The Shit No One Tells You About Writing

• Ann Napolitano on Overcoming Rejection and Despair as Part of the Writing Life & Kirthana Ramisetti on The Art of Foreshadowing

  In the first part of this episode, Bianca interviews Ann Napolitano, inspiring Oprah Book Club pick author of Hello Beautiful.  During the multi-layered interview, Ann shares her journey as a writer, discussing the long path to publication, the importance of perseverance, and the role of gratitude in her success. She reflects on her experiences with rejection, the joy of writing, and the challenges of maintaining discipline in a writing career. Ann shares her insights on the writing process, the importance of beta readers, and the challenges of crafting character depth. She shares her unique approach to storytelling, including the role of obsession in developing narratives and the necessity of revision. Ann also discusses exploring the balance of multiple perspectives in writing and the emotional truths that guide her characters' journeys.In the second part of this episode Bianca interviews GMA book club pick author Kirthana Ramisetti—whose novels have received acclaim from Time, Cosmopolitan, The Washington Post, Buzzfeed, Associated Press and more. Kirthana discusses her latest novel, The Other Lata, which explores unique narrative structure, character development, and the blending of genres. She shares insights into her writing process, the importance of foreshadowing, and how pop culture influences her work. Bianca and Kirthana also discuss the challenges of writing from a single POV and the significance of giving characters agency, particularly in the context of complex antagonists. The interview closes with Kirthana reflecting on her experiences as an author, highlighting the joy of writing and the creative journey.Note: Carly Watters and CeCe Lyra are literary agents at P.S. Literary Agency, but their work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly and CeCe on this podcast are solely that of them as podcast co-hosts and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.Upcoming in person event you won't want to miss! A 'Most Puzzling Murder' Book Launch!https://blueheronbooks.com/item/FEHiE_RNkHAGOSqfUUiVXwFind us on our socials:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_shit_about_writinghttps://www.threads.net/@biancamarais_authorhttps://www.threads.net/@carlywatters https://www.threads.net/@cece_lyra_agentInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_shit_about_writing/https://www.instagram.com/biancamarais_author/ https://www.instagram.com/carlywatters/ https://www.instagram.com/cece_lyra_agent/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TSNOTYAWWebsites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.comBookshop.org affiliatepage: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwritingTo sign up for our Substack newsletter, head to https://theshitaboutwriting.substack.com/Our Sponsors:* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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• Stage Directions, Opening and How to Avoid Them

  In this episode of Books with Hooks, hosts Bianca, Carly, and CeCe discuss the importance of clarity in storytelling, character development, and the need for emotional depth in writing. The conversation emphasizes the significance of engaging openings and the necessity of establishing strong connections between plot points. They also offer great tips like avoiding starting with stage directions in the opening line and that a strong opening scene should have a disruption.Note: Carly Watters and CeCe Lyra are literary agents at P.S. Literary Agency, but their work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly and CeCe on this podcast are solely that of them as podcast co-hosts and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.Upcoming in person event you won't want to miss! A 'Most Puzzling Murder' Book Launch!https://blueheronbooks.com/item/FEHiE_RNkHAGOSqfUUiVXwFind us on our socials:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_shit_about_writinghttps://www.threads.net/@biancamarais_authorhttps://www.threads.net/@carlywatters https://www.threads.net/@cece_lyra_agentInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_shit_about_writing/https://www.instagram.com/biancamarais_author/ https://www.instagram.com/carlywatters/ https://www.instagram.com/cece_lyra_agent/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TSNOTYAWWebsites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.comBookshop.org affiliatepage: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwritingTo sign up for our Substack newsletter, head to https://theshitaboutwriting.substack.com/Please consider donating to The Masana Library Project. To learn more head to: https://www.biancamarais.com/fundraiser.htmlOur Sponsors:* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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• March Bonus Episode

  In the first part of this month’s bonus episode, Carly Watters interviews Bailey Hannah, a Canadian romance author known for her ‘Wells Ranch’ series. They talk about Bailey’s experience with going from self-publishing to traditional publishing, the importance of quality editing, and the impact of social media platforms like BookTok on author success. Bailey shares insights into her writing process, the emotional connections she forms with readers at conventions, and her inspirations as a writer. Near the end of the interview, Bailey offers valuable advice for aspiring authors to simply write their stories.The conversation shifts when Bianca interviews New York Times Bestselling author of the ‘Lady Julia Grey’, series Deanna Raybourn. Deanna is also a ‘USA Today’ bestseller and Edgar Award nominated ‘Veronica Speedwell’ mysteries and several standalone works. Deanna discusses her writing process, the challenges of crafting thrillers, and the importance of structure and causality in storytelling. She shares insights on balancing plotting and pantsing, trusting one's instincts in idea development, and the necessity of creative challenges to keep the writing process invigorating. The discussion culminates in a reflection on the art of writing and the responsibility of authors to engage their readers with compelling narratives.Finally, Emilie Sommer from East City Bookshop answers all your burning comp title questions.Note: Carly Watters and CeCe Lyra are literary agents at P.S. Literary Agency, but their work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly and CeCe on this podcast are solely that of them as podcast co-hosts and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.Upcoming in person event you won't want to miss! A 'Most Puzzling Murder' Book Launch!https://blueheronbooks.com/item/FEHiE_RNkHAGOSqfUUiVXwFind us on our socials:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_shit_about_writinghttps://www.threads.net/@biancamarais_authorhttps://www.threads.net/@carlywatters https://www.threads.net/@cece_lyra_agentInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_shit_about_writing/https://www.instagram.com/biancamarais_author/ https://www.instagram.com/carlywatters/ https://www.instagram.com/cece_lyra_agent/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TSNOTYAWWebsites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.comBookshop.org affiliatepage: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwritingTo sign up for our Substack newsletter, head to https://theshitaboutwriting.substack.com/Please consider donating to The Masana Library Project. To learn more head to: https://www.biancamarais.com/fundraiser.htmlOur Sponsors:* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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  1:47:34
• The Evolution of a Novel: Learning to Let Go

  In this inspiring author interview, Bianca interviews Kath Jonathan, whose debut novel, 'The Resistance Painter', intertwines historical and contemporary narratives. They discuss Kath’s journey as a writer, and the personal challenges she faced, including health issues, over the twelve years she spent writing her novel.The authors chat about the evolution of a novel from start to finish, and how important it is to learn to let go along the way. Kath also elaborates on her journey as an older author and publishing later in life. The conversation touches on the significance of historical fiction in understanding present-day issues, the emotional journey of writing, and the transformative power of collaboration with editors. Kath's story serves as an inspiration for writers of all ages, emphasizing that it's never too late to pursue one's passion for storytelling.Note: Carly Watters and CeCe Lyra are literary agents at P.S. Literary Agency, but their work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly and CeCe on this podcast are solely that of them as podcast co-hosts and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.Upcoming in person event you won't want to miss! A 'Most Puzzling Murder' Book Launch!https://blueheronbooks.com/item/FEHiE_RNkHAGOSqfUUiVXwFind us on our socials:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_shit_about_writinghttps://www.threads.net/@biancamarais_authorhttps://www.threads.net/@carlywatters https://www.threads.net/@cece_lyra_agentInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_shit_about_writing/https://www.instagram.com/biancamarais_author/ https://www.instagram.com/carlywatters/ https://www.instagram.com/cece_lyra_agent/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TSNOTYAWWebsites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.comBookshop.org affiliatepage: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwritingTo sign up for our Substack newsletter, head to https://theshitaboutwriting.substack.com/Please consider donating to The Masana Library Project. To learn more head to:https://www.biancamarais.com/fundraiser.htmlKath Jonathan:www.kathjonathanauthor.comInstagram: @kathjonathanauthorOur Sponsors:* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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  34:31
• It's a Vibe: Plot Points & Emotional Vibes in Storytelling

  In this episode of Books with Hooks, hosts Bianca, Carly and CeCe welcome special guest, literary agent, Lauren Spieller to discuss query letters in romance and fantasy genres. The hosts discuss the distinctions between Young Adult and Adult Fantasy, and the dynamics of character relationships. Lauren provides insightful critiques on a submitted query letter and its opening pages, emphasizing the need for clarity, tension, and character depth. The hosts continue to talk about the intricacies of character development, particularly focusing on the protagonist's depth and emotional projection. The panel discusses a high concept query that intertwines elements of romance and fantasy, emphasizing the need for balance between plot and emotional resonance. They explore the importance of motivation, the implications of dark romance, and the effectiveness of the title. The discussion culminates in a reflection on the protagonist's journey, highlighting the necessity of vulnerability and disruption in storytelling.Note: Carly Watters and CeCe Lyra are literary agents at P.S. Literary Agency, but their work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly and CeCe on this podcast are solely that of them as podcast co-hosts and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.Upcoming in person event you won't want to miss! A 'Most Puzzling Murder' Book Launch!https://blueheronbooks.com/item/FEHiE_RNkHAGOSqfUUiVXwFind us on our socials:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_shit_about_writinghttps://www.threads.net/@biancamarais_authorhttps://www.threads.net/@carlywatters https://www.threads.net/@cece_lyra_agentInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_shit_about_writing/https://www.instagram.com/biancamarais_author/ https://www.instagram.com/carlywatters/ https://www.instagram.com/cece_lyra_agent/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TSNOTYAWLauren Spieller: @folioliteraryWebsites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.comBookshop.org affiliatepage: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwritingTo sign up for our Substack newsletter, head to https://theshitaboutwriting.substack.com/Please consider donating to The Masana Library Project. To learn more head to:https://www.biancamarais.com/fundraiser.htmlOur Sponsors:* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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  41:36

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