Beyond The Plot Podcast

Award-winning author Liz Flanagan joins the podcast to discuss her remarkable journey from writing beloved children’s fantasy books to publishing adult historical fiction. In this episode, Liz shares insights into the creative process behind her latest novel, When We Were Divided, set during the English Civil War, and opens up about genre shifts, research, publishing, editing, and finding confidence as a writer.We explore writing across genres, historical fiction research, independent bookshops, publishing in the UK, creativity during the pandemic, and the importance of writing stories that truly matter to you.If you’re an aspiring author, fan of historical fiction, fantasy books, or interested in the publishing industry, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration.Topics discussed:• Transitioning from children’s fantasy to adult historical fiction• The inspiration behind When We Were Divided• English Civil War research and surprising historical facts• Writing during the pandemic and overcoming self-doubt• The role of editors, publishing teams, and writing communities• Independent bookstores and reader connections• Genre hopping, pseudonyms, and creative freedom• Advice for aspiring writers and authorsBooks Mentioned:• When We Were Divided• The Wildsmith series#LizFlanagan #HistoricalFiction #AuthorPodcast #WritingCommunity #FantasyBooks

In this episode, we sit down with UK author Andi Epimoni—founder of Meet Cute BookFest—to unpack her journey from entering a Twitter writing competition to building a full-time career in romance publishing.Andi shares how she transitioned from literary fiction to commercial romance, the strategy behind writing under multiple pen names, and what it really takes to succeed in today’s fast-moving publishing industry. We also dive into the creation of Meet Cute BookFest, a festival designed to bring romance authors and readers together in real life.Whether you’re an aspiring writer, a romance reader, or curious about the publishing world, this episode is packed with insight, honesty, and practical advice.💡 What We CoverAndi’s path from Twitter writing contest to published authorTransitioning from literary fiction to commercial romanceWriting under multiple pen names (Lauren Forsyth & A.L. Michael)The realities of digital publishing and writing at speedFinding an agent and navigating the submissions processBalancing writing with full-time work and motherhoodThe story behind Meet Cute BookFestChallenges of running a book festival and future plansIndustry trends: AI, self-publishing & communityHandling rejection and building a sustainable writing careerIf you're enjoying these episodes and hearing from your favourite authors, please hit the subscribe button and leave a comment!

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Australian author Anna Johnston to explore her remarkable journey from health promotion professional to internationally recognised novelist—with a Netflix adaptation on the horizon.Anna shares how deeply personal experiences, including her relationship with her grandfather and her later ADHD diagnosis, have shaped her voice as a storyteller. We dive into the origins of her debut novel, the realities of the publishing world, and the resilience it takes to turn rejection into momentum.From building a writing community to navigating rapid success, Anna offers an honest and insightful look into the creative process—along with a behind-the-scenes glimpse into her latest book When Lemons Give You Life and what’s coming next.This episode is a must-listen for aspiring writers, creatives, and anyone interested in the power of authentic storytelling.What we cover in this episode:Anna’s early love of storytelling and creative beginningsHer transition into aged care and how it inspired her debut novelFinding her voice through writing courses and communityThe journey to publication and landing a Netflix optionThe realities of editing, feedback, and rejectionWriting authentic, diverse, and emotionally rich charactersThe personal story behind When Lemons Give You LifeHow her ADHD diagnosis transformed her creative processUpcoming projects, including her third book and book tourWhy community and resilience are essential for writersIf you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow or subscribe so you never miss a conversation with inspiring authors and creatives.Leave a review on Spotify or YouTube—it really helps others discover the show.Share this episode with a friend, writer, or book lover who needs a little creative inspiration today.And if Anna’s story resonated with you, check out her books and connect with her on social media to follow her journey.

In this episode, Leon Mitchell—author and creative director—shares how he transitioned from working in music and film into building a career as an independent author.We explore how his creative background shaped his storytelling approach, the realities of self-publishing, and what it takes to maintain creative control while building an audience.Perfect for aspiring authors, creatives, and anyone looking to turn their ideas into meaningful work.In This EpisodeCreative journey across music, film, and writingTransitioning into authorshipVisual storytelling and writing techniquesSelf-publishing insights and challengesCollaboration and creative processMarketing and growing an audience

How do you turn an idea into a published book—and then into a full writing career?In this episode, author J.M. Simpson shares her journey from a spontaneous moment of inspiration to building multiple crime thriller series across self-publishing and traditional publishing.We talk about writing, marketing, branding, and what it really takes to succeed as an author today.🔑 In This EpisodeStarting your writing journey at any stage of lifeTurning ideas into book seriesSelf-publishing vs traditional publishingBuilding an author brandMarketing strategies for authorsOvercoming rejection and staying consistent⭐ If You Enjoyed This EpisodeFollow the podcast and share it with someone who’s ready to start their writing journey.

In this episode, we sit down with rising crime thriller author Mercedes Mercier to explore how she turned rejection into success and built a thriving writing career.From early storytelling as a child to publishing gripping crime fiction, Mercedes shares how she found her voice, transitioned from romance to crime thrillers, and developed her latest novel The Couples Retreat.If you're an aspiring author or curious about how to become a writer, handle rejection, and get published, this episode is packed with real-world insights and practical advice.✨ In this episode:​Mercedes Mercier’s journey from childhood storytelling to published author​How rejection and feedback shaped her writing career​The impact of a masterclass with Fiona McIntosh​Why she shifted from romance writing to crime thrillers​Behind-the-scenes of writing The Couples Retreat​Her research process and approach to character development​Navigating self-doubt and balancing writing with everyday life​Collaboration with Rachel Johns​Practical writing tips: feedback, networking, and persistence📖 Featured Book:The Couples Retreat – A suspense-driven crime thriller exploring relationships, secrets, and psychological tension.

In this episode, author Georgia Harper shares her journey from hearing an inner voice to becoming a published novelist.We explore the realities of writing, editing, and securing a publishing deal, along with the importance of authenticity, resilience, and trusting your creative voice.Georgia also dives into her character development process, the themes of female empowerment and safety in Dove, and how her background in psychology and criminal justice shaped her storytelling.In This Episode:​Writing your first novel and getting published​Navigating rejection and building resilience​Behind-the-scenes of Dove​Character development and storytelling techniques​Advice for aspiring writers​Key Takeaway:Success in writing isn’t about perfection—it’s about persistence.

How do you go from building a book community on Instagram to publishing your own gothic vampire romance?In this episode, debut author Lily Crozier shares her inspiring journey from working in the publishing industry to landing a book deal and releasing her atmospheric vampire novel “Vow of Eternal Night.”We dive into Lily’s creative process, how Bookstagram and TikTok helped grow her platform, and what it’s really like navigating the editorial and publishing process. She also shares practical advice for aspiring writers on starting a novel, dealing with self-doubt, and marketing your book in the modern publishing landscape.If you love gothic romance, vampire fiction, writing advice, and behind-the-scenes insights into publishing, this episode is packed with inspiration.What You’ll LearnLily’s journey from bookseller and publisher to debut novelistThe inspiration behind “Vow of Eternal Night” and its gothic vampire worldHow Bookstagram and TikTok helped amplify her visibilityWhat happens behind the scenes in the editorial and publishing processThe importance of book cover design and brandingMarketing strategies for debut authorsOvercoming perfectionism and self-doubt as a writerUpcoming book festivals and touring plans across AustraliaConnect With Lily Crozier on - Instagram and TikTok⭐ Enjoyed the episode?Follow the podcast, leave a review, and share it with fellow writers and book lovers.

Are you wondering how to get published—or what it really takes to become a published author?In this episode, Olivia Jackson shares her complete author journey—from writing comics at age 12 to landing a publishing deal with HarperCollins UK. She opens up about overcoming rejection, navigating the publishing industry, improving your writing craft, and developing the resilience every writer needs.If you're an aspiring writer, querying agents, revising your manuscript, or trying to stay motivated through setbacks, this conversation is packed with practical writing tips and honest publishing insights.Olivia discusses:How to get published in today’s competitive marketWhat to do after rejection letters from literary agentsWhy critique groups can dramatically improve your writingLessons learned from the Atlanta Writers ClubHer writing process (a flexible “planster” method)How rewriting and professional editing shape a publishable novelManaging dyslexia and self-doubt as a writerMarketing strategies for authors (Instagram, TikTok & indie bookstores)The emotional milestone of seeing your book on bookstore shelvesFrom a castle tour in Germany that reignited her imagination to trusting her instincts when facing harsh critique, Olivia’s story is a masterclass in persistence, creative courage, and continuous learning.Whether you’re learning how to write a novel, looking for publishing advice, or simply curious about an author’s behind-the-scenes journey, this episode delivers real-world guidance and inspiration.

In this episode, romance author Lily Parker shares how she transformed from a former matchmaker and PR professional into a published author with multiple book deals.With a background in psychology and a passion for storytelling that began in her teenage diaries, Lily opens up about pivoting careers during COVID, landing a three-book deal after a serendipitous conference encounter, and navigating the fast-paced world of modern publishing.We dive into the realities of writing spicy romance, overcoming imposter syndrome, managing rapid book releases, and building a global reader community — all while balancing family life.Whether you're an aspiring author or simply love behind-the-scenes publishing stories, this conversation is packed with insight and inspiration.In This Episode:Lily’s early writing journey and psychology backgroundTransitioning from PR to publishing during COVIDThe conference moment that led to a three-book dealRapid-release strategy: three books in five monthsMarketing romance novels through online outreachBuilding and nurturing an international reader communityThe role of writer groups and critique partnersManaging multiple projects and future series plansPublishing spicy romance and overcoming imposter syndromeAdvice for aspiring authors: persistence, community & embracing multiple paths🔔 Subscribe for more author journeys and industry insights.👍 Like, comment, and share to support the show.

✨ NEW EPISODE ✨This week on Beyond the Plot, I’m joined by the incredible Libby Page, author of This Book Made Me Think of You — and yes, it’s a BBC Radio 2 Book Club pick 📚👏Libby opens up about her writing journey, facing rejection, staying motivated when self-doubt creeps in, and what it really takes to become a published author. We also talk book marketing, cover design, balancing family life with creativity, and why reading is more important than ever.If you’ve ever had a dream and wondered whether to keep going — this episode is for you.🎧 Listen now, follow for more author conversations, and tell us your favourite takeaway below 👇#BeyondThePlot #LibbyPage #AuthorLife #WritingJourney #BBCBookClub #ThisBookMadeMeThinkOfYou #AmWriting #BookPodcast #CreativeMotivation #PublishingLife

In this episode, we’re joined by Hannah Evans, an author from South Wales, who shares her journey from childhood writing to publishing her debut novel, The Mapmaker’s Wife. Hannah discusses how family history inspired her storytelling, the realities of balancing writing with a full-time job, and what it’s like navigating the modern publishing landscape. She also emphasizes the importance of community, perseverance, and authentic storytelling for aspiring authors.What You’ll Hear in This Episode:​How Hannah began writing at a young age​The personal inspiration behind The Mapmaker’s Wife​Balancing creative work with a full-time career​Insights into the publishing and editing process​Why community support matters for writers​Advice for aspiring and emerging authorsKey Takeaways:​Writing takes discipline, patience, and passion​Publishing is a collaborative, multi-draft process​Community can play a vital role in creative growth​Perseverance is essential on the writing journey