The Romantasy That Plays Off 1835's Thumbelina (With A Twist) - Mara Sand

In this episode, Mara Sand shares her journey from childhood fairy tale obsession to becoming a published author of a fantasy series inspired by classic stories. She discusses her creative process, the importance of feminine rage, and the role of AI and mental health in writing.What You’ll Learn:Mara Sand's background and inspiration from fairy talesThe evolution of her five-book series and genre blendingThe role of feminine rage and emotional expression in storytellingThe impact of AI on modern writing and creativityManaging ADHD and mental health as a writerThe importance of persistence and finishing projectsCasting characters and imagining adaptationsThe cultural significance of retelling and rewriting storiesThe influence of childhood interests on adult creativityAdvice for aspiring writers and creatorsTimestamps:0:00 Introduction00:50 Does Mara's Story Mimic Her Life?01:55 Finding Her Voice Via Writing03:18 Why Mara Started Writing At 12 Yrs Old05:06 What A 7 Year Project Taught Mara In Regards To Writing Novels07:08 Is Mara A Perfectionist08:02 How Does She Bring Herself To Edit If It Feels Torturous09:09 How The World Looks At "The Little Guy" Discussion11:42 Why Is Feminine Rage Necessary IRL13:14 How Closely Does Ina Mirror Mara15:24 Mara's Advice To Finding Potential In Oneself16:55 What IS The "Court System" In Mara's Story19:24 The Evolution Of A 5-Book Series Genre Wise23:49 How Mara Eventually Planned Out Her 5-Book Series26:50 The Appeal Of Turning Old Time Stories Into New Adult-Like Ones29:16 Delving Into The Mind Of A Romatasy Author31:55 Breaking Stereotypes: Why People Shy Away From Romantasy34:25 AI In Book Writing: Romantasy Style38:02 Did Mara Use AI When Writing Her Book38:09 Was Mara A Natural Born Creative41:50 The Movie Dream Cast For Barley Corn Girl Adaption44:05 Why People Enjoy These Kinds Of Stories So Much46:15 How Mara Feels About Scenarios Linked With Her Books Message48:40 What's The Major Takeaways From The Barley Corn Girl50:22 Has Mara Dealt With Lust & Love Like Her Book Describes51:24 AUDIOBOOK Discussion59:11 Closing ThoughtsAbout The Podcast:Authors By Us is a podcast focused on bridging the gap between readers and authors - going beyond the book to explore the real stories, experiences, and perspectives behind the pages.Each episode is designed to help you understand the author on a deeper level so by the end, it feels like you’ve just had a conversation with them yourself.Call To Action:If you enjoy conversations like this, make sure to subscribe for weekly episodes with authors sharing the real story behind their work.#authorinterview #authorpodcast #bookpodcast #writingpodcast #podcast #storytelling #behindthebook #authorsbyus #writerlife #authorlife #amwriting #booklovers #readersofyoutube #bookcommunity #writingcommunity #readers #writers #books #authorsofyoutube #podcastshowauthor interview podcast, book podcast for readers, storytelling podcast, behind the book podcast, author conversation podcast, writing podcast for authorsmeet the author podcast, how authors write books, author journey stories, writing process explained, books and authors discussion, reader and author connectiondeep dive author interview, podcast for book lovers, understanding authors, story behind the book, author insights podcast, writing and storytelling insights