Episode 5: Crafting Futures: Jill Tew's Journey into Dystopian Romance and Diverse Fiction

Send us Fan MailWhat if you could transform stress-filled corporate days into successful storytelling? Our guest, Jill Tu, did just that. We talk about her inspiring journey from high-demand corporate jobs to becoming the debut author of "The Dividing Sky," a cozy dystopian romance set in a hyper-capitalist future. Jill's story begins with a pivotal moment of inspiration after watching the movie Divergent, reigniting her passion for storytelling and setting her on a relentless writing journey even while caring for a newborn. Uncover the creative process behind "The Dividing Sky" and the personal inspirations that shaped its unique premise. Jill contrasts its rapid creation with her first book, which took years to write. She also shares her experience across genres, including her upcoming middle-grade contemporary novel, "Kaya Morgan's Crowning Achievement," which celebrates Black joy and resilience. This episode shines a light on the importance of representation in sci-fi and fantasy spaces and the dynamic world of querying and securing a literary agent. From winning a contest that provided crucial editorial guidance to the excitement of receiving an offer from her dream agent, Jill’s narrative is filled with perseverance and triumph. We'll walk you through the steps leading up to her book launch, the significance of community recognition, and the excitement of planning for launch events. Jill shares practical tips for crafting compelling characters, managing expectations, and creating resonant endings that leave a lasting impact on readers. Join us for an episode brimming with insights and inspiration for aspiring writers.https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html?fpr=craftchatKeywords: afronauts, podcast, debut author, Bestselling Author Tips, Historical Fiction, Crafting Bestsellers, Publishing Industry Insights, Writing Strategies, Author Success Stories, Writing Career Transition, Writing Craft, Narrative Development, Book Marketing Strategies, Creative Writing Techniques, NY Times Bestselling Process, Author Interviews, Book Promotion, Literary Agents, Real Life Experiences, Publishing, Writing Tips  Support the show🎙️ Craft Chat Chronicles with J.D. Myall Candid conversations on writing, publishing, and creative life — featuring bestselling authors, MFA students, and writers at every stage of the journey.About J.D. Myall J.D. Myall is the co-chair of Drexel University’s MFA Alumni Association and a publishing and library professional. She is the creator and host of Craft Chat Chronicles, where she interviews authors, agents, and industry insiders about the art and business of writing.Her work has appeared in Ms. Magazine, Writer’s Digest, and HuffPost. Her debut novel, Heart’s Gambit, releases with Wednesday Books/Macmillan in February 2026.When she’s not conjuring magic, murder, and mayhem on the page, J.D. mentors emerging writers through workshops and alumni programs, fostering community among aspiring and published authors alike.💜 Connect with J.D. Myall 📸 Instagram 🌐 Website & Media Kit 💌 Newsletter 🔗 LinktreeWatch episodes on YouTube as well. 💜 Level up your writing process with Scrivener — the ...