...and it's writing.

May 19 2024 100 ep. 29 mins
...and it's writing. Podcast artwork

A tipsy discussion of writing craft. Writers D.C. McNaughton and Avery Ames imbibe a few drinks while they review and revise their old (and often cringey) writing. Each episode focuses on a particular aspect of craft and features a themed cocktail pairing.

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Ep131: Podcasting is Hard, Y'all

May 19 2024 1 mins  
A quick update on the recent delay in episode uploads and plans moving forward. The podcast isn't saying goodbye, but we'll be taking a bit of a breather to do some catching up (and meeting some other deadlines!). Moving forward, we may explore doing the "seasons" setup where we take breaks between batches of episodes, but we'll keep you updated once we settle on a schedule. Thank

Ep131: On Aspec Characters, with Harvey Oliver Baxter

Apr 28 2024 48 mins  
Amy sits down for a chat with author Harvey Oliver Baxter about writing aromantic and asexual characters in fiction. We discuss some of our fave characters, least fave tropes, and more. Harvey Oliver Baxter is the author of Fallen Thorns, available now. Find Harvey online: Instagram: @lastvanillasmile TikTok: @authorhobaxter ----more---- Episode Drink: 2oz gin 1.5oz sweet red v

Ep130: The Miscommunication Trope

Apr 15 2024 17 mins  
Amy discusses the miscommunication trope with fellow writer Lesia, which includes our fave (and least fave) ways it can be incorporated, as well as a bit of shared glee over character angst. Follow Lesia on Instagram

Ep129: Fiona Fenn on Fanfiction

Apr 01 2024 24 mins  
Amy and guest Fiona Fenn discuss fanfiction! They chat about their personal ties to fanfic, as well as shifting perceptions in the traditional publishing industry, and how the community aspect differs between fanfic and trad-pub. Fiona is the author of the upcoming fantasy novel, The Crack at the Heart of Everything, available for pre-order now! Find Fiona online here: Website Tw

Ep128: Writing Love Triangles and Other Polygons

Mar 25 2024 16 mins  
Amy is joined by guest co-host Abi to discuss love triangles (or assorted other shapes). We discuss the "why not all" option, when a love triangle/polygon may actually help serve the plot, and our best tips for making them feel authentic. Follow Fledgling Books here!

Ep127: Jenny Adams on Pivoting Genres

Mar 18 2024 22 mins  
Historical mystery author Jenny Adams joins Amy for a discussion about what it's been like pivoting from young adult fantasy to adult historical mystery, as well as sharing some advice for others thinking about expanding into other genres. Jenny is the author of the debut adult historical mystery novel A Deadly Endeavor, available now! Find Jenny Adams and her books online: Linkt

Ep126: T.L. Simpson, author of Strong Like You

Mar 11 2024 42 mins  
Amy sits down with author T.L. Simpson to discuss his YA contemporary debut novel, Strong Like You. We discuss what it's like to tackle darker themes in YA, how journalistic writing can help with fiction, and share a minor digression on a little childhood toy nostalgia. Find T.L. Simpson online: Website: tlsimpson.net Instagram: @word_factory21 Facebook: tlsimpson21 Find Strong Lik

Ep125: Jaq Evans on Juggling Projects

Mar 04 2024 20 mins  
In this special guest episode, Amy sits down with author Jaq Evans to discuss what it's like juggling projects, working with publishing deadlines and long silences, as well as giving yourself grace when choosing which book to work on. Jaq Evans is the author of the adult horror novel What Grows in the Dark, releasing on March 5, 2024. Find Jaq online: Twitter: @jaqwrites Instagram

Ep124: Self-publishing While Parenting, with Brigitta Estelle Burguess!

Feb 19 2024 57 mins  
In this episode, Amy and D.C. chat with special guest Brigitta Estelle Burguess, author of Swipe Up For Secrets. We discuss keeping a positive outlook on writing, marketing a self-published book, and what it's like maintaining a writing career as a parent. Find Brigitta and her book online: Swipe Up For Secrets Instagram Twitter/X

Ep123 (Mini-Ep): Getting Motivated

Feb 12 2024 19 mins  
What do you do when the muse isn't singing and the motivation just isn't sparking? Amy and D.C. discuss some of their favorite tips for getting the mojo back.