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On the Write Track Podcast

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Rating
★★★★★
5
from
11 reviews
This podcast has
52 episodes
Language
English
Date created
2022/11/30
Latest episode
2026/10/01
Average duration
52 min.
Release period
48 days

Description

On the Write Track is a podcast from debut authors Sarah Mughal Rana and Emily Varga that address the little known secrets of traditional publishing and behind the scenes, from guests in different stages in the industry, to provide our listeners an insider's look. Guests include New York Times, International bestselling, and critically acclaimed authors, agents, Big 4 publishing editors, successful Tik Tok book influencers, marketers, and everything in between. Follow our socials and subscribe for the latest updates. Consider signing up to our Patreon page, even a small help goes a long way, to support the podcast, receive unique perks, and get exclusive Q&A access and writing advice from us!

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Check latest episodes from On the Write Track Podcast podcast


51: Penn Cole on Indie Grit and a Traditional Publishing Deal
2026/10/01
In this episode of On the Write Track, Emily sits down with Penn Cole, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Kindred's Curse Saga, to talk about the wild, unlikely road from self-publishing to a traditional deal with a Big 5 publisher. Penn opens up about leaving a career as an attorney to chase writing full time, and the leap of faith it took to bet on herself before anyone else would. We dig into the highs and lows of going indie first: what it actually took to self-publish Spark of the Everflame and Glow of the Everflame, build an audience from nothing, and turn a passion project into a series that would eventually sell in sixteen languages. Penn is candid about the grind behind the "overnight success" story, and what nobody tells you about the pressure that comes once readers start paying attention. We also get into her transition to traditional publishing, why she chose to bring her books to a Big 5 creating a hybrid career, after already building a loyal readership on her own, and how she's navigated keeping creative control while working within a traditional structure. Penn shares what surprised her most about the differences between indie and traditional, from marketing to timelines to expectations, and offers grounded advice for writers trying to decide which path, or which hybrid of both, is right for them. From a career change to global fantasy romance sensation, this episode is a candid, look at building a career on your own terms, and what it really takes to get there.     Penn Cole Website Instagram TikTok Threads   Dabble   Books Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore Spark of the Everflame by Penn Cole Glow of the Everflame by Penn Cole Heat of the Everflame by Penn Cole Burn of the Everflame by Penn Cole Daggermouth by H.M. Wolfe A Court of Thorns and Rose by Sarah Maas Ruby Dixon Emily Varga's books Sarah Mughal Rana's books   Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!
50: Jennifer Iacopelli on Netflix, Second Chances in Writing & the Staying Power of Sports Romance
2026/09/03
On this episode of On the Write Track, Sarah and Emily sit down with bestselling author Jennifer Iacopelli to talk about the incredible journey of seeing her books find a whole new life through a Netflix adaptation. Jennifer shares what it’s like watching her work make the leap from page to screen, from her role in the adaptation and working alongside the cast to the experience of seeing readers rediscover her books years after they were first published. We also dive into the unique appeal of sports romance and why stories that combine competition, ambition, romance and high-stakes drama continue to resonate so strongly with romance readers. Jennifer opens up about building a long-lasting writing career, the importance of longevity in publishing, and why she made the decision not to quit her day job while pursuing writing. She shares lessons on balancing a career, creativity and the unpredictable nature of publishing; what aspiring authors can learn from her journey. Whether you’re an aspiring writer, a longtime romance reader or simply curious about what happens when a beloved book gets to go to the big screen, this is an episode about resilience and staying in the game.   Jennifer Iacopelli Website Instagram   Books Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore Game, Set, Match by Jennifer Iacopelli Break the Fall by Jennifer Iacopelli Finding Her Edge by Jennifer Iacopelli Wildcard by Jennifer Iacopelli Emily Varga's books Sarah Mughal Rana's books   Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!
49: Tigest Girma on Perseverance, Black Vampires, and Using TikTok to Break Through
2026/05/07
In this episode of On the Write Track, Emily and Sarah sit down with Tigest Girma to talk about what it really takes to keep going as a writer. Tigest opens up about perseverance, writing through rejection, self-doubt, and long stretches of uncertainty, and why continuing to write and show up on the page mattered. We dig into her relationship with prose: how she developed and edited, and how she learned to trust her instincts even when they didn’t fit trends. Tigest also shares how she used TikTok and social media intentionally, not just for visibility, but for connection—building an audience while still protecting her creative process. From staying consistent with writing, to navigating online spaces as an author, to believing in your work before the industry does, this conversation is a candid, motivating look at resilience, and making space for your voice.   Tigest Girma WebsiteInstagramTikTokFilm Courage YouTube Channel   Books Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore Immortal Dark by Tigest GirmaEternal Ruin by Tigest GirmaChildren of Blood and Bone by Tomi AdeyemiThe Anatomy of Story by John TrubyThe Emotional Craft of Fiction by Donald MaassBig Magic by Elizabeth GilbertEmily Varga's booksSarah Mughal Rana's books  Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! It really helps the podcast, especially since we're just getting started. Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok! Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!
48: Jill Tew: Dystopian Worlds & Bringing Business on Hustle, Romantasy, and Reinventing Dystopian Fiction
2026/04/02
In this episode, Sarah and Emily sit down with author Jill Tew for an unfiltered conversation about the dystopian genre and the hustle of writing. Jill shares how she’s making space in dystopian fiction by challenging white washed narratives, tropes and championing BIPOC voices, while weaving in romantasy. We dive into the misconceptions about the dystopian genre, what’s still missing on the shelves, and how Jill’s business-school background and approach—including printing her own physical ARCs for readers—has set her apart. We talk about writing both middle grade and YA and adult SFF. If you’ve ever wondered how to blend business and writing with a growth mindset, this is the episode for you.   Jill Tew WebsiteInstagramSubstackBooks Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore The Dividing Sky by Jill TewKaya Morgan's Crowning Achievement by Jill TewAn Ocean Apart by Jill TewClimate of Chaos by Cassandra NewbouldChain-Gang All-Stars by Nana Kwame Adjei-BrenyahLore of the Wilds seriesLegendborn by Tracy DeonnBlood over Brighthaven by M.L. WangSword of Kaigen by M.L. WangEmily Varga's booksSarah Mughal Rana's books   Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!
47: Rebecca Ross: on Writing Her Book of the Heart, Perseverance, Health, and Longevity
2026/03/05
In this episode of On the Write Track, Sarah and Emily sit down with Rebecca Ross, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Divine Rivals, to talk about the journey behind her long career and “book of the heart.” Rebecca shares candidly about the perseverance it took to keep going through the ups and downs of publishing, changing teams, and even the health struggles of constantly being on deadline. We also explore Rebecca’s works—from her YA fantasies The Queen’s Rising to her adult, A River Enchanted and its sequel A Fire Endless, and her latest viral phenomenon Divine Rivals and now Wild Reverence, and the inspiration behind the spin off. We go into the reaction when Divine Rivals went viral, and what it’s been like to see her work picked up for a television adaptation; Rebecca’s craft, exploring how she balances lyrical prose with storytelling, and the lessons she’s learned about building a career with both resilience and perseverance. This episode is a celebration of longevity, staying true to your vision, and creating stories that endure, while avoiding burn out.   Rebecca Ross WebsiteInstagram  Books Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore Divine Rivals by Rebecca RossRuthless Vows by Rebecca RossWild Reverence by Rebecca RossA River Enchanted by Rebecca RossA Fire Endless by Rebecca RossDreams Lie Beneath by Rebecca RossThe Queen's Rising by Rebecca RossThe Queen's Resistance by Rebecca RossSisters of Sword and Song by Rebecca RossAn Enchantment of Ravens by Margaret RogersonJane Eyre by Charlotte BrontePersuasion by Jane AustenBreak Wide the Sea by Sarah HollandEmily Varga's booksSarah Mughal Rana's books  Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!
46: Ken Liu: Imagination, Invention, and the Future of Fantasy
2026/02/05
Join Emily and Sarah for a conversation with award-winning author Ken Liu — the Hugo, Nebula, and World Fantasy Award–winning writer behind The Paper Menagerie and The Grace of Kings, whose work include both riveting short stories and novels. In this episode we dive into his journey, from making the leap to full-time writing, to navigating film and book industry opportunities, and explore how he builds stories that operate not just as narratives but as metaphors for identity, culture, and technology. Ken discusses his newest novel, All That We See or Seem, a near-future thriller where art, AI, and human yearning intersect, and the conversations talks about the evolving fantasy and sci-fi market. We cover, the moment he decided to write full time, and how that opened doors beyond publishing. His method of embedding metaphor in every short story from a craft angle to ground it in deeper themes. His take on fantasy and science fiction today: how the genre is changing in a bigger romantasy market, what readers are looking for, and where he sees it headed. And a thoughtful discussion on AI and art: what it means for creators, for originality, for the future of storytelling. Whether you’re a writer, a sci-fi fan, or simply curious about how an author thinks about art in tech-driven times, this episode offers a thoughtful, dive into the craft and the future from one of the best and celebrated writers of our generation.   Ken Liu WebsiteBooks Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore All That We See or Seem by Ken LiuThe Paper Menagerie and Other Stories by Ken LiuThe Grace of Kings by Ken LiuParadise Lost by John MiltonPercy Jackson seriesEmily Varga's booksSarah Mughal Rana's books Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!
45: James Islington on Craft, Career, and Creating The Will of the Many
2026/01/01
From a tech startup to bestselling fantasy author, James Islington joins hosts Sarah and Emily for an episode of On the Write Track for a deep dive into the discipline, worldbuilding, and creative instincts behind his craft and fantasy books. We explore how James made the leap from a tech career to full-time writing, how his indie beginnings shaped his career, and what changed when he transitioned to traditional publishing. James shares the many rejections early in his career; how he treats writing like a 9-to-5 job, the routines that keep him grounded, and the lessons he’s learned while building massive fantasy worlds. We get into the inspirations behind The Will of the Many—from Celtic lore to Egyptian mythology—and how he balances research, hard magic systems, mystery, and emotional stakes across a long series arc. James also answers questions on spoilers in his books; the length of the Hierarchy series, the ending, and offers invaluable advice for emerging fantasy writers on process, persistence, and trusting the story you’re meant to tell.   SPOILER NOTE! - 16:58 → 20:53   James Islington's Website Books Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore The Licanius Trilogy by James IslingtonThe Will of the Many by James IslingtonThe Strength of a Few by James IslingtonThe Wheel of Time by Robert JordanThe Name of the Wind by Patrick RothfrussDemon Copperhead by Barbara KingsolverBrandon SandersonEmily Varga's booksSarah Mughal Rana's books  Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!
44: Tina Mars: Following the Energy
2025/12/04
In this episode of On the Write Track, Emily and Sarah sit down with Tina Mars, one of Bookstagram’s breakout stars turned debut fantasy author. Tina shares how a simple love for reading grew into a thriving online community, what inspired her to start posting in the first place, and the journey to full-time content creator. She opens up about the ups and downs of growing her platform and business, the lessons she’s learned about consistency and authenticity, and how she leveraged her audience to find an agent and secure a book deal for her upcoming fantasy novel. Tina also offers practical, heartfelt advice for aspiring creators, from building your personal brand to managing burnout and staying true to your voice online. Whether you’re a writer hoping to build your platform or a Bookstagrammer, or a writer aiming to have your own book deal, this episode is a motivating deep dive!   Tina Mars WebsiteInstagramYoutube  Dabble Timer   Books Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore The Book of Azrael by Amber V NicoleThe Hurricane Wars by Thea GuanzonTrial of the Sun Queen by Nisha TuliA Cruel Thirst by Angela MontoyaCarnival Fantástico by Angela MontoyaEmily Varga's booksSarah Mughal Rana's books   Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! It really helps the podcast, especially since we're just getting started. Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok! Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!
43: Nisha Tuli: Crowning Your Own Success on Romantasy, and Owning Your Author Journey
2025/11/06
This week, Sarah and Emily welcome bestselling romantasy author Nisha Tuli for an inspiring dive into building an authentic, sustainable career from indie to traditional publishing. Nisha opens up about her experience as an Indie author who has a South Asian heritage but also the fears of being boxed in, and how she hustled to grow her audience. We explore how she’s navigated the explosion of romantasy, the pressures and perks of genre labels, and the business mindset that helps her stay focused amid the noise, including switching agents and taking on multiple projects to grow. From having a loyal readership to branching out in adult, and now YA, as well as multi-genre stories that blend romance, magic, and diverse FMC’s, Nisha shares really valuable wisdom for any writer ready to grow.   Nisha Tuli WebsiteInstagramTikTokBecca Syme: Strengths For Writers 101   Books Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore Not Safe for Work by Nisha TuliTrial of the Sun Queen by Nisha TuliHeart of Night and Fire by Nisha TuliWicked is the Reaper by Nisha TuliLove is a War Song by Danica NavaEmily Varga's booksSarah Mughal Rana's books  Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! It really helps the podcast, especially since we're just getting started. Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok! Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!
42: Melissa de la Cruz & Margaret Stohl on Writing, Reinvention, and Building Creative Worlds
2025/10/02
Sarah and Emily sit down to discuss what does it take to not only survive but thrive across decades in publishing? In this episode of On the Write Track, we’re joined by literary powerhouses Melissa de la Cruz and Margaret Stohl: bestselling authors, and co-founders of YALLFest and YALLWest, two of the largest youth literature festivals in the country. We dive deep into their journeys through the evolving landscape of publishing: from writing bestselling YA series, to crafting graphic novels, developing games, and even adapting their work for film and television. Melissa and Margaret share how working across mediums has challenged and expanded their creative lives, and what it takes to stay adaptable in an industry that’s constantly shifting especially in the era of romantasy. But at the heart of this episode is a rich conversation about community; how festivals like YALLWest grew out of a desire to democratize the author-reader connection, how mentorship and collaboration have shaped their own careers, and why building supportive literary communities is crucial for both writers and readers to survive. We also get candid about the behind-the-scenes of adaptations, juggling commercial pressures with creative vision, and why saying yes to new opportunities and formats—from prose to scripts—has kept their careers thriving. If you're a writer wondering how to build lasting community, or explore new storytelling mediums, this episode is packed with wisdom, blunt hard-earned advice from two women who’ve truly done it all.   Yall Fest Yall West Melissa de la Cruz Margaret Stohl Episode 06: G Willow Wilson: Co-creating Ms. Marvel, Writing for Comics & Having to Write your Marginalization   Books Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore Margaret Stohl's booksMelissa de la Cruz's booksJo and Laurie by Margaret Stohl and Melissa de la CruzBeautiful Creatures by Margaret StohlSuper Visible: The Story of the Women of Marvel Comics by Margaret StohlWar and Peace by Leo TolstoyThe Dark is Rising by Susan CooperLegends and Lattes by Travis BaldtreeThe Doorman by Chris PavoneEmily Varga's booksSarah Mughal Rana's books   Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok! Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!
41: V.E. Schwab: The Long Game on Writing Across Genres and Staying Inspired
2025/09/04
In this episode of On the Write Track, Sarah and Emily sit down with #1 New York Times bestselling author V.E. Schwab for a conversation on what it really takes to build a long, sustainable writing career. From the breakout success of Vicious and the Shades of Magic trilogy to the beauty of The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue and now Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil, Schwab has written across genres, age categories, and era -- and she’s not slowing down. We explore how she balances creativity with consistency, what her simple daily writing routine looks like, how she protects her imagination, and why she deliberately reads outside her genre. Schwab also opens up about the emotional highs and lows of publishing, staying true to your voice through trends, and what she’s learned after more than a decade in the industry. Whether you’re just starting out or thinking long-term, this episode is filled with blunt hard truths , and encouragement to keep writing—and keep evolving.   V.E. Schwab WebsiteInstagramNewsletterNo Write Way Podcast  Books Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil by V.E.SchwabThe Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E.SchwabShades of Magic by V.E.SchwabVicious by V.E.SchwabGallant by V.E.SchwabEmily Varga's booksSarah Mughal Rana's books   Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee!   Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! It really helps the podcast, especially since we're just getting started. Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok! Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!
40: Katherine Arden on Romance, Ghosts, Winter, and Storytelling in Atmospheric Settings
2025/01/23
In this episode, co-hosts Sarah and Emily sit down with Katherine Arden, the critically acclaimed and NYT bestselling author of The Bear and the Nightingale, The Warm Hands of Ghosts. and Small Spaces, to explore her world of folklore, ghosts, and history . Katherine shares the inspirations behind her beloved Winternight Trilogy, how she wrote while traveling; the art of weaving magic and realism, her methodology, and how she captures the mystical blend of history and magic and love in her stories. They also discuss the allure of winter as a setting, the balance of prose that feels natural and true to the book’s historical setting and wonder, and what it means to write in multiple genres. Perfect for emerging writers, fans of spellbinding tales in winter and history, this conversation will leave you feeling both chilled and inspired to write more.   Katherine Arden Website   Books Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine ArdenThe Girl in the Tower by Katherine ArdenThe Winter of the Witch by Katherine ArdenThe Warm Hands of Ghosts by Katherine ArdenSmall Spaces Series by Katherine ArdenBlack Woods, Blue Sky by Eowyn IveySunshine by Robin McKinleyThe Hero and the Crown by Robin McKinleyDeerskin by Robin McKinleyThe Blue Sword by Robin McKinleyNaomi NovikPatrick O'BrienDorothy DunnettJonathan Strange and Mr. Norell by Susanna ClarkeFor She is Wrath by Emily VargaHope Ablaze by Sarah Mughal Rana  Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!
39: Shelby Mahurin: Fantasy, Spice, and Staying True on Navigating Romantasy and Authenticity
2025/01/09
In this episode, Sarah and Emily sit down with Shelby Mahurin, New York Times bestselling author of Serpent & Dove and the Scarlet Veil, to dive into the world of romantasy. Shelby opens up about swoon-worthy romance, balancing the "spice" in her books amidst backlash; what romance means to people of different age groups, and her journey as a leading OG voice in the romantasy YA genre. She also discusses the pressures of social media, the benefits of a digital detox, resetting her Instagram, and how to stay authentic as an author in an industry driven by trends. If you're a fan of love, romantasy , and keeping it real, this conversation is a must-listen!   Shelby Mahurin WebsiteInstagram  Books Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore Serpent & Dove by Shelby MahurinBlood & Honey by Shelby MahurinGods & Monsters by Shelby MahurinThe Scarlet Veil by Shelby MahurinThe Shadow Bride by Shelby MahurinBitten by Kelley ArmstrongLisa KleypasSarah MacLeanFor She is Wrath by Emily VargaHope Ablaze by Sarah Mughal Rana  Come back every second Thursday for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! It really helps the podcast, especially since we're just getting started. Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok! Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!
38: Olivie Blake: Indie to Trad Pub: The Journey of NYT bestseller Olivie Blake
2024/12/19
In this episode, Sarah and Emily sit down with bestselling author Olivie Blake to explore the intricacies of her routine and craft, the beauty in chaotic routines, and the power of authenticity. Olivie opens up about how she manages to write multiple books across different genres every year, offering insight into the importance of writing being her job. The conversation goes into her journey from indie publishing where she wrote nine books, to signing major traditional deals, due to going viral on TikTok. She shares advice on navigating the key differences between indie versus trad pub for upcoming authors. They also discuss her approach to TikTok and social media, balancing the benefits of exposure with the need for personal boundaries. Whether you are a reader and fan, or an upcoming author, this is a great episode to learn about Olivia’s inspiration and how to navigate a stellar career across genres.   Olivie Blake WebsiteInstagram   Books Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore Masters of Death by Olivie BlakeAlone with You in the Ether by Olivie BlakeGifted & Talented by Olivie BlakeThe Atlas Six by Olivie BlakeThe Atlas Paradox by Olivie BlakeThe Atlas Complex by Olivie BlakeThe Answer You Are Looking For Is Yes: A Witch Way Anthology by Olivie BlakeFairytales of the Macabre by Olivie BlakeSex, Lies and Sensibility by Nikki PayneNeapolitan Novels by Elena FerranteFor She is Wrath by Emily VargaHope Ablaze by Sarah Mughal Rana   Come back every second Thursday for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! It really helps the podcast, especially since we're just getting started. Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok! Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!
37: Ava Reid: Crafting Chaos, Grimdark Worlds, Retellings and the Art of Organic Readership
2024/12/05
In this episode, Sarah and Emily sit down with New York Times bestselling author Ava Reid of A Study in Drowning and Lady Macbeth, to dive into the art of multi-genre storytelling in speculative fiction. From exploring the grimdark corners of worlds to her chaotic writing routines, Ava opens up about the challenges and joys of writing retellings, and balancing multiple projects. She also discusses her gradual journey building an organic readership from her debut to her breakout dark academia; moreover she discusses creating a distinct aesthetic on Instagram, and the freedom found in writing what’s true to her vision. Whether you're an aspiring author or a fan of her atmospheric stories, this conversation is packed with insights and inspiration from one of the most creative authors   Ava Reid Instagram  The Life and Letters of Mary Shelley   Books Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore The Wolf and the Woodsman by Ava ReidJuniper and Thorn by Ava ReidA Study in Drowning by Ava ReidLady Macbeth by Ava ReidThe Winternight Trilogy by Katherine ArdenThe Gormenghast Trilogy by Mervyn PeakeWe Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley JacksonGifted and Talented by Olivie BlakeFor She is Wrath by Emily VargaHope Ablaze by Sarah Mughal Rana     Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!

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5 out of 5
11 reviews
★★★★★
Lemons___ 2023/12/28
Fantastic!
Great interview subjects and fantastic interviewers!
★★★★★
Zanamarch 2023/07/02
Highly recommend!
I have loved listening to this podcast and always look forward to the upcoming episodes. Not only are the conversations down to earth and fun (I feel ...
★★★★★
MorganRae1014 2023/07/01
Informative and entertaining!
Emily and Sarah are both great interviewers, and each episode feels like a fun conversation that we listeners are just lucky to eavesdrop on. The weal...
★★★★★
Luna-g1000 2022/12/16
Honest and smart and a pleasure to listen to!
There’s only one episode out and already I love this podcast. Honest, smart, and no-nonsense publishing tea? Yes, please! In the first episode Sarah a...
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