Episodes

  • Exploring Historical and Fantasy Romance with Mary Jo Putney
    Jun 25 2025

    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

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    40 mins
  • Exploring Norse Mythology and Romance with Asa Maria Bradley
    Jun 17 2025

    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

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    35 mins
  • Eloisa James Discusses Writing, Italy, and the Magic of Romance
    Jun 11 2025

    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

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    34 mins
  • Unraveling Mysteries with Lisa Regan: Inside the Josie Quinn Series
    Jun 3 2025

    In this episode of the Fresh Fiction Podcast, Samantha Tennant sits down with bestselling thriller author Lisa Regan, creator of the beloved Josie Quinn series. Discover how Lisa’s diverse background and lifelong passion for storytelling shaped her writing career, and get a behind-the-scenes look at her creative process, from plotting twists to developing unforgettable characters. Plus, enjoy a round of rapid-fire questions that reveal Lisa’s favorite distractions, must-have luxuries, and more. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to her books, this conversation is packed with inspiration, laughter, and plenty of bookish fun!

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    33 mins
  • From Romance Novel Critic to Cowboy Loving Author: Leah Vale
    May 27 2025

    Join us for a delightful conversation with the fabulous Leah Vale. Leah shares her journey from a romance novel critic to a successful author of 19 books, with a special focus on her love for cowboys and ranch life. Learn how her unique voice shaped her writing career, and get a sneak peek into her recent work, including a book being adapted into a film. Leah also discusses her future projects, her inspirations, and even her adventures with pets and camping. Don't miss this entertaining and insightful interview, complete with insider tips and engaging anecdotes.

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    00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

    00:32 Leah's Journey to Becoming a Writer

    03:07 Love for Cowboys and Horses

    05:32 Research and Inspiration for Cowboy Stories

    07:33 Exciting News: Book Adaptation into Film

    11:22 The Cowboy Undoing: A Unique Romance

    14:30 Rapid Fire Questions and Fun Facts

    19:44 Upcoming Projects and Staying Connected

    21:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    Leah Vale: https://freshfiction.com/author.php?id=7491

    THE COWBOY’S UNDOING: https://freshfiction.com/book.php?id=136686

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    24 mins
  • Regency Romance, Fake Courtships & Real Chemistry with Jade Lee
    May 20 2025

    “Writing steamy scenes is easy—it’s getting my characters to talk afterward that’s the hard part.”

    In this episode of the Fresh Fiction Podcast, Samantha Tennant sits down with fan-favorite romance author Jade Lee—also known as Kathy Lyons—to talk all things love, laughter, and literary scandal! We’re diving into THE DUKE’S GUIDE TO FAKE COURTSHIP, a Regency romance that’s full of witty banter, unexpected twists, and a deliciously slow-burn love story you won’t want to miss.

    Jade shares how she brings humor and heart to historical fiction, her favorite tropes to write, and the secret behind creating irresistible chemistry between characters. Whether you're a longtime fan or just discovering her books, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and bookish joy.

    Tune in, subscribe, and don’t forget to tell your fellow romance readers! Find more great reads at FreshFiction.com

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    41 mins
  • Exploring Paranormal Romance with Charley Black
    May 13 2025

    Join Samantha Tennnant in this episode of Fresh Fiction's Video Book Club as she sits down with paranormal romance author Charley Black. Discover Charley's journey from a young writer to a published author, her inspiration from classic vampires like Anne Rice's 'INTERVIEW WITH THE VAMPIRE', and the process behind creating her dystopian world in her latest series, Elite. Learn about Charley's writing habits, favorite books, and how she builds intricate worlds that captivate readers. Don't miss out on hearing about her newest release 'BOUND' and get insights into her creative mind. Perfect for fans of romance, dystopian settings, and vampire lore!

    00:00 Welcome to Fresh Fiction's Video Book Club

    00:44 Charley's Writing Journey Begins

    01:32 The Allure of Paranormal Romance

    03:13 Crafting Unique Vampire Worlds

    05:19 Building a Dystopian Romance

    06:47 Character Development and Challenges

    12:11 Revisiting and Revising Stories

    16:43 Fresh Fiction Fun Facts

    17:52 Music and Writing

    18:41 Luxury Items and Reading Habits

    19:09 Favorite Children's Books

    19:38 Ideal Paradise

    20:21 Spending $50,000 in One Store

    20:59 Refusing to Buy Audiobooks

    21:56 Mount Rushmore of Authors

    23:23 Forgetting the Cell Phone

    23:51 Guilty Pleasure Movies

    24:31 Pet Peeves and Story Distractions

    25:56 Stepping into Book Worlds

    27:07 Favorite One-Hit Wonders

    27:50 Most Dog-Eared Books

    30:03 Where to Find More from the Author

    Charley Black: https://freshfiction.com/author.php?id=48967

    BOUND: https://freshfiction.com/book.php?id=139535

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    34 mins
  • Donna Michaels: Romance, Heroes, and Behind-the-Scenes Insights
    May 6 2025

    Join Samantha Tennant on the Fresh Fiction Podcast as she welcomes USA Today bestselling author Donna Michaels. They dive into Donna's new book, 'BENNETT,' part of her swoon-worthy romantic series. Discover the inspiration behind Donna's strong heroines, military heroes, and the small-town vibes that captivate fans. Donna shares personal stories, writing challenges, and exciting updates about her upcoming works, including a new cozy mystery series. Perfect for fans of protective heroes and heartwarming romances!

    00:13 Meet Donna Michaels: Bestselling Romance Author

    01:03 Technical Glitches and Beginnings

    01:53 Donna's Writing Journey

    03:05 Military Influence and Personal Stories

    04:59 Balancing Writing and Family Life

    06:07 Character Development and Inspiration

    07:57 Crafting Romance and Mystery

    12:40 Harlan County Mysteries

    15:30 Research and Realism in Writing

    16:54 Exploring the Appeal of Ranch Settings in Fiction

    17:39 The Evolution of Writing and the Role of Editors

    19:23 Challenges and Tricks for Getting into the Writing Mindset

    21:48 Fresh Fiction Facts: Quickfire Questions

    29:58 Upcoming Releases and Final Thoughts

    Donna Michaels: https://freshfiction.com/author.php?id=35465

    BENNETT: https://freshfiction.com/book.php?id=138882

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    33 mins