In this special episode, CeCe Lyra sits down with our very own Bianca Marais to explore her writing journey, with a spotlight on her latest novel, ‘A Most Puzzling Murder.’ If you’re not already familiar with her work, Bianca is the bestselling author of ‘The Witches of Moonshyne Manor’, the beloved novels ‘Hum If You Don’t Know the Words’ and ‘If You Want to Make God Laugh’, and the Audible Original ‘The Prynne Viper’. She has also taught creative writing at the University of Toronto’s School of Continuing Studies, where she received an Excellence in Teaching Award.

In this candid conversation, CeCe and Bianca dive into the challenges of switching genres, the role of curiosity seeds in storytelling, and finding the right balance between pantsing and plotting. Bianca offers valuable insights into crafting tone, designing an interactive reading experience through puzzles, and managing the intricacies of writing an ensemble cast. They also discuss the behind-the-scenes realities of publishing and the importance of trusting your agent.

Note: Carly Watters and CeCe Lyra are literary agents at P.S. Literary Agency, but their work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly and CeCe on this podcast are solely that of them as podcast co-hosts and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.

Upcoming in person event you won't want to miss! A 'Most Puzzling Murder' Book Launch! Is now SOLD OUT!

Find Bianca at another event by visiting: https://www.biancamarais.com/upcoming-events.html

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In this special episode of Books with Hooks, author Kate Visser joins hosts Bianca, Carly and CeCe to share insights about her query letter for her YA fantasy novel, 'Stage of Shadows.' Carly and Cece dissect the strengths and weaknesses of Kate’s pitch, particularly focusing on character arcs, world-building, and the complexities of dual POV narratives. Carly and Cece provide constructive feedback, emphasizing the importance of clarity in storytelling and the need for the protagonist’s character arc to evolve throughout the narrative. The episode highlights the challenges of balancing ambitious concepts with reader engagement, offering valuable lessons for aspiring writers. Throughout the episode Kate offers insight into her character arcs, moral dilemmas, and the challenges of writing a compelling prologue. The hosts provide feedback on the emotional depth of her writing and the balance between abstract and concrete curiosity in storytelling.

Note: Carly Watters and CeCe Lyra are literary agents at P.S. Literary Agency, but their work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly and CeCe on this podcast are solely that of them as podcast co-hosts and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.

Find us on our socials:

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In the first part of this month’s bonus episode, Carly Watters interviews Anna Mitchael, an accomplished author and copywriter. Anna discusses her writing journey, experiences in magazine publishing, and the art of storytelling through vignettes. They discuss the importance of building relationships in the writing community, the unique format of vignettes in Anna's latest book, and the nuances of ghostwriting. Anna shares her insights on creativity, overcoming fear, and the challenges of the publishing process, offering valuable advice for aspiring writers. Carly and Anna explore the complexities of personal triggers, the challenges of storytelling, and the realities of the publishing industry. They discuss the emotional toll of writing, the importance of self-reflection, and the nuances of crafting a compelling query letter. Anna shares her experiences as a writer and the pressures that come with publishing, while Carly provides insights as a literary agent, emphasizing the need for authenticity and clarity in writing. The discussion culminates in valuable advice for aspiring writers, focusing on the importance of knowing one's goals and the significance of reading work aloud.

In part two of May’s bonus episode, Bianca embraces a full circle moment with podcast listener and former Books with Hooks author Noreen Nanja where they discuss her debut novel, 'The Summers Between Us,'. The novel explores themes of identity, belonging, and the complexities of love. She shares her journey from writing a query letter to securing an agent and navigating the publishing process, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and feedback. Noreen reflects on the challenges of writing a dual timeline narrative, the significance of trigger warnings, and the evolution of her characters. The conversation also touches on the pressures of writing a second book and the exploration of romance tropes, providing valuable insights for aspiring authors.

In part three of May’s bonus episode, CeCe Lyra interviews Laura Leffler. Laura discusses her journey as a writer, exploring her origins, the creation of her debut novel 'Tell Them You Lied', and the challenges she faced, particularly regarding the sensitive topic of 9/11. CeCe and Laura discuss the intricacies of the publishing process, including querying agents, the evolution of her manuscript, and the importance of feedback in shaping her work. Laura shares her personal experiences with rejection and the eventual thrill of receiving a book offer, while CeCe emphasizes the importance of emotional investment in the work. They also touch on the complexities of the publishing process, including the transition from offer to release, and the daunting task of publicity for introverted authors.

Finally, Emilie Sommer from East City Bookshop answers all your burning comp title questions.

Note: Carly Watters and CeCe Lyra are literary agents at P.S. Literary Agency, but their work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly and CeCe on this podcast are solely that of them as podcast co-hosts and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.

Upcoming in person event you won't want to miss! A 'Most Puzzling Murder' Book Launch!

https://blueheronbooks.com/item/FEHiE_RNkHAGOSqfUUiVXw

Find us on our socials:

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_shit_about_writing

https://www.threads.net/@biancamarais_author

https://www.threads.net/@carlywatters https://www.threads.net/@cece_lyra_agent

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_shit_about_writing/

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TSNOTYAW

Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com

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