Writing Plus-Size Romantasy: The Witch Queen, Indie Publishing & Powerful Older Heroines with Alexandria Arden

What does romantasy look like when the heroine is plus-size, over 30, powerful — and fully desired?In this episode, host Keshia interviews indie author Alexandria Arden about her romantasy debut, The Witch Queen. They discuss writing older heroines, plus-size representation in fantasy, deep political worldbuilding, and why Arden chose indie publishing over traditional routes.Alexandria shares:• Why she was tired of 20-year-old romantasy heroines• Creating Laurel — a confident, strong, plus-size queen• The “witch” label and the vilification of powerful women• How she plotted a massive fantasy using color-coded note cards• Representation gaps in romantasy and publishing’s marketing disparity• What’s coming in book two - The Shining Prince, out June 12, 2026 If you love body-positive romance, indie fantasy, and conversations about publishing transparency — this episode is for you.Remember, every body deserves a love story. 💛Follow Alley on InstagramFollow Alley on Tik TokSign up for Alley's newsletterCheck out Alley's websiteListen to the Romantasy Readers podcastCheck out her bookstagram