Book Shop Chats:

This episode explores the intersection of storytelling, mental health, and genre-blending in literature with author Chloe Spencer. We chat about Chloe's unique approach to writing, the importance of representation in young adult fiction, and the emotional complexities faced by authors in their creative journeys.

• Chloe discusses her recent release "Haunting Melody"
• Importance of representing mental health in young adult literature
• How horror can explore themes of trauma and grief
• The significance of connecting with readers at events
• Insights on post-release author anxiety
• The value of building a sustainable lifestyle for writers

About the author:
Minnesota native Chloe Spencer (she/her) is an award winning writer, indie gamedev, and filmmaker. She is the author of multiple sapphic horror novellas, novels, and short stories. In her spare time she enjoys playing video games, trying her best at Pilates, and cuddling with her cats. She holds a BA in Journalism from the University of Oregon and an MFA in Film and Television from SCAD Atlanta.
From the author of Monstersona comes a haunting queer young adult novel, with themes of mental health and PTSD, and a thrilling mystery at its core.

Failure is a sinister song. One that Melody Myere is all too familiar with.

The only child of an acclaimed ghost hunter couple, Melody’s First Sacred Hunt should have been a walk in the park. All she needed to do was catch a ghost, like she’s done all her life. But when an unexpected wraith showed up causing havoc, Melody was left scarred and embarrassed.

Suffering from depression and PTSD post-hunt, Melody relocates to the sleepy island town of Murkmore, where her parents have been tasked with capturing the ghost responsible for a series of grisly deaths. Determined to prove herself, and despite her parents' protests, Melody sets out to capture the specter on her own.

When a haunting song lures Melody to an abandoned theater, she encounters a recently deceased musical prodigy by the name of Cyrus. All signs point to Cyrus being the killer, but Melody isn’t so sure, suspecting something more discordant is afoot.

Connect with Chloe:
Main website: https://www.chloespenceronline.com/
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/heyitschloespencer.bsky.social
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heyitschloespencer
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heyitschloespencer/?hl=en

About Victoria:

Hey there, I’m Victoria! As a writer and developmental editor, I specialize in helping busy writers bring their publishing dreams to life without the overwhelm. Editing doesn’t have to feel like pulling teeth—it's the magic that transforms your story from “meh” to masterpiece!

Here’s how I can help:
📖 FREE Manuscript Prep Workbook: Take the stress out of editing with simple steps to organize your revisions.
Grab it HERE

📝 Developmental Editing: Get expert feedback that elevates your manuscript, strengthens your story, and polishes your characters.
✍️ 1:1 monthly support Writer's Haven: Revitalize your creativity, map out your novel, and unleash your authentic voice.

Your story deserves to shine, and I’m here to make it happen. Let’s turn your writing dreams into a reality!

📱 IG: @editsbyvictoria
🌐 Website: https://victoriajaneeditorial.myflodesk.com/links