NYT Bestselling Author Sophie Cousens, Romance Writing Tips, Serial Writing, and More
Podcast: Download (Duration: 1:17:19 — 70.8MB)
In this episode 315, we dive into New York Times bestselling author Sophie Cousens’ new British rom-com Before I Do, which Kirkus says is “a charming and surprising take on the classic love triangle formula.” Jill Brashear talks about the formulaic parts of writing romance, why they work, and how writing serial fiction re-ignited her spark for writing. And we’ve got book recommendations, and more.
Today’s Featured Authors:
Sophie Cousens Time Stamp: 5:38
Before I Do is a funny rom-com with a thoughtful take on love, asking the question “What would you do if your ‘one who got away’ showed up the day before your wedding?”
Jill Brashear Time Stamp: 1:04:52
Romance author Jill Brashear shares her blog post “How Serial Fiction Re-Ignited My Spark,” about how she broke out of writer’s block with a creative change in format.
Community Updates:
Listen to our episode for updates on the Charlotte writing community, including events from the Charlotte Writers Club, Charlotte Lit, and more.
Host Updates:
Sarah: I’m back from a trip to NYC, and taking some meetings with local writers this week, as well as continuing to work on my screenwriting and some short fiction pieces.
Landis: Tonight, November 15th, I’m speaking to the Charlotte Writers Club about all the book marketing I did not know when launching my first three books. On November 29th, I’m offering a class with Charlotte Lit on how to nail the author interview from both sides of the mic. I’m also working on a cover refresh for my Christmas courtroom trilogy–stay tuned for new artwork soon.
Book Recommendations: Time Stamp: 40:02
Sarah recommends:
Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver
Landis recommends (via Park Road Books):
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
Mark West, Storied Charlotte Blog, recommends:
Poster Girls by Meredith Ritchie
Alyssa Pressler, That’s Novel Books, recommends:
The Invincible Summer of Juniper Jones by Daven McQueen
2-Minute Tip: Time Stamp: 56:02
Don’t miss Charlotte Lit co-founder and executive director Paul Reali’s tip about using point of view to get inside a character’s head.
Writing Tips: Time Stamp: 1:04:52
From Jill Brashear’s blog post “How Serial Fiction Re-Ignited My Spark,” we get these tips:
- Changing up your format and writing routine can be a good way to get yourself out of a writing rut.
- Solicit reader suggestions through a newsletter or social media to spark inspiration and get your audience engaged and excited about your work.
- Don’t ask for suggestions or offer story options to your readers if you’re not comfortable writing those things! Think ahead to maintain as much control as you want over your story.
Community Voices:
For our upcoming holiday episode, we’re looking for your reading and writing resolutions and aspirations for the new year. Leave us a written or voice message on our contact page, or drop us a line through social media, and share what you’re looking forward to reading in 2023, or any writing goals you have for next year!
Takeaways:
Our authors shared some wonderful insights today into writing about relationships, and Charlotte Lit’s tip on POV was valuable for writers at any stage. Thanks to our listeners for continuing to engage with the show!
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