Join Samantha Tennant as she chats with the renowned romance author Mary Jo Putney in this engaging episode of Fresh Fiction Book Club. Discover Mary Jo's extensive writing journey, which began in 1987 and includes numerous bestsellers and award-winning novels. They discuss the challenge writers face in finding time to read, the inspiration behind Mary Jo's new series, and the blend of historical and fantastical elements in her stories. Dive into her creative process, the complexities of her characters, and her love for storytelling. Learn about her transition to writing novellas and her adventures in both contemporary and historical romance. Plus, get a sneak peek into Mary Jo’s personal interests, including her collection of stuffed animals and her love for travel. Don't miss out on this delightful conversation with one of the grand dames of the romance world.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:58 Challenges of Being a Writer and Reader

02:52 Fantasy Elements in Romance Novels

05:13 Historical and Fantasy Writing Journey

07:22 Writing Process and Character Development

09:05 Impact of Stories on Readers

10:30 Trends in Romance and Historical Fiction

15:24 Novellas and Short Stories

21:17 Fresh Fiction Facts: Fun Q&A

31:18 Current Projects and Closing Remarks

Join Samantha Tennant for an engaging episode of Fresh Fiction Video Book Club featuring special guest Asa Maria Bradley. Dive into the world of Viking romance, as Asa shares her journey from writing women's fiction to becoming a celebrated romance author, including nominations for the RWA's Rita Award and winning the Holt Medallion. Discover the creative process behind her immersive worlds filled with Vikings, shifters, and rich Norse mythology. Learn about her inspiration, character development, and upcoming projects set to enthrall readers. Plus, enjoy a fun segment with personal insights from Asa. Don't miss this insightful and entertaining conversation!

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:04 Asa Maria Bradley's Writing Journey

01:49 Discovering Romance Writing

04:24 Viking Romance and Norse Mythology

08:36 World Building and Character Development

13:56 Characters and Their Stories

19:36 Fresh Fiction Facts

19:45 Swedish Influences and Childhood Favorites

21:37 Fresh Fiction Facts: Quickfire Questions

28:04 Favorite Books and Authors

30:59 Current and Upcoming Projects

34:10 Where to Follow and Final Thoughts

Asa Maria Bradley: https://freshfiction.com/author.php?id=38481

Norse Warriors Protection: https://freshfiction.com/series.php?id=8178

In this episode of Fresh Fiction's video book club, Samantha Tennant welcomes guest Eloisa James, a renowned author and Shakespeare professor. Eloisa shares insights about her recent summer in Italy, the inspiration behind her writing, and the process of blending her academic career with her passion for romance novels. She discusses the importance of setting and atmosphere in her work, the impact of family collaboration on her stories, particularly with her daughter’s input, and the challenges of evolving her writing style to meet contemporary sensibilities. Eloisa also answers rapid-fire questions about her personal preferences and sheds light on her upcoming works and favorite literary influences.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:19 Summer in Italy: A Rejuvenating Experience

01:18 Writing Process: Italy vs. New York

02:40 Balancing Teaching and Writing

05:16 Influence of Shakespeare on Romance Writing

07:36 Collaborating with Family on Writing

11:29 Adapting to Changing Reader Expectations

14:16 Maintaining the Essence of Romance

17:15 Escapism in Literature

18:33 Personal Stories of Comfort

19:18 Favorite Tropes in Romance

20:53 Fresh Fiction Facts: Rapid Fire Questions

21:06 Time Travel Preferences

21:53 Paranormal Genres and Favorites

22:40 Nostalgia and Disappointments

24:47 Field Trip Memories

25:43 TV Shows and Rewatching

28:15 Reading Habits and Recommendations

29:40 Connecting with Readers

31:06 Conclusion and Farewell

Eloisa James: https://freshfiction.com/author.php?id=4755