fascination for the Isle of Wight in Hampshire, England. Returning there as an adult inspired her cosy mystery series.
Rosie writes the sort of books she likes to read. Where stories are layered and leave the reader uplifted.
Having experienced traditional publishing, Rosie is proud to call herself an independent author and enjoys the newfound freedom to write when and what she likes.
Berni Stevens designs her beautiful book covers, which evoke the Isle of Wight perfectly.
In the intro DJ shares the truth about the ARC reading process.
Find Rosie Travers here: www.rosietravers.com
Her Amazon page: Amazon.co.uk: Rosie Travers: Books, Biography, Blogs, Audiobooks, Kindle
Her book cover designer Berni Stevens: HOME | Berni Stevens Book Cover Design (bernistevenscoverdesign.com)
Find DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com & www.tigermolly.com
Also mentioned:
Alliance of Independent Authors ALLI: Alliance of Independent Authors: Association For Self-Publishing Authors (allianceindependentauthors.org)
DJ Martin writes fiction and nonfiction, and we talk about the differences when marketing both. She tells me what it means to be a green witch and how she likes to write about real and fictional witchcraft. She tells me how her accounting job helps with her publishing life and the need for a tidy desk. We chat about our real pets and the witches' familiars in our fiction.
Find DJ Martin here: www.authordjmartin.com
Her Amazon author page:
Amazon.co.uk: Deborah J. Martin: Books, Biography, Blogs, Audiobooks, Kindle
Find DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com & www.tigermolly.com
Kate explains what a mudlark is today and what a mudlark was in the past, and how this inspired her middle-grade fiction.
She tells me about school visits and encouraging young writers. How she was initially published in Germany, and how her book covers represent the characters in her stories.
We talked about how we both tackled higher education later in life.
DJ Intro: I’m having a chat about how much I enjoy having the digital version of the Self-Publishing Live show. My WIP and my podcast week.
Find Kate Wiseman here: www.katewiseman.co.uk
Her Amazon page: Amazon.co.uk: Kate Wiseman: Books, Biography, Blogs, Audiobooks, Kindle
DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com & www.tigermolly.com
Also mentioned:
Self-Publishing Show Live digital tickets: The Self Publishing Show LIVE! 2023 - Digital Tickets (selfpublishingformula.com)
Jamie West tells me how theatre work inspires his cosy mystery novels. Death on the Pier is set in Brighton in the 1930’s in the Palace Theatre. Jamie has loved recreating this lost, end-of-pier theatre. His next book will take his characters to another lost theatre – the Gaiety Theatre in London.
We talked about his book covers and our shared love of lino-cut art. He talks about his writing process and his research.
In the intro, I talk about writing book 2 in the Mid Witch Trilogy and a few things I’ve noticed in the ever-changing book world.
Find Jamie West here: www.jamiewest.co.uk
His link page: www.linktr.ee/thisisjamiewest
Mentioned in the show:
Self Publishing Show Live digital tickets – www.selfpublishingshow.com
Angela Harding Artist: www.angelaharding.co.uk
Gemma Curtis Artist: Instagram
Gemma (she/her) (@wildwaterartstore) • Instagram photos and videos
Find DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com
& www.tigermolly.com
Brock explains the title of his new book, Ink by the Barrel, which is free (link below). This book is based on the knowledge he gained speaking with screenwriters, authors and other creatives on his Creative Principles Podcast and writing for Creative Screen Magazine.
Brock tells me about his experiences as a professional ghostwriter and shares his insight into the creative process, productivity and the power of a good email list.
In the intro, DJ talks about the benefits of sticking with any social media platforms you're on. Her first proof copies of The Mid Witch and the work needed to get a new book as perfect as possible.
Find Brock Swinson and get Ink by the barrel here: www.brockswinson.com
www.creativescreenwriting.com
Creative Principles Podcast is available on your favourite app.
Find DJ: www.djbowmansmith.com/links
Lee was always fascinated by dark stories from an early age. Even the fact that he was the son of an evangelical preacher could not curb this. However, he explains, his basic optimism shines through his work.
Lee is keen to explore LGBTQ issues within his writing and his knowledge of religion.
He gives some writing tips as he also edits dark fiction.
Find Lee here: www.leeallenhoward.com
Amazon page: Amazon.com: Lee Allen Howard: books, biography, latest update
Dark Cloud Press: http://www.darkcloudpress.com/
Also mentioned:
Halo Scot, writer of horror: www.haloscot.com
Jessica Brody, author of Save the Cat Writes a Novel: www.jessicabrody.com
Robert McKee’s book for writers, Story, is available on Amazon
Find DJ: www.djbowmansmith.com
This week I am stealing this episode because it marks one year of the Words & Pictures Podcast. With my first year under my belt, I am having a big chat about what it means to be a podcaster. The work involved, the time it takes, and the expenses entailed. Looking back on an amazing array of guests and some loosely collated statistics involving the same – it’s been one hell of a year!
I will be talking about my ethos for the podcast going forward. How I hope to improve and who I hope to interview in the future.
Find DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com and www.tigermolly.com
Also mentioned in this episode: My host site Podbean: www.podbean.com
Auphonic for mastering sound when you lack technical ability: www.auphonic.com
Garage Band free editing software for Mac: www.garageband.com
Zoom – record 40 minutes free – www.zoom.com
Heidi shares the process of how she keeps her characters authentic. We talk about making fictional settings seem so real readers think they know the place. She tells me how she organises her writing projects carefully so that she can continue to create two books a year.
Heidi tells me about her publishers, Simon and Schuster and the talented team she works with, including her cover artist, Pip Watkins. We talk about connecting with readers through social media and her audiobooks.
In the intro DJ worries about throwing out old notebooks.
Find Heidi here: Heidi Swain Books And,
Amazon.co.uk: Heidi Swain: Books, Biography, Blogs, Audiobooks, Kindle
Pip Watkins the artist on Twitter www.twitter.com/@pippitywatkins
DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com and www.tigermolly.com
Chris tells me about her latest book, When the lights go out, and how it is based on some of her life experiences as a young actress living in digs.
She tells me about her pen name, Abbie Frost, and how these thrillers differ from her regular author name. We talk about her writing process and her preference for a standing desk so she can pace the room while she thinks.
Chris and I share a love for books and wide reading habits and discuss Daphne Du Maurier’s, Rebecca.
Chris talks about her publisher, One More Chapter, which is an imprint of Harper Collins and why she loves being a member of the Crime Writers Association.
In the intro, I chat about the importance of a really good office tidy up!
Find Chris Curran books here: Amazon.co.uk: Chris Curran: Books, Biography, Blogs, Audiobooks, Kindle
Her website here: www.chriscurranauthor.com
Find DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com and www.tigermolly.com
Henry Roi writes thrillers and children's books and runs a successful advertising and marketing agency for authors. He tells me how he sees book marketing as a fun video game that he is super keen to play and win at every day.
He explains how his PR company is organised to support virtual book tours for many genres.
Henry tells me about his writing, and how the inspiration for his cover art came from tattoos. Turns out he was once a tattoo artist.
We discuss social media, book covers and the writing life.
In the intro, I moan about how life so often impedes creativity.
Find Henry Roi PR here: www.henryroipr.com
Henry Roi books on Amazon here: Amazon.co.uk: Henry Roi: Books, Biography, Blogs, Audiobooks, Kindle
Also mentioned: Lucas Romao who illustrated Ronin Cleans His Room Like a Ninja
Nivya https://www.facebook.com/nivya.kuriakose who illustrated Princess Fluffy Pumpkin Eats Pink.
Find these kidlit books here: HRPR Blackberry Publishing – Blackberry Book Tours
Find DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com and www.tigermolly.com
Joshua tells me about his latest book, The Boy of Dust and Ash, which is the first in a fantasy series he has planned for young adults. We discuss what makes a book Y/A and why Joshua is keen to write for this age group.
Joshua tells me about his Indie Book Club. Here, members read a selection of independently published books each month and vote for their favourite. It’s his way of promoting and helping other authors. Please see his website link below to join.
We talked about fitting in writing with full-time work, Patreon, book covers, the value of proof copies and the AI debate.
In the intro, I talk about my week in Berlin and what I hope to achieve next week when I’m alone while my husband goes fishing.
Find Joshua Neal here: www.joshuanealfiction.com
The Indie Book Club: Indie Book Club | My Site (joshuanealfiction.com)
DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com & www.tigermolly.com
Mentioned in this episode: The artist Arthur Baron-Clément
Arthur Baron-Clément | Illustrator & Concept Artist (baron-clement.com)
Lorraine talks about her new thriller, The Guest, and how her recent time management strategy simply means she has more ideas - and still not enough time. She discusses her creative process, research and outlines her latest book and her work in progress. DJ and Lorraine discuss the problems of also writing for children and how this is always neglected. Lorraine is also an author mentor and shares advice and wisdom for all authors and the benefits of structural edits.
In the intro, DJ chats about her difficulties setting up the TikTok shop and trying to get to grips with social media marketing and creating chapter illustrations for her upcoming book, The Mid Witch.
Find Lorraine Mace here: www.lorrainemace.com
DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com & www.tigermolly.com
Mention in this episode: Writing Magazine: Writing Magazine - Warners Group Publications Plc
A poem written in her childhood began JA’s fascination with writing. She talks about hearing first-hand accounts for her historical research and has some great anecdotes about how she found the images for her book covers. DJ and JA discuss the evergreen topic of wide versus exclusive. JA speaks about recording audiobooks and how she learnt how to do this.
In the intro, DJ worries about getting all her indie author jobs done so she can go on a break with a clear conscience.
Find J A Boulet here:
www.jaboulet.ca
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/1XSwFBODJSfzCKTbNGPnxq?si=a12edff3eae94818
Youtube: https://youtu.be/BNl0YbXUx0I
DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com
www.tigermolly.com
We mentioned:
Authors Republic: www.authorsrepublic.com
Draft 2 Digital: www.draft2digital.com
Smashwords: www.smashwords.com
Nikki talks about her passion for writing psychological thrillers and how she is re-branding her writing platform with that in mind. Previously, her focus was on mental health awareness. She talks about writing and self-publishing and her upcoming book The Hoax. DJ and Nikki discuss book cover creation, workflow folders, and the importance of knowledge sharing in the Indie author space.
Find Nikki Rodwell here: www.nikkirodwell.co.uk
DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com
www.tigermolly.com
Other things we mentioned.
Morgan Wright who does animated book covers: www.morganwrightbooks.com
Mark Dawson for much info about the indie author life: www.selfpublishingformula.com
Marcia discusses how research into her own family history gave her the idea to write her historical romance books. All of her stories are set in Devon where she lives.
Encouraged by her grown-up children, she is now working on her fifth book in the saga.
She discusses research, social media and her book covers, which have won cover awards with All Author.
In the intro DJ talks about creating illustrations for her WIP.
Find Marcia Clayton here: Home > Marcia Clayton
All Author site here: www.allauthor.com
DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com
And here: www.tigermolly.com
Martin talks about writing fantasy and the joys of discovery writing, world-building and how his imagination is always ahead of the story he is working on. He chats about working as an art teacher and creating his book covers. Independently published and also with a small press, hybrid author Martin Dukes has many projects on the go. Social media has become more fun than he anticipated.
In the Intro, DJ explains why she gets nothing done in the morning.
Find Martin Dukes here: www.mdukes-wildestdreams.com
And DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com
www.tigermolly.com
Anita talks about her successful debut novel, The Venice Secret, and the challenges she faced writing this dual timeline novel. She also talks about her research and her love of Venice and Italy.
Anita shares her knowledge of the world of social media management for authors, book marketing and running paid advertisements.
In the intro DJ shares a story about a recent computer crash.
Find Anita Chapman here: www.anitachapman.com
Her book The Venice Secret and her Amazon page here: Amazon.co.uk: Anita Chapman: Books, Biography, Blogs, Audiobooks, Kindle
Her cover designer Cathy Helms at Avalon Graphics
Find DJ: www.djbowmansmith.com
And : www.tigermolly.com
Eve talks about her new book, The Accidental Cop, and how it is based on the real-life stories she has been told. Eve discusses social media and the general struggles all authors face regarding book marketing. Choosing the right book cover designer and the impact of Goodreads.
In the intro, DJ has a quick chat about finalising the edits and podcasting.
Find Eve Koguce here: www.evekoguce.com
Her Amazon page: Amazon.com: Eve Koguce: books, biography, latest update
DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com
www.tigermolly.com
www.hellobooks.com
www.goodreads.com
This week for the 40th episode, I am having a chat about making book covers for my WIP. Working in Photoshop and creating images. The problems I am facing setting up a TikTok shop for my books and how the podcast is made.
Find DJ here, www.djbowmansmith.com and as children's author www.tigermolly.com
Children’s author Rebecca Weber tells me about her debut book, The Painter’s Butterfly and how her sister inspired it. She talks about working with a small press and how this gives her more control over the publishing process. We chat about the difficulties of marketing children's books, school visits, social media and her work as a beta reader. Rebecca tells me her plans for her next book and how she always wants her writing to enable children.
DJ chats about editing her WIP and learning - or trying to learn - from her editor!
Find Rebecca Weber here: www.rebeccaweberwrites.com
Facebook group - Creating Engaging School Visits
DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com
And here www.tigermolly.com
Fantasy author Jason Dorough talks about writing long-form noblebright fantasy and the benefits of building a community of readers and writers. He discusses his work as a voice-over artist and his plans to narrate Akithar’s Greatest Trick in the near future. We chat about his book covers, the state of his desk and how keeping fit helps him to think.
In the intro, I have a quick chat about working on my book covers, avoiding the editing and failing to set up a TikTok shop.
You can find Jason Dorough here: www.jasondorough.com
His book designer, Franziska Stern, here: Franziska Stern Book Cover Design - Designer coverdungeonrabbit
DJ is here: www.djbowmansmith.com
And as a Children’s author: www.tigermolly.com
DJ talks about working on her new book cover and the long process of choosing the right stock images. Then introduces her guest, Valeriya Salt, who talks about her new novella, Aurora Island, which is out in April. She discusses how she likes to mix sci-fi and thriller with a touch of history. She tells DJ about the highs and lows of being published by more than one publisher.
Find Valeriya Salt here: www.saltandnovels.wordpress.com
On Facebook @ValeriyaSaltWrites
Twitter @LSalt1
A pre-order link for her new book Aurora Island: https://tinyurl.com/yc8m9bsw
DJ here
www.djbowmansmith.com
www.tigermolly.com
DJ chats about her week and introduces emerging children’s author Victoria Barry. They talk about the impact of winning a competition in Writing Magazine. What she hopes to do next and how she fits in her writing around family life and work.
Find Victoria Barry here:
https://emea01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fvictoriagrace793.wixsite.com%2Fvictoria-barry---chi&data=05%7C01%7C%7C3ee49cfb28d4427386b008db3103500d%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C638157662521753891%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=7dBXSRqt2Xz7DqUuVSZNvtc7V7JpkR76wdnkmUOed88%3D&reserved=0
And DJ here
www.djbowmansmith.com
www.tigermolly.com
DJ chats about her working week and then introduces thriller author Khaled Talib. They talk about the enjoyment and inspiration to be found in people-watching. Far Out, Khalid’s next book and the importance of project research and the state of their desks.
Find Khalid Talib here: www.khaledtalibthriller.com
International Thriller Writers www.thrillerwriters.org
And DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com
www.tigermolly.com
DJ chats about not getting any work done because of the builders and introduces her guest, Karen Telling. Karen writes warm-hearted autobiographical stories about moving to Portugal with her husband rescuing animals, and how she copes with her disability.
Find Karen Telling here: Amazon.co.uk: Karen Telling: Books, Biography, Blogs, Audiobooks, Kindle
Twitter @KarenTelling4
Goodreads: Karen Telling (Author of Another Day in Paradise) (goodreads.com)
DJ Bowman-Smith talks about her working week and the trials of editing her work in progress and then introduces the writer, Mark Wells.
Mark is writing a Y/A fantasy series set in the historic City of Cambridge. He discusses his inspiration and writing process and how he managed professional audiobook production for his work.
You can find Mark Wells and his brilliant Cambridge Gothic series and links to social media here:
www.marknwells.com
His book designer here: www.spiffingcovers.com
The audio company is here: www.chatterboxaudio.com
For general help for the indie author, find Mark Dawson: www.selfpublishingformula.com
For editing: www.smartquilleditorial.co.uk
Professional book descriptions: www.bryancohen.com
And DJ is here: www.djbowmansmith.com
This week it’s a solo episode where DJ Bowman-Smith discusses the 7 mistakes authors most often make – including herself. Soak up the advice in this friendly monologue.
Find DJ here: www.djbowmansmith.com
This is her links page: www.djbowmansmith.com/links
And as a children's author: www.tigermolly.com
DJ has a chat about her working week and then introduces her guest and the first poet on the podcast, Charissa Stuart.
Charissa has just bought out her first collection of poems entitled Finding Yours Truly. These poems are intended to enable women when they feel weighed down by motherhood and feel the need for something more. Something for themselves amongst the ebb and flow of family life.
Charissa talks about her own personal journey and finding her own path as a poet and an artist.
Find Charissa Stuart here www.charissastuart.com
And DJ here www.djbowmansmith.com
Find links for the MidWitch arc here www.djbowmansmith.com/links
Really pleased to have Jody J Sperling back on the podcast. Jody has just published two books. A non-fiction book for authors about the ever-tricky marketing mindset and a series of thrillers.
DJ and Jody discuss selling books direct from author websites. Yes, you can find all of Jody’s work here www.jodyjsperling.com
DJ and Jody have a big old author chat about writing, mindset, motivation and confidence and the work involved in podcasting.
Find DJ here www.djbowmansmith.com
www.tigermolly.com
Host DJ Bowman-Smith talks about how she manages the many tasks an indie author needs to master and the benefits of keeping a workflow folder. Then introduces her guest, award-winning author Ken Stark.
Ken Stark writes horror and is best known for his Zombie post-apocalypse series Stage Three. DJ and Ken discuss writing the dark side. What scares horror writers, and where the line (if any) is drawn.
Are writers of horror some of the nicest people? Have a listen and find out.
Next week's guest is Jody J Sperling, and you can find him here www.jodyjsperling.com
Find Ken Stark Here www.kenstark.ca
DJ here www.djbowmansmith.com
And as a children’s author www.tigermolly.com
Host DJ Bowman-Smith has a quick talk about the problems of juggling her two author selves and how the children’s author Tiger Molly always gets neglected. Then she introduces this week's guest, Kathleen Harryman a multi-genre author who is also an artist and book cover designer.
Kathleen talks about her fascination for writing from the point of view of the dark characters in her writing and how she likes to use the quiet parts of her day to plan her stories.
She is also a book cover designer. Kathleen discusses creating book trailers, and marketing asset packs and the difference between making traditional and digital art.
Find Kathleen Harryman here www.kathleenharryman.com
The artist who did DJ’s animated book covers is Morgan Wright www.morganwrightbooks.com
Find DJ here www.djbowmansmith.com
As a children’s author here www.tigermolly.com
DJ has a quick chat about putting on A+ content on amazon. A brief how-to and why you should bother.
This week’s guest is Haldane B Doyle, who writes books for people who find Star Trek implausible and apocalyptic stories depressing. A former research scientist, he is well-placed to make his fiction more than plausible.
He discusses the book covers he has designed for his biological sci-fi and the process he went through to create the bold, abstract images that work well in any size. Haldane is a debut independent author, and he and DJ discuss the many aspects of self-publishing and marketing.
Find Haldane here www.haldanebdoyle.com
DJ here www.djbowmansmith.com
DJ talks about how she enjoys bad weather for getting her writing done. Then introduces her guest fantasy author Joel Flanagan-Grannemann.
Joel writes epic fantasy that reimagines the classic tale of sleeping beauty. He talks about his take on an old story and how the inspiration to reconnect with his creativity came to him after a trip to the cinema. He discusses the invaluable support of his wife and how he juggles full-time work and full-time writing. Joel talks about how much he enjoys the writing life.
You can find Joel and his work here https://servantsofthemoonandsun.com
Find DJ here www.djbowmansmith.com
DJ has a quick chat about planning her productivity for the New Year and juggling her two author names. Then introduces her guest, prolific science fiction author Rich Penney.
Rich talks about his story arcs and bringing his two series together in a set of books that crossover the two worlds he has created. His modern science fiction endeavours to bend genres in unique ways. He discusses his writing processes with a focus on thorough editing and how he has honed the process for maximal productivity.
Find R S Penney books on these links
Symbiosis (Justice Keepers Saga) (mybook.to)
Desa Kincaid - Bounty Hunter (mybook.to)
Desa Kincaid - Bounty Hunter (Desa Kincaid Book 1) - R.S. Penney | The Independent Bookstore
The Ancient Gate (The War For Ezryn Book 1) | The Independent Bookstore
Find DJ here www.djbowmansmith.com
And as a children’s author www.tigermolly.com
This week DJ has a solo episode and talks about how she became a writer and her struggles with dyslexia. Then discusses earning income from several different threads, such as writing for magazines, drawing cartoons and more.
Find DJ Here
www.djbowmansmith.com
www.tigermolly.com
Dianne talks about how she honed her writing skills by entering many completions across numerous genres. Now she judges competitions and provides some great writing tips for new authors.
Dianne likes to write suspense with feisty women survivors and strong, brainy men. These feature in her recent release, The Elijah Black Trilogy. She talks about how real people often inspire her to create the characters in her work.
You can find her work and more here;
www.diannemccartney.com
And DJ is here www.djbowmansmith.com
DJ has a quick chat about being a guest on another podcast, Jody J Sperling’s THE RELUCTANT BOOK MARKETER. DJ and Jody talk about the difficulties of book marketing and the necessity of developing a can-do attitude. Find his podcast here https://t.co/mSz5NazgSI
Then she introduces her guest, historical fiction author Gemma Lawrence. Gemma has an in-depth knowledge of the Tudors and discusses why she wrote about Jane Boleyn. Gemma Lawrence loves giving voices to the women of history and uses her research to understand who they really were and how the society they lived in affected them. She talks about her favourite castles and other historical places. Her new release is Captive of the King, and you can find this all her work on Amazon here
https://t.co/53byObZqnO
And you can find DJ, her books, blog, and more at
www.djbowmansmith.com
DJ has a quick chat about finally setting up her new graphics tablet and how this brought back some childhood memories of her father teaching her to type. Then she introduces independent author Richard Hayden.
Richard has used actual places to inspire his Imaginari series of YA books to create a real-world with fantasy undertones. The final book in his trilogy is out next year – 2023.
He talks about his book covers and writing process, and audiobooks.
Find his books on Amazon here https://t.co/IxSmJetjw4
and his community here www.facebook.com/rchydenauthor/
And you can find DJ
www.djbowmansmith.com
Host DJ Bowman-Smith chats about her working week and, in particular, working on holiday. Then she introduces traditionally published Romance author Mandy Baggot.
Mandy has a new Christmas book Wishing on a Star, which is out now https://t.co/LytuCeLZDR
She chats about the fun she has writing Christmas books in summer and summer books in winter and her love of all things Greek. Mandy talks about the different publishing houses she has worked with and how she is a hopeless romantic. Mandy tells us how important a happy-ever-after is for her readers and why.
You can find all her work here
https://t.co/16NO8Yru7z
And you can find DJ here
www.djbowmansmith.com
DJ Bowman-Smith has a quick chat about social media and provides a few tips on how to make the most of the many platforms available to modern authors. Then DJ interviews traditionally published author Sue Moorcroft. Sue talks about her writing schedule of two books a year and her new release: A white Christmas on Winter Street, which is out now.
She discusses the importance of giving her characters real-life problems so that the books are more than romance. She discusses Middledip, the fictional village she has created and that readers can visit her online map to find out exactly how it is laid out and who lives where. Sue talks about her book covers and the process a traditionally published author goes through when they are being created, and the images she uses to promote her work on social media. Every year, Sue writes a Christmas-themed romance and Sue and DJ chat about their own family Christmases, both past and present.
You can find Sue Moorcroft at www.suemoorcroft.com
To purchase her books, find her on social media and more, please use her links page below
www.linktr.ee/SueMoorcroft
And you can find DJ Bowman-Smith at www.djbowmansmith.com
DJ gives an update on her creative week and has a chat about the health benefits of owning a dog, then introduces thriller author Dominic Piper.
Dominic discusses the main character in his thrillers, a private investigator called Daniel Beckett, who has a rich back story and many dormant skills. Dominic enjoys revealing just a little more of his MC’s past life in each book.
Dominic writes across different disciplines, including journalism and television scripts, but enjoys writing his gritty and unusual thrillers the most.
The cover designs on the four books were influenced by the photographers Helmut Newton and Marc Lagrange and chocolate polaroid film.
His book cover designer is Simon Avery at www.idobookcovers.com
Find Dominic here
www.viewAuthor.at/DominicPiper
Amazon.co.uk: Dominic Piper: Books, Biography, Blogs, Audiobooks, Kindle
And DJ
www.djbowmansmith.com
DJ Bowman-Smith has a quick recap on her writing life and how she has bought herself a graphics tablet, and why it is not yet opened. Then introduces her guest this week, fantasy author Karen Lykkebo.
Multilingual Karen is from Denmark and trained as a scientist. She is now following her writing dreams whilst studying a new discipline. As a full-time student, she tells DJ how she nurtures her creative spirit, writes and promotes her work.
Find Karen here
www.linktr.ee/klykkebo
And DJ www.djbowmansmith.com or as a children's author www.tigermolly.com
DJ has a quick chat about her writing week and then introduces her guest, professional freelance editor, Anna Sharples.
Anna talks about common mistakes writers make. How best to choose an editor and the different types of editing. She’s super keen that every writer understands the importance of this crucial step in the publishing process.
You can find Anna Sharples
www.sharpsightedgrammar.co.uk
And on TikTok @anna.sharples.editor
You can find DJ here
www.djbowmansmith.com
Words and Pictures Podcast host DJ Bowman-Smith shares her writing week and then talks with fellow podcaster and writer, Jody J Sperling.
Jody’s podcast is called The Reluctant Book Marketer, a sentiment any author can relate to. He talks about putting plenty of effort into book marketing and shifting the mindset to see it as a creative and enjoyable process. Encouraging and witty, we all need Jody to cheer us on so we can sell more books.
Find Jody here
www.thereluctantbookmarketer.com/share
on Twitter @jodyjsperling, and his podcast, The Reluctant Book Marketer is available wherever you normally listen to your podcasts.
And you can find DJ at her website www.djbowmansmith.com
Words & Pictures Podcast host DJ Bowman-Smith has a chat about her working week preparing a new page on her Wix website in order to sell signed copies of her dark fantasy series, Crystal Bound. Then she introduces her guest, David P Perlmutter. They talk about their shared irritation, dyslexia and how it affects their writing life. They discuss one of David’s books, Wrong Place, Wrong Time. This is a true story about how David was wrongly accused of a crime. He explains it began as a therapeutic blog post before it became the best-selling book it now is. Wrong Place, Wrong Time is going to be made into a Hollywood film, and David explains what a long, drawn-out process this is. They talk about his other books, some Crime Fiction, others about book marketing.
www.djbowmansmith.com
www.linktr.ee/DavidPPerlmutter
Words and Pictures Podcast host DJ Bowman-Smith has a quick chat about her working week and starting a new social media platform, TikTok and then introduces her guest, Jessica Bell.
Jessica Bell has recently published a new book. Can you make the title Bigga? This book is for anyone who needs a book cover. Jessica is an experienced book cover designer, and the book is full of useful facts and insights about book covers and working with a book cover designer to get the best results. She uses real examples of books throughout and DJ and Jessica talk about Melissa Addey’s new covers which feature in Can you make the title Bigga? www.melissaaddey.com
Jessica is also a writer and musician and they talk about the difficulties of juggling creativity with family life.
Here are the links
For DJ www.djbowmansmith.com
For Jessica Bell
www.jessicabelldesign.com
www.indiepublishingassist.com
And her new book
Can You Make the Title Bigga?: The Chemistry of Book Cover Design eBook : Bell, Jessica: Amazon.co.uk: Books
This week DJ talks about her love affair with her kindle and how she is always reading, despite dyslexia.
Her guest is Halo Scot.
Halo Scott writes psychological thrillers, science fantasy and grimdark.
She is an independent author and has written six books. Halo discusses her love of all things dark and her writing process. She also explains how she made her covers and book trailers and what she is currently writing.
You can find Halo here, and her books and social media links
www.haloscot.com
DJ and Halo talked about writing the rainbow and www.queerindie.com
Stuff to help make covers and more www.canva.com and www.pixabay.com
Find DJ and her stuff at www.djbowmansmith.com
DJ Bowman-Smith www.djbowmansmith.com talks about joining a new social media platform – TikTok. She is learning how to use the platform via Mark Dawson's ads course and how she recently heard about TikTok at the Self Publishing Show Live in London. www.markdawson.com
Find DJ on TikTok. @djbowmansmith
This week's guest is the talented artist and children's author Christy Obalek. DJ and Christy talk about art and how they have overcome the dreaded imposter syndrome common to many authors. Christy speaks about her love of nature and, in particular, birds and how she likes to draw every day. She was inspired by the creative process in Julia Cameron's book, The Artist's Way.
Christy explains her forthcoming picture book for children, The Red Feather. Examples of the beautiful illustrations and more of her artwork are available on her website www.christyobalek.com
This week DJ Bowman-Smith www.djbowmansmith.com talks about the process of working in batches to get the Words & Pictures Podcast from interview to publication before welcoming her guest Julia Rozdobudko who is one of the talented people that work at Get Covers.com
www.getcovers.com
Here, you can get ready-made off-the-shelf covers for your books. But you can also commission design and marketing materials and lots more. A recent guest, Paul Cude, the YA writer, uses them, and they have got the whole dragon thing just right for his work. And Paul Cude is very particular about his dragons. Julia talks about the basics of cover design, what an author needs for marketing, and the importance of correct formatting to create an overall look that works for the genre. She explains how designers work with authors and exactly what getcovers.com provides.
Words & Pictures host DJ Bowman-Smith www.djbowmansmith.com talks about her working week and how she is coping with the unusually hot weather in England. She talks about her work in progress, how it's going, and about adding a little more spice to this series.
This week's guest is paranormal suspense writer Susanne Leist. Susanne talks about her fascination for horror, dark things and curses. She explains the two series she has out, The Dead Game and the Blue Harbour and her work in progress. She is also a poet and has made her own book trailers. She aims to create stories that are uniquely different.
You can find Susanne, her social media links and books here:
www.susanneleist.com
Words & Pictures Podcast host, DJ Bowman-Smith (www.djbowmansmith.com) has a chat about her working week, almost finishing her work in progress and the trouble she is having titling her work.
This week’s guest is award-winning author, Lorraine Pestell. Her seven-part serial, A Life Singular is almost finished, and she tells DJ about the themes of her books which focus on celebrity, tragedy, love and coping with mental illness. As a passionate advocate for mental health awareness, Lorraine endeavours to help sufferers and inform non-sufferers. She talks about her life and the places and images that have inspired her writing. Find Lorraine, her books and the links to the charities she supports here:
www.lorrainepestell.com
Host DJ Bowman-Smith (www.djbwmansmith.com) talks about her writing week and her trip to London to attend the second Self-Publishing Show Live event at the South Bank Centre. 750 writers attended this inspirational and informative event. Find Mark Dawson and so much more www.selfpublishingformula.com
This week's guest is historical fiction writer Melissa Addey. Find Melissa, her books, book trailers and research videos here www.melissaaddey.com
Melissa has a fun horror story about book covers that is enough to make any author shudder, and she explains her writing and research process. She tells us about her upcoming books which focus on the Coliseum in Rome and the new illustrated book covers that are on her Forbidden City series and the Moroccan Empire series. Find Jessica, her designer, here:
www.jessicabelldesign.com
Melissa also shares some of her thoughts on the need for all creatives to be entrepreneurs.
After a short intro about her writing week (find her here: www.djbowmansmith.com), DJ introduces her guest, fellow dark fantasy author BR Crichton. Bruce discusses his need for a spot of solitude in order to develop his creative thinking and the difficulty in getting anything done with a young family. He talks through how he made his very professional book trailer and the difficulties involved in finding the best actors and voice-over artists.
You can find BR Crichton and his dark fantasy books here
https://t.co/L8SkxJy0ga (his Amazon page) and his website www.brcrichton.com
Arise the Darkness Trailer is here
https://youtu.be/Kzs3QxLv6XY
BR uses the people at Upwork for artwork www.upwork.com
And Pond5 for music and images www.pond5.com
The book trailer was made by www.howardvausefilms.com
Along with adventure film-maker Paul Diffley www.pauldiffley.com
DJ Bowman-Smith (www.djbowmansmith.com) has a quick chat about her writing week and then introduces her guest, writer of science fiction Doug J Cooper.
Doug J Cooper is the writer of the Crystal Series and Bump Time series. In both, Doug explores the possibilities, both good and bad, in a future with advanced artificial intelligence. Time travel and space are themes that fascinate him. His current work in progress is Lagrange Rising, which he describes as 'cops in space'. Imaginative and clever, Doug talks about his inspiration and his writing process. Find him and his work here:
www.crystalseries.com
Of course, we discuss his book cover art, which is done by Damonza. Find them here:
www.damonza.com
DJ Bowman-Smith (www.djbowmansmith.com) chats about her writing week and then welcomes her guest, Jonathon Fletcher. Find Jonathon and his military science fiction featuring his amazing art here:
The Space Navy Series (google.com)
Jonathon talks about his life as an artist and writer and discusses his art techniques and writing process. He explains how for him the art always comes first – all his books begin life as a storyboard. Jonathon chats about what has inspired him over the years and why he wanted to create The Space Navy series, which is military science fiction that is both uniquely British and gritty.
DJ Bowman-Smith (www.djbowmansmith.com) chats about what has happened at her own writing desk this week and then welcomes her guest Paul Cude www.paulcude.com
Paul discusses how dreams help him write his young adult fantasy book series which feature dragons. He talks about how he sells his work and his writing process and of course his love of dragons. He also speaks about his book covers and the design work on his website. All done by the lovely people at GetCovers www.getcovers.com
DJ Bowman-Smith (www.djbowmansmith.com) chats about her writing life this week and then welcomes her guest Katie Mettner.
Katie Mettner writes small-town romantic tales with happily-ever-afters. Katie discusses how to write disabled characters authentically. Her website features a useful list of people-first language. Find that and her books and much more here www.katiemettner.com
Katie talks about how her writing enables others to understand disability and particularly that most people (disabled or not) are just trying to get on with their lives, explaining that people with disabilities should not be (as is typical) portrayed as helpless or heroically inspirational for doing simple, basic activities.
Her book covers are designed by Carrie Butler, you can find Carrie here;
www.carrieabutler.com
Katie tells us about the difficulties involved when searching stock images for disabled people to use for her covers and also about the benefits of using the same designer for a long time.
A solo episode where host, DJ Bowman-Smith sets out what the Words & Pictures Podcast is all about. Then discusses book covers and the importance of genre in the design and why detail may be less important than we believe. She then goes on to explain the reason so many book covers have faceless protagonists.
Hello, I'm DJ Bowman-Smith, writer and artist, and this is a brief trailer for the Words & Pictures Podcast.
So, what is the Words and Pictures Podcast, who is it for and why words and pictures?
This podcast is for writers, and I will have many guests on from all genres, both fiction and non-fiction and everything in between – and they will talk about their writing process and the writing that they do. But we will also discuss the images they employ to enhance their work and help get it into readers' hands.
Today's writer needs to understand the importance of utilising the many visual elements available to them, such as website design, social media branding, illustrations, author portraits, avatars, logos, book trailers, research videos, and business cards – and that is just the stuff that immediately springs to mind.
While book covers are the most obvious, there is much more to consider. Speaking with authors about what and how they handle the images for their writing is a great way to gain ideas and learn from one another. So I hope you will enjoy the chat and get some ideas and advice along the way.
I will also talk to artists who are involved in book creation and other publishing professionals.
So join me every week on the Words & Pictures Podcast. The first episode is on Monday, August the first. This will be a solo podcast where I will share my thoughts about book cover design. The Words & Pictures Podcast will come out every Monday. I have some great guests lined up. It's going to be fun and informative. You can find me and the podcast show notes and back issues at. www.djbowmansmith.com
Join me on Mondays for the Words & Pictures Podcast.
Until then, goodbye.