In this episode, Cody Wayne Morris shares his journey from a young aspiring writer to a published author, exploring the influences of his upbringing and his passion for storytelling. Cody discusses the challenges and triumphs of self-publishing, the evolution of his writing process, and the inspiration behind his debut novel, "Ghost Writers Club." He also delves into his love for thrillers and fantasy, offering insights into his upcoming projects and the creative process that fuels his work.
Follow Cody The Writer for more updates and insights:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/codythewriter/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CodyTheWriter
Check out The Ghost Writer's Club - https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/230156005-the-ghost-writers-club
In this episode, author Frank J. Camacho delves into the creative journey behind his upcoming book, set in the atmospheric town of Driftmoor. Discover how Frank's love for supernatural elements and dark academia shapes his storytelling, as he shares insights into character development, the challenges of self-publishing, and the emotional themes of generational trauma and legacy. Tune in for a captivating discussion that blends personal anecdotes with literary inspiration, perfect for fans of supernatural fiction and aspiring writers alike.
Follow Frank J. Camacho for more updates and insights:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/frankjcamachobooks/
Website: https://www.frankjcamacho.com/
Check out The Monsters They Made Us - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/232109073-the-monsters-they-made-us
Join us in this insightful episode as we dive into the creative world of Kris M. Fajardo, exploring transcending themes across time and the art of retelling classics like "The Great Gatsby." Discover how Kris crafts narratives that resonate with emotional depth and innovative world-building. Don't miss this engaging discussion on character development, pacing, and the collaborative nature of writing.
Follow K.M. Fajardo for more updates and insights:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/krismfajardo/
Website: https://kmfajardo.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KrisMF
Check our Local Heavens!! - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/221244034-local-heavens
Join us as we dive into the creative world of Britney S. Lewis, author of "Blood Moon." Discover how passion and perseverance fuel her storytelling, explore the supernatural elements that define her work, and learn about her journey from Kansas to crafting compelling fantasy narratives. Whether you're a fan of paranormal tales or an aspiring writer, this episode offers insights and inspiration. Tune in for a conversation that blends creativity, identity, and the art of writing. #BloodMoon #BritneySLewis #FantasyWriting
https://www.instagram.com/britney.s.lewis/ and check out her Linktree: https://linktr.ee/britneyslewis
Check out Blood Moon and be sure to review on Goodreads or wherever you read books
Veronica Bane talks about her journey to publication and writing her debut novel, Difficult Girls. In this episode, Mik and Veronica talk all things: process, resilience, and character creation. This is perfect for readers of Difficult Girls who want to peel back the curtain a bit more and amazing for writers who want to hear amazing writing advice from an author who has probably written some of your favorite best-selling books, as a ghostwriter.
You can follow Veronica Bane on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veronicabane/ on Threads: https://www.threads.com/@veronicabane and TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@veronicabane
Check out her debut, Difficult Girls and make sure to read and review on Goodreads or wherever you review books.
Summary
In this last episode of Season One, Mik and Hallah discuss the journey of becoming a writer, the emotional depth of storytelling, and the healing power of sharing personal experiences through literature. Hallah shares her transition from songwriting to novel writing, the challenges of character development, and the importance of community in the literary world. They also reflect on personal growth, especially in the context of turning 30, and how fantasy as a genre allows for deeper exploration of real-world issues. In this conversation, Hallah discusses the intricate dynamics of character development, the challenges of the writing process, and the importance of world-building in her fantasy novel. She shares insights into her creative process, including the balance between plotting and allowing characters to take control of their narratives. Hallah also offers valuable insights into self-publishing, emphasizing the supportive nature of the book community and encouraging aspiring authors to embrace their stories.
H.M. Wolfe
https://www.hmwolfe.com/
https://www.instagram.com/hm.wolfe
https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/214243910-the-book-of-cin
Mentioned:
H.M. Wolfe’s editor: Caitlin Lengerich - https://www.instagram.com/chronicledbycait/
Summary
In this conversation, Mik and Camri Kohler explore the popularity of genres such as urban and contemporary fantasy. They delve into the challenges of publishing, the evolution of trends, and the importance of character development, particularly the appeal of flawed characters in horror. Camri shares her personal journey as a writer, the impact of place on her storytelling, and the necessity of open conversations about the realities of the publishing industry. The discussion highlights the balance between community support and the pressures of competition among writers, emphasizing the need for self-acceptance and the understanding that not every project will succeed. Camri Kohler shares her journey through the writing and publishing process, emphasizing the importance of perseverance in the face of rejection. She discusses her experiences with small presses, the challenges of writing a trilogy, and the intricacies of character development. The dialogue also delves into the complexities of morally gray characters, the creation of a unique magic system, and the art of crafting authentic dialogue. Camri offers valuable advice for aspiring authors, encouraging them to finish their projects and embrace the journey of writing.
Topics
Camri Kohler
https://camrikohler.com/
https://www.instagram.com/camrikohler/
https://www.tiktok.com/@camrikohler?lang=en
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21985524.Camri_Kohler
Peachy: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59573222-peachy
Pared: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/202094149-pared
Mentions
Rachel Kitch: https://www.rachelkitchauthor.com/
Big Swiss by Jen Beagin
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
Keywords
contemporary fantasy, urban fantasy, publishing trends, character development, horror writing, writing community, flawed characters, editing process, writing challenges, writing, publishing, small presses, character development, dialogue, morally gray characters, magic system, editing, supernatural elements, author advice
Keywords
writing, self-publishing, romance, author journey, character development, emotional connection, TikTok, community, inspiration, overcoming self-doubt
Summary
In this engaging conversation, Lana Vargas shares her journey as a writer, discussing how her hometown influences her writing, the challenges and joys of self-publishing, and the importance of character development in romance. She reflects on her early inspirations, the emotional connection to her characters, and the lessons learned throughout her writing career. Lana also emphasizes the significance of building a community on social media and the ups and downs of the self-publishing journey, including her recent re-release of 'Summer in Phoenix.'
Lana Vargas
https://linktr.ee/lana.vargas
https://www.instagram.com/authorlanavargas
https://www.tiktok.com/@authorlanavargas?_t=8dzxqivlv30&_r=1
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/215736215-summer-in-phoenix
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/208456791-the-darkness-that-follows-us
Summary
In this conversation, Clare Robertson shares her journey as a writer, discussing the influences of her upbringing, the themes of home and belonging in her work, and the impact of family on storytelling. She reflects on her early calling to write, the books that shaped her, and the balance between reading and writing. Clare also opens up about her writing process, the challenges of burnout, and how motherhood has influenced her creative life. Finally, she reveals the inspiration behind her debut novel, 'Some Advanced Notes on Practical Dreaming.' In this conversation, Clare Robertson discusses her journey as a writer, the evolution of her book, and the themes of mental health, female rage, and survival. She shares insights on self-publishing, genre blending, and the importance of character development, particularly focusing on her protagonist, Sam.
Keywords
writing journey, community, cultural influences, themes of home, storytelling, influential books, genres, writing process, burnout, motherhood, practical dreaming, writing, self-publishing, dark academia, horror, mental health, character development, female rage, genre blending, revision process, world-building, writing, writing a book
Clare Robertson
https://www.clarerobertson.uk/
https://www.instagram.com/clareyrobwrites17/
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/217530263-some-advanced-notes-on-practical-dreaming?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=qkMophDryP&rank=1
Mentions
Mikayla Kimes
If you want to follow the host, you can do so at her youtube channel @mikwrites: https://www.youtube.com/@mikwrites
Or on instagram @mikiswriting
Summary
In this engaging conversation, Melissa Durston shares her journey from a love of nonfiction to a career in editing fantasy and paranormal fiction. She discusses the importance of networking, the various types of editing, and the differences between types of edits you can receive. Melissa emphasizes the significance of feedback styles, the challenges of pacing and subplots, and offers practical self-editing tips for aspiring authors. The discussion also touches on the critical role of the first chapter in capturing a reader's attention and the common mistakes authors make in their manuscripts.
Takeaways
- Storytelling can be a viable career path, even if discovered later in life.
- Networking is crucial for success in the writing community.
- Understanding different types of editing is essential for authors.
- Self-publishing offers more control but requires thorough self-editing.
- Feedback styles vary; finding the right match is important.
- Active voice enhances clarity and engagement in writing.
- Pacing and subplots are critical elements that need careful management.
Mentions
Isabel Sterling, Author Coaching: https://www.isabelsterling.com/coaching (An incredible human who offers coaching for debut and aspiring authors)
Page One Writing Discord: https://discord.gg/zfWXFBGf (Melissa helps co-manage the server and a Verified Editors network to connect authors with editors.
Rebecca Thorne's Discord for cozy writers/readers: https://discord.gg/erK9NMBf (a cozy place to hang out)
Rebecca Thorne: https://rebeccathorne.net/
Book Mapping: Book Mapping for Writers
Jessica Brody: Self-Editing Resource
Melissa Durston
Website: https://www.melissaannedurston.com/
Services: https://www.melissaannedurston.com/services
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@herbookologist
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/herbookologist/
Summary
In this episode of Pen to Pod, Mikayla Kimes explores the importance of setting in storytelling, emphasizing its role as a character rather than just a backdrop. She discusses how setting can enhance atmosphere, themes, and character development, using the novel 'Legendborn' as a case study. Kimes provides insights into how authors can effectively integrate setting into their narratives and offers writing exercises to help writers deepen their understanding of atmospheric settings.
Legendborn by Tracy Deonn
Resources
Coulture Interview w/ Tracy Deonn
Mikayla Kimes
If you want to follow the host, Mikayla Kimes, you can on her YouTube channel @MikWrites. On the channel she discusses her own personal writing journey and other craft topics.
https://www.youtube.com/@mikwrites
Keywords
writing, setting, atmosphere, character development, Legendborn, writing craft, author interviews, storytelling, creative writing
Summary
In this engaging conversation, Harper Hawthorne discusses the profound impact of her environments on her writing, the tools she uses to overcome perfectionism, and her journey back to writing after a hiatus. She shares insights on the influence of video games on creativity, the challenges and rewards of self-publishing, and the importance of building a supportive writing community. The discussion also delves into her unique approach to outlining and character development, as well as the intricacies of her world-building and magic systems in her book, Of Blood and Aether.
Topics
Mentions
Harper Hawthorne
Mikayla Kimes
If you want to follow the host, Mikayla Kimes, you can on her YouTube channel @MikWrites. On the channel she discusses her own personal writing journey and other craft topics.
Summary
In this episode of Pen to Pod, Mikayla Kimes explores the various aspects of overcoming writer's block. She categorizes writer's block into three types: mechanical, creative, and unmotivated blocks, and shares practical strategies for each.
Takeaways
Summary
In this conversation, Rachel Kitch shares her journey on becoming a horror author, discussing her experiences in acrobatics, the influence of her cultural identity, and the importance of community in writing. She delves into her creative process, the themes in her work, and the significance of exploring uncomfortable dynamics in horror. Rachel also offers valuable advice for aspiring writers and emphasizes the importance of finding joy in the writing process.
*TW: THERE IS DISCUSSION & ALLUSIONS TO SEXUAL ASSAULT AND THE VERY REAL POWER DYNAMICS AT PLAY IN TOXIC RELATIONSHIPS*
Topics
Rachel Kitch
https://www.rachelkitchauthor.com/
https://rachelkitch.substack.com/
https://www.instagram.com/rachkitchwrites
Mikayla Kimes
If you want to follow the host, Mikayla Kimes, you can on her YouTube channel @MikWrites. On the channel she discusses her own personal writing journey and other craft topics.
Summary In this episode, Mikayla Kimes delves into the concept of writer's voice, focusing on how it intertwines with tone in writing. She discusses the importance of tone in conveying mood and attitude, using examples from the short story collection 'Vampires Never Get Old.' Mik provides practical exercises for writers to explore and identify tone in their own work, emphasizing the impact of word choice and sentence structure on the overall writing style. Takeaways - Voice is the author and character coming alive on the page. - Tone is the attitude or mood conveyed through writing. - Understanding tone helps fulfill genre expectations. - Identifying your story's tone can guide your writing process. - Word choice and sentence structure are key to establishing tone. - Reading short stories can help study writing craft effectively. - Tone can shift based on the author's intent and audience. - Practical exercises can enhance understanding of tone in writing. - Voice and tone are different but closely related concepts. Mentions Vampires Never Get Old: Tales with Fresh Bite - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61300301-vampires-never-get-old Zoraida Córdova - https://zoraidacordova.com/ Natalie C. Parker - https://www.nataliecparker.com/ Rebecca Roanhorse - https://rebeccaroanhorse.com/ Dhonielle Clayton - https://www.dhonielleclayton.com/
Summary
In this insightful episode, Mik and T.N. Vitus explore the multifaceted journey of writing, covering a range of topics from the transition between pantsing and meticulous outlining to the domino effect of world-building. They discuss the creation of complex characters and the development of a believable political landscape within their narratives. T.N. also shares the inspirations behind their work, Heirs of Destruction, and how they capture the classic fantasy feeling while acknowledging the temporary nature of the world they've built. The role of faith in the story is examined, alongside the joys and difficulties of self-publishing. Finally, they address the challenges of marketing on social media, offering a well-rounded perspective on the modern author's experience.
Topics Covered
T.N. Vitus' Work
@vitusvital_
https://www.instagram.com/vitusvital_/
https://substack.com/@vitusvital
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/208474829-heirs-of-destruction
Heirs of Destruction by T.N. Vitus
Sacrilege by T.N. Vitus
Mik Writes
If you want to follow the host, Mikayla Kimes, you can on her YouTube channel @MikWrites. On the channel she discusses her own personal writing journey and other craft topics.
Keywords
writing, fantasy, world building, character development, self-publishing, marketing, reading, genre evolution, religion in fantasy, author interview
SUMMARY
In this episode of Pen to Pod, Mikayla Kimes delves into the concept of writer's voice, sharing insights from her experiences and others. She emphasizes the importance of discovering one's unique voice through reading and writing exercises, analyzing excerpts from short stories to illustrate how voice impacts storytelling. The episode also discusses the distinction between author voice and character voice, and how emotions can shape writing. Kimes provides practical exercises for listeners to explore their own writing voice and looks ahead to future episodes.
TAKEAWAYS
MENTIONS
The short stories we read from are:
Next solo episode we will be talking about:
Literary Cleveland's INKUBATOR 2024
Resources used for this episode:
Summary
In this conversation, Mik and Kath Richards explore Kath's journey from New Mexico to Utah, her evolution as a writer, and the impact of her education on her craft. They discuss the nuances of genre fiction, the themes of connection and personal experience in writing, and the challenges of writing action sequences. Kath shares insights from her self-publishing journey and offers advice on marketing and building an author brand, all while promoting her debut novel, 'A Love Most Fatal.'
Topics
Books, Media and Authors Mentioned
Fallen by Lauren Kate: fallen angel YA romance
Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick
Maximum Ride Series by James Patterson
Marilyn Robinson - Literary author Kath adores
Beach Read by Emily Henry
The Family Fang by Kevin Wilson
Nothing to See Here by Kevin Wilson
Perfect Little World by Kevin Wilson
Legends and Lattes by Travis Baldry
H.D. Carlton - Indie Author
Greer Rivers - Indie Author
Filthy Rich Vampire by Geneva Lee
Twisters (2024) - new movie
Emails I Can’t Send - Sabrina Carpenter (album)
Short n’ Sweet - Sabrina Carpenter (album)
Kath’s Work
All We Have by Kath Richards
Night Swimming by Kath Richards
A Love Most Fatal by Kath Richards
Resources Mentioned
Mik Writes
If you want to follow the host, Mikayla Kimes, you can on her YouTube channel @MikWrites. On the channel she discusses her own personal writing journey and other craft topics.
Keywords
writing, romance, self-publishing, MFA, genre fiction, family themes, miscommunication, action sequences, author journey, book marketing
As a writer, I am fascinated by other writer's processes. Whether it's how they approach worldbuilding or how they weave in thematic elements, I am always looking to dive a little bit deeper.
On my YouTube Channel, Mik Writes, we talk about how there is no one set way to write a book, that the art is in the process itself. This podcast aims to really unravel the stories behind the stories these authors tell. To open up and share the intimate process of creating their art.
PEN TO POD seeks to build a community of writers who are wanting to learn from each other with bi-weekly interviews of today's most intriguing authors.
On our off weeks, we will dive into the art of writing itself, exploring craft concepts through the lens of short stories, novels, and more to sharpen your skills and ignite your creativity
Season One starts Monday, September 23rd with our first guest: Kath Richards.
Follow Mikayla Kimes on YouTube here: @MikWrites
Follow the podcast on Instagram here: @PentoPodcast