Margs & Manuscripts Tue, 05 May 2026 09:56:26 -0400 https://www.margsandmansucripts.com en-us © 2026 Margs & Manuscripts yes 12007af5-1779-5a54-864e-ce6f78196f2c Cait & Jenna episodic true Two writer friends wrap up their writing session, pour a drink, and let the conversation flow, processing "the craft", the chaos, and everything in between.

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) writing, books, writers, publishing, querying, agent, author, comedy, creative, marketing, community, retreats Cait & Jenna https://storage.buzzsprout.com/2vgoh5kfsbdtjssdo95n97belzw1?.jpg Margs & Manuscripts Cait Jenna G Judith We Need to Talk About Abigail Adams with Laura Kamoie and Stephanie Dray We Need to Talk About Abigail Adams with Laura Kamoie and Stephanie Dray What if the story we’ve been told about the American Revolution is only half the picture?

In this episode, we sit down with bestselling authors Laura Kamoie and Stephanie Dray—the powerhouse duo behind America’s First Daughter, My Dear Hamilton, and their newest release, A Founding Mother. Known for bringing history’s most overlooked women to life, they’ve built a career on telling the stories behind the story—the ones that didn’t make it into the textbooks.

We talk about their collaborative writing process (and how they make it work without killing each other), the research behind their novels, and why the women of the Revolution—especially Abigail Adams—still feel strikingly relevant today. This conversation is part craft, part history, and part reminder that the people holding everything together were often never the ones in the spotlight.

In this episode:

  • How Laura Kamoie and Stephanie Dray built a collaborative writing process that actually works 
  • Why historical fiction is uniquely positioned to “read between the lines” of history 
  • The real lives of women during the American Revolution—and what’s been left out 
  • How Abigail Adams’ voice stands out among the founding generation 
  • The role of research, letters, and archives in shaping authentic storytelling 
  • Why every generation thinks it’s living through the “end”—and what history tells us instead 
  • The unexpected, chaotic reality of researching historical sites (yes, including almost getting in trouble)

About our guests:

Laura Kamoie and Stephanie Dray are bestselling authors of historical fiction known for their deeply researched, emotionally rich novels centered on women’s lives during pivotal moments in history. Together, they’ve written America’s First Daughter, My Dear Hamilton, and A Founding Mother, bringing new perspective to the American Revolution through the voices of the women who lived it.

Books mentioned:

  • A Founding Mother by Laura Kamoie & Stephanie Dray 
  • America’s First Daughter
  • My Dear Hamilton

Announcements:

Laura and Stephanie are currently on tour for A Founding Mother. For upcoming events and appearances, visit:
👉 https://draykamoie.com/events


]]> What if the story we’ve been told about the American Revolution is only half the picture?

In this episode, we sit down with bestselling authors Laura Kamoie and Stephanie Dray—the powerhouse duo behind America’s First Daughter, My Dear Hamilton, and their newest release, A Founding Mother. Known for bringing history’s most overlooked women to life, they’ve built a career on telling the stories behind the story—the ones that didn’t make it into the textbooks.

We talk about their collaborative writing process (and how they make it work without killing each other), the research behind their novels, and why the women of the Revolution—especially Abigail Adams—still feel strikingly relevant today. This conversation is part craft, part history, and part reminder that the people holding everything together were often never the ones in the spotlight.

In this episode:

  • How Laura Kamoie and Stephanie Dray built a collaborative writing process that actually works 
  • Why historical fiction is uniquely positioned to “read between the lines” of history 
  • The real lives of women during the American Revolution—and what’s been left out 
  • How Abigail Adams’ voice stands out among the founding generation 
  • The role of research, letters, and archives in shaping authentic storytelling 
  • Why every generation thinks it’s living through the “end”—and what history tells us instead 
  • The unexpected, chaotic reality of researching historical sites (yes, including almost getting in trouble)

About our guests:

Laura Kamoie and Stephanie Dray are bestselling authors of historical fiction known for their deeply researched, emotionally rich novels centered on women’s lives during pivotal moments in history. Together, they’ve written America’s First Daughter, My Dear Hamilton, and A Founding Mother, bringing new perspective to the American Revolution through the voices of the women who lived it.

Books mentioned:

  • A Founding Mother by Laura Kamoie & Stephanie Dray 
  • America’s First Daughter
  • My Dear Hamilton

Announcements:

Laura and Stephanie are currently on tour for A Founding Mother. For upcoming events and appearances, visit:
👉 https://draykamoie.com/events


]]> Cait & Jenna Buzzsprout-19124681 Tue, 05 May 2026 00:00:00 -0500 2301 1 23 full true The Fantasy Series That Made It Out of the Group Chat | Cozy Fantasy with E.B. Asher The Fantasy Series That Made It Out of the Group Chat | Cozy Fantasy with E.B. Asher What happens when a group chat turns into a published fantasy series?

This week, we’re joined by E.B. Asher—aka Bridget Morrissey, Emily Wibberley, and Austin Siegemund-Broka—the trio behind one of the most fun, chaotic, and genuinely entertaining cozy romantasy series out right now.

We get into how their books This Will Be Fun and This Will Be Interesting were born out of a years-long group chat, what it actually looks like to write a fantasy novel as a team, and why starting with a pitch (instead of a manuscript) might change everything about how you write.

Also: sequels, worldbuilding, why humor works better when characters take themselves seriously, and the surprisingly strategic side of writing something that feels effortless.


In This Episode

  •  How E.B. Asher turned a group chat into a full fantasy series 
  •  Writing a sequel vs. “hoping” for one 
  •  Their collaborative process (and why it works) 
  •  Why they start with the pitch instead of the book 
  •  The reality of co-writing a 120K word fantasy novel 
  •  Balancing humor with real emotional stakes 
  •  Cozy fantasy, romantasy, and writing for fun first 
  •  Audiobooks, accents, and letting narrators run with it 
  •  Their next project (and it’s chaotic in the best way) 
  •  What they’re reading right now


About Our Guests

E.B. Asher is the collaborative pen name of authors Bridget Morrissey, Emily Wibberley, and Austin Siegemund-Broka. Together, they write cozy, comedic romantasy stories filled with heart, chaos, and just enough emotional damage to keep things interesting.

Their series includes:

  • This Will Be Fun
  • This Will Be Interesting

Their work blends fantasy, romance, and humor in a way that feels both nostalgic and completely fresh—think classic adventure vibes with modern chaos and character-driven storytelling.


Announcements

✨ New Bonus Series Coming Soon:
We’re launching a new short-form bonus episode series:
“How I Got My Agent”

These will be 10–15 minute episodes featuring real stories from authors about how they landed representation or publishing deals—what worked, what didn’t, and what actually matters.


Favorite Moments from the Episode

  •  “This book literally came out of a group chat.” 
  •  “We start with the pitchiest version of the idea first—and build from there.” 
  •  “The whole point is the class clown.” 
  •  “It’s like opening a document and it’s grown without you.”


Episode Chapters

00:00 Intro – We finally got Cait into fantasy
00:41 Meet E.B. Asher (it’s three authors 👀)
02:04 How the series started (yes… the group chat)
07:18 The first idea that sparked the story
10:56 How they knew each other before writing together
12:52 How they actually write as a team
14:52 Building a fantasy world together (yes, they made an encyclopedia)
16:08 Editing, collaboration, and creative tension
17:41 Writing humor that actually works
20:27 Why fantasy still needs emotional stakes
22:04 Audiobooks, accents, and creative freedom
23:43 Their NEXT book (and it’s chaotic)
25:23 Fantasy influences + Jack Black energy
27:17 What they’re working on individually
28:53 Why they start with the pitch first
31:28 The problem with tropes (and why blurbs matter more)
33:12 Do they read while writing?
35:31 What they’re reading right now
37:13 For non-fantasy readers… start here
38:24 Why they wanted this series to feel easy and fun

]]> What happens when a group chat turns into a published fantasy series?

This week, we’re joined by E.B. Asher—aka Bridget Morrissey, Emily Wibberley, and Austin Siegemund-Broka—the trio behind one of the most fun, chaotic, and genuinely entertaining cozy romantasy series out right now.

We get into how their books This Will Be Fun and This Will Be Interesting were born out of a years-long group chat, what it actually looks like to write a fantasy novel as a team, and why starting with a pitch (instead of a manuscript) might change everything about how you write.

Also: sequels, worldbuilding, why humor works better when characters take themselves seriously, and the surprisingly strategic side of writing something that feels effortless.


In This Episode

  •  How E.B. Asher turned a group chat into a full fantasy series 
  •  Writing a sequel vs. “hoping” for one 
  •  Their collaborative process (and why it works) 
  •  Why they start with the pitch instead of the book 
  •  The reality of co-writing a 120K word fantasy novel 
  •  Balancing humor with real emotional stakes 
  •  Cozy fantasy, romantasy, and writing for fun first 
  •  Audiobooks, accents, and letting narrators run with it 
  •  Their next project (and it’s chaotic in the best way) 
  •  What they’re reading right now


About Our Guests

E.B. Asher is the collaborative pen name of authors Bridget Morrissey, Emily Wibberley, and Austin Siegemund-Broka. Together, they write cozy, comedic romantasy stories filled with heart, chaos, and just enough emotional damage to keep things interesting.

Their series includes:

  • This Will Be Fun
  • This Will Be Interesting

Their work blends fantasy, romance, and humor in a way that feels both nostalgic and completely fresh—think classic adventure vibes with modern chaos and character-driven storytelling.


Announcements

✨ New Bonus Series Coming Soon:
We’re launching a new short-form bonus episode series:
“How I Got My Agent”

These will be 10–15 minute episodes featuring real stories from authors about how they landed representation or publishing deals—what worked, what didn’t, and what actually matters.


Favorite Moments from the Episode

  •  “This book literally came out of a group chat.” 
  •  “We start with the pitchiest version of the idea first—and build from there.” 
  •  “The whole point is the class clown.” 
  •  “It’s like opening a document and it’s grown without you.”


Episode Chapters

00:00 Intro – We finally got Cait into fantasy
00:41 Meet E.B. Asher (it’s three authors 👀)
02:04 How the series started (yes… the group chat)
07:18 The first idea that sparked the story
10:56 How they knew each other before writing together
12:52 How they actually write as a team
14:52 Building a fantasy world together (yes, they made an encyclopedia)
16:08 Editing, collaboration, and creative tension
17:41 Writing humor that actually works
20:27 Why fantasy still needs emotional stakes
22:04 Audiobooks, accents, and creative freedom
23:43 Their NEXT book (and it’s chaotic)
25:23 Fantasy influences + Jack Black energy
27:17 What they’re working on individually
28:53 Why they start with the pitch first
31:28 The problem with tropes (and why blurbs matter more)
33:12 Do they read while writing?
35:31 What they’re reading right now
37:13 For non-fantasy readers… start here
38:24 Why they wanted this series to feel easy and fun

]]> Cait & Jenna Buzzsprout-19098635 Thu, 30 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0500 2321 1 22 full true The AI Conversation in Publishing Has Gone Off the Rails The AI Conversation in Publishing Has Gone Off the Rails AI in publishing is getting loud—and not always helpful

Everyone has an opinion about AI right now, especially in the publishing and writing world. But instead of thoughtful conversations, what we’re seeing is a lot of noise, fear-based takes, and people rushing to pick a side.

In this episode, we’re not here to give a definitive answer on AI. We’re here to talk about what’s actually bothering us about the conversation itself—the fearmongering, the “AI police,” and the pressure being put on writers in an already difficult industry.

We waited to speak on this for a reason. We listened first. And now we’re sharing what feels off, what feels overblown, and where we think the focus should actually be.


In this episode, we cover:

  •  Why the AI conversation in publishing feels reactive instead of productive 
  •  The rise of fear-based takes and why they’re not helping writers 
  •  Where we personally draw the line with AI (workflow vs creativity) 
  •  The pressure and anxiety AI is adding to authors—especially debut authors 
  •  Why “AI isn’t going away” is the wrong starting point for the conversation 
  •  What writers should actually focus on right now instead of spiraling

For writers navigating AI right now:

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the noise around AI, you’re not alone. This episode is meant to ground the conversation back in reality and remind you of what actually matters:

Your voice, your process, and the work itself.

Listen now

🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube
📺 Full episode + clips on YouTube
📚 Explore books from our featured authors on our Bookshop page

]]> AI in publishing is getting loud—and not always helpful

Everyone has an opinion about AI right now, especially in the publishing and writing world. But instead of thoughtful conversations, what we’re seeing is a lot of noise, fear-based takes, and people rushing to pick a side.

In this episode, we’re not here to give a definitive answer on AI. We’re here to talk about what’s actually bothering us about the conversation itself—the fearmongering, the “AI police,” and the pressure being put on writers in an already difficult industry.

We waited to speak on this for a reason. We listened first. And now we’re sharing what feels off, what feels overblown, and where we think the focus should actually be.


In this episode, we cover:

  •  Why the AI conversation in publishing feels reactive instead of productive 
  •  The rise of fear-based takes and why they’re not helping writers 
  •  Where we personally draw the line with AI (workflow vs creativity) 
  •  The pressure and anxiety AI is adding to authors—especially debut authors 
  •  Why “AI isn’t going away” is the wrong starting point for the conversation 
  •  What writers should actually focus on right now instead of spiraling

For writers navigating AI right now:

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the noise around AI, you’re not alone. This episode is meant to ground the conversation back in reality and remind you of what actually matters:

Your voice, your process, and the work itself.

Listen now

🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube
📺 Full episode + clips on YouTube
📚 Explore books from our featured authors on our Bookshop page

]]> Cait & Jenna Buzzsprout-19049750 Tue, 21 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0500 1917 1 21 full false Sex Scenes Are Just Another Scene: How to Write Them Without Making It Weird Sex Scenes Are Just Another Scene: How to Write Them Without Making It Weird Let’s just say it: writing sex scenes is weird… until it’s not.

In this episode of Margs & Manuscripts, we sit down with author Susan Ferber to talk about how to write sex scenes, why they matter in storytelling, and what separates a good scene from one that completely pulls the reader out.

This isn’t a “how spicy should your book be” conversation. It’s about craft—how intimacy functions in a story, how to write scenes that actually move the plot forward, and why sex scenes should be treated like any other scene in your book.

We get into the nuance of writing desire, tension, and connection—without overexplaining, overdescribing, or making your reader cringe. From dialogue-driven intimacy to the power of what you don’t show on the page, this episode breaks down what actually works.

We also talk about the bigger conversation around women writing sex, the double standard around “smut,” and why stories centered on female desire are still treated differently in publishing.

If you’ve ever wondered:

  • Do I need a sex scene in my book?
  • How explicit is too explicit?
  • Why do some scenes feel natural and others feel… off?

This one’s for you.


What We Cover

  •  How to write sex scenes that feel natural and not forced 
  •  Why sex scenes should function like any other scene in your story 
  •  Writing intimacy through dialogue vs description 
  •  How much detail is actually necessary (and when less is more) 
  •  The role of tension, power, and emotional stakes in intimate scenes 
  •  “Spice” vs “smut” vs storytelling—what’s the difference? 
  •  Do you need to show consent and protection on the page? 
  •  Writing awkward vs polished intimacy (and why both can work) 
  •  What makes a sex scene cringe vs compelling 
  •  The double standard around women writing sex 
  •  Why romance and intimacy are often labeled as “lesser” 
  •  How reader imagination plays a role in writing intimacy 
  •  Whether a book needs a sex scene at all


About Susan Ferber

Susan Ferber is the author of The Essence of an Hour and We Were Very Merry, with her third novel What Other Years Have Done releasing September 2026.

Her work explores female identity, women’s relationships, and the complexities of love, desire, and power across time. She is particularly interested in how stories set in the past can shape our understanding of women’s rights today.

Susan is also a book editor and currently lives in London with her husband—yes, very much a romance novel setup.


Listen + Follow

If you liked this episode, make sure to follow Margs & Manuscripts wherever you listen to podcasts and check out our full episode library on our website.

You can also shop books from our featured authors (including Susan!) through our Bookshop—supporting both indie bookstores and the writers we love.


Let’s Talk

What’s your biggest pet peeve when reading sex scenes? Drop it in the comments or DM us—we’re dying to know.

]]> Let’s just say it: writing sex scenes is weird… until it’s not.

In this episode of Margs & Manuscripts, we sit down with author Susan Ferber to talk about how to write sex scenes, why they matter in storytelling, and what separates a good scene from one that completely pulls the reader out.

This isn’t a “how spicy should your book be” conversation. It’s about craft—how intimacy functions in a story, how to write scenes that actually move the plot forward, and why sex scenes should be treated like any other scene in your book.

We get into the nuance of writing desire, tension, and connection—without overexplaining, overdescribing, or making your reader cringe. From dialogue-driven intimacy to the power of what you don’t show on the page, this episode breaks down what actually works.

We also talk about the bigger conversation around women writing sex, the double standard around “smut,” and why stories centered on female desire are still treated differently in publishing.

If you’ve ever wondered:

  • Do I need a sex scene in my book?
  • How explicit is too explicit?
  • Why do some scenes feel natural and others feel… off?

This one’s for you.


What We Cover

  •  How to write sex scenes that feel natural and not forced 
  •  Why sex scenes should function like any other scene in your story 
  •  Writing intimacy through dialogue vs description 
  •  How much detail is actually necessary (and when less is more) 
  •  The role of tension, power, and emotional stakes in intimate scenes 
  •  “Spice” vs “smut” vs storytelling—what’s the difference? 
  •  Do you need to show consent and protection on the page? 
  •  Writing awkward vs polished intimacy (and why both can work) 
  •  What makes a sex scene cringe vs compelling 
  •  The double standard around women writing sex 
  •  Why romance and intimacy are often labeled as “lesser” 
  •  How reader imagination plays a role in writing intimacy 
  •  Whether a book needs a sex scene at all


About Susan Ferber

Susan Ferber is the author of The Essence of an Hour and We Were Very Merry, with her third novel What Other Years Have Done releasing September 2026.

Her work explores female identity, women’s relationships, and the complexities of love, desire, and power across time. She is particularly interested in how stories set in the past can shape our understanding of women’s rights today.

Susan is also a book editor and currently lives in London with her husband—yes, very much a romance novel setup.


Listen + Follow

If you liked this episode, make sure to follow Margs & Manuscripts wherever you listen to podcasts and check out our full episode library on our website.

You can also shop books from our featured authors (including Susan!) through our Bookshop—supporting both indie bookstores and the writers we love.


Let’s Talk

What’s your biggest pet peeve when reading sex scenes? Drop it in the comments or DM us—we’re dying to know.

]]> https://margsandmanuscripts.com/episodes/how-to-write-sex-scenes-without-making-it-weird Cait & Jenna Buzzsprout-19012132 Tue, 14 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0500 2957 how to write sex scenes, writing intimacy in books, romance writing tips, spice vs smut, writing dialogue in romance, how to write steamy scenes, writing romance novels, intimacy in fiction, women writing sex, romance book tropes 1 20 full true Why No One Warns You About Book Launch Anxiety | ft. Meg Rosenthal Why No One Warns You About Book Launch Anxiety | ft. Meg Rosenthal What happens when you finally finish your book… and then immediately spiral?

In this episode, we sit down with Meg Rosenthal to talk about the very real anxiety that comes with putting your work into the world. From 2am panic spirals to the vulnerability of “bleeding on the page,” we unpack the emotional weight of publishing, the fear of critique, and the unexpected mental load that no one warns you about.

We also dive into imposter syndrome, the tension between commercial vs. authentic writing, and what it actually means to create art in an industry that expects you to monetize it. Meg brings a unique perspective having worked across multiple sides of publishing—as an author, editor, and hybrid-published writer—offering both practical insight and honest reassurance for anyone navigating the writing journey.

In this episode:

  •  The reality of book launch anxiety (and why no one talks about it) 
  •  The vulnerability of “bleeding on the page” as a writer 
  •  Fear of critique, reviews, and putting your work out publicly 
  •  Imposter syndrome and feeling like you don’t “belong” 
  •  What actually defines “good writing” (and who gets to decide) 
  •  Traditional vs. indie vs. hybrid publishing paths 
  •  Writing for yourself vs. writing for the market 
  •  Commercial expectations vs. authentic storytelling 
  •  The emotional impact of sharing your work with people you know 
  •  Pricing your work and the challenge of valuing creative output 
  •  The balance between art, passion, and making money 
  •  Why community matters (and how it changes everything)

Books:

About Our Guest: Meg Rosenthal

Meg Rosenthal is a contemporary romance author, editor, and host of The Architecture of Story podcast. She is the author of The Right Words and The Wingman, and brings a unique perspective to the publishing world through her work across hybrid publishing, editing, and author education.

Through her editorial work and podcast, Meg helps writers better understand story structure while encouraging them to create with both intention and authenticity. She is also an active member of the writing community, supporting authors at every stage of their journey.

]]> What happens when you finally finish your book… and then immediately spiral?

In this episode, we sit down with Meg Rosenthal to talk about the very real anxiety that comes with putting your work into the world. From 2am panic spirals to the vulnerability of “bleeding on the page,” we unpack the emotional weight of publishing, the fear of critique, and the unexpected mental load that no one warns you about.

We also dive into imposter syndrome, the tension between commercial vs. authentic writing, and what it actually means to create art in an industry that expects you to monetize it. Meg brings a unique perspective having worked across multiple sides of publishing—as an author, editor, and hybrid-published writer—offering both practical insight and honest reassurance for anyone navigating the writing journey.

In this episode:

  •  The reality of book launch anxiety (and why no one talks about it) 
  •  The vulnerability of “bleeding on the page” as a writer 
  •  Fear of critique, reviews, and putting your work out publicly 
  •  Imposter syndrome and feeling like you don’t “belong” 
  •  What actually defines “good writing” (and who gets to decide) 
  •  Traditional vs. indie vs. hybrid publishing paths 
  •  Writing for yourself vs. writing for the market 
  •  Commercial expectations vs. authentic storytelling 
  •  The emotional impact of sharing your work with people you know 
  •  Pricing your work and the challenge of valuing creative output 
  •  The balance between art, passion, and making money 
  •  Why community matters (and how it changes everything)

Books:

About Our Guest: Meg Rosenthal

Meg Rosenthal is a contemporary romance author, editor, and host of The Architecture of Story podcast. She is the author of The Right Words and The Wingman, and brings a unique perspective to the publishing world through her work across hybrid publishing, editing, and author education.

Through her editorial work and podcast, Meg helps writers better understand story structure while encouraging them to create with both intention and authenticity. She is also an active member of the writing community, supporting authors at every stage of their journey.

]]> Cait & Jenna Buzzsprout-18979541 Wed, 08 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0500 2810 writing podcast, book launch anxiety, publishing a book, indie author, writing anxiety, imposter syndrome, author life, writing community, hybrid publishing, creative writing, author interview, Meg Rosenthal, Margs and Manuscripts 1 19 full true Nightmares, Plot Twists & Writing Psychological Thrillers | ft. Calvin Naraghi Nightmares, Plot Twists & Writing Psychological Thrillers | ft. Calvin Naraghi What happens when a nightmare turns into a full-blown thriller novel?

This week on Margs & Manuscripts, we’re joined by Calvin Naraghi, indie author of House Rules, to talk all things thriller writing, horror inspiration, and the very unhinged ways authors come up with ideas.

From waking up in a cold sweat with a fully formed plot to building stories around music and cinematic moments, Calvin walks us through his creative process—and why horror writers might actually be the nicest people you’ll ever meet.

We also get into:

  •  The difference between horror vs. thriller vs. psychological thriller
  •  Writing plot twists and unreliable narrators
  •  Why dark stories can actually be… fun?? 
  •  Turning ideas into books (without telling anyone you’re trying 👀) 
  •  The reality of indie publishing + social media growth
  •  And yes… the absolutely unhinged Google search histories required to write these books 

If you’ve ever wondered how thriller writers come up with their ideas, this one’s for you.

In This Episode

  •  How a nightmare became a published thriller 
  •  Horror vs. thriller: what’s the difference? 
  •  Writing plot twists that actually work 
  •  The appeal of unreliable narrators 
  •  Indie author marketing + social media tips 
  •  Building a story from music and cinematic scenes 
  •  Why horror writers are (surprisingly) the happiest people 

About Calvin Naraghi

Calvin Naraghi is an indie thriller author known for his cinematic, twist-driven storytelling. His books blend psychological suspense, horror elements, and high-stakes mystery, with stories that keep readers guessing until the very end.

Links + Resources

Support the Podcast

If you’re loving Margs & Manuscripts:

]]> What happens when a nightmare turns into a full-blown thriller novel?

This week on Margs & Manuscripts, we’re joined by Calvin Naraghi, indie author of House Rules, to talk all things thriller writing, horror inspiration, and the very unhinged ways authors come up with ideas.

From waking up in a cold sweat with a fully formed plot to building stories around music and cinematic moments, Calvin walks us through his creative process—and why horror writers might actually be the nicest people you’ll ever meet.

We also get into:

  •  The difference between horror vs. thriller vs. psychological thriller
  •  Writing plot twists and unreliable narrators
  •  Why dark stories can actually be… fun?? 
  •  Turning ideas into books (without telling anyone you’re trying 👀) 
  •  The reality of indie publishing + social media growth
  •  And yes… the absolutely unhinged Google search histories required to write these books 

If you’ve ever wondered how thriller writers come up with their ideas, this one’s for you.

In This Episode

  •  How a nightmare became a published thriller 
  •  Horror vs. thriller: what’s the difference? 
  •  Writing plot twists that actually work 
  •  The appeal of unreliable narrators 
  •  Indie author marketing + social media tips 
  •  Building a story from music and cinematic scenes 
  •  Why horror writers are (surprisingly) the happiest people 

About Calvin Naraghi

Calvin Naraghi is an indie thriller author known for his cinematic, twist-driven storytelling. His books blend psychological suspense, horror elements, and high-stakes mystery, with stories that keep readers guessing until the very end.

Links + Resources

Support the Podcast

If you’re loving Margs & Manuscripts:

]]> Cait & Jenna Buzzsprout-18935615 Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0500 1814 thriller writing, horror writing, psychological thriller, plot twists, unreliable narrator, indie author, writing process, book marketing, how to write a thriller, author podcast 1 18 full true The Indie Author's Playbook with Debut Author Jourdana Webber (pt. 2) The Indie Author's Playbook with Debut Author Jourdana Webber (pt. 2) In Part 2 of our conversation with author Jourdana Webber, we go deeper into the reality of building an author career from the ground up—no gatekeeping, no shortcuts, just figuring it out as you go.

We talk about what it actually looks like to put yourself out there (spoiler: it’s uncomfortable), how Jourdana landed her book in Times Square, and why asking the right questions can change everything. From cold emails to audiobook production to navigating reviews, this episode is a candid look at the trial-and-error behind indie publishing.

We also get into the emotional side of it all—the identity shifts, the fear of putting your work out into the world, and the reality that not everyone is going to love what you create. Jourdana shares what helped her push through that fear, why she stopped reading reviews, and how she reframed what it means to be “selfish” as a creative.

If you’ve ever felt stuck, unsure, or like you’re just making it up as you go—this one’s for you.

✨ What We Cover

  •  Jourdana’s Times Square billboard moment (and how she made it happen) 
  •  Why “just asking the question” is the real unlock 
  •  The power of community over gatekeeping in publishing 
  •  Trial-and-error marketing (and what didn’t work) 
  •  How indie authors can access opportunities like Publishers Weekly
  •  Behind the scenes of audiobook production 
  •  The emotional reality of publishing your work 
  •  Why you should probably stop reading your reviews 👀 
  •  Reframing “selfish” as choosing yourself 
  •  Letting go of other people’s opinions 

🔗 Links + Resources

]]> In Part 2 of our conversation with author Jourdana Webber, we go deeper into the reality of building an author career from the ground up—no gatekeeping, no shortcuts, just figuring it out as you go.

We talk about what it actually looks like to put yourself out there (spoiler: it’s uncomfortable), how Jourdana landed her book in Times Square, and why asking the right questions can change everything. From cold emails to audiobook production to navigating reviews, this episode is a candid look at the trial-and-error behind indie publishing.

We also get into the emotional side of it all—the identity shifts, the fear of putting your work out into the world, and the reality that not everyone is going to love what you create. Jourdana shares what helped her push through that fear, why she stopped reading reviews, and how she reframed what it means to be “selfish” as a creative.

If you’ve ever felt stuck, unsure, or like you’re just making it up as you go—this one’s for you.

✨ What We Cover

  •  Jourdana’s Times Square billboard moment (and how she made it happen) 
  •  Why “just asking the question” is the real unlock 
  •  The power of community over gatekeeping in publishing 
  •  Trial-and-error marketing (and what didn’t work) 
  •  How indie authors can access opportunities like Publishers Weekly
  •  Behind the scenes of audiobook production 
  •  The emotional reality of publishing your work 
  •  Why you should probably stop reading your reviews 👀 
  •  Reframing “selfish” as choosing yourself 
  •  Letting go of other people’s opinions 

🔗 Links + Resources

]]> Cait & Jenna Buzzsprout-18898084 Tue, 24 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0500 1520 indie author, self publishing, writing podcast, author life, publishing journey, book marketing, writing community, creative process, debut author, writing tips, author mindset, book podcast 1 17 full true How an Indie Author Landed in Time Square: ft. Jourdana Webber (Pt. 1) How an Indie Author Landed in Time Square: ft. Jourdana Webber (Pt. 1) In this episode, we’re raising a glass (literally) to indie author success with bestselling author Jourdana Webber, whose debut novel Unconventionally, Elle has taken the indie publishing world by storm.

Jourdana joins us to talk about her journey from corporate life to writing swoony, heartfelt contemporary romance, and how she built her author career by learning the business side of publishing. From producing her own audiobook to cold-emailing bookstores and building industry relationships, Jourdana shares the strategies that helped her break through as an independent author.

We also celebrate a massive milestone: Unconventionally, Elle appearing in Times Square, proving that indie authors absolutely belong on the biggest stages in publishing.

To celebrate the moment, Jourdana is releasing a limited Times Square special edition with sprayed edges, available now in an extremely limited run.

👉 Order the Times Square Special Edition:
https://jourdanawebber.com/products/times-square-special-edition-sprayed-edges-unconventionally-elle

If you’re an aspiring author—or just love behind-the-scenes conversations about the publishing world—this episode is packed with honest advice, hilarious moments, and plenty of margarita-fueled encouragement.

In This Episode

  • How Jourdana went from corporate burnout to bestselling author
  • The truth about indie vs traditional publishing
  • Why audiobooks can be a game changer for indie authors
  • How asking the right questions (and sending cold emails) can open doors
  • What it actually takes to market your book outside of social media
  • Why building your own publishing company and retaining rights matters
  • The mindset shift that helps authors keep going after rejection
  • Celebrating Jourdana’s Times Square feature for Unconventionally, Elle

About Jourdana Webber

Jourdana Webber is the bestselling author of Unconventionally, Elle, a heartfelt contemporary romance about ambition, love, and redefining success. Her stories blend humor, vulnerability, and the messy magic of real relationships while celebrating women’s voices, resilience, and found family. 

She lives in New Orleans with her husband and four dogs and is known for crafting emotionally resonant romances that remind readers happily-ever-afters still exist—even when life doesn’t go as planned. 

About the Book

Unconventionally, Elle

Elle Watson climbed the corporate ladder and achieved everything she thought she wanted—until burnout and betrayal force her to rethink everything. As she leaves the corporate world behind to pursue her dream of becoming a writer, Elle finds herself caught between a new love and the past she thought she left behind. 

Perfect for fans of Emily Henry, Carley Fortune, Abby Jimenez, and Sophie Kinsella, the novel blends romance, humor, and emotional depth with themes of ambition, love, and building an unconventional life. 

Follow Jourdana

Instagram: @authorjourdanawebber
Website: https://jourdanawebber.com

Follow Margs & Manuscripts

Instagram: @margsandmanuscripts

Listen If You Love

  • Emily Henry
  • Abby Jimenez
  • Carley Fortune
  • Sophie Kinsella
  • Contemporary romance with humor, heart, and real-life chaos 

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow, rate, and share the podcast with a fellow writer or book lover.

]]> In this episode, we’re raising a glass (literally) to indie author success with bestselling author Jourdana Webber, whose debut novel Unconventionally, Elle has taken the indie publishing world by storm.

Jourdana joins us to talk about her journey from corporate life to writing swoony, heartfelt contemporary romance, and how she built her author career by learning the business side of publishing. From producing her own audiobook to cold-emailing bookstores and building industry relationships, Jourdana shares the strategies that helped her break through as an independent author.

We also celebrate a massive milestone: Unconventionally, Elle appearing in Times Square, proving that indie authors absolutely belong on the biggest stages in publishing.

To celebrate the moment, Jourdana is releasing a limited Times Square special edition with sprayed edges, available now in an extremely limited run.

👉 Order the Times Square Special Edition:
https://jourdanawebber.com/products/times-square-special-edition-sprayed-edges-unconventionally-elle

If you’re an aspiring author—or just love behind-the-scenes conversations about the publishing world—this episode is packed with honest advice, hilarious moments, and plenty of margarita-fueled encouragement.

In This Episode

  • How Jourdana went from corporate burnout to bestselling author
  • The truth about indie vs traditional publishing
  • Why audiobooks can be a game changer for indie authors
  • How asking the right questions (and sending cold emails) can open doors
  • What it actually takes to market your book outside of social media
  • Why building your own publishing company and retaining rights matters
  • The mindset shift that helps authors keep going after rejection
  • Celebrating Jourdana’s Times Square feature for Unconventionally, Elle

About Jourdana Webber

Jourdana Webber is the bestselling author of Unconventionally, Elle, a heartfelt contemporary romance about ambition, love, and redefining success. Her stories blend humor, vulnerability, and the messy magic of real relationships while celebrating women’s voices, resilience, and found family. 

She lives in New Orleans with her husband and four dogs and is known for crafting emotionally resonant romances that remind readers happily-ever-afters still exist—even when life doesn’t go as planned. 

About the Book

Unconventionally, Elle

Elle Watson climbed the corporate ladder and achieved everything she thought she wanted—until burnout and betrayal force her to rethink everything. As she leaves the corporate world behind to pursue her dream of becoming a writer, Elle finds herself caught between a new love and the past she thought she left behind. 

Perfect for fans of Emily Henry, Carley Fortune, Abby Jimenez, and Sophie Kinsella, the novel blends romance, humor, and emotional depth with themes of ambition, love, and building an unconventional life. 

Follow Jourdana

Instagram: @authorjourdanawebber
Website: https://jourdanawebber.com

Follow Margs & Manuscripts

Instagram: @margsandmanuscripts

Listen If You Love

  • Emily Henry
  • Abby Jimenez
  • Carley Fortune
  • Sophie Kinsella
  • Contemporary romance with humor, heart, and real-life chaos 

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow, rate, and share the podcast with a fellow writer or book lover.

]]> Cait & Jenna Buzzsprout-18859404 Tue, 17 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0500 1501 indie author, self publishing, indie publishing, romance author, contemporary romance, romance writing, author interview, writing podcast, publishing podcast, indie author marketing, self publishing tips, audiobook production, book marketing strategies, w 1 16 full true Jourdana Webber Cait Jenna G Judith What It’s Really Like to Be a Literary Agent | ft. Tali & Lauren of The Prose Pros What It’s Really Like to Be a Literary Agent | ft. Tali & Lauren of The Prose Pros What is it actually like to be a literary agent?

In this special collaboration episode, we’re joined by Tali and Lauren from The Prose Pros for an honest, behind-the-scenes conversation about agenting, publishing, querying, and what authors often misunderstand about the industry. This is not an episode about how to get a literary agent. It’s a candid look at what literary agents do, what their inboxes really look like, how they evaluate queries, and why agenting is far less glamorous—and far more emotional—than it seems from the outside.

We talk about the reality of reading thousands of queries, balancing client communication, handling rejection from the agent side, burnout in publishing, and the huge highs that come with helping authors land book deals. Tali and Lauren also share what they’re looking for in submissions, why fit matters so much, and what makes a query or manuscript stand out.

Whether you’re querying, revising, or just wildly curious about the publishing world, this episode pulls back the curtain in the best way.

In this episode, we discuss:

  • What literary agents actually do behind the scenes
  • The truth about querying and agent inboxes
  • Why agenting is really client service at its core
  • How agents evaluate query letters and full manuscripts
  • Common querying mistakes writers make
  • Rejection, manuscript fit, and why “no” does not always mean “bad”
  • Burnout in publishing and on the agent side
  • Why a bad agent can be worse than no agent
  • The kinds of books Tali and Lauren are excited to read


About our guests:

Lauren and Tali of The Prose Pros bring a unique perspective to the publishing conversation as agents, authors, and lawyers. Their insight into both the creative and business sides of publishing makes this episode especially helpful for writers trying to better understand the industry.

Connect with our guests:

Lauren:
Instagram
Query Tracker

Tali:
Instagram
Substack

Check out The Prose Pros for more conversations on writing, publishing, and agenting.
Youtube
Apple Pod
Spotify


If you enjoyed this episode:

Be sure to follow Margs & Manuscripts on your favorite podcast platform, leave a rating or review, and share this episode with a writer friend who’s deep in the querying trenches.

Follow Margs & Manuscripts on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/margsandmanuscripts/ 

Subscribe for more real-talk conversations about writing, publishing, and building a bookish life with zero gatekeeping.

If you loved this episode, leave a quick rating + review—it helps more writers find the show.


]]> What is it actually like to be a literary agent?

In this special collaboration episode, we’re joined by Tali and Lauren from The Prose Pros for an honest, behind-the-scenes conversation about agenting, publishing, querying, and what authors often misunderstand about the industry. This is not an episode about how to get a literary agent. It’s a candid look at what literary agents do, what their inboxes really look like, how they evaluate queries, and why agenting is far less glamorous—and far more emotional—than it seems from the outside.

We talk about the reality of reading thousands of queries, balancing client communication, handling rejection from the agent side, burnout in publishing, and the huge highs that come with helping authors land book deals. Tali and Lauren also share what they’re looking for in submissions, why fit matters so much, and what makes a query or manuscript stand out.

Whether you’re querying, revising, or just wildly curious about the publishing world, this episode pulls back the curtain in the best way.

In this episode, we discuss:

  • What literary agents actually do behind the scenes
  • The truth about querying and agent inboxes
  • Why agenting is really client service at its core
  • How agents evaluate query letters and full manuscripts
  • Common querying mistakes writers make
  • Rejection, manuscript fit, and why “no” does not always mean “bad”
  • Burnout in publishing and on the agent side
  • Why a bad agent can be worse than no agent
  • The kinds of books Tali and Lauren are excited to read


About our guests:

Lauren and Tali of The Prose Pros bring a unique perspective to the publishing conversation as agents, authors, and lawyers. Their insight into both the creative and business sides of publishing makes this episode especially helpful for writers trying to better understand the industry.

Connect with our guests:

Lauren:
Instagram
Query Tracker

Tali:
Instagram
Substack

Check out The Prose Pros for more conversations on writing, publishing, and agenting.
Youtube
Apple Pod
Spotify


If you enjoyed this episode:

Be sure to follow Margs & Manuscripts on your favorite podcast platform, leave a rating or review, and share this episode with a writer friend who’s deep in the querying trenches.

Follow Margs & Manuscripts on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/margsandmanuscripts/ 

Subscribe for more real-talk conversations about writing, publishing, and building a bookish life with zero gatekeeping.

If you loved this episode, leave a quick rating + review—it helps more writers find the show.


]]> Cait & Jenna Buzzsprout-18817158 Tue, 10 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0500 2662 1 15 full true YA Books are Booming: What’s driving the surge + what’s trending now, with literary agent and owner of the Reading Chamber, Jess Taylor YA Books are Booming: What’s driving the surge + what’s trending now, with literary agent and owner of the Reading Chamber, Jess Taylor In this engaging conversation, Jess Taylor shares her journey of opening an online bookstore dedicated to young adult literature and her role as a literary agent. The discussion explores the evolution of YA fiction, the importance of addressing banned books, and the unique challenges of running a bookstore in a digital age. Jess emphasizes the joy of connecting with readers and authors alike, highlighting the need for more diverse representation in literature, particularly for younger audiences and male protagonists. The conversation concludes with insights into the current trends in YA literature and the significance of passion in writing and publishing.

Takeaways

  • Jess Taylor opened an online bookstore to fill a gap in YA literature.
  • The joy of seeing teens excited about books is validating.
  • YA literature allows for creativity and exploration of complex themes.
  • Banned books discussions highlight the importance of exposure to diverse topics.
  • Personalization in online bookstores can differentiate from larger retailers.
  • Social media content creation is a significant challenge for online sellers.
  • Jess transitioned from publishing to agenting to advocate for authors.
  • The YA audience is growing up, leading to a demand for new adult stories.
  • There is a need for more books featuring younger protagonists in YA.
  • Jess is open to queries for contemporary YA fiction. 

Connect with Jess Taylor

Discount Code

  • Shop The Reading Chamber and use the code MARGS at checkout for 15% off your entire purchase including the first month of a subscription!

Querying Jess

  • Jess is currently open to queries and can be found on Query Tracker

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Bookstore Dream

02:17 Inspiration Behind the Reading Chamber

03:39 Nostalgic Reading Experiences

05:11 The Appeal of YA Literature

07:53 The Journey of Opening a Bookstore

10:21 Current Trends in YA Literature

12:50 The Evolution of Young Adult Readers

13:40 Navigating Content in YA Books

14:29 Addressing Difficult Topics in YA Literature

17:20 The Need for Diverse Protagonists in YA

17:46 The Importance of Passion in Writing

18:38 Understanding Young Adult Literature

19:11 Curating a Bookstore: Personal Touches and Choices

21:08 Challenges of Running an Online Bookstore

23:59 The Journey to Becoming a Literary Agent

26:32 Open for Queries: Insights into the Agenting Process

26:41 Quirks that Capture an Agent's Interest

26:48 Expanding Genres: YA and Beyond

29:40 105-End Credits Animation .mp4


]]> In this engaging conversation, Jess Taylor shares her journey of opening an online bookstore dedicated to young adult literature and her role as a literary agent. The discussion explores the evolution of YA fiction, the importance of addressing banned books, and the unique challenges of running a bookstore in a digital age. Jess emphasizes the joy of connecting with readers and authors alike, highlighting the need for more diverse representation in literature, particularly for younger audiences and male protagonists. The conversation concludes with insights into the current trends in YA literature and the significance of passion in writing and publishing.

Takeaways

  • Jess Taylor opened an online bookstore to fill a gap in YA literature.
  • The joy of seeing teens excited about books is validating.
  • YA literature allows for creativity and exploration of complex themes.
  • Banned books discussions highlight the importance of exposure to diverse topics.
  • Personalization in online bookstores can differentiate from larger retailers.
  • Social media content creation is a significant challenge for online sellers.
  • Jess transitioned from publishing to agenting to advocate for authors.
  • The YA audience is growing up, leading to a demand for new adult stories.
  • There is a need for more books featuring younger protagonists in YA.
  • Jess is open to queries for contemporary YA fiction. 

Connect with Jess Taylor

Discount Code

  • Shop The Reading Chamber and use the code MARGS at checkout for 15% off your entire purchase including the first month of a subscription!

Querying Jess

  • Jess is currently open to queries and can be found on Query Tracker

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Bookstore Dream

02:17 Inspiration Behind the Reading Chamber

03:39 Nostalgic Reading Experiences

05:11 The Appeal of YA Literature

07:53 The Journey of Opening a Bookstore

10:21 Current Trends in YA Literature

12:50 The Evolution of Young Adult Readers

13:40 Navigating Content in YA Books

14:29 Addressing Difficult Topics in YA Literature

17:20 The Need for Diverse Protagonists in YA

17:46 The Importance of Passion in Writing

18:38 Understanding Young Adult Literature

19:11 Curating a Bookstore: Personal Touches and Choices

21:08 Challenges of Running an Online Bookstore

23:59 The Journey to Becoming a Literary Agent

26:32 Open for Queries: Insights into the Agenting Process

26:41 Quirks that Capture an Agent's Interest

26:48 Expanding Genres: YA and Beyond

29:40 105-End Credits Animation .mp4


]]> Cait & Jenna Buzzsprout-18737660 Tue, 24 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0600 1790 1 14 full false Choosing Indie Publishing as a Debut Author (Self-Publishing Without Gatekeeping) with Alyssa K. Burns Choosing Indie Publishing as a Debut Author (Self-Publishing Without Gatekeeping) with Alyssa K. Burns In this episode of Margs & Manuscripts, we’re joined by Alyssa K. Burns—journalist, author, MBA, elder emo, and one of the most supportive humans in the writing community. Alyssa’s debut novel releases April 1, and she’s sharing the real story behind how she got here… including the moment she decided she was done waiting for permission and went all-in on indie publishing.

We talk through the decisions debut authors actually face (trad vs indie, money vs time, ego vs autonomy), plus the behind-the-scenes logistics that nobody explains until you’re already stressed.

What we cover:

  • The mindset shift: “I’m done with people telling me no” and choosing indie publishing
  • Why indie publishing isn’t a “last resort” (and why readers often don’t care)
    The indie publishing checklist Alyssa built (because of course she did—MBA behavior)
  • Beta readers vs developmental edits
  • ARC readers: how many she aimed for, why, and what reviews do for a debut
  • Hiring help: what Alyssa outsourced (and why it saved her sanity)
  • Cover design: what went wrong, what she learned, and how to advocate for what you want
  • Launch planning: making your book launch a real milestone (yes, like a mini wedding)


Connect with Alyssa:


Connect with us:

If you loved this episode, leave a quick rating + review—it helps more writers find the show.

]]> In this episode of Margs & Manuscripts, we’re joined by Alyssa K. Burns—journalist, author, MBA, elder emo, and one of the most supportive humans in the writing community. Alyssa’s debut novel releases April 1, and she’s sharing the real story behind how she got here… including the moment she decided she was done waiting for permission and went all-in on indie publishing.

We talk through the decisions debut authors actually face (trad vs indie, money vs time, ego vs autonomy), plus the behind-the-scenes logistics that nobody explains until you’re already stressed.

What we cover:

  • The mindset shift: “I’m done with people telling me no” and choosing indie publishing
  • Why indie publishing isn’t a “last resort” (and why readers often don’t care)
    The indie publishing checklist Alyssa built (because of course she did—MBA behavior)
  • Beta readers vs developmental edits
  • ARC readers: how many she aimed for, why, and what reviews do for a debut
  • Hiring help: what Alyssa outsourced (and why it saved her sanity)
  • Cover design: what went wrong, what she learned, and how to advocate for what you want
  • Launch planning: making your book launch a real milestone (yes, like a mini wedding)


Connect with Alyssa:


Connect with us:

If you loved this episode, leave a quick rating + review—it helps more writers find the show.

]]> Cait & Jenna Buzzsprout-18697737 Tue, 17 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0600 1496 1 13 full true Female Main Characters We Love and the Ones We Can’t Stand Female Main Characters We Love and the Ones We Can’t Stand We got put in Instagram jail… then spiraled into a Galentine’s deep dive on FMCs: agency, tropes, and ACOTAR takes.

We got put in Instagram jail (for extremely writer reasons)… and then pivoted into a Galentine’s Day episode about female main characters (FMCs): why so many female protagonists feel frustrating in fantasy romance, romantasy, and contemporary romance, and what actually makes a great FMC.

We unpack the traits that make readers root for her—agency, purpose, intellect, and meaningful choices—and why the hero’s journey can be a trap for women characters. Plus: ACOTAR vs Throne of Glass, the return of the manic pixie dream girl, and how writers can “dig deeper” to avoid defaulting to stereotypes.

Question: Who’s your favorite FMC of all time—and what FMC trope are you done with?


]]> We got put in Instagram jail… then spiraled into a Galentine’s deep dive on FMCs: agency, tropes, and ACOTAR takes.

We got put in Instagram jail (for extremely writer reasons)… and then pivoted into a Galentine’s Day episode about female main characters (FMCs): why so many female protagonists feel frustrating in fantasy romance, romantasy, and contemporary romance, and what actually makes a great FMC.

We unpack the traits that make readers root for her—agency, purpose, intellect, and meaningful choices—and why the hero’s journey can be a trap for women characters. Plus: ACOTAR vs Throne of Glass, the return of the manic pixie dream girl, and how writers can “dig deeper” to avoid defaulting to stereotypes.

Question: Who’s your favorite FMC of all time—and what FMC trope are you done with?


]]> Cait & Jenna Buzzsprout-18654069 Mon, 09 Feb 2026 22:00:00 -0600 2184 1 12 full true Marketing Yourself as an Author Is Exhausting (4 Authors, No Filter) Marketing Yourself as an Author Is Exhausting (4 Authors, No Filter) Four authors sit down to say the quiet part out loud: marketing yourself as an author is exhausting. We talk social media pressure, algorithm burnout, batching content, comparison spirals, and how to promote your book when you don’t even have a product yet. No gatekeeping—just honest writer chaos, big feelings, and a reminder that community is the point.

With special guests, friends of the pod, and authors: Nicole Yvette and Jo Bentley



]]> Four authors sit down to say the quiet part out loud: marketing yourself as an author is exhausting. We talk social media pressure, algorithm burnout, batching content, comparison spirals, and how to promote your book when you don’t even have a product yet. No gatekeeping—just honest writer chaos, big feelings, and a reminder that community is the point.

With special guests, friends of the pod, and authors: Nicole Yvette and Jo Bentley



]]> Cait & Jenna Buzzsprout-18615646 Tue, 03 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0600 1734 1 11 full true Nicole Yvette Jo Bentley Cait Jenna G Judith Rage, Resistance and Writing When Everything Feels Wrong Rage, Resistance and Writing When Everything Feels Wrong This week, we’re not airing our scheduled episode.

We couldn’t.

In this unfiltered, off-schedule conversation, we talk honestly about why continuing as normal felt wrong and how writing, reading, and storytelling have always existed as responses to power, fear, and collapse.

We discuss:

  • why silence isn’t neutral for creators
  • writing during rage, grief, and political overwhelm
  • books as resistance (even when they’re fantasy or romance)
  • how to create without forcing productivity
  • and why processing the moment matters, even if you never share the work

This episode isn’t polished. It isn’t profound. It’s real.

If you’re feeling frozen, angry, exhausted, or unsure how to keep creating while the world feels on fire...this conversation is for you.

Content note: This episode references current political realities and may be heavy for some listeners. If today isn’t the day for this kind of conversation, it’s okay to skip. We’ll return to our regular programming soon.

You’re not alone. And your voice, whatever form it takes, still matters.



]]> This week, we’re not airing our scheduled episode.

We couldn’t.

In this unfiltered, off-schedule conversation, we talk honestly about why continuing as normal felt wrong and how writing, reading, and storytelling have always existed as responses to power, fear, and collapse.

We discuss:

  • why silence isn’t neutral for creators
  • writing during rage, grief, and political overwhelm
  • books as resistance (even when they’re fantasy or romance)
  • how to create without forcing productivity
  • and why processing the moment matters, even if you never share the work

This episode isn’t polished. It isn’t profound. It’s real.

If you’re feeling frozen, angry, exhausted, or unsure how to keep creating while the world feels on fire...this conversation is for you.

Content note: This episode references current political realities and may be heavy for some listeners. If today isn’t the day for this kind of conversation, it’s okay to skip. We’ll return to our regular programming soon.

You’re not alone. And your voice, whatever form it takes, still matters.



]]> Cait & Jenna Buzzsprout-18569144 Sun, 25 Jan 2026 22:00:00 -0600 1877 1 10 full false What It’s Really Like to Get a Literary Agent What It’s Really Like to Get a Literary Agent Getting a literary agent is supposed to feel like the moment—but no one really talks about what it’s actually like when it finally happens.

In this bonus episode, we sit down with Crystal to talk through her real querying journey: nearly 90 queries, revise & resubmits, unexpected phone calls, multiple agent offers, and the emotional whiplash that comes with all of it.

We talk about the envy no one admits to, the panic of “I can’t not query,” and why so much publishing content feels performative and unhelpful. This is the version of the story most writers don’t hear—but desperately need.

If you’re querying, waiting on responses, revising yet again, or refreshing your inbox while trying not to spiral, this episode is for you.

🍸 A short bonus episode pulled from our Episode 8 conversation—because this story deserved its own space.


]]> Getting a literary agent is supposed to feel like the moment—but no one really talks about what it’s actually like when it finally happens.

In this bonus episode, we sit down with Crystal to talk through her real querying journey: nearly 90 queries, revise & resubmits, unexpected phone calls, multiple agent offers, and the emotional whiplash that comes with all of it.

We talk about the envy no one admits to, the panic of “I can’t not query,” and why so much publishing content feels performative and unhelpful. This is the version of the story most writers don’t hear—but desperately need.

If you’re querying, waiting on responses, revising yet again, or refreshing your inbox while trying not to spiral, this episode is for you.

🍸 A short bonus episode pulled from our Episode 8 conversation—because this story deserved its own space.


]]> Cait & Jenna Buzzsprout-18556869 Thu, 22 Jan 2026 23:00:00 -0600 885 1 9 bonus true Crystal Leigh Cait Jenna G Judith From Bodice Rippers to BookTok: How Romance Became the #1 Bestselling Genre, with guest, Crystal Leigh From Bodice Rippers to BookTok: How Romance Became the #1 Bestselling Genre, with guest, Crystal Leigh Romance Novels Are the #1 Bestselling Genre—Here's Why | Heated Rivalry Review, Book Recs & Publishing Trends

How did romance become the bestselling fiction genre? From bodice rippers to contemporary romance to romantasy—romance novels have evolved alongside feminism, LGBTQ+ rights, and what readers want from love stories.

In this episode of Margs & Manuscripts, we talk with Crystal Leigh (@crystal.writes)—sapphic F1 romance writer—about:

📚 How Heated Rivalry became the best book-to-TV adaptation 

📚 Romance sales: 21.5M to 51M copies in 8 years 

📚 The history of romance novels and feminism 

📚 Why romance outsells thriller, mystery, and sci-fi combined 

📚 Book recommendations: Sarah Adams, Ali Hazelwood, Carly Fortune, Jessica Joyce 

📚 The difference between romance, erotica, and smut 

📚 LGBTQ+ representation and diversity in modern romance

Perfect for romance readers, BookTok fans, writers, and anyone who loved Heated Rivalry.

Subscribe for author interviews, writing advice, and book recommendations
Find us on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram @margsandmanuscripts

#RomanceBooks #HeatedRivalry #BookRecommendations #BookPodcast #ContemporaryRomance #BookTok


]]> Romance Novels Are the #1 Bestselling Genre—Here's Why | Heated Rivalry Review, Book Recs & Publishing Trends

How did romance become the bestselling fiction genre? From bodice rippers to contemporary romance to romantasy—romance novels have evolved alongside feminism, LGBTQ+ rights, and what readers want from love stories.

In this episode of Margs & Manuscripts, we talk with Crystal Leigh (@crystal.writes)—sapphic F1 romance writer—about:

📚 How Heated Rivalry became the best book-to-TV adaptation 

📚 Romance sales: 21.5M to 51M copies in 8 years 

📚 The history of romance novels and feminism 

📚 Why romance outsells thriller, mystery, and sci-fi combined 

📚 Book recommendations: Sarah Adams, Ali Hazelwood, Carly Fortune, Jessica Joyce 

📚 The difference between romance, erotica, and smut 

📚 LGBTQ+ representation and diversity in modern romance

Perfect for romance readers, BookTok fans, writers, and anyone who loved Heated Rivalry.

Subscribe for author interviews, writing advice, and book recommendations
Find us on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram @margsandmanuscripts

#RomanceBooks #HeatedRivalry #BookRecommendations #BookPodcast #ContemporaryRomance #BookTok


]]> Cait & Jenna Buzzsprout-18538688 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 23:00:00 -0600 2171 1 8 full true Crystal Leigh Cait Jenna G Judith Trad vs Indie Publishing: No Facts Just Feelings Trad vs Indie Publishing: No Facts Just Feelings Traditional publishing vs indie publishing, how do you choose as a writer when you’re burned out, mid-edits, or stuck in the querying spiral?

In this episode of Margs & Manuscripts, we talk honestly about querying agents, full requests, developmental editors, self-publishing, creative control, money, and the emotional whiplash of publishing decisions.

We’re not experts...we’re writers in the middle of it. If you’re finishing a manuscript, questioning traditional publishing, or considering indie publishing, you’re not alone.

Subscribe for more honest author conversations
Find us on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram @margsandmanuscripts

]]> Traditional publishing vs indie publishing, how do you choose as a writer when you’re burned out, mid-edits, or stuck in the querying spiral?

In this episode of Margs & Manuscripts, we talk honestly about querying agents, full requests, developmental editors, self-publishing, creative control, money, and the emotional whiplash of publishing decisions.

We’re not experts...we’re writers in the middle of it. If you’re finishing a manuscript, questioning traditional publishing, or considering indie publishing, you’re not alone.

Subscribe for more honest author conversations
Find us on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram @margsandmanuscripts

]]> Cait & Jenna Buzzsprout-18498440 Mon, 12 Jan 2026 23:00:00 -0600 2020 1 7 full false Imposter Syndrome: Why Writers Feel Like Frauds Imposter Syndrome: Why Writers Feel Like Frauds Imposter syndrome: the uninvited co-author on every writing project. In this episode of Margs & Manuscripts, we’re digging into what it really means to feel like a fraud as a writer, no matter where you are in the process.

We’re joined by Lindsey Goldstein, author of the upcoming novel Gap Year (out February 3), for an honest conversation about self-doubt, comparison, confidence, and why publishing milestones don’t magically cure the voice in your head that says you don’t belong here.

We talk about:

  • How imposter syndrome shows up at different stages of a writing career


  • Why even “successful” writers still feel like they’re faking it


  • The impact of social media and comparison culture on creativity


  • What actually helps when self-doubt threatens to derail your work


  • How to keep showing up to the page anyway


If you’ve ever questioned your talent, your voice, or your right to call yourself a writer…this episode is for you. It’s candid, comforting, and hopefully makes you feel less alone.

Pour a drink. Open the doc. Let’s talk about it.



]]> Imposter syndrome: the uninvited co-author on every writing project. In this episode of Margs & Manuscripts, we’re digging into what it really means to feel like a fraud as a writer, no matter where you are in the process.

We’re joined by Lindsey Goldstein, author of the upcoming novel Gap Year (out February 3), for an honest conversation about self-doubt, comparison, confidence, and why publishing milestones don’t magically cure the voice in your head that says you don’t belong here.

We talk about:

  • How imposter syndrome shows up at different stages of a writing career


  • Why even “successful” writers still feel like they’re faking it


  • The impact of social media and comparison culture on creativity


  • What actually helps when self-doubt threatens to derail your work


  • How to keep showing up to the page anyway


If you’ve ever questioned your talent, your voice, or your right to call yourself a writer…this episode is for you. It’s candid, comforting, and hopefully makes you feel less alone.

Pour a drink. Open the doc. Let’s talk about it.



]]> Cait & Jenna Buzzsprout-18460085 Mon, 05 Jan 2026 23:00:00 -0600 1698 1 6 full false Lindsey Goldstein Cait Jenna G Judith From Book One to Book Two: The Emotional Whiplash From Book One to Book Two: The Emotional Whiplash Typing The End feels euphoric.
Starting the next book? Immediately humbling.

In this episode of Margs & Manuscripts, we’re talking about the emotional whiplash that hits writers between finishing one project and daring to begin another — the adrenaline, the crash, the identity crisis, and the quiet panic of wondering if you’ll ever be able to do it again.

We dive into:

  • The high of finishing a manuscript (and briefly believing you’re the next Emily Henry)
  • The crash that follows: querying anxiety, imposter syndrome, and comparison spirals
  • How writers choose their next project — and how different it’s allowed to feel
  • Shifting tone, voice, or genre without losing confidence
  • When to push forward and when to actually rest
  • Why book #2 is emotionally weirder than anyone warns you

We’re joined by Susan Poole, award-winning novelist and essayist, who shares what the space between projects has looked like in her own career, what she wishes someone had told her before starting again, how to emotionally reset, and why starting over is always messier than we expect.

If you’ve ever finished a book and thought, Great. Now what? ... this episode is for you.

🥂 Here’s to finishing the damn thing… and finding the courage to start the next damn thing.

]]> Typing The End feels euphoric.
Starting the next book? Immediately humbling.

In this episode of Margs & Manuscripts, we’re talking about the emotional whiplash that hits writers between finishing one project and daring to begin another — the adrenaline, the crash, the identity crisis, and the quiet panic of wondering if you’ll ever be able to do it again.

We dive into:

  • The high of finishing a manuscript (and briefly believing you’re the next Emily Henry)
  • The crash that follows: querying anxiety, imposter syndrome, and comparison spirals
  • How writers choose their next project — and how different it’s allowed to feel
  • Shifting tone, voice, or genre without losing confidence
  • When to push forward and when to actually rest
  • Why book #2 is emotionally weirder than anyone warns you

We’re joined by Susan Poole, award-winning novelist and essayist, who shares what the space between projects has looked like in her own career, what she wishes someone had told her before starting again, how to emotionally reset, and why starting over is always messier than we expect.

If you’ve ever finished a book and thought, Great. Now what? ... this episode is for you.

🥂 Here’s to finishing the damn thing… and finding the courage to start the next damn thing.

]]> Cait & Jenna Buzzsprout-18360090 Mon, 15 Dec 2025 23:00:00 -0600 2229 1 5 full true Susan Poole Cait Jenna G Judith Writing Hacks & Red Flags: Fast Laps and Pit Lane Problems Writing Hacks & Red Flags: Fast Laps and Pit Lane Problems This week we’re talking writing hacks ... the real ones, the unhinged ones, and the ones we’ve all been guilt-tripped into trying. We’re joined by Crystal Leigh, author of a sapphic Formula One romance, to break down which techniques actually help you write and which ones you can toss into the pit lane.

From skipping scenes to screenwriting your entire draft, from character letters to emotional recall, we explore the habits that make the writing process deeper, messier, and surprisingly more joyful.

In this episode:

  • The myth of “write every day”
  • Using big emotions to unlock creativity
  • Freewriting and character letters that reveal hidden depth
  • Screenwriting as a drafting tool
  • Ethical, intentional ways writers use AI
  • Why jumping around in your manuscript can break you out of a rut
  • How F1 story structure inspires Crystal’s writing process

About Our Guest

Crystal Leigh is a contemporary romance writer, Stanford Novel Writing Certificate candidate, and Romance Writers of the Rockies’ 2025 Volunteer of the Year. Her current project is a sapphic feminist Formula One romance (yes, it’s as amazing as it sounds).



]]> This week we’re talking writing hacks ... the real ones, the unhinged ones, and the ones we’ve all been guilt-tripped into trying. We’re joined by Crystal Leigh, author of a sapphic Formula One romance, to break down which techniques actually help you write and which ones you can toss into the pit lane.

From skipping scenes to screenwriting your entire draft, from character letters to emotional recall, we explore the habits that make the writing process deeper, messier, and surprisingly more joyful.

In this episode:

  • The myth of “write every day”
  • Using big emotions to unlock creativity
  • Freewriting and character letters that reveal hidden depth
  • Screenwriting as a drafting tool
  • Ethical, intentional ways writers use AI
  • Why jumping around in your manuscript can break you out of a rut
  • How F1 story structure inspires Crystal’s writing process

About Our Guest

Crystal Leigh is a contemporary romance writer, Stanford Novel Writing Certificate candidate, and Romance Writers of the Rockies’ 2025 Volunteer of the Year. Her current project is a sapphic feminist Formula One romance (yes, it’s as amazing as it sounds).



]]> Cait & Jenna Buzzsprout-18320897 Mon, 08 Dec 2025 23:00:00 -0600 2041 1 4 full false Crystal Leigh Cait Jenna G Judith Smash or Pass: Writing Men and the Rise of the Book Boyfriend Smash or Pass: Writing Men and the Rise of the Book Boyfriend In this week’s episode, we crack open the sacred text of Writing Men, from swoony book boyfriends to the fictional disasters we’ve accidentally dated in real life. We’re talking craft, clichés, red flags, green flags, and the unhinged art of building a man from scratch… because apparently that’s the only way we get the bare minimum.

It’s chaotic, it’s honest, it’s probably a little too revealing for Episode Three, but hey, if we’re going to scare listeners off, better to do it early. Grab your margarita and dive in as we ask the hard questions like: Should he brood? Should he banter? 

By the end, you’ll either be inspired to write your next great love interest… or delete your dating apps entirely.

]]> In this week’s episode, we crack open the sacred text of Writing Men, from swoony book boyfriends to the fictional disasters we’ve accidentally dated in real life. We’re talking craft, clichés, red flags, green flags, and the unhinged art of building a man from scratch… because apparently that’s the only way we get the bare minimum.

It’s chaotic, it’s honest, it’s probably a little too revealing for Episode Three, but hey, if we’re going to scare listeners off, better to do it early. Grab your margarita and dive in as we ask the hard questions like: Should he brood? Should he banter? 

By the end, you’ll either be inspired to write your next great love interest… or delete your dating apps entirely.

]]> Cait & Jenna Buzzsprout-18281992 Mon, 01 Dec 2025 23:00:00 -0600 1399 1 3 full true This is basically EMOTIONAL CROSSFIT, Okay!? This is basically EMOTIONAL CROSSFIT, Okay!? Ever stare at your Word doc and think, “I could’ve taken up pottery instead”? Same. In this week’s episode, Cait and Jenna dive into the chaotic highs and lows of the writing life, from crying over semicolons to calling a night of edits “fun.” Why do writers willingly sign up for this emotional rollercoaster? Why don’t we choose hobbies that don’t require plot holes or three different drafts titled FINAL FINAL?

We break down:
✍️ Why writing feels both magical and mildly unhinged
💀 The emotional tax of revising (and why we keep coming back)
🤣 The hilarious moments every writer knows too well
🔥 How to stay inspired when the work feels impossible
📚 Why we choose storytelling over literally any other hobby

If you’re a writer who’s ever questioned your life choices mid-scene… this episode will make you feel seen, supported, and maybe a little less alone.

🎧 Listen in for writing tips, relatable chaos, and a strong reminder that if this is your hobby… you’re in good company.

]]> Ever stare at your Word doc and think, “I could’ve taken up pottery instead”? Same. In this week’s episode, Cait and Jenna dive into the chaotic highs and lows of the writing life, from crying over semicolons to calling a night of edits “fun.” Why do writers willingly sign up for this emotional rollercoaster? Why don’t we choose hobbies that don’t require plot holes or three different drafts titled FINAL FINAL?

We break down:
✍️ Why writing feels both magical and mildly unhinged
💀 The emotional tax of revising (and why we keep coming back)
🤣 The hilarious moments every writer knows too well
🔥 How to stay inspired when the work feels impossible
📚 Why we choose storytelling over literally any other hobby

If you’re a writer who’s ever questioned your life choices mid-scene… this episode will make you feel seen, supported, and maybe a little less alone.

🎧 Listen in for writing tips, relatable chaos, and a strong reminder that if this is your hobby… you’re in good company.

]]> Cait & Jenna Buzzsprout-18246045 Mon, 24 Nov 2025 23:00:00 -0600 1628 1 2 full false Find Your People, Save Your Sanity Find Your People, Save Your Sanity  Welcome to the inaugural chaos of Margs & Manuscripts! In this debut episode, Jenna and Cait dive straight into the fizzy, essential truth of the writing life: you cannot do this alone. From critique partners who tell you when your plot is wobbling, to cheerleaders who scream “SEND THE QUERY!” when you’re spiraling, they break down why finding your writing community is the secret sauce to actually finishing your book, and staying (mostly) sane while you do it. Grab a marg, grab your people, and let’s get this thing started. 

]]>  Welcome to the inaugural chaos of Margs & Manuscripts! In this debut episode, Jenna and Cait dive straight into the fizzy, essential truth of the writing life: you cannot do this alone. From critique partners who tell you when your plot is wobbling, to cheerleaders who scream “SEND THE QUERY!” when you’re spiraling, they break down why finding your writing community is the secret sauce to actually finishing your book, and staying (mostly) sane while you do it. Grab a marg, grab your people, and let’s get this thing started. 

]]> Cait Buzzsprout-18208886 Mon, 17 Nov 2025 21:00:00 -0600 1812 writing, author, books, writing groups, query, publishing, agents 1 1 full false