Have you ever wondered what really happens between the book an author planned to write and the one that ends up in your hands? In this episode of Reality Writes, I'm pulling back the curtain on one of the most surprising — and honestly, sometimes terrifying — parts of the writing process.

The truth is, even the most thorough outline is really just a starting point. Once you're deep in a draft, characters start feeling more real, threads reveal themselves, and sometimes the story you thought you were writing turns into something completely different. And that's not a failure. That's actually a sign it's working.

In this episode, we dig into:

• Why mid-draft plot changes are a feature, not a bug — and why I tell my writing students to expect them
• How to track structural changes so nothing falls through the cracks
• The real meaning of "kill your darlings" (Tech Guy finally learned what it means)
• Why sample chapters at the back of a book are never quite final
• What happens when the killer changes — and you have to rebuild every thread
• The biggest manuscript overhaul I've ever faced (hint: it involved a 2027 book, and I basically gutted the whole thing)

Whether you're a writer navigating your first draft or a reader curious about what goes on before a book reaches you, this one's for you.

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Independent Bookstore Day is April 25th—and we're kicking off the celebration early! 📚

In this episode of Reality Writes, we're sharing everything you need to know about why indie bookstores are so much more than just a place to buy books. From the ongoing comeback story of independent booksellers across the U.S. to the very personal ways these shops help create community, connection, and discovery—this one's a love letter to your local bookstore.

We cover why the in-store experience is so desirable, the awesome economic impact of shopping local, how indie booksellers have become a third space for readers, why pre-ordering from your local shop is a triple win, and how to support indie bookstores online through services like bookshop.org and Libro.fm even if you don't have one nearby.

Plus, The Tech Guy completes his Dungeon Crawler Carl collection courtesy of Beach Books in Seaside, OR, and I share my upcoming appearances at Copper Bell Books in Ridgefield, WA, on Thursday, April 23rd, and Vintage Books in Vancouver, WA on Saturday, April 25th, Indie Bookstore Day!

Love indie bookstores as much as we do? Drop your favorite shop in the comments. We want to know where you love to browse and start building a list of shops to visit! And, if you haven't subscribed yet, hit that button so you never miss an episode of Reality Writes.

Happy reading, darlings!

Links:
Bookshop.org
Libro.fm
Copper Bell Books
Vintage Books

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A man staggers into a detective agency covered in blood with no memory of the night before and...

The Tech Guy and I go spoiler free on a brand-new cozy mystery, A Death In The Dark, the latest entry in my Novel Detectives series (a spin off connected to the Secret Bookcase Mysteries), then pull back the curtain on how the story came together in a very specific place: a six-hour road trip with a my runner son as my brainstorming partner.

We also get practical about the publishing side, including why the ebook release lands before the paperback this time and what a big US print run means for local bookstores. If you’re a reader who loves series order, new releases, and behind-the-scenes context, we keep it clear and friendly without giving away the twists.

For writers, we talk about how to plot a mystery novel from a single “glimmer” of an idea, how asking what-if and why questions generates suspects and motives fast, and why research matters even when most of it never makes it onto the page. We even touch on dialogue and grammar, because sometimes writing “wrong” is exactly how you make characters sound real.

Subscribe for more writer-ish and bookish chats, share the show with a friend, and leave us a rating or review so more book lovers and writers can find Reality Writes.

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You've done it — you've written a first draft! But before you send it out into the world, there are five common pitfalls that trip up nearly every new writer, and I've seen them time and time again while coaching my writing students. 

In this episode, The Tech Guy and I walk through each one: scenes that take place in a vacuum, too many characters, info dumping, a missing emotional arc, and stilted dialogue. 

These aren't things to be embarrassed about — they show up in every first draft, including mine. The goal is to know what to look for so your second pass can really make your story sing. Whether you're working on your first novel or you're a reader who's ever thought "wait, where are we right now?" — this one's for you. Tune in and let us know what you think!

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Reading is in trouble — and not just for kids. In this episode, I'm sitting down with the Tech Guy to talk about some genuinely alarming statistics about literacy in the United States, discuss why reading matters more than ever, and share some easy, actionable ways you can help turn things around. 

From the surprising health benefits of cracking open a book (six minutes of reading cuts stress by 68%!) to how you can get more young readers excited about books in your community, this episode is a shoutout to all the readers out there to take action. 

Grab something warm, settle in, and let's talk about why you — yes, you — are making a difference just by being a reader. Let us know what you think!

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The announcement you've been waiting for is here, darlings! I'm so excited to reveal the author lineup for the 4th Annual Ashland Mystery Festival — October 8th through 11th, 2026 in Ashland, Oregon.

In this episode, The Tech Guy and I share who's joining us this year, including a brand-new cozy adjacent element that I think is going to absolutely blow your minds. We also talk about what makes this festival unlike anything else in the mystery world, what to expect from the weekend, and a little teaser about the Saturday night dinner theme.

If you've ever wanted to spend four days fully immersed in cozy mystery goodness surrounded by authors and fellow readers, this one's for you. We'll see you in Ashland!

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Ellie Alexander and the Tech Guy explore the role of setting in storytelling and why the places where stories unfold are just as important as the characters themselves. Ellie shares how she approaches choosing locations for her books, including the decision between using real places and creating fictional towns.

They also discuss the advantages of small-town versus big-city settings in mystery novels, the research writers do to bring locations to life, and how sensory details like smells, sounds, and atmosphere can make readers feel like they’re inside the story.

The episode provides practical advice for writers, including how to track important details about your fictional world so your setting stays consistent throughout an entire series.

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Online scams are getting smarter—and both writers and readers are being targeted.In this episode of Reality Writes, the Tech Guy and I break down the most common scams we’re seeing right now in the publishing and book world.From AI-generated emails inviting authors to fake book clubs, to scammers pretending to be literary agents, to bots impersonating authors on social media—we share real examples of what these scams look like and how to avoid them.We also talk about why we stopped running giveaways on social media after one of my accounts was spoofed, how scammers trick readers into sharing personal information, and why you should never pay for an advance reader copy of a book.Have you experienced any of the scams we discuss in this episode? Any others that we should know about? Help spread the word by letting us know in the comments!

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If you’ve ever wondered what actually happens at mystery conferences, conventions, and festivals, this episode is for you.Today on Reality Writes, I’m breaking down the differences between festivals, genre-specific mystery conventions like Malice and BoucherCon, general writing conferences like Willamette Writers, and even bookseller and library conferences. They may sound similar but they serve very different purposes depending on whether you’re a writer, a reader, or an industry professional.Whether you’re a Darling who loves attending events, or a writer thinking about your first conference, I hope this episode gives you a behind-the-scenes look at how it all works.

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Book 22. I can hardly believe I’m even typing that. If you’ve been here since Book 1...thank you. Truly. And if you’re just joining at Book 22? Welcome to Torte.In this episode of Reality Writes, we’re celebrating the release of The Whisking Hour, the 22nd book in my Bakeshop Mystery series. In this episode, we talk about what it feels like to write 22 books in one series, a spoiler-free look at what you can expect in The Whisking Hour, why this is the FINAL Bakeshop book in this format, and a special re-release of Meet Your Baker.We also talk about what it takes to keep a long-running series fresh, how publishing trends impact authors (sometimes in ways we can’t control), and why I’m incredibly grateful that the Bakeshop Mysteries are continuing.✨ I’d love to hear from you:– Do you prefer mass market or trade paperback?– Do you have a favorite Bakeshop book, character, or cover?And don’t forget — our After Party is waiting over on Patreon!

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I’m talking romance today — specifically how love fits into cozy mysteries, why some readers adore it, why others don’t, and how I’ve woven romantic arcs into my series over time.

We also dig into my recent shift into writing rom-coms, what surprised me most about the genre, and how writing romance has actually made me a better mystery writer. From slow-burn relationships and love triangles to Hallmark expectations, fall vibes, and why I’ll probably never write “spicy,” this episode is a behind-the-scenes look at how romance really works in my books.

If you love cozy mysteries, rom-coms, or you’re a writer curious about crossing genres, this one’s for you.

📚 Mentioned in this episode:

• A Very Novel Murder

• The Whisking Hour (Book 22 in the Bakeshop Mystery series)

• Clued in to Love

• A Cozy Kind of Christmas

• Upcoming fall rom-coms, including A Fall to Remember

🎧 Patrons can head over to Patreon for the After Party — where things might get spicy (PG-13 spicy… at most).

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Writing doesn’t happen in a vacuum — readers are a huge part of the experience. But when it comes to reader feedback, not all of it carries the same weight.In this episode of Reality Writes, I’m talking honestly about reader feedback: when it’s genuinely helpful, when it’s not, and how writers can learn to tell the difference without spiraling.This episode is for writers navigating feedback at any stage and for readers who want to engage thoughtfully with the authors they love.✨ A Very Novel Murder, the first book in my new Novel Detectives series, is out now!

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How does a cozy mystery series last for dozens of books—and what causes one to end early? Ellie Alexander and Tech Guy go behind the scenes to talk series writing, subplots, reader expectations, publishers, and the real-world happenings that shape long-running cozy mystery series.

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Ellie Alexander is facing her most intense writing year yet—10+ books, multiple series, overlapping deadlines, and an endless stream of rewrites, page proofs, edits, and launches.

In this candid kickoff to Season 3 of Reality Writes, she and the Tech Guy break down the real-life logistics of being a full-time working author in 2026. They talk about managing burnout, the reality of saying no, how Ellie plans her schedule (and when it falls apart), and what it takes to stay creative under pressure.

Whether you’re a reader, a writer, or just someone trying to make your passion a career, this one pulls back the curtain.

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It’s officially peppermint mocha season…for some of us. In this episode, Tech Guy and I dive into the great holiday debate: when is the right time to start reading (or writing) holiday books? We’re talking about cozy autumn reading trends, the publishing realities of holiday releases, how to get in the festive spirit when it’s 75 degrees outside, and why your sales might spike and then nosedive with seasonal titles. We also want your recs! Tech Guy’s still on the hunt for his next favorite holiday book, so we’re counting on you, darlings. 🎄

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We’re recapping Ashland Mystery Fest 2025—aka my favorite weekend of the entire year! In this episode, we’re sharing behind-the-scenes stories from the third annual festival, including reader highlights, cozy chaos, mystery dinners gone wild, and why I still don’t have a t-shirt gun (yet). We’ll talk about what worked, what we’ll tweak for next year, and how it felt to hug hundreds of mystery-loving darlings from around the world. If you missed it, come live it with us. If you were there, get ready to relive all the joy.

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Join mystery author Ellie Alexander and The Tech Guy as they dive deep into Ellie's exciting venture into romance writing! In this episode, Ellie reveals her upcoming holiday rom-com duet, one of them featuring beloved characters from her Meg Reed mystery series.

After writing dozens of mysteries, Ellie discovered that switching from plotting murders to plotting meet-cutes presented unexpected challenges. She shares behind-the-scenes stories about unlearning the mystery formula, creating emotional growth arcs instead of red herrings, and bringing back fan-favorite character Meg Reed for a cozy Christmas romance set in beautiful Bend, Oregon.

Plus, hear about their romantic (and slightly disastrous) honeymoon bike adventure down a Hawaiian volcano, discussions of Portland's true beauty beyond media portrayals, and the possibility of turning fictional scavenger hunts into real-life events. Whether you're a cozy mystery fan or romance reader, this episode offers insights into genre-switching, character development, and the art of feel-good storytelling.

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What happens when a mystery author teams up with a talented artist to create something completely new? Join Ellie and the Tech Guy as they welcome Rebecca Demos, the artist behind the Color & Sleuth interactive mystery coloring book series. We'll dive into how this unique collaboration came together, explore the creative process of blending storytelling with visual art, and discuss the challenges of reaching both mystery readers and coloring book enthusiasts. Rebecca will share her artistic process and discuss what it's really like to co-create books across different creative disciplines. Whether you're curious about creative partnerships, love coloring books, or just want to see how two very different art forms can merge into something special, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at an innovative approach to mystery entertainment.

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How do you go from zero readers to thousands of engaged "darlings" who genuinely care about your writing journey? Join me and the Tech Guy as we break down the real strategies behind building an authentic mystery community. We'll share what actually worked (and our spectacular failures), discuss the balance between vulnerability and boundaries, and give you actionable steps for connecting with readers who become true supporters. Whether you're a published author struggling to find your tribe or an aspiring writer wondering how to start building relationships before you even have a book, this episode reveals the practical side of community building that goes way beyond social media follower counts. 😍

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In this episode, we tackle the messy ethical dilemmas authors actually face. Should you blurb another author’s book if you don’t like it? What happens when you want to use real-life businesses or locations in your murder mystery? How do you handle using actual people as the inspiration for a villain or a victim? We'll present real scenarios, poll the live audience for their takes, and give you our brutally honest answers about what we'd do (not what we should do). Bring your own moral compass and prepare for some uncomfortable truths about the publishing world.

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Ever wondered how I keep all my characters, timelines, and plot twists straight across multiple cozy mystery series? In this special live episode of Reality Writes, we’re diving into my personal systems for series writing—from my (messy) story bibles to real-life continuity slip-ups and the readers who caught them. I’m also answering your live questions, talking about keeping things fresh in long-running series, and sharing a few tricks I’ve picked up along the way to having dozens of books published. Join me and Tech Guy for a cozy, behind-the-scenes chat about the secret sauce that keeps a series going strong. 📚😍

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Hello, Darlings! A reader recently asked me how I come up with the food themes in my books, and I couldn’t wait to bite into this one! In this episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes of my Bakeshop Mysteries and sharing how I research (and test!) every recipe, including some delicious—and disastrous—kitchen moments. From writing a scene inspired by a raspberry Danish to traveling all the way to Costa Rica for coffee research, we’re talking about how food fuels story, connects readers, and becomes a character in its own right. Warning: you may leave hungry. 😋

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I’ve gotten some reader messages that are…let’s just say memorable. In this episode, I’m sharing a few of the wildest things people have sent me (anonymously, of course) and talking about what authors actually control when it comes to things like pricing, covers, and shipping. Spoiler alert: it’s not as much as you might think. We’ll laugh, we’ll cringe, and I’ll offer some honest thoughts on how to support your favorite authors without making them want to hide under the covers.

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Get ready for some spicy book opinions in this episode of Reality Writes! I’m breaking down five bookish hills I’ll die on—from why I DNF without guilt to why blurbs and awards don’t matter (as much as we think they do). Plus, The Tech Guy and I tackle reader guilt over library books, the tragedy of cracked spines, and whether it’s okay to pass along a book you hated. It’s cozy chaos at its finest—and we want to hear your take.

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Hello, Darlings! What happens when you revisit the first mystery series you ever wrote—ten years later? In this episode of Reality Writes, I’m talking about the re-release of the Meg Reed Investigates series (formerly the Pacific Northwest Mysteries), how it all began, and what it’s like reading through your first series so many years later. We get into character inspiration, behind-the-scenes hiking mishaps, reader feedback (some of it wild), and a big holiday surprise. Meg’s back. And she brought coffee.

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What happens when two mystery writers team up to plan a cozy crime scene in real life? In this episode, I talk with Emmeline Duncan about Halloween books, Ashland Mystery Fest, and awkward reader encounters. Plus, we answer the ultimate question: what should you actually say to an author when you don’t know what to say?

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Hello, Darlings! We’re back and just getting warmed up! After a hectic couple of months, we’re settling back into a rhythm and looking forward to diving into some fun new topics on Reality Writes. For the rest of this season, we’ll be discussing the ups and downs of writing life, exploring topics ranging from writing inspirations to bringing a series back to life, and sharing even more behind-the-scenes insights. Let's do this!

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Hey, Darlings! The Tech Guy came up with a new segment for the podcast that has me a little worried—"Stump Ellie." 🕵️‍♀️ Put your cozy mystery knowledge to the test by sending in questions about any of my series! Think you know the "Bakeshop Mysteries" better than me? Now’s your chance to prove it!

The Tech Guy also shares the trial-and-error process of finding the perfect fragrance mix, combining luscious perfumes with cozy themes and a dash of mystery.

Enjoy the episode, and don't forget to send the Tech Guy your questions—yours might just be featured on the podcast!

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Hey, Darlings! 🎉 We're back with a special release week episode all about "Killing Me Souffle," the 20th book in the Bakeshop Mystery series. 🎂 Join us as we reminisce about our journey, from launch parties filled with delectable pastries to the creative process that brings these stories to life. What's your favorite Bakeshop Mystery moment so far? 🍰

Watch or listen now and share with a friend who loves a good culinary whodunit!

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Hello, Cozy Mystery Fans! 🔎📖 We're buzzing with excitement in this episode as we reveal the all-star lineup for the 2025 Ashland Mystery Fest! This festival brings readers and authors together in the most immersive and community-focused way possible. Imagine being part of a real-life cozy mystery!

Join us as we discuss all the juicy details about the events, including an interactive crime scene, cooking demos, and panels hosted by your favorite authors, all set in the picturesque town of Ashland, Oregon. Have you ever dreamed of bumping into your favorite author while grabbing ice cream? Now’s your chance!

What's your favorite part of a bookish festival? Let me know in the comments.

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Hello, Darlings! 🎉 I’m thrilled to welcome you back to Reality Writes for our special Valentine’s episode! Love is in the air, and I’m celebrating the release of my latest book, "A Victim at Valentine's." This episode is all about the irresistible charm of books and the immersive worlds they create—just like in my fifth book of the Secret Bookcase Mysteries. 📚💕 Join us as we discuss the inspiration behind the series, how the characters came by their names, and crows—we talk about crows!

Curious about how real-life encounters inspire fictional plots? Share your thoughts on the quirkiest experiences that could fit into a mystery novel! ✍️

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Hey there, Darlings! 📖 This week, The Tech Guy and I are untangling the mystery of book blurbs. Did you know these little lines of text from fellow authors or publications are a key part of a book's marketing strategy? In this episode, we discuss the ins and outs of getting and giving blurbs, plus the stress and excitement they bring. Ever wonder if authors are paid for this? Spoiler alert: they aren't! 🙅‍♀️I even share some of my blurb experiences and reveal how seeing your name alongside your favorite author can feel like a dream come true. Whether you're a reader or writer, join us as we explore how a well-worded blurb might boost a book to the top of your TBR pile. 📚⭐Has a blurb ever prompted you to read a book? Let me know in the comments!

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Hello, Darlings! 🌟 In our latest episode of Reality Writes, The Tech Guy and I are diving into the controversial and intriguing world of AI in writing! 🤖📝 In this episode, we explore the diverse ways authors can use AI to enhance their writing process. From saving time on menial tasks like creating spreadsheets to using AI as a brainstorming partner, the possibilities are endless. I even share my personal experiences on how AI has saved me time by organizing beta reader feedback into concise reports.Don't worry, though—I'm not giving up my love for the writing process! We discuss balancing technology with creativity and making AI a useful tool rather than a replacement. 🌸💻Have you ever used AI to aid your writing or creative projects? 🤔

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Welcome back, darlings, to another exciting episode of Reality Writes! In today’s episode, “Slide into My DMs,” we’re braving the crisp January air and taking our conversation outdoors.This week, we’re diving into some of the best questions you’ve sent me via social media DMs. From crafting floor plans for fictional settings to the nitty-gritty of private investigation research, we’re covering it all. Ever wondered what it’s like to walk the charming streets of Ashland, the hometown that inspires my Bakeshop Mysteries? I’ll be sharing travel tips, personal insights, and, of course, some behind-the-scenes magic.I’ll also let you in on a little secret—my curated playlists! Music is such a big part of my writing process, and I can’t wait to share how these soundtracks help bring my characters to life. Whether you’re curious about writing cozy mysteries, want to hear more about the real-life inspirations behind my stories, or are looking for exclusive recipes straight from Torte’s kitchen, this episode is brimming with tips, laughs, and bookish fun.Oh, and don’t miss the sneak peeks into upcoming projects—we might just have some surprises in store for you! So, grab your coziest blanket, your favorite drink, and settle in. Let’s slide into those DMs together!

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Hello, darlings! Welcome to another road trip edition of Reality Writes, the podcast where we dive deep into the book world. I’m your host, author Ellie Alexander, joined by my trusty co-host, The Tech Guy. In today's episode, we tackle the work that follows the launch of a book. We’ll share insights on crucial post-launch activities, including updating pre-order links, leveraging social media, managing ad campaigns, and maintaining organic engagement with readers through newsletters and collaborations.

Whether you're a seasoned author or a budding writer, this is a guide to getting your book in front of new readers after it hits the shelves. Buckle up and enjoy the ride as we share our personal tips and experiences. So, sit back, relax, and let's get into it! 🎧

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Hey there, Darlings! Come along on our special road trip edition of Reality Writes. In this episode, we're headed home from the LA area to the South Bay, sharing our secrets on achieving work-life balance while soaking in the beauty of the Pacific Ocean. 🚗🌊

Discover how road trips have fueled our creativity, leading to exciting new projects and book ideas. Learn why it's okay not to do everything at once and how prioritizing has helped us achieve more without being overwhelmed. ✍️

Whether juggling a full-time job with your writing dreams or looking for ways to break your routine, we've got practical advice just for you.

How do you recharge your creativity? Drop your tips in the comments!

P.S. – we filmed this episode before the fires started in the LA area. Our hearts go out to everyone who has experienced loss through this tragedy and all those working to extinguish the raging fires. If you'd like to help those in need during this time, please consider donating to the American Red Cross (https://www.redcross.org/kcal) or the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank (https://www.lafoodbank.org/fire/).

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Hello, Darlings! 📚 It’s the year-end wrap-up in Episode 20 of "Reality Writes," where The Tech Guy and I reflect on an incredible 2024 and look forward to 2025. We give you a peek into our whirlwind year, including trips to iconic places like Costa Rica and Seattle, all while juggling book research and writing deadlines. ✈️🌎 The picturesque landscapes of Costa Rica and its rich coffee culture heavily influenced my upcoming release, "Laying Down the Latte" (August 2025). ☕

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The holiday season is here, and in this cozy episode of Reality Writes, the Tech Guy and I dive into tips for staying inspired and productive during the busiest time of the year. 🖋️🎁 Whether you’re navigating self-imposed deadlines or embracing a creative break, we’ve got insights and encouragement for every writer.

We’re also sharing snippets of our favorite holiday activities—think Christmas markets, holiday plays, and hilarious amounts of citrus fruits requiring some creative holiday baking ideas. 🍋🎄

📚Writers, readers, and holiday lovers—join the conversation! What’s your favorite way to stay creative in December? Or, do you embrace the cozy vibes and take a break? Let us know in the comments below! 💬👇📺

Watch now and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share for more tips, laughs, and bookish fun!

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Hello, fellow cozy mystery buffs and pun aficionados! 🕵️‍♂️💕 It’s time for another cozy episode of "Reality Writes." This week, The Tech Guy and I dive deep into the art of title creation in Episode 01.18. Ever wonder why some books grab your attention right from the shelf? It’s all in the title! From the agony and ecstasy of brainstorming to the final publisher edits, titles are a huge part of a book's success.We even whipped up some hilariously punny titles with the help of AI—like a mystery called "Bread or Alive"! 🍞🔍 And speaking of puns, did you know a Harvard study says they're a sign of high intelligence? Join us for more tidbits like that, and get ready for practical tips on crafting perfect titles.Get comfy, press play, and step into our world. What's the quirkiest book title you’ve seen? Drop it below! 🙌🎧 Catch the latest episode now, and let’s keep this cozy chat rolling!

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Hello, Darlings! Welcome to Episode 17 of Reality Writes! 🎙️ In this episode, I take you behind the scenes of series writing and the challenges of balancing multiple books at once. 📚 I also share insights into my writing schedule and a sneak peek into the setting of my latest Bakeshop Mystery, which may or may not involve coffee research in Costa Rica! 🌴 Listen in as the Tech Guy and I explore the fascinating worlds of traditional, indie, and hybrid publishing and why setting aside that first draft is so crucial for a fresh perspective.Grab your favorite drink, get cozy, and join us. What keeps YOU coming back to a book series? Share your thoughts in the comments! ➡️ Don’t forget to follow, like, and share! 📢✨

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Hello, Darlings! 🎧 Episode 16 of Reality Writes is live and filled with all kinds of inspiration straight from real life! 📚 Join me and the Tech Guy as we chat about how the rich history and quirky local events in Ashland weave their way into my stories. Did you know the “Downhill Dummy” competition on Mt. Ashland sparked the idea for a murder method in one of my books? We also talk about the hilarious (and sometimes awkward) moments of brainstorming murder plots in public. And, yes, chatting about potential murder methods over family dinner? Totally normal in my house! 😅Have a quirky murder method idea you’re dying to share? 🎤 I’d love to hear it! Make sure to follow the podcast and join the conversation. Let’s keep building this creative community together. 🌟

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Hello, Darlings! 😍 Ready for a delicious adventure? Episode 15 of Reality Writes is live, and we’re diving into the irresistible world of culinary mysteries. 🍰🔍 Join me and The Tech Guy as we chat about how I choose the perfect recipes for the Bakeshop Mystery series—spoiler alert, coffee is always involved! ☕

We’ll also talk about some of my family’s treasured recipes, like raspberry Danish and mocha almond buttercream torte. This episode is filled with sweet treats and the research that goes into perfecting each one.

So, grab a cozy cup of coffee and tune in to this flavorful episode that blends baking and mystery! What’s your favorite family recipe? I’d love to hear about it in the comments! 🎧✨

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Hello, Writers! 🌟 Welcome to Episode 14 of "Reality Writes!" I'm here with The Tech Guy, and this week, we're busting the myth that professional creatives are disorganized.This episode reveals how essential structured writing and editorial calendars are for success. We share tips on experimenting with your writing schedule, from late-night sips of wine to early-morning tea sessions, because finding what works for you is key! We also jump into balancing creativity with productivity through batching tasks and the importance of focused energy. ⚡️So, grab a pen, get comfy, and dive into our discussion on keeping your writing life organized. Do you have any strategies you think we should try? 💡Don't forget to follow, share, and tag us with your thoughts! Listen to the episode now and stay inspired. 🎧✨

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Hello, Darlings! Welcome to Episode 13 of "Reality Writes!" I'm here with The Tech Guy, and in this episode, we’re diving into the nitty-gritty of the publishing world.We discuss the limited control some authors have over covers and distribution, why you should contact booksellers instead of authors about damaged copies, and how indie authors are shaking things up in the digital space. We also share some personal stories and answer burning reader questions.So grab your favorite drink, get cozy, and join us as we unravel the realities of being an author. Don't forget to follow, share, and send us your feedback. Let’s keep this writing conversation going!

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In this episode of Reality Writes, we dive into Ashland, Oregon, the real-life inspiration behind my Bakeshop Mystery series. Join me and The Tech Guy as we explore Ashland's historic buildings, quirky local events, and the captivating Oregon Shakespeare Festival. We'll share behind-the-scenes stories, talk about character development in a long-running series, and even touch on some memorable real-life incidents that made their way into my books. You don't want to miss our chat about the joy and challenges of writing a cozy mystery series, the town's incredible features, and the inspiration behind Jules' cozy bakeshop. Grab a cup of coffee or tea and your favorite treat, and let's get started!

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Dive into the world of cozy mysteries with Ellie Alexander and The Tech Guy. In this episode of Reality Writes, they unravel why the cozy mystery genre often gets the cold shoulder in publishing. Don’t miss it! 🕵️‍♀️📚

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Do you find yourself making excuses for not writing? This week, we’re diving into some common excuses that keep you stuck. I’m looking at your writer's block.

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What's it like visiting the real-life setting of a cozy mystery series? Come find out at the Ashland Mystery Festival! Ashland, OR, is the setting for my Bakeshop Mystery Series, and this October, the festival will be even bigger (even more cozy mystery authors!) and better than last year. Listen in as the Tech Guy, and I discuss last year's event and what's new for this year, and dish on our favorite places in and around Ashland to visit when you attend the festival.

Will you be going to the Ashland Mystery Festival this year? Did you attend last year? Let me know in the comments!

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Want to show love to your favorite authors? This episode is all about the simple, impactful ways you can support writers. Your support means the world to us!

How do you support your favorite authors? Share your tips in the comments!

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The Tech Guy and I are back with an episode dedicated to keeping you safe online. It might sound silly, but if you’re engaging on social media as a reader or a writer, you must protect yourself and know who you interact with. The Tech Guy is breaking out all of his best tips for this one.

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Independent bookstores are the lifeblood of the book industry. I’ve been so fortunate to have incredible bookstore partners over the years. Booksellers who took a chance on me, helped launch my career, and have become dear friends over the years. We’re sending them all the love and sharing some of our favorite memories from the early years of logging miles and miles on our Subaru driving around the Pacific Northwest for book talks.

Do you have a favorite bookstore? Let me know in the comments and maybe I’ll stop by and say hi! 

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Have you ever wondered how a book goes from an idea to a lovely bound copy on bookstore shelves? This is the podcast for you! We’re breaking down every step of the process, from the seed of an idea to editing, formatting, cover design, and so much more. We’re also exploring how the process differs in traditional, hybrid, or independent publishing. Sometimes, launching a book feels as (if not more) challenging than actually writing the book!

Are you surprised by everything that leads up to launch day? What would you skip? Please say page proofs, please! 

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The Tech Guy and I are going head to head on our favorites this week. Taylor Swift versus Star Wars. How have they inspired and influenced my writing and his geekdom. Who’s the bigger fan and ultimately who wins the battle. Spoiler alert: it’s me, hi! I’m the winner, it’s me.

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Is writing a real job? This week we’re chatting about the hard realities of carving out time for writing (especially when you’re first starting out) and breaking some myths about the work that goes into crafting a book and sending it out in the world. No, really it is a job!

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Will it stick? Let's peel back the curtain on what it takes to get a book out in front of readers and grow an audience. We’ll share our hits, some hilarious misses, and everything we’ve learned along the way.

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And the podcast is live!

From the original names for some of my fictional settings of Torte and Nitro to love stories that never made it to the page, we chat about the early brainstorming process and the cutting room floor where so many ideas have gone to die.

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