For the first time on The Wannabe Author, not only did we have the privilege from learning from one guest author, but two. Authors Mary Dublin and Anne Kendsley joined me for a great conversation to talk about the ins and outs of a dual authorship. Best known for their Supernatural meets Fern Gully, (Shot In The Dark Series) Mary and Anne explain how their love for telling stories brought them together, how they were led to self-publish and their individual skill sets that benefit their author careers. It was such an intriguing conversation and I can’t wait for y’all to get to know these authors.
Mary’s current read:
Bitter Burn by Sierra Simone
Anne’s current reads:
A Conjuring of Light by VE Schwab
Why Fish Don’t Exist by Lulu Miller
The Invocations by Krystal Sutherland
Where you can find more of Mary and Anne:
Website: https://authorsdublinkendsley.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authors.dublin.kendsley/
Today on The Wannabe Author we were FED!!! In today's collaborative episode, I had the fabulous opportunity of introducing author, editor and now podcaster, Meg Rosenthal.
In the episode, Meg introduces her new podcast, The Architecture of Story by breaking down The Heroes Journey. This episode is chuck full of information, story insights and exciting looksee into what you can look forward to when The Architecture of Story releases Nov. 3rd.
So proud of you, Meg!!
Where to find more of Meg:
Website: https://megrosenthal.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/megrosenthalauthor/?hl=en
The Hero’s Journey video: https://youtu.be/Hhk4N9A0oCA?si=MmE5OT_8b9gjwfG8
Today’s episode, we are privileged to hear and learn from author and editor, Charla Ayers. This episode we dive into Charla’s journey in celebration of her recently released novel, Shrike. We get to hear about her process, how skills as an editor bleeds into her own writing and her insight on the industry. This was such a fantastic conversation and I know you will learn so much from Charla. Happy listening!
Charla’s current read:
The Knight and The Moth by Rachel Gillig
Where you can find more of Charla:
Website: https://charlaayers.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlaayers/?hl=en
In this episode we are honored to learn and hear from screenwriter and author Charlotte Lillie Balogh. Charlotte’s journey to publication was such a unique and inspiring experience. From starting in television writing where the idea for Kill The Lax Bro originally started as a TV pilot to it being picked up by her editor to be turned into her debut YA novel. Charlotte was such a joy to talk to as she really dove into her journey, the people that stood by her and the odds she beat. I can’t wait for y’all to learn from Charlotte the way I was so lucky to. Happy listening!
Charlotte’s current read:
A Cruel Thirst by Angela Montoya
Where you can find more of Charlotte:
Website: https://www.charlottelillie.com/about
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlottelilliebalogh/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@charlottelilliebalogh?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
Today on The Wannabe Author, we were BLESSED to listen to NYT bestselling author, Logan Karlie. I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know Logan over the last year and what a gem she is. Originally, Logan self-published her debut, Dream By The Shadows, in September of 2023 then re-released traditionally in Aug 2025. This gorgeous, gothic fantasy quickly made its way onto the NYT bestsellers list and we get a little glimpse into the rollercoaster journey Logan went through to get this book to where it is now.
So excited for y’all to listen and be inspired by this incredible author! Happy listening!
Logan’s current reads:
Starchaser by R.M Gray
The Wicked Sea by Jordan Stephanie Gray
Immortal Consequences by I.V Marie
Where you can find more of Logan:
Website: https://www.logankarlie.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorlogankarlie/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@authorlogankarlie?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
Here on The Wannabe Author we have been privileged to hear from a wide range of guests, spanning from indie/trad authors, debuts to industry veterans and bestsellers. But today’s episode is special because for the first time on the podcast we get to hear from a literary agent. I was connected with Alex through one of her clients first. After many praises and kind words this client shared with me about Alex, I knew I needed to get her on the pod and I am so glad I did. Alex offered fabulous insight regarding the perspective of the agent, advice for querying authors and words of encouragement. I am so excited for y’all to listen to this episode and fall in love with Alex the way I did. Happy listening!
Alex’s current read:
Shrike by Charla Ayers
Where you can find more of Alex:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexmico/?hl=en
Rights Factory Agency: https://www.therightsfactory.com/Agents/alexandra-d'amico
Today we are privileged to learn from author and editor, Sara Phoebe Miller. I can’t correctly put into words the the insight I gathered from listening to Sara explain her journey to working in editing at DC Comics for 13 years, then now as the Editorial Director of BOOM! Studios and how it influenced her journey to publishing her debut graphic novel, You Belong Here. Sara is not only a wealth of knowledge but an incredible inspiration for chasing down a dream. Her journey was a roller coaster but her resolve to get her novel out there was steady and it was an honor to have her share it here on The Wannabe Author. I can’t wait for you to listen and get to know Sara the way I got to. Happy listening!
Sara’s current read:
Coffeeshop in an Alternate Universe by CB Lee
Where you can find more of Sara:
Website: https://www.saraphoebemiller.com (https://www.saraphoebemiller.com)
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saraphoebee/ (https://www.instagram.com/saraphoebee/)
In today’s episode we are privileged to hear from aspiring author and marketing specialist, Jayda Martin. When it comes to publishing and writing there is always the topic of social media that boggles brains and leaves a few of us wondering “how?” I connected with Jayda through social media a while back and have been taught to much when it comes to a personal brand, networking without fear, and taking advantage of every opportunity. This episode was phenomenally insightful and I can’t wait for you to listen.
Jayda’s current read:
Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros
Midnight Sun by Stephenie Meyer
Where you can find more of Jayda:
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@itsjaydamartin?_t=ZP-8zFfwFVV9ep&_r=1
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsjaydamartin?igsh=MXFnM3UwdGdtYWFxaQ==
More: https://stan.store/itsjaydamartin?fbclid=PAZnRzaAMdDfRleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABp7HoC78EvyhxWcnd8hX0uhTgrvMPJ8PnaSnJ41SWrJdE9XInVQ0NiN-L3Ytr_aem_hyMkeaevXN-oTTVrF7qB_g
Today on the Wannabe Author, we had the privilege of hearing from debut author Hollie Nelson. In this conversation we get to hear Hollie’s journey to publication, the highs, the lows and her insight she’s gained. I was inspired from her thoughts and experiences and I know you will be too.
Hollie’s current read:
Dungeon Crawler Carl series by Matt Dinniman
Glow by Raven Kennedy
Where you can find more of Hollie:
Website: https://www.thehollienelson.com/?fbclid=PAQ0xDSwMTBhBleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABp3S10r2l3PQks6Go4bkRmpXYX8OHkNEk1dMdGZEd8sQ5E0QNskdxSoD6wn77_aem_vv5OxaF3KhF_xIFPN3lOjw
Instagram: @ thehollienelson
TikTok: @ thehollienelson
Welcome to season two of the Wannabe Author. In today’s episode, I had the honor of sitting with debut author Alexandra Kennington about her journey to getting her fun and exhilarating romantasy, Blood Beneath The Snow, into the hands of readers. Her journey, the advice she offers and the experiences she shares were incredible to hear. I believe this is a fabulous episode every wannabe author needs to hear.
Alex’s current read:
Fiasco by Constance Fay
Where you can find more of Alex:
Hey, Hi. It’s me. Your favorite little wannabe author. Today’s episode I interview myself. I give ya’ll the skinny on what my publishing journey has been like. I talk about my upcoming book release and my plans for the podcast and all the things. Thank you all for being here and I can’t wait for what the future holds.
Current Read:
Bury Our Bones In The Midnight Soil by VE Schwab
Follow me:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taryn.christeen/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tarynchristeen?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewannabeauthor
Today’s guest was absolutely fabulous to chat with. While we get an inside scoop of bookish creator, Drew Alyson, we also get a peek behind the curtain of The Bookish Shop in Gilbert, AZ. In this conversation we discuss the importance of prioritizing indie, diverse and less known authors. We also talk about community and the collaboration of artists, authors and sellers. It was a fantastic discussion that I can’t wait for y’all to listen to.
Drew’s current read:
Savor It by Tarah Dewitt
Where you can find more of Drew and The Bookish Shop:
Today’s episode was a treat because I got to chat with debut author, Peyton June. Peyton’s debut YA Horror novel releases June 17, 2025. With the release of her book so close it was so much fun being able to get a BTS of what the journey has been like for her. Though every journey, including Peyton’s is full of grueling work, dedication and determination Peyton’s had a lot of positive things to say about her experience. It was intriguing to hear her thoughts, her advice and what she has planned. I can’t wait for this fabulous release and for ya’ll to listen to this episode. It’s a good one!
Taryn’s current read:
Thrum by Meg Smitherman
Peyton’s current read:
When The Bones Sing by Ginny Myers Sain
Where you can find more of Peyton:
Website: https://peyjune.com/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@haunted.prairie.house?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peyjune/
This episode is one I have been looking forward to sharing with y’all. Today, I am joined by Annabelle Slator. She is the author of The Launch Date, her debut romcom about two rival coworkers forced to work together on a brand new dating app in hopes of winning a promotion.
Throughout the recording of this episode I constantly found myself cackling with laughter, contemplating my own journey and taking notes of the insight Annabelle had to share. This episode was one I will forever cherish and look back on. I can’t wait for y’all to listen and for you to fall in love Annabelle. Happy listening!
Annabelle’s current reads:
Quarter-Love Crisis by Jasmine Burke
Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry
Where you can find more of Annabelle:
Website: https://annabelleslatorbooks.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annabelleslator/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@annabelleslator?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
Today’s episode was incredibly special for many reasons, the main one being our guest, of course. In this episode I was beyond privileged to sit and get to know ghostwriter and debut author, Veronica Bane. This author is truly inspirational from her story of failure, success, her resilience to keep writing despite the obstacles life chucked at her and overcoming her feelings of inadequacy. Veronica Bane’s story taught me so much and I know that it will offer you immense insight as well.
Taryn’s current read:
Storyteller by Jodi Picoult
Veronica’s current read:
Bloodmarked by Tracy Deonn
Where you can find more of Veronica:
Website: https://www.veronicabane.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veronicabane/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@veronicabane?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
Today's episode I am joined by New York Times and USA Today's bestselling author, Penn Cole. This episode was truly special to film because not only am I obviously a huge fan of Penn's Kindred's Curse Saga but I have spent a lot of my time listening to interviews Penn has given on her journey to where she is today. In this episode I continued to learn and be inspired by Penn's resilience, her heart for the life of an author and I know that you will too.
Taryn's current read:
Storyteller by Jodi Picoult
Penn's current read:
Blood Of Hercules by Jasmine Man
Where you can find more of Penn:
Website: https://www.penncole.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AuthorPennCole/
Threads: https://www.threads.com/@authorpenncole
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@authorpenncole?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
Today’s episode I get to sit and chat with author, Meg Rosenthal. This author is celebrating the most recent release of her second novel, The Wingman. Meg is a contemporary romance author that has put years of effort into bettering her craft. Through the episode, we learn about the support she received from other authors and mentors, how she found her way to a hybrid publisher that has now published both her debut and sophomore novels and we get a peek into Meg’s writing routine with such a busy life outside of writing. Meg is a darling individual and I cannot wait for you to listen, learn and get to know her the way I was so lucky to.
Taryn’s current read:
Wild and Wrangled by Lyla Sage
Storyteller by Jodi Picoult
Meg’s current read:
Twisted Souls by Shannon McLellan
Where you can find Meg:
Website: https://megrosenthal.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/megrosenthalauthor/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@megrosenthal.author?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
This episode was truly special to film. Sydney is one of the most genuinely inspiring authors I have had the privilege of meeting and learning from yet. Her passion for writing, her eagerness to succeed and her faith had such a profound influence on me. Sydney is a self-published author of the Deragon Duology and has recently signed with an agent to take one of her new projects on submission to publishing houses. Her story in finding an agent, the advice she offers and positive perspective is one you won't want to miss.
Current Reads:
Taryn's: The New York Charm by Riley Winters
Sydney's: Out On A Limb by Hannah Bonam-Young
Where you can find Sydney:
YouTube: @BooksBySydney (https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCep4GrnXpEGcRxtVpxQnu4Q)
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorsydneyapplegate/?hl=en
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@authorsydneyapplegate?is_from_weba
pp=1&sender_device=pc
Website: https://www.sydneyapplegate.com
I was so lucky to sit down with reader influencer, Lindsey, to talk about books. This was a fun, chaotic, giggly episode that was too good of a time to record. Lindsey has some incredible insights for authors looking to hook readers like her. We discuss her Icks (🐰), her loves, what catches her attention and what she hopes to see more of in upcoming novels. Lindsey is a bright, kind soul in the bookish community, one I am very thankful to have gotten to know!
Current reads:
Taryn- Picture Perfect by Jodi Picoult
Lindsey- Lore Of The Tides by Analeigh Sbrana
Where you can find more of Lindsey:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/literaturewithlindsey?igsh=bncxdWw2bnNlNTYw
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@literaturewithlindsey?_t=ZP-8vb8jbGnHJf&_r=1
Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/literaryferal?igsh=Y2N4Ym03ajI2MW9l
This episode was such a blast to record. This was truly a full circle moment for me because Shandy was the first Indie author I ever read and befriended as I started my author journey. In this episode we get to hear about Shandy’s journey to self-publishing her first book, The Darkest Parts of Me. A cozy romance with a twist of sci-fi. She goes into the importance of having a community, learning marketing, putting yourself out there and attending events that lead to networking. Shandy’s story and the insight she had to share was truly inspiring.
Taryn’s current read:
The Dead Romantics by Ashley Poston
Out Of The Woods by Hannah Bonam-Young
Shandy’s current reads:
Sunrise On The Reaping by Suzanne Collins
Dark Age by Pierce Brown
Places you can find Shandy:
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@shandymandarino_author?si=bi9fx6WRlUq7pKGK
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shandy_thewriter/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shandymandarino_author?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
