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In this Books with Hooks segment, hosts Bianca, Carly and CeCe delve into two query letters from aspiring authors.
The hosts discuss how negotiation can leak tension in storytelling; why character relationships should drive the narrative; how world-building should enhance character development; why queries for retellings need to focus on unique story angles; and avoiding namesplaining in character introductions.
CeCe also swipes Carly’s submission because she loved it so much!
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.
Find us on our socials:
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_shit_about_writing https://www.threads.net/@biancamarais_author
https://www.threads.net/@carlywatters https://www.threads.net/@cece_lyra_agent
Instagram: 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/TSNOTYAW
Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com
Bookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwriting
For more information about the Deep Dive Series, go to https://www.theshitaboutwriting.com/deep-dive-series-2025.html
To sign up for our Substack newsletter, head to https://theshitaboutwriting.substack.com/
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Acorns: https://acorns.com/TSNOTYAW
* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands -
In this engaging author interview, Bianca chats with Karissa Chen about her debut novel, Homeseeking.
During the conversation, they explore the inspiration behind the story, the extensive research that was required before Karissa could begin writing, and the challenges of navigating language and cultural identity in literature.
Karissa shares her journey to publication, the integral role that music plays in framing her narrative, and her thoughts on the responsibilities of writers to their readers.
They also discuss the magic that can arise when you allow yourself to “pants” characterization, and how doing so can help propel the plot forward.
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.
Find us on our socials:
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_shit_about_writing https://www.threads.net/@biancamarais_author
https://www.threads.net/@carlywatters https://www.threads.net/@cece_lyra_agent
Instagram: 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/TSNOTYAW
Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com
Bookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwriting
For more information about the Deep Dive Series, go to https://www.theshitaboutwriting.com/deep-dive-series-2025.html
To sign up for our Substack newsletter, head to https://theshitaboutwriting.substack.com/
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Acorns: https://acorns.com/TSNOTYAW
* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands -
Saknas det avsnitt?
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In this Books with Hooks segment, hosts Bianca, Carly and CeCe welcome listeners to a new year of writing while they reflect on their critiquing journey over the past four years.
They dive into the critique of two query letters, focusing on the importance of connection, character motivations, and cinematic elements in storytelling. The conversation also explores the dynamics of campus novels and the significance of compelling hooks in narratives.
They also discuss how psychological acuity is the child of interiority and emotionality, and CeCe declares her query to be the best she’s seen on the podcast when it comes to psychological acuity!
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.
Find us on our socials:
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_shit_about_writing https://www.threads.net/@biancamarais_author
https://www.threads.net/@carlywatters https://www.threads.net/@cece_lyra_agent
Instagram: 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/TSNOTYAW
Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com
Bookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwriting
For more information about the Deep Dive Series, go to https://www.theshitaboutwriting.com/deep-dive-series-2025.html
For more information about Carly's 2025 Publishing Predictions webinar, go to https://www.theshitaboutwriting.com/courses--events.html
For further information about The Ultimate Planner for Writers, go to https://www.biancamarais.com/planner-for-writers.html
To sign up for our Substack newsletter, head to https://theshitaboutwriting.substack.com/
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Acorns: https://acorns.com/TSNOTYAW
* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands -
In today’s episode, Bianca interviews Emmy award-winning journalist and bestselling author, Kate Fagan, about her debut novel, The Three Lives of Cate Kay.
Kate shares how she originally came to listen to the podcast, as well as the details of her journey to publication (which included querying podcast host, Carly Watters).
Bianca and Kate go on to discuss the unique structure of the novel that reads like a memoir featuring multiple POVs. Kate shares insights on the creative process behind her ambitious storytelling and how she played to her strengths as a writer. She delves into the process of creating a book within the book, and how she attempted to do so by repurposing an earlier manuscript.
They also explore how important it is to create fully rounded characters so that readers can connect with so-called villains who see themselves as the heroes in their own stories.
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.
Find us on our socials:
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_shit_about_writing https://www.threads.net/@biancamarais_author
https://www.threads.net/@carlywatters https://www.threads.net/@cece_lyra_agent
Instagram: 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/TSNOTYAW
Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com
Bookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwriting
To connect with Kate on Instagram, go to https://www.instagram.com/katefagan3 or you can find her website at https://www.bykatefagan.com/
For more information about the Deep Dive Series, go to https://www.theshitaboutwriting.com/deep-dive-series-2025.html
For more information about Carly's 2025 Publishing Predictions webinar, go to https://www.theshitaboutwriting.com/courses--events.html
For further information about The Ultimate Planner for Writers, go to https://www.biancamarais.com/planner-for-writers.html
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Acorns: https://acorns.com/TSNOTYAW
* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands -
In today’s Books with Hooks segment, hosts Bianca, Carly, and CeCe provide feedback on two query letters, one for historical fiction and the other for historical fantasy.
They discuss the importance of character development, plot clarity, and the balance between world-building and emotional engagement. The conversation emphasizes the need for specificity in storytelling and the challenges of writing historical and fantasy fiction.
The hosts also explore the significance of themes versus plot in selling a book, and the complexities of crafting effective prologues.
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.
Find us on our socials:
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_shit_about_writing https://www.threads.net/@biancamarais_author
https://www.threads.net/@carlywatters https://www.threads.net/@cece_lyra_agent
Instagram: 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/TSNOTYAW
Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com
Bookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwriting
For more information about the Deep Dive Series, go to https://www.theshitaboutwriting.com/deep-dive-series-2025.html
For more information about Carly's 2025 Publishing Predictions webinar, go to https://www.theshitaboutwriting.com/courses--events.html
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Acorns: https://acorns.com/TSNOTYAW
* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands -
In today’s author interview, Bianca interviews Jessica Waite about her memoir, The Widow's Guide to Dead Bastards.
Jessica discusses her writing journey as a form of healing, the challenges of the publishing process, and the complexities of grief. They also discuss the intentional choices behind the book's structure, the use of present tense, and the importance of dramatizing scenes to engage readers, as well as Jessica’s tips for bringing memories vividly to life on the page.
The conversation concludes with insights on the realities of post-publication life for memoirists.
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.
Find us on our socials:
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_shit_about_writing https://www.threads.net/@biancamarais_author
https://www.threads.net/@carlywatters https://www.threads.net/@cece_lyra_agent
Instagram: 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/TSNOTYAW
Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com
Bookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwriting
To connect with Jessica on Instagram, go to https://www.instagram.com/endless_stories_jess or you can go to her website at https://www.storymourning.com/about.html
For more information about the Deep Dive Series, go to https://www.theshitaboutwriting.com/deep-dive-series-2025.html
For further information about The Ultimate Planner for Writers, go to https://www.biancamarais.com/planner-for-writers.html
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Acorns: https://acorns.com/TSNOTYAW
* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands -
In today’s Books with Hooks segment, hosts Bianca, Carly, and CeCe analyze two query letters, one for an upmarket novel and one for women’s fiction, providing insights on character development, prologues, and the importance of clarity in storytelling.
The discussion emphasizes the need for movement in narratives and the balance between internal conflict and external action.
The hosts offer constructive feedback to aspiring authors, highlighting the significance of engaging openings and the necessity of grounding stories in specific contexts.
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.
Find us on our socials:
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_shit_about_writing https://www.threads.net/@biancamarais_author
https://www.threads.net/@carlywatters https://www.threads.net/@cece_lyra_agent
Instagram: 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/TSNOTYAW
Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com
Bookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwriting
For more information about the Deep Dive Series, go to https://www.theshitaboutwriting.com/deep-dive-series-2025.html
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Acorns: https://acorns.com/TSNOTYAW
* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands -
In this engaging author interview, Bianca chats with Sarah Hawley to discuss her journey as a fantasy and paranormal romance author, focusing on her latest novel, Servant of Earth. Sarah shares insights into the writing process, the importance of character-driven narratives, and the nuances of defining genres like romantasy.
The discussion also delves into world-building, the challenges of plotting a series, and the intersection of political themes within fantasy writing.
Sarah emphasizes the significance of personal experiences in shaping her stories and encourages writers to embrace their unique voices and writing processes.
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.
Find us on our socials:
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_shit_about_writing https://www.threads.net/@biancamarais_author
https://www.threads.net/@carlywatters https://www.threads.net/@cece_lyra_agent
Instagram: 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/TSNOTYAW
Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com
Bookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwriting
You can find Sarah on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/mssarahhawley and at https://www.sarahhawleyauthor.com/
For more information about the Deep Dive Series, go to https://www.theshitaboutwriting.com/deep-dive-series-2025.html
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Acorns: https://acorns.com/TSNOTYAW
* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands -
In today’s Books with Hooks segment, the hosts, Bianca, Carly and CeCe, analyze two query letters submitted by aspiring authors, one of which is a memoir and the other a YA steampunk query.
They provide detailed feedback on the structure, content, and emotional depth of the letters, emphasizing the importance of clarity, causality, and character development.
The conversation also delves into the challenges of writing in the first person and the need for emotional layers in world-building.
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.
Find us on our socials:
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_shit_about_writing https://www.threads.net/@biancamarais_author
https://www.threads.net/@carlywatters https://www.threads.net/@cece_lyra_agent
Instagram: 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/TSNOTYAW
Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com
Bookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwriting
To register for Bianca’s Beta Reader Match Up, go to https://www.biancamarais.com/beta-reader-match-up.html
For more information about the Deep Dive Series, go to https://www.theshitaboutwriting.com/deep-dive-series-2025.html
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Acorns: https://acorns.com/TSNOTYAW
* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands -
In November’s bonus episode, Bianca and Emilie Sommer from East City Book Bookshop tackle a variety of book recommendations based on listener comp requests.
They discuss neurodivergent characters, speculative fiction, crime and mystery, literary fiction dealing with trauma, humorous narratives, art and historical mysteries, speculative westerns, dark fiction, hopeful sci-fi, romance in unique settings, historical fiction addressing climate change, feminist retellings, middle grade stories, and courtroom dramas.
If you’re looking for our usual Q&A segment, that now gets published as part of our end of the month Substack newsletter. Subscribe to get access to that, and so much more: https://theshitaboutwriting.substack.com/
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.
Find us on our socials:
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_shit_about_writing https://www.threads.net/@biancamarais_author
https://www.threads.net/@carlywatters https://www.threads.net/@cece_lyra_agent
Instagram: 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/TSNOTYAW
Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and ww.cecilialyra.com
Bookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwriting
To sign up for the Beta Reader Match Up, go to https://www.biancamarais.com/beta-reader-match-up.html
For more information about the Deep Dive Series, go to: https://www.theshitaboutwriting.com/deep-dive-series-2025.html
To order the Writer’s Planner, go to: https://www.biancamarais.com/planner-for-writers.html
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Acorns: https://acorns.com/TSNOTYAW
* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands -
In today’s episode, Bianca interviews KJ Dell’Antonia, author of The Chicken Sisters and Playing the Witch Card. They discuss KJ's journey from nonfiction to fiction, the challenges of debuting with a bestseller, and the intricacies of world-building in contemporary fiction. The discussion also delves into narrative voice, character arcs, and the importance of aligning emotional stakes with plot development. KJ shares insights into the author life, including the highs and lows of publishing, and the impact of adaptations on 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.
Find us on our socials:
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_shit_about_writing https://www.threads.net/@biancamarais_author
https://www.threads.net/@carlywatters https://www.threads.net/@cece_lyra_agent
Instagram: 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/TSNOTYAW
Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com
Bookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwriting
KJ can be found on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/kjda and at https://kjdellantonia.com/
For more information about the Deep Dive Virtual Retreat, go to https://www.theshitaboutwriting.com/deep-dive-series-2025.html
To register for the Beta Reader Match Up, go to https://www.biancamarais.com/beta-reader-match-up.html
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Acorns: https://acorns.com/TSNOTYAW
* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands -
In today’s Books with Hooks segment, hosts Bianca, Carly and CeCe analyze a literary fiction query and a historical fiction query, providing insights on structure, emotional depth, and character development. The discussion emphasizes the importance of compelling opening lines, the need for emotional complexity in characters, and the significance of pacing in storytelling. The hosts also share their thoughts on how to effectively convey a protagonist's journey and the nuances of familial relationships in writing.
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.
Find us on our socials:
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_shit_about_writing https://www.threads.net/@biancamarais_author
https://www.threads.net/@carlywatters https://www.threads.net/@cece_lyra_agent
Instagram: 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/TSNOTYAW
Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com
Bookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwriting
To register for Bianca’s Beta Reader Match Up, go to https://www.biancamarais.com/beta-reader-match-up.html
For more information about the Deep Dive Series, go to https://www.theshitaboutwriting.com/deep-dive-series-2025.html
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Acorns: https://acorns.com/TSNOTYAW
* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands -
In today’s episode, Carly and CeCe interview Franklin Leonard and Randy Winston, founders of The Blacklist, a platform designed to connect writers with industry professionals. They discuss the role of literary agents, the pricing structure of their services, the qualifications of their readers, and the impact of their recent New York Times profile. The conversation highlights the challenges and opportunities in the publishing industry, emphasizing the importance of quality feedback and the need for writers to aim high in their craft. In this conversation, Franklin and Randy discuss the evolving relationship between the film and television industry and literature, emphasizing the importance of educating writers about the business side of publishing. They explore the ideal customer for their platform and address the needs of memoirists. The discussion also highlights current opportunities for writers, including awards and partnerships, and concludes with personal book recommendations from the guests.
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.
Find us on our socials:
Twitter: @TSNOTYAW @BiancaM_author @carlywatters @ceciliaclyra
Instagram: 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/TSNOTYAW
Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com
Bookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwriting
You can find The Black List on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/theblcklst and at https://blog.blcklst.com/
To register for CeCe’s upcoming Hacking Writing on A Line Level course, go to https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_xDo7-fz8Q-GrnyE6Nw41qA#/registration
To register for Bianca’s Beta Reader Match Up, go to https://www.biancamarais.com/beta-reader-match-up.html
For more information about the Deep Dive Virtual Retreat, go to https://www.theshitaboutwriting.com/deep-dive-series-2025.html
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Acorns: https://acorns.com/TSNOTYAW
* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands -
Today Bianca, Carly, and CeCe critique a coming-of-age submission set in the 80s, as well as a speculative literary fiction query.
They chat about the importance of details in a query, as opposed to big-picture themes; an example of a prologue that induces curiosity; layering emotion to create more realistic interactions with characters; including emotion and interiority during narration/exposition to elevate your work; how the emotional complexity of your characters can heighten your readers’ connection to them; figuring out ways to show what characters want, rather than explicitly telling readers what that is; the risk of writing experimental fiction; and avoiding using narration in your first line.
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.
Find us on our socials:
Twitter: @TSNOTYAW @BiancaM_author @carlywatters @ceciliaclyra
Instagram: 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/TSNOTYAW
Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com
Bookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwriting
To register for CeCe’s upcoming Hacking Writing on A Line Level course, go to https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_xDo7-fz8Q-GrnyE6Nw41qA#/registration
For more information about the Deep Dive Virtual Retreat, go to https://www.theshitaboutwriting.com/deep-dive-series-2025.html
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Acorns: https://acorns.com/TSNOTYAW
* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands -
Join Bianca in our October bonus episode as your favourite book person, Emilie Sommer from East City Book Shop, answers all your comp requests!
If you’re looking for our usual Q&A segment, that now gets published as part of our end of the month Substack newsletter. Subscribe to get access to that, and so much more: https://theshitaboutwriting.substack.com/
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.
Find us on our socials
Twitter: @TSNOTYAW @BiancaM_author @carlywatters @ceciliaclyra
Instagram: 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/TSNOTYAW
Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and ww.cecilialyra.com
Bookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwriting
To ask us a question, go to: https://sayhi.chat/TSNOTYAW
To register for CeCe’s upcoming Hacking Writing on A Line Level course, go to https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_xDo7-fz8Q-GrnyE6Nw41qA#/registration
To sign up for the Beta Reader Match Up, go to https://www.biancamarais.com/beta-reader-match-up.html
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Acorns: https://acorns.com/TSNOTYAW
* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands -
Today Bianca interviews NYT bestselling nature writer, Leigh Ann Henion. They discuss Leigh Ann's latest work, Night Magic: Adventures Among Glowworms, Moon Gardens, and Other Marvels of the Dark; the inspiration behind the book; the process of getting a book like this written and published; being able to illustrate how your non-fiction work fills a gap in the market; scene-setting in non-fiction; including relevant and interesting information without overwhelming the narrative; and always paying attention to what a character knows at that particular point in the story.
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.
Find us on our socials:
Twitter: @TSNOTYAW @BiancaM_author @carlywatters @ceciliaclyra
Instagram: 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/TSNOTYAW
Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com
Bookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwriting
You can find out more information about Leigh Ann on her website at https://leighannhenion.com/
She's also on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/leighannhenion
and Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/LeighAnnHenion.Author/
To register for CeCe’s upcoming Hacking Writing on A Line Level course, go to https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_xDo7-fz8Q-GrnyE6Nw41qA#/registration
Carly's course for writers, The Author's Publishing Playbook, is available at carlywatters.com/course. If you haven't grabbed it yet, podcast listeners can use discount code POD15
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Acorns: https://acorns.com/TSNOTYAW
* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands -
Today, Bianca, Carly, and CeCe critique a speculative fiction query and a literary fiction one.
They discuss avoiding confusion in your query letter; using names, rather than pronouns, in queries; ensuring your plot and climax match your genre; writing interiority that reflects your characters' realities; title expectations for literary fiction; avoiding being too vague with your plot; and the challenges of writing in epistolary form.
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.
Find us on our socials:
Twitter: @TSNOTYAW @BiancaM_author @carlywatters @ceciliaclyra
Instagram: 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/TSNOTYAW
Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com
Bookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwriting
Carly's course for writers, The Author's Publishing Playbook, is available at carlywatters.com/course. If you haven't grabbed it yet, podcast listeners can use discount code POD15
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Acorns: https://acorns.com/TSNOTYAW
* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands -
In today’s episode, Bianca interviews the Hugo-Award winning and NYT bestselling sci-fi and fantasy author, Alix E. Harrow. They discuss Alix's latest novel, Starling House; her journey to publication and being chosen for Reese's Book Club; novellas and the fantasy/sci-fi genre's flexibility in the length of a work; Alix's process with world-building and her thought-process behind writing a book within a book; using secondary characters to up the stakes and shed light on your main character; the use of footnotes in the novel; maintaining and upping tension; writing beautiful prose in the drafting rather than the editing phase; and balancing the divulging of backstory while maintaining curiosity.
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.
Find us on our socials:
Twitter: @TSNOTYAW @BiancaM_author @carlywatters @ceciliaclyra
Instagram: 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/TSNOTYAW Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com
Bookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwriting
You can find out more information about Alix on her website at https://alixeharrow.wixsite.com/author
She's also on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/alix.e.harrow
and Substack at https://writtenworld.substack.com/
To register for CeCe’s upcoming Hacking Writing on A Line Level course, go to https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_xDo7-fz8Q-GrnyE6Nw41qA#/registration
Carly's course for writers, The Author's Publishing Playbook, is available at carlywatters.com/course. If you haven't grabbed it yet, podcast listeners can use discount code POD15
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Acorns: https://acorns.com/TSNOTYAW
* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands -
Today, Bianca, Carly, and CeCe critique a family saga submission and a psychological thriller.
They discuss whether there's a need for personalization at the top of your query; the importance of having POV information at the beginning of your letter; being concise with your wording; ensuring you illustrate how your multiple POV characters connect through plot and theme; examples of how to successfully share biographical details of characters; ensuring your metaphors don't take your reader out of the pages; avoiding over-writing in opening pages; the importance of reading your work aloud; ensuring your plot paragraphs speak to each other; an example of great interiority; making sure your character's behaviors are plausible; and balancing scene work and interiority.
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.
Find us on our socials:
Twitter: @TSNOTYAW @BiancaM_author @carlywatters @ceciliaclyra
Instagram: 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/TSNOTYAW
Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com
Bookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwriting
Carly's course for writers, The Author's Publishing Playbook, is available at carlywatters.com/course. If you haven't grabbed it yet, podcast listeners can use discount code POD15
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Acorns: https://acorns.com/TSNOTYAW
* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands -
In today's second Bonus Episode of the month, Emilie Sommer from East City Bookshop answers all your burning comp title questions!
To connect with Emilie Sommer go to https://www.instagram.com/emiliegsommer/ and you can find East City Bookshop at https://www.instagram.com/eastcitybookshop/
To ask for your own comp title recommendations, go to: https://www.theshitaboutwriting.com/submit-a-question.html
If you get your question in by the 10th of October, we'll try and get it answered for you.
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Acorns: https://acorns.com/TSNOTYAW
* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands - Visa fler
