Authors Talking Bookish

How much can change in a year or three or more? In this special anniversary episode, Hope and Donna reflect on their journeys as authors and podcasters through a fun and revealing “Then vs. Now” conversation. From evolving writing processes and shifting definitions of success to behind-the-scenes podcast moments, they share what’s changed, what’s stayed the same, and what they wish they’d known from the start. Honest, insightful, and full of personality, this episode is a celebration of the winding path of writing life.SHOW NOTES:How has your approach to writing changed from when you first started to today?What did you believe about writing or publishing early on that you see differently now?What used to intimidate you most about writing—and does it still?What were your goals as a writer when you began, and how have they shifted?When did you first feel like a “real writer,” and has that feeling changed?How has your confidence—in your voice, your stories, and your place in the writing world—evolved?What’s one aspect of podcasting that has changed from when you first started?What did you think your favorite part of podcasting would be vs. what is it?What is the biggest lesson you learned from podcasting?How do you define “success” as an author today compared to when you started?What’s one piece of advice you would give your earlier writing self?Surprise: Rapid Fire QuestionsAuthors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.comHope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.comIf you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

Ready to pitch your book? Pitch events can be nerve-wracking, but they’re also one of the best opportunities for writers to connect with literary agents. In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about the 10-minute pitch: what it is, how to prepare, and how to make the most of those precious few minutes.You’ll learn how to research agents before you pitch, craft a clear and compelling hook, and present yourself with confidence. We’ll also cover common mistakes to avoid, tips for turning your pitch into a conversation, and how to use feedback—even a rejection—to your advantage.Whether you’re attending your first conference or polishing your pitch for a big event, this episode will help you walk in prepared, stay calm, and maximize your chances of making the right connection with an agent.SHOW NOTES:What is a 10-Minute Pitch Event?Our ExperienceHow to PrepareUsing the pitch to your advantageTake-awaysSOURCES & LINKSRelated ATB Podcasts Episodes: “Query Basics: How to Attract the Attention of the RIGHT Agents and Publishers,” Ep 19“Writing the Dreaded Book Jacket Summary and Pitch,” Ep 42Hooked from Page One: Nailing Your Novel’s Beginning, Episode 57“Pitch it To Me!” Save the Cat Writes a Novel, Jessica BrodyBefore and After the Book Deal, Courtney MaumDO NOW: Script your pitch. Practice saying the words. Edit out what seems unnatural to say. Once your script is polished, practice saying it in front of a mirror until you’ve memorized it. Next, practice in front of people: family members, friends, bookish community. Next Episode: Tension & Conflict: The Writer’s Secret WeaponsFull Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode.Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.comHope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.comIf you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

The first page of a novel can make or break a reader’s attention. In this episode, we explore what goes into crafting an irresistible opening that hooks your audience from the very first line. From setting the tone and establishing stakes to introducing compelling characters and planting questions that beg to be answered, we’ll break down the techniques successful authors use to keep readers turning the page. We’ll also share examples of unforgettable openings, common pitfalls to avoid, and practical strategies you can use to strengthen your own writing. Whether you’re starting your first novel or polishing your next, this episode will help you create an opening that truly captivates.Why Openings MatterKey Elements of a Strong OpeningTechniques That WorkCommon Pitfalls to AvoidPractical Strategies for WritersExamplesSOURCES & LINKS:“100 Best First Lines from Novels,” American Book Review, 2006DO NOW: Read through some of the best first sentences. Notice what you like about them, what is similar among them, what draws you in.Write several versions of your own for one work to see which captures the characteristics for a strong opening.Next Episode: An interview with Joanna Monahan, author of Something BetterFull Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode.Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.comHope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.comIf you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

Award-winning author, Gail Priest shares her passion for women’s fiction, inspired by her background in theatre and psychology. Her stories explore healing, family secrets, love, and second chances, set along the New Jersey and Maryland coast. When not writing, she enjoys reading, birdwatching, and beachcombing. She’s the author of Soul Dancing. SHOW NOTES:Soul Dancing themesSupernatural story elementsAwardsInfluence of theater backgroundResearchCommon threads throughout Gail’s workWriting processAdvice for writersSOURCES & LINKShttps://gailpriest.com/Next Episode: From Page to Screen: What Makes a Story Adaptable? Full Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode.Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.comHope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.comIf you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

Ready to finally conquer Scrivener without feeling overwhelmed? In this episode of Authors Talking Bookish, we’re breaking down the basics of Scrivener and showing you how to set up your first project like a pro. From organizing chapters to using the powerful Corkboard and Compile tools, we’ll help you unlock the features that make writing easier—and way more fun. Whether you're a plotter or a pantser, Scrivener can streamline your process and keep your manuscript on track. Tune in for our best tips, real writer-tested advice, and the benefits that’ll make you wonder how you ever wrote without it!SHOW NOTES:1. What Is Scrivener and Why Writers Love It2. Getting Started: Setting Up Your First Project3. Key Features Writers Should Use4. Top Benefits of Using Scrivener5. Tips & Best Practices*NOTE: We are not affiliated with Scrivener, but simply find it a useful tool for writersSOURCES & LINKShttps://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener/overviewhttps://scrivener.app/DO NOW:Download the Free Trial for Scrivener to try it out. And use our SCRIVENER BASICS: FREE DOWNLOAD to get you startedNext Episode: Substack-What it is, why authors are using it and the basics of how to use itFull Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode.Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.comHope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.comIf you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

In this episode, we pull back the curtain on the editing process with two expert guests: Sarah Rexford, a seasoned editor from a Manhattan publisher and John DeDakis, author, freelance editor, book coach and former CNN editor. Whether you're prepping your manuscript for submission or self-publishing, this conversation offers invaluable insights into what editors really look for. You'll hear their biggest pet peeves, hard-won lessons, and the advice every writer needs before hitting "send." Plus, a peek into a typical day in the life of an editor—and how they balance editing with their own creative work. Writers, this one’s for you!Can you tell us about your experiences as an editor and book coach?What types of editing do each of you do?What’s the most common mistake you see writers make during revisions?What tools or software do you rely on in your editing workflow?How do you handle giving tough feedback to an author?John, does being an author affect your processes as an editor? If so, in what ways?Sarah, you provide a free downloadable eBook for authors on your website, what golden nuggets can they find there?At what stage in the writing or revision process should writers approach an editor?What are your pet peeves in a manuscript?What have you learned the hard way that might help our authors in their writing or in working with editors?SOURCES & LINKSSarah’s website: http://sarahjrexford.com/John’s Website:http://www.johndedakis.com/@johndedakis.bsky.socialX: @johnDeDakisFacebook: https://m.facebook.com/john.dedakis/Instagram: @dedakisjohnCraft Book Recs from John and Sarah:Weekend Novelist by Robert J. RayAnything by Stephen James and DiAnn MillsAnything that delves into the psychology of charactersFull Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode.Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.comHope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.comIf you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

Bio: Lisa Montanaro is the author of the debut novel, Everything We Thought Was True, which released in January 2025, by Red Adept Publishing, and won first place for LGBTQ Fiction in the International Firebird Book Awards and Honorable Mention from the Los Angeles Book Festival. At turns heartbreaking and hopeful, the novel explores not only the consequences of secrets—even secrets kept out of love—but also the courage it takes to speak the truth, to forgive, and to let go. Lisa is part no-nonsense Italian American New Yorker and part sunny Californian. She has a unique background as a performer, teacher of deaf students, lawyer, coach, speaker, and author. Lisa is also the author of The Ultimate Life Organizer,published by Peter Pauper Press. She serves as webinar host for the Women's Fiction Writers Association and as facilitator of the Retro COLAGE group for adult children of LGBTQ parents. When not writing, Lisa enjoys cycling and hiking with her veterinarian husband, tending to her garden, and chasing after her rescue dogs. Lisa has enjoyed living snow-free since 2012 in Northern California, where she’s made it her mission to sample the wines of the region. SOURCES & LINKSAuthor Website: http://www.LisaMontanaroWrites.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LisaMontanaroAuthorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisa.montanaro/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@lisa.montanaroBlueSky: https://lisamontanaro.bsky.socialTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lisamontanaroauthorAmazon Author Central: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Lisa-Montanaro/author/B00585O2TCGoodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4985348.Lisa_MontanaroBookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/786071194Full Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode.Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.comHope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.comIf you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you