In this lively episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle chats with Elizabeth Hobbs/Elizabeth Essex, the author of the Marigold Manners Mysteries, a new historical mystery series full of wit, wickedness, and unforgettable heroines. Her debut mystery, Misery Hates Company, released in 2024, with Murder Made Her Wicked on the way in 2025.
Elizabeth talks about blending humor and suspense in her stories, her lifelong love of history, and what it’s like writing across genres—also known to readers as Elizabeth Essex, USA Today bestselling author of award-winning historical romance. From clever sleuths to scandalous love affairs, her books are always packed with charm, tension, and rich period detail.
Whether you're into mischief, murder, or a dash of romance, this episode is for readers who love a smart heroine and a twisty tale.
🔔 Subscribe for more interviews with authors who bring the past to life with sharp wit and irresistible storytelling.
ABOUT ELIZABETH HOBBS:
Elizabeth Hobbs is a New Englander born and bred, who spent her childhood roaming the woods and shoreline, making up stories about characters who live far more exciting lives than she. It wasn’t always so—long before she ever set pen to paper, Elizabeth graduated from Hollins College with a B.A. in Classics and Art History, and then earned her M.A. in Nautical Archaeology from Texas A & M University. While she loved the life of an underwater archaeologist, she has found her true calling writing historical mysteries full of wit, wickedness and adventure. MISERY HATES COMPANY, released in 2024, is the first book in her Marigold Manners Mysteries series. The second, MURDER MADE HER WICKED will be released Nov. 11th, 2025, with the third MERIDIAN OF MALICE to follow in 2026.
Elizabeth also writes as USA Today Bestselling author of Romance, Elizabeth Essex. Her critically-acclaimed and award-winning Reckless Brides and Highland Brides historical romance series have been nominated for numerous awards, including the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence, the Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice Award, and RWA's prestigious RITA Award, and have made Top-Ten lists from Romantic Times, The Romance Reviews and Affaire de Coeur Magazine. Her fifth book, A BREATH OF SCANDAL, was awarded Best Historical in the Reader's Crown 2013.
Elizabeth loves to travel from her home in Texas, where she lives with her husband, the Indispensable Mr. Hobbs, and her darling dogs, Ghillie and Brogue, in an empty nest of an old house filled to the brim with bicycles and books.
WHERE TO FIND HER:
WHERE TO BUY HER BOOKS:
🎃 BONUS HALLOWEEN EPISODE! 🎃
In this spine-tingling special of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle welcomes long-time friend and horror author S.E. Howard for a chilling chat just in time for Halloween. By day, she’s a registered nurse and certified toxicologist in Kentucky. By night, she spins dark, unforgettable tales that crawl under your skin and linger long after the lights go out.
We talk about her horror novella Prairie Madness, her novel The Vessel (from Wicked House Publishing), and her many terrifying short stories featured in anthologies like PUSH!, Carnival of Horror, and The Horror Collection. S.E. shares her journey into the horror genre, how her medical background influences her stories, and what it was like having her work adapted for the screen in Worst Laid Plans.
This episode is packed with creepy vibes, behind-the-scenes insights, and lots of laughs between two friends who love dark fiction. If you enjoy smart, unsettling horror with a psychological twist—this one’s for you.
🔔 Subscribe for more hauntingly good author interviews… and don’t forget to leave a light on.
#SEHoward #HalloweenSpecial #HorrorAuthor #PrairieMadness #TheVessel #WritingPodcast #MilesBeyondThePage #MichelleMiles #AuthorInterview #WorstLaidPlans #ChildbirthHorror #DarkFiction #WomenInHorror #HorrorWriting #SpookyReads #CreativeWritingTips #BehindTheBook
ABOUT S.E. HOWARD:
S.E. Howard lives in Kentucky where she works as a registered nurse, certified in toxicology (a fitting field given her side-hustle writing horror stories). Her short stories have appeared in numerous anthologies, including PUSH! An Anthology of Childbirth Horror presented by Ruth Anna Evans, Carnival of Horror from Undertaker Books, and the Amber, Sinister, and Green Diamond Editions of The Horror Collection by KJK Publishing. Her short story “You’ve Been Saved” was also adapted for the screen in the 2022 GenreBlast film anthology Worst Laid Plans. Her horror novella, "Prairie Madness" is available from Baynam Books Press, and a novel, The Vessel from Wicked House Publishing. For more information, visit online at www.sehoward.com.
WHERE TO FIND HER:
WHERE TO FIND HER BOOKS:
"Worst Laid Plans" movie links
Rent or purchase through Prime Video
Stream for free through Tubi
In this delightful episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle chats with Kathy L. Wheeler, author of both contemporary and historical romance where the heroines save themselves—and the heroes are smart enough to love them for it.
From her love of the NFL and karaoke to her passion for crafting swoony stories with dark suspense and witty banter, Kathy brings a vibrant voice and fearless energy to every page. She shares her journey as a writer, cover designer, and publishing mentor—plus how musical theater and a musically talented husband help keep the creativity flowing.
Whether she’s writing daring historicals or modern love stories full of sass and spark, Kathy knows how to deliver a story that empowers, entertains, and sticks with you long after the HEA.
🔔 Subscribe for more inspiring author interviews packed with laughter, heart, and behind-the-scenes magic.
ABOUT KATHY L. WHEELER:
Kathy L. Wheeler loves reading, writing, the NFL, the NBA, musical theater, travel, and, er... karaoke. She assists other authors in critiquing, formatting, and creating covers for their publishing dreams.
She writes contemporary and historical romance under Kathy L Wheeler where the heroines save themselves and the heroes who honor their courage with dark suspense and humor. She is thriving in the Pacific Northwest with her musically talented, lawyer husband and her adorable dog Angel who lives up to her name (…mostly).
WHERE TO FIND HER:
Website | Facebook | Instagram | BlueSky | TikTok
WHERE TO FIND HER BOOKS: Amazon
In this magical episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle sits down with J.F. Monroe, fantasy author and creator of the Legacy of the Four trilogy, to talk about worldbuilding, destiny, and the heart of what makes epic fantasy so powerful. With ancient powers walking among us and ordinary characters thrust into extraordinary roles, Monroe’s stories blend the grand scale of adventure with the deeply personal.
We explore her inspirations—from The Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter to The Hunger Games and Christopher Nolan’s complex storytelling—and how she channels them into tales where human connection is the most powerful magic of all. Whether it’s chosen ones with world-altering gifts or loyal animal companions, Monroe’s characters are as emotionally real as they are heroic.
J.F. shares her storytelling process, her love for immersive worlds (books, movies, and games), and how courage, love, and sacrifice shape the destinies of her unforgettable protagonists.
If you love epic fantasy with soul, this is the conversation you've been waiting for.
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ABOUT JF MONROE
When reality isn't enough, you build your universe. That's precisely what J.F. Monroe did with the Legacy of the Four trilogy, creating a world where ancient powers walk among us and destiny can be rewritten by the courage of the human heart.
A lifelong devotee of fantasy fiction, Monroe crafts stories that blend epic adventure with deeply personal journeys. Her writing draws inspiration from the character-driven narratives of "The Lord of the Rings" and "Harry Potter," the high stakes of "The Hunger Games," and the intricate plotting of Christopher Nolan's films. These influences combine in her work to create stories where even the most extraordinary characters feel remarkably real.
At the heart of Monroe's storytelling philosophy lies a simple truth: the most powerful magic comes from human connection. Her characters—whether they're vessels for ancient powers or loyal companions with four legs—face struggles that resonate with readers long after they turn the last page. She crafts protagonists who aren't just extraordinary in their abilities but also in their capacity for growth, love, and sacrifice.
When not weaving tales of legendary guardians and supernatural realms, Monroe can be found immersed in the stories that fuel her imagination—curled up with a good book and a steaming cup of coffee, embarking on movie marathons, or exploring virtual worlds through video games. These moments of escape and adventure inspire new stories and new worlds for readers to discover.
WHERE TO FIND HER AND HER BOOKS
Available in KU, Audiobook and Paperback. Click here!
In this episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle sits down with G. Michael Hopf, USA Today bestselling author of The New World series and over forty other pulse-pounding novels. Known for his raw, realistic takes on post-apocalyptic survival and gritty westerns, G. Michael shares how his diverse background—including time as a Marine combat veteran, bodyguard, and commercial diver—shapes every story he writes.
We dive into the power of resilience, the realities of writing intense, high-stakes fiction, and the global success of The New World, which has sold over a million copies and been translated worldwide. G. Michael also talks about his role as co-founder of Beyond The Fray Publishing and what it takes to thrive in today’s publishing landscape.
Whether you’re a fan of survival fiction, western grit, or just love a story with heart and muscle, this is a must-watch.
🔔 Subscribe for more unfiltered author interviews that go beyond the page.
ABOUT G. MICHAEL HOPF:
G. Michael Hopf is a USA Today bestselling author renowned for his post-apocalyptic and western novels. He has penned over forty books, including the internationally acclaimed "The New World" series, which has sold well over one million copies worldwide and been translated into multiple languages. A Marine Corps combat veteran, Hopf's diverse background also includes roles as a bodyguard and commercial diver.
These experiences infuse his writing with authenticity, particularly in themes of survival and resilience. He is the co-founder and managing partner of Beyond The Fray Publishing and resides in San Diego with his family.
WHERE TO FIND HIM & HIS BOOKS:
In this inspiring episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle sits down with creative powerhouse Wren Valentino—actor, bestselling author, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and CEO of Blue Dasher Productions. With over twenty-one novels, seventy stage plays, and numerous screen adaptations to his name, Wren shares how storytelling drives every facet of his artistic journey.
We explore his work across multiple genres—romance, thriller, YA, and horror—his passion for empowering writers, and the vision behind Blue Dasher Productions and Blue Dasher Press. Wren also reflects on how his background in theater, film, and publishing allows him to nurture creativity and build platforms that champion diverse voices.
Whether you’re a writer, filmmaker, or lover of the arts, this conversation is a masterclass in creativity, craft, and carving your own path in the storytelling world.
🔔 Subscribe for more compelling conversations with the creators shaping stories that move us.
ABOUT WREN:
Wren Valentino is an actor, entrepreneur, film producer, movie critic, workshop instructor, and writer. As the bestselling author of twenty-one novels, Wren writes in multiple genres, primarily romance, thriller, young adult, and horror. To date, he has written more than seventy stage plays that have been performed in twelve countries in three languages. Eight of his original screenplays and seven of his stage plays have been adapted for the screen.
Wren is the CEO and Owner of Blue Dasher Productions, a multifaceted creative company dedicated to empowering writers, celebrating storytelling, producing groundbreaking films and television, and championing the transformative power of the arts. The company serves as the parent organization for three dynamic divisions including publishing company Blue Dasher Press.
Wren graduated with honors from Oglethorpe University in Atlanta with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and English. He earned a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing at Queens University of Charlotte in North Carolina. He is a graduate of the Professional Program in Screenwriting at UCLA.
He is a proud member of Rainbow Romance Writers and Romance Writers of America, who presented him with a Volunteer Service Award.
He lives in Sacramento, California.
WHERE TO FIND HIM:
Website | LinkTree | Facebook | Instagram
BUY LINKS : Amazon
In this adrenaline-charged episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle chats with award-winning author Julie Rowe, whose background as a medical lab technologist in Canada’s Northwest Territories adds unforgettable authenticity to her romantic suspense, thrillers, and paranormal romance.
Julie shares how her real-life medical experience informs her fiction—and why some of her wildest true stories can’t make it into her novels (because, as she puts it, “Fiction has to be believable!”). With nearly 20 novels and multiple anthologies under her belt, she opens up about blending science with sizzling tension, navigating genre crossovers, and writing characters who thrive in chaos, danger, and love.
If you love stories with heart, heat, and a pulse, this interview is not to be missed.
🔔 Subscribe for more behind-the-scenes conversations with storytellers who live—and write—on the edge.
ABOUT JULIE:
Julie Rowe brings her fascinating background as a medical lab technologist in Canada's Northwest Territories to her compelling romance novels. Known for weaving authentic medical details into her stories, she jokes that some of her real experiences will never make it to the page because "Fiction has to be believable." As an award-winning author of almost twenty novels and eight anthologies, Julie captivates readers with her romantic suspense, thrillers, and paranormal romance.
WHERE TO FIND HER AND HER BOOKS:
Website | Newsletter | Facebook | Twitter/X | Instagram
WHERE TO FIND HER BOOKS:
In this inspiring episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle sits down with T.L. Johnson, romantic suspense author, long-term care pharmacist, and founder of the gothic-glam mobile bookshop Midnight Haven Books. From her night-shift pharmacy work to spotlighting indie authors on wheels, T.L. is a powerhouse of passion, creativity, and community.
We chat about her debut novel The Storm and the Rose and its upcoming sequel, the inspiration behind her moody, atmospheric stories, and how she’s building a space—literally and figuratively—for indie authors to shine. T.L. shares how she balances writing, bookselling, and motherhood while cultivating a literary movement rooted in beauty, empowerment, and indie pride.
Whether you’re an author, reader, or book lover dreaming of a mobile bookshop of your own, this episode is packed with encouragement, entrepreneurial insight, and bookish joy.
ABOUT T.L. JOHNSON:
T.L. Johnson is a romantic suspense author, long-term care pharmacist, and founder of Midnight Haven Books, a gothic-glam mobile bookshop dedicated to promoting indie authors. A Mississippi native now based in West Virginia, she blends a love of language, storytelling, and community into everything she does. Her debut novel, The Storm and the Rose, launched in 2025, with its sequel, The Rose and the Shadows, releasing later this year. When she’s not writing, curating her bookshop shelves, or working her 7-on/7-off night shifts, she’s usually sipping coffee, reading something moody, or cheering on her daughter at dance.
WHERE TO FIND HER:
Website | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok | Threads
WHERE TO FIND HER BOOKS:
MIDNIGHT HAVEN BOOKS:
In this wickedly fun episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle sits down with Lila Grey, author of dark, emotionally intense romance that’s as seductive as it is devastating. Known for crafting stories full of emotional chaos, sharp edges, and dangerously irresistible men, Lila shares how she balances fictional heartbreak with real-life hustle.
We talk about the allure of morally gray heroes, the magic of redemption arcs, and what it takes to keep readers hooked (and wrecked) from the first page to the last. Lila doesn’t shy away from the messy, the passionate, or the painful—and that’s exactly what makes her books so addictive.
If you love dark romance that bites, bleeds, and still leaves you begging for more, this is your episode.
🔔 Subscribe for more behind-the-scenes chats with authors who write stories that leave a mark.
ABOUT LILA:
In this wickedly fun episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle sits down with Lila Grey, author of dark, emotionally intense romance that’s as seductive as it is devastating. Known for crafting stories full of emotional chaos, sharp edges, and dangerously irresistible men, Lila shares how she balances fictional heartbreak with real-life hustle.
WHERE TO FIND HER AND HER BOOKS:
Facebook Page | Facebook Profile | LinkTree
Buy Links:
(Available in KU!)
#writingcommunity #booktok #authorlife #writingtips #writingadvice #storytelling
In this lively episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle sits down with Lexi Blake, New York Times bestselling author of over three million books sold, to talk about the journey from journalism and playwriting to becoming a powerhouse in the romance world.
Lexi shares how she discovered her voice in romance, the importance of humor even in unexpected places, and why she’s a firm believer in happy endings. With a career spanning since 2010 and a loyal fanbase hooked on her unforgettable characters and twisty, emotional plots, Lexi pulls back the curtain on her writing process, storytelling philosophy, and what keeps her creatively fueled.
From laugh-out-loud moments to heart-tugging love stories, this episode is full of wisdom, warmth, and plenty of real talk about the highs and lows of the writing life.
🔔 Subscribe for more behind-the-scenes interviews with the bestselling authors who bring passion and purpose to every page.
ABOUT LEXI BLAKE
New York Times bestselling author Lexi Blake lives in North Texas with her husband and three kids. Since starting her publishing journey in 2010, she’s sold over three million copies of her books. She began writing at a young age, concentrating on plays and journalism. It wasn’t until she started writing romance that she found success. She likes to find humor in the strangest places and believes in happy endings.
WHERE TO FIND HER AND HER BOOKS
Website | Facebook | Instagram | X | YouTube
BUY LINKS
eBook: Amazon | Amazon UK | Apple Books | Google Play | Kobo | Nook
Print: Lexi’s Store | Amazon
In this enchanting episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle chats with Sophie Jordan, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author whose passion for romance began in the back of a high school Spanish class and grew into a powerhouse career spanning historical, contemporary, paranormal, and YA fiction.
We dive into the world of Romantasy—romantic fantasy—discussing how Sophie crafts swoony, high-stakes stories filled with magic, danger, and unforgettable characters. She shares what it’s like to write across genres, how she balances romance and adventure, and why she's drawn to strong heroines and richly imagined worlds.
From her debut to her latest fantasy-fueled romances, Sophie’s career is a masterclass in genre-crossing creativity and the enduring power of love stories.
🔔 Subscribe for more candid conversations with bestselling authors and the magical worlds they create.
ABOUT SOPHIE JORDAN:
Sophie Jordan took her adolescent daydreaming one step further and penned her first romance in the back of her high school Spanish class. This passion led her to pursue a degree in English and History.
A brief stint in law school taught her that case law was not nearly as interesting as literature - teaching English seemed a natural choice. After several years teaching high school students to love ANTIGONE, Sophie decided it was time to pursue her long-held dream of writing. Two years later, she landed her first publishing contract.
Her first book, ONCE UPON A WEDDING NIGHT, was a 2006 Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice Nominee for Best First Historical. Her second novel, TOO WICKED TO TAME, released in March 2007 with a bang - landing on the USA Today Bestseller's List. A few books later marked her first appearance on the New York Times bestseller list with the release of IN SCANDAL THEY WED.
And as if she's not busy enough, Sophie writes young adult fiction for HarperTeen and contemporary paranormals for Pocket. Sophie resides in Houston with her family and loves to hear from readers. To learn the latest information about Sophie and her books, follow her on Facebook and Twitter/X.
WHERE TO FIND HER ONLINE:
Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
WHERE TO FIND HER BOOKS:
In this fascinating episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle sits down with Dr. Kevin Hwang, practicing physician and debut novelist, to explore the intersection of medicine and fiction. His novel The Regression Strain is a high-stakes medical thriller set aboard a cruise ship—packed with authenticity, tension, and life-or-death decisions only someone with real clinical experience could write.
Dr. Hwang opens up about his unique journey from examining room to writing desk, balancing a demanding academic medical career with the creative challenges of fiction writing and self-publishing. We dive into how his background influences his storytelling, the ethical lines of drawing from real-world experiences, and the transferable skills between medicine and narrative craft.
This episode is a must-listen for professionals with creative dreams, fans of medical thrillers, and anyone curious about how real-life expertise can elevate fiction to the next level.
🔔 Subscribe for more inspiring interviews with storytellers who blur the lines between career and creativity.
ABOUT KEVIN HWANG:
Dr. Kevin Hwang is a practicing physician and debut novelist whose first book, The Regression Strain, blends medical realism with pulse-pounding suspense aboard a cruise ship. Drawing on his background in academic medicine, he crafts authentic, high-stakes fiction while balancing a demanding healthcare career. Passionate about helping professionals pursue creative paths, he offers a unique perspective on the intersection of storytelling and science.
WHERE TO FIND KEVIN:
Website | X | LinkedIn | Substack
WHERE TO BUY HIS BOOK:
In this unforgettable episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle sits down with the legendary Gena Showalter, New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author of nearly 100 novels, including fan-favorite series Lords of the Underworld and her hotly anticipated upcoming release, Kingdom of Tomorrow with Montlake.
We talk about everything from cursed immortal warriors to the magic of building entirely new kingdoms, and what it takes to keep readers hooked across fantasy, paranormal, and contemporary romance. Gena opens up about her writing process, life’s unexpected turns, and how her passion for storytelling—and swoon-worthy heroes—continues to guide her forward.
With wisdom, warmth, and her signature wit, Gena shares what keeps her inspired, what readers can expect next, and why she believes the best days are still ahead.
Whether you're a longtime fan of Lords of the Underworld or curious about Kingdom of Tomorrow, this is a must-listen episode full of heart, humor, and behind-the-scenes magic.
🔔 Subscribe for more candid conversations with the authors who bring epic love stories and unforgettable characters to life.
ABOUT GENA:
Gena Showalter is the New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author of nearly 100 novels. Most stories fall under the genre of romance, be they paranormal, fantasy, contemporary, or young adult. She’s also co-authored a (delightfully quirky) cozy mystery series as well as a nonfiction guide about how to write a book in a year.
Gena is a dedicated mother, grandmother, and fur-mom. A woman under construction, whose life took a few unexpected turns the past few years. But she’s learned a lot and firmly believes her best days are ahead of her, not behind her. Chances are good she’s writing her next novel and already in love with the hero.
WHERE TO FIND GENA:
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter/X | Amazon
WHERE TO BUY KINGDOM OF TOMORROW:
#writingcommunity #booktok #authorlife #writingtips #writingadvice #storytelling
In this episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle chats with Zoe Allison, romance author, doctor, and self-proclaimed notebook hoarder, about balancing real-life intensity with fictional happily-ever-afters. Growing up in Yorkshire in a mixed-race family, Zoe loved stories of love and bravery—but instead of being saved by the knight, she imagined fighting dragons beside him.
Now based in Scotland with her family, Zoe shares how writing became the creative outlet she needed to escape the emotional toll of her medical career. Her stories are packed with strong heroines, slow-burn romance, and the kind of swoony, satisfying endings we all crave.
Tune in for a heartwarming conversation about identity, resilience, and why the best love stories are the ones where both characters come out stronger—together.
🔔 Subscribe for more inspiring interviews with authors who write with heart, hope, and a little bit of fire.
ABOUT ZOE:
Zoe lives in Scotland with her husband, two children, and massive notebook collection—having been brought up in a mixed-race family in Yorkshire. Her favourite past times include reading, movies, music and pop culture, and walking into rooms and then forgetting what she went in there for.
Growing up, she always enjoyed stories about falling in love. But rather than daydreaming of being rescued by a knight in shining armour, she would imagine fighting dragons alongside him.
As an adult, she went to medical school and became a doctor. However as time passed, she began to crave a creative outlet to counter the burnout that her career inflicted upon her, and also to achieve the happy endings that were so often lacking in the real world. So, she began to write romance featuring heroines who are not only their heroes’ equals in ability and intellect, but whose heroes equal them in emotional intelligence.
WHERE TO FIND ZOE:
X | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok
WHERE TO FIND HER BOOKS:
#writingcommunity #booktok #authorlife #writingtips #writingadvice #storytelling
Are you a plotter or a pantser? Or somewhere in between?
In this Behind the Mic special from Miles Beyond the Page, 10 bestselling and award-winning authors weigh in on one of the biggest questions writers face: Should you plan your novel—or fly by the seat of your pants?
From detailed outlines to wild creative chaos, each author shares their unique process, favorite tools, and the lessons they’ve learned about storytelling.
Featuring:
- Adrienne Giordano (Romantic suspense powerhouse)
- Amanda Reid (Mystery with bite)
- L.E. Sterling (YA sci-fi/fantasy author)
- Harry Turtledove (Legendary alternate history author)
- Jami Gray (Urban fantasy and romantic suspense)
- Janet Leigh (Time-travel rom-com queen)
- Jeanne Skartsiaris (Women’s fiction & suspense)
- Elizabeth Hobbs (Historical romance with heart)
- Misty Evans (Paranormal & espionage thrillers)
- Tracey Devlyn (Romantic suspense & historical intrigue)
✍️ Whether you swear by spreadsheets or thrive in the unknown, this compilation will inspire your writing journey—and maybe help you find the process that works best for you.
🎧 Like, comment, and subscribe for more author advice, writing insights, and behind-the-scenes creativity.
In this episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle chats with Lyndsey Lewellen, author of The Chaos Grid duology—a gripping YA dystopian series set in a futuristic Texas landscape pulsing with danger, heart, and a rebellious spirit.
Lyndsey shares how her love of comic books, punk music, and sci-fi shaped her writing style and fueled the bold, high-stakes storytelling in her novels. We explore the power of “what if” in dystopian fiction, the risks her characters take to stand up for what matters, and how growing up surrounded by creativity and chaos (yes, including peacocks!) influences every word she writes.
When she’s not writing or conquering her massive TBR pile, Lyndsey is designing gorgeous book covers and custom-painting shoes—because, of course, her creativity knows no bounds.
If you love fierce YA heroes, dystopian drama, and a dash of punk-rock heart, you won’t want to miss this episode.
ABOUT LYNDSEY:
Lyndsey Lewellen is the author of The Chaos Grid duology, a YA dystopian series set in futuristic Texas. Growing up on a healthy dose of comic books, punk music, and sci-fi, she infuses all three loves into novels written for young adults. Inside her “what if” worlds, her characters take risks, grow, and fight for what matters. When she’s not writing or whittling down her endless TBR, she designs novel covers and paints on shoes. She lives on a small Texas farm with her best friend/husband, five children, and what some might call a zoo of animals (especially after meeting the peacocks).
WHERE TO FIND LYNDSEY:
Instagram | Facebook | Newsletter
WHERE TO BUY HER BOOKS:
🔔 Subscribe for more interviews with genre-bending, rule-breaking authors who bring stories to life.
#HowToWriteANovel #CreativeWritingTips #NovelWritingAdvice #WritingTipsForBeginners #WriteABook #FictionWritingHelp
Stuck on the blank page? You’re not alone.
In this special compilation from Miles Beyond the Page, 5 bestselling and award-winning authors share their most effective tips for overcoming writer’s block. Whether you're drafting your first novel or your tenth, this is the motivation you need to get those words flowing again.
💬 Featuring insights from:
- Allie Lasky (romance author with emotional punch)
- A.K. Nevermore (urban fantasy with a twist)
- J.L. Sullivan (YA author of From Brick & Darkness)
- Lexi Blake (NYT bestselling romance author)
- Mary Karlik (fairy tale retellings & fantasy worldbuilding)
✨ What you’ll learn:
- Simple mindset shifts to silence your inner critic
- Practical strategies to get unstuck
- Why writer’s block might not be what you think
- How these authors push through doubt and distraction
📌 If you’ve ever stared at a blinking cursor, this one’s for you.
🎧 Listen in and take notes—your next breakthrough starts here.
👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more author interviews, creative advice, and behind-the-scenes insights every week.
In this episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle sits down with J.L. Sullivan, award-winning author of From Brick & Darkness, to explore the gritty, magical world of urban young adult fiction. Drawing inspiration from abandoned buildings, back alleys, and the hidden stories buried in concrete landscapes, J.L. shares how he blends the real with the fantastical to reimagine ancient myths for a new generation.
We talk about his writing journey—from newspaper stories in high school to discovering contemporary fiction infused with subtle magic in college—and how those experiences shaped his dark, atmospheric debut. With the sequel From Ash & Darkness on the horizon, J.L. gives a sneak peek into what’s next for his hauntingly real characters and mythological twists.
If you love YA that walks the line between reality and wonder, this conversation is not to be missed.
🔔 Subscribe for more author interviews, writing wisdom, and the stories behind the stories.
ABOUT J.L. SULLIVAN:
J. L. Sullivan writes young adult novels inspired by gritty urban environments and the fantastical tales that percolate within abandoned buildings and desolate alleys. He began his writing journey in high school with a local newspaper before venturing into creating writing in college where he found himself lost in contemporary stories with magic summering just underneath the surface. His debut novel, From Brick & Darkness, is a dark reimagining of an ancient myth that won multiple awards following its spring 2022 release, with its sequel, From Ash & Darkness, out in 2025. He currently lives in St. Louis with his wife, two daughters, and a dog named Princess Penelope Picklesworth.
WHERE TO FIND HIM AND HIS BOOKS:
Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | TikTok
B&N | Amazon
#JLSullivan #FromBrickAndDarkness #YoungAdultBooks #UrbanFantasy #MythRetelling #DarkFantasy #YAfiction #MilesBeyondThePage #MichelleMiles #WritingPodcast #AuthorInterview #GrittyYA #ContemporaryFantasy #BookishTalk #StorytellerSpotlight #BehindTheBook #DebutAuthor #YAreads
In this episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle chats with Suzanne Ferrell, USA Today bestselling author whose journey from nurse to novelist is as compelling as the stories she writes. From discovering her aunt’s secret romance stash as a teen to creating unforgettable characters of her own, Suzanne shares how she fell in love with the genre—and never looked back.
We dive into her steamy romantic suspense, charming small-town love stories, and historical tales that tug at your heartstrings. Whether she’s keeping readers on the edge of their seat or warming their hearts, Suzanne’s stories always deliver passion, danger, and a satisfying Happily Ever After.
Tune in to hear how Suzanne balances danger and desire, why characters linger long after the final page, and what fuels her storytelling magic.
ABOUT SUZANNE:
USA Today bestselling author, Suzanne Ferrell discovered romance novels in her aunt’s hidden stash one summer as a teenager. From that m It took her a number of years and a secondary career as a nurse to finally start writing her own stories. Suzanne's sexy stories, whether they are her on the edge of your seat romantic suspense or the heartwarming small-town stories or historical suspense books, will keep you thinking about her characters long after their Happy Ever After is achieved.
WHERE TO FIND SUZANNE:
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In this episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle sits down with Tracey Devlyn, USA Today bestselling author of contemporary and historical suspense that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. With a knack for weaving together mystery, romance, and even environmental crime, Tracey shares how she crafts thrilling, emotional journeys that stay with readers long after the last page.
We talk about her inspirations, her love of suspense across timelines, and how living a peaceful, "annoyingly normal" life in the North Carolina mountains (with her husband and rescue pup) fuels her high-stakes stories. Whether it’s uncovering dark secrets of the past or racing against time in the present, Tracey’s books deliver all the intrigue and heart you could want.
If you love suspense, romance, and characters who fight for truth and love, you’ll definitely want to catch this conversation.
ABOUT TRACEY:
Tracey Devlyn is a USA Today bestselling author of contemporary and historical suspense, which often contains elements of mystery, romance, and environmental crime. Despite the thrilling, emotional ride she crafts for her readers, Tracey enjoys an annoyingly normal lifestyle with her husband and rescue dog at her home in the mountains of North Carolina.
WHERE TO FIND TRACEY:
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