Welcome to season 2!

In this episode, Liz Shipton returns to discuss her new book, Dot Slash Magic, set to release on August 19th 2025! The book follows a young coder who accidentally creates AI powered by sorcery. Liz shares insights into her creative process, the blending of sci-fi and fantasy, and her experiences with traditional publishing. She also offers a no-spice version of her book for readers who prefer less explicit content.

Apply for an early reader version of Dot Slash Magic on Netgalley or use this link.

Keywords

Liz Shipton, Dot Slash Magic, traditional publishing, AI in fantasy, marketing books, author journey, self-publishing, writing process, book release, reader engagement

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back!

01:36 The New Book

05:04 Traditional Publishing Experience

10:21 The Creative Process Behind the Book

15:47 AI and Magic

19:10 Romance and Spice

24:24 Marketing

31:31 Exploring Dystopian Themes

32:40 The Future of Book Series and Standalones

33:57 Traditional vs. Self-Publishing

36:33 The Importance of Feedback in Writing

41:28 Marketing Strategies for New Authors

45:03 The Role of Publishers in Author Success

48:22 What Are You Most Prooud Of?

50:53 Pre-Order and Support for Dot Slash Magic!

Guest Links

Instagram / TikTok: @lizshiptonauthor

Website: https://lizshipton.com/

Amazon author page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BN4YHLXF

Host

Instagram | TikTok: @kkalbabooks

Email: k.k.alba.books@gmail.com

Recorded with Riverside.fm.

Music by Denis Pavlov from Pixabay.

In this episode, author R. A. Howitt shares his journey from aspiring writer to successful author and podcast host. We discuss the challenges of writing, the importance of community in the literary world, and his innovative projects aimed at supporting new authors. Richard emphasizes the significance of character development in storytelling and his unique approach to self-publishing, focusing on creating a niche market for his work. He introduces his book, Daniel King: ASD (Alien Specialist With Dad), which explores themes of neurodiversity and adventure, showcasing the strengths of its main character.

Keywords

writing, podcast, community, middle grade, self-publishing, Richard Howitt, authors, creativity, storytelling, mental health

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

07:05 Creation of New2TheScene

11:44 Writing Routine

17:35 Innovative Writing Projects

21:09 Books and Genre

26:24 Conventions of Middle Grade Genre

27:57 Plotting

33:53 Personal Favorites

39:41 Editing

47:36 Daniel King: ASD (Alien Specialist With Dad)

59:03 Self-Publishing Strategy and Community Engagement

Recommendations

Save The Cat! Writes A Novel by Jessica Brody

Editing and Proofreading Services: clevercrow.co.uk

Cover Design and Illustration: carlknapper.com

Guest Links

Instagram: @new2thescene.official

New2TheScene shop and community: https://www.new2thescene.co.uk/

Author Website: https://www.rahowitt.com/

Host

Instagram | TikTok: @kkalbabooks

Email: k.k.alba.books@gmail.com

Recorded with Riverside.fm.

Music by Denis Pavlov from Pixabay.

In this episode, debut author Stefanie Medrek shares her journey into writing, the influence of her writer father, and her experiences with mentorship and self-publishing. She discusses her genre selection, the drafting process, and the importance of editing and professional help. Stefanie also reflects on her launch experience, marketing strategies, and the balance between writing and family life. Throughout the discussion, she emphasizes the significance of community support as the number one writer tool.

Keywords

writing, self-publishing, mentorship, editing, community, imposter syndrome, author journey, marketing strategies, genre selection, drafting process

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

02:49 The Journey of Writing and Family Influence

05:41 Choosing a Genre and Publishing Route

07:55 Drafting Process

11:02 Editing

13:32 Debut Novel Launch Strategy

16:40 Balancing Writing with Family Life

17:49 Debut Launch

21:08 Routine

22:35 Community

26:19 Promotion Strategies

27:40 Building an Author Brand

28:58 Finding Your Author Voice

31:41 Imposter Syndrome

35:09 Reviews and Feedback

37:26 Writing Advice

39:20 Reflections

42:33 Future Projects and Author Heroes

45:36 Resources on Writing

47:22 Connecting with Readers

Recommendations

Fiction Writing Made Easy podcast by Savannah Gilbo

Story Grid book and podcast

Notes to Novel course by Savannah Gilbo: https://www.savannahgilbo.com/store

Guest Links

Instagram / TikTok: @medrekwrites

Website: https://medrekwrites.com/

Amazon author page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0DF92RFQZ

Host

Instagram | TikTok: @kkalbabooks

Email: k.k.alba.books@gmail.com

Recorded with Riverside.fm.

Music by Denis Pavlov from Pixabay.