Try Reading Podcast

Try Reading All-Star and icon Laura R. Samotin is back on the pod this week! She's back to talk about all that has happened since debuting and what led her into the horror genre for her forthcoming book, The Way It Haunted Him. Laura discusses how a love for history and archives inspired this novel, how a cat helped sell it, the psychological aspects of writing a locked-room horror, and why it'd make a great theme park ride. Laura and I also rave about Heated Rivalry, obsess over vampires, and plot out an AO3 Heated Rivalry x medieval literature fanfic.Laura’s Links: https://linktr.ee/laurarsamotinTry Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

The iconic Keturah Maree, aka K.M. Colley, is on the pod this week! Keturah talks about her childhood love for reading and storytelling, how she met Morgan Freeman as a kid, and how details of her debut novel, The Roaring Ridleys, came from a childhood summer camp. Keturah talks about why she chose to set her book in 1920s New York City, how the video of her pitching the book to a stranger went viral, the importance of having diverse voices on the page, and why her book would make an amazing museum exhibit. Keturah and I discuss Cynthia Erivo's greatness, our favorite thriller shows, and much more!Keturah’s Links: linktr.ee/KeturahmareeTry Reading Links: linktr.ee/tryreading

Erin Baldwin is back on the podcast this week to talk all about the experience of putting her debut novel out into the world and diving into her sophomore novel, Good Luck, Babe! Erin discusses how The Amazing Race inspired this novel, how it feels to have a Chappell Roan song as a title, why representation is so important, especially now, and why there should be a writer's retreat themed off of her book. We talk about how Erin predicted the Heated Rivalry obsession, which Bob's Burgers characters should read Erin's books, and how we are living our own "Rise and Fall of an *East* Coast Princess" lives. Erin’s Links: https://bio.site/erinbTry Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

Angela Montoya and Melanie Schubert, two iconic Try Reading All-Stars, are back on the pod this week! Angela and Melanie are back to discuss their most recent joint endeavor: the Jingle These Bells holiday romance anthology! Melanie and Angela discuss what inspired them to create an anthology and they talk about the ups and downs of the creator and editorial journey. We talk about the stories each of us contributed to this book, our favorite holiday romances, and how spicy romance is becoming popularized beyond the book community. Angela’s Links: https://linktr.ee/AngelaMontoyWritesMelanie’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melanie_schubert_writer/Get your copy of Jingle These Bells: https://books2read.comListen to Of the Publishing Persuasion: https://linktr.ee/pubpersuasionTry Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading 

USA Today and nationally bestselling author and Try Reading All-Star, Kamilah Cole joins me on the pod this week! Kamilah talks about seeing readers fall in love with her debut novel and the process of writing and putting the sequel, This Ends In Embers, out into the world. She discusses the ups and downs of a second book, the new cover art, and what it was like concluding a duology. She talks about her excitement for her adult debut, An Arcane Inharentence, revealing the cover in People Magazine, the importance of diverse voices, and what readers can expect from this story.Kamilah’s Links: ⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/kamilahcole⁠⁠⁠Try Reading Links: ⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/tryreading

Try Reading All-Star, Jennifer Chen is back this week! Jennifer talks about seeing readers' reactions to her debut novel and the experience of doing research at the Huntington Library for a historical fiction novel. She shares what inspired Hangry Hearts, her sophomore novel, the choice behind writing dual POVs that alternate within the chapters, the importance of queer and BIPOC voices on the page, and the important work of sensitivity readers. Jennifer and I also discuss the Cowboy Carter tour, the Beyoncé song that best fits Hangry Hearts, the joys of farmers markets, and what readers can expect from Jennifer's third novel! Jennifer’s Links: https://linktr.ee/jchenwriterTry Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

Adeline Kon is on Try Reading this week! They join me to talk all about their debut graphic novel, Just Between Us. Adeline discusses their childhood love for reading and cartoons, how art school led them into graphic design and drawing cartoons, and how a deep dive of old olympic figure skating videos inspired their debut! They talk about the drawing and writing process of this book, the importance of authentic characters on the page, how love on the ice is all the rage right now, and why this book would be performed beautifully on the ice! Adeline’s Links: https://linktr.ee/crown_prinxeTry Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

This week on the podcast, I'm joined by the award-winning, Jonny Garza Villa! Jonny talks all about their early love for books and storytelling, what led them into writing, and the experience of publishing their debut novel. I of course ask Jonny all about Ander and Santi Were Here (a JGV favorite of many readers), and Jonny talks all about their most recent book Futbolista; what the inspiration was, the songs and musicians that inspired this story, why queer and Latine voices front and center is vital, and the varied experiences of discovering your identity. We also talk about the lore that Latine families hold, the horrors of college philosophy classes, Frank Ocean (of course), and Jonny's time as an incredible drag queen! Jonny’s Links: https://linktr.ee/jonnygarzavillaTry Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

This week, I'm joined by another amazing Try Reading All-Star, Elle Gonzalez Rose! Elle comes back on the podcast to talk about all that has happened since we chatted about her debut novel. Elle talks about quickly jumping from debut life to sophomore novel life, she talks about her pivot into writing thrillers and what it was like writing The Girl You Know. Elle describes her writing process for this book, the importance of authentic representation on the page, especially in academia settings, and she also talks about her fourth book, unofficially titled "Le-gay-ly Blonde". Elle and I discuss which of her books she'd recommend to Schitt's Creek characters, a favorite unpublished character of hers, and why her thriller would make a great true-crime podcast. Elle’s Links: https://linktr.ee/ellegonzalezroseTry Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

This week, I'm joined by the New York Times Bestselling author, F.T. Lukens! F.T. talks about their childhood love for reading and Dr. Seuss, their first experiences of writing stories, and the journey of publishing books through a small press compared to publishing under a major publishing house. F.T. talks about their most recent NYT Bestseller, Love at Second Sight, how many different research ventures inspired it, what the cover art process was like, the importance of LGBTQIA+ representation, why this book would make a great narrative podcast, and we discuss the perils of graphic design on Canva. F.T.’s Links: https://linktr.ee/ftlukensTry Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

On today's episode of Try Reading, I am joined by bestselling author and Try Reading-All Star, Ryan La Sala! Ryan comes back on the podcast to talk all about his latest instant bestseller, The Dead of Summer! Ryan talks about how a stroll on the beach and a pizza delivery during a storm inspired this novel, what it was like writing the first book in a duology but leaving more story to tell, and the important themes and messages Ryan placed in this story. We also talk about why this book would make a great musical, what went into Ryan's incredible social media book promo, how I will contribute to The Honeys movie adaptation, and so much more! Ryan’s Links: https://linktr.ee/ryanlasalaTry Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

On today's episode, I am joined by award-winning poet and author and Try Reading All-Star, Hannah V. Sawyerr! Hannah comes back on the podcast to chat with me about all that has happened since publishing her debut novel! She talks about watching readers find her stories, the experience of narrating her debut novel for the audio book, and then we dive into her latest publication, her sophomore novel in verse, Truth Is! Hannah talks about the inspiration of this book, what the writing journey was like, the importance of amplifying voices, and the power of slam poetry. We discuss the Cowboy Carter tour, share our favorite songs on the album, favorite moments from the concert, and so much more! Hannah’s Links: https://linktr.ee/hannsawyerrTry Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

On today's episode, New York Times Bestselling cartoonist and author, Gale Galligan, joins the Try Reading Podcast! Gale joins the pod to talk about their long-time love for stories, what led them to cartoons, how they became an assistant to Raina Telgemeier, and how Gale became the artist for the adaptations of four Baby-Sitters Club graphic novels! Gale talks about their favorite memories of adapting the BSC, their favorite BSC members, and they also talk about writing and illustrating their most recent graphic novel, Fresh Start. We talk about embarrassing middle school moments, how Gale ended up in a Netflix documentary, and so much more!Gale’s Website: ⁠https://galesaur.com⁠Try Reading Links: ⁠https://linktr.ee/tryreading

Today, I get the honor of chatting with another Try Reading All-Star, the internationally bestselling, Lauren Magaziner! Lauren joins me yet again on the podcast to catch up since our last chat. She talks about completing her middle grade fantasy series, The Mythics, and why it'd make a great puppet show. She talks about starting a new fantasy series and the journey of writing her latest book, The Incorruptibles, which was the first installment of this series. Lauren discusses the importance of authentic and loving representation, why it's valuable for readers to see themselves on the page, what readers can expect for the future of this new series, and much more! Lauren’s Website: https://laurenmagaziner.comTry Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

Today I am joined by Try Reading All-Star and internationally bestselling author, Bill Wood! This time, instead of talking about the world of BookTok, Bill joins me back on the podcast to talk all about his debut novel and the author world! Bill talks about the inspiration for his YA thriller, Let's Split Up, how he infused it with his love for Scooby-Doo and Scream, what it was like writing this book and then having it published through Scholastic, and writing the sequel. We also talk about the importance of representation, what horror movies we'd survive, the excitement of having Let's Split Up be adapted into a tv series, and much more!Bill’s Links: https://linktr.ee/billreadsTry Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

On today's episode, another Try Reading All-Star joins me back on the pod! Jessica Parra is back on Try Reading to talk all about life post-debut. She talks about the journey of putting her sophomore novel, The Quince Project, out into the world, what her Disneyland research process was like, and she even teases what might be coming next from her! We also discuss JLo's best movie being The Wedding Planner, having meet-cutes with actors at Disneyland, Diego Luna, and our personal recession indicators. Jessica’s Links: https://linktr.ee/jessicaparraTry Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

On today's episode I am joined by the USA Today Bestselling author, Racquel Marie! Racquel joins me on the podcast to talk about her most recent bestselling novel, If We Survive This. She talks about what led her into the horror genre, the journey of plotting this book, and what she hopes her readers will take away from her stories. We discuss what horror movies we'd survive, the Calico Critter theme park, and much more! Racquel’s Links: linktr.ee/RacquelMarieTry Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

On today's episode I am joined by a Try Reading All-Star: Angela Montoya! Angela is back on the podcast to chat about all that has happened since we last talked. We discuss the journey of publishing her sophomore novel, A Cruel Thirst, what readers can expect from her third novel, the experience of creating a holiday romance anthology, the best vampire media, and much more! Angela’s Links: https://linktr.ee/AngelaMontoyWritesTry Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

On the first episode of a new season of Try Reading, I am joined by the #1 New York Times Bestselling illustrator and author, Nikkolas Smith! Nikkolas joins me to discuss his childhood love for stories, what led him from Disney Imagineering to picture book art and writing, the experience of putting his debut out into the world, and his work as a film artist. Nikkolas shares his journey of making incredible concept art and a poster for Ryan Coogler's "Sinners". He also talks about his two most recent impactful and important books and how he hopes his work will continue to inspire readers.Nikkolas’s Links: bio.site/nikkolas_smithNikkolas’s Website: www.NIKKOLAS.artTry Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading 

On the finale of the Try Reading Podcast I had the honor of being joined by the incredible Tigest Girma! While this is a sad moment knowing the podcast is ending, I am SO excited that I got the honor of chatting with Tigest! Tigest joined me for episode 68 to talk about her early love for reading, how she fell in love with paranormal romance, her Wattpad days, what inspired her debut novel; Immortal Dark, how her publishing journey has been, what kept her motivated, the importance of seeing Black vampires on the page, Tigest shares her excitement for debut day, her hopes for the future of this book and her writing, and so many more incredible stories and wisdom! Thank you to all of the amazing listeners who have tuned-in to the podcast since the beginning! ❤️Tigest’s Linktree: https://linktr.ee/tigestgirmaTry Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

On the penultimate episode of Try Reading, I had the immense honor of being joined by the incredible Logan-Ashley Kisner! Logan-Ashley joined me to talk about his love for stories that began as a little kid, how he fell in love with horror, what inspired his debut; Old Wounds, he shares all about his journey of writing his YA horror, how spite and love equally motivated him, the roller coaster called querying, the importance of authentic trans voices in storytelling, what Logan-Ashley is most excited for when debut day comes around, why Canva is a constant struggle, his advice for aspiring writers, and so many more words of wisdom! Logan-Ashley’s Linktree: https://linktr.ee/transhorrorTry Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

On today’s episode, I am joined by the marvelous Lauren Ling Brown! Lauren joined me to talk about her early love for reading, how she fell in love with writing, and what inspired her debut novel, Society of Lies (an adult psychological dark academia thriller set at Princeton University). She also talks about her excitement for pub day, the roller coaster of emotions this journey has brought her, her advice to aspiring BIPOC thriller authors, the importance of diverse voices and thought-provoking conversations, her favorite characters in her debut, and much more! Lauren’s Linktree: https://linktr.ee/laurenlingbrownTry Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

For episode 65, I had the honor of being joined by the author Nell Cross Beckerman! Nell joined me to talk about her love for reading that began the day she was born, what made her fall in love with picture books, what inspired her debut that got published during a worldwide lockdown, how a pivot in publishing inspired her most recent book, the experience of immersing herself and her illustrator into the Park to Playa Trail, why she loves books about nature, Nell shares some amazing advice and wisdom, and so much more! Nell’s Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nellcrossbeckerman Try Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

On today's episode, I am joined by the iconic and beyond lovely Melanie Schubert!! She is the author of the horror short story, Severed Cape from the Castle of Horror Anthology (Volume 11: Revenge)!! It was such an honor to interview Melanie and learn about her early love for books, her enjoyment of reading fantasy books she was too young for as a kid, why she's always loved horror even if she didn't always know it, Melanie shares all about the journey of joining the Castle of Horror Anthology, we give out podcasting awards, we scream and cry about THINGS, we discuss the importance of cloacas, Melanie gives some amazing wisdom and advice, and we of course obsess over Angela Montoya and Jessica Parra. This episode is full of amazing vibes and big magic energy! Purchase Castle of Horror Volume 11: https://bookshop.org/p/books/castle-of-horror-anthology-volume-11-revenge-alethea-kontis/21429282?ean=9798989593460 Melanie’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melanie_schubert_writer/?hl=en Listen to Of The Publishing Persuasion: https://ofthepublishingpersuasion.wordpress.com/ Try Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

Today's episode is for the girls, gays, theys, and the neighs! I had the pleasure of talking with the true Hot Queen, Ryan La Sala!!! Ryan joined me for episode 63 to talk about his early experience with reading, why LARPing made him the author he is today, the up and down journey of their debut, what led Ryan into horror writing, Ryan talks all about the process of writing Beholder and how an actual penthouse party inspired the opening scene. Ryan gives amazing writing advice and wisdom, we discuss the trauma of being attacked by bees, and so much more! Ryan’s Linktree: ⁠https://linktr.ee/ryanlasala⁠ Try Reading Links: ⁠https://linktr.ee/tryreading

On today's episode I am joined by the amazing Jill Tew, debut author of The Dividing Sky (10/08/24)!!! Jill talks about her early love for reading, we agree that Anne (of Green Gables) would run her own romance imprint nowadays, Jill talks all about her love for dystopia and sci-fi, what inspired her debut, what her publishing journey has been like at Joy Revolution, why she's happy she was overruled in the cover process, why TDS should be an immersive experience, her favorite Bluey characters, and much more! I had the best time chatting with Jill! Jill’s Linktree: https://linktr.ee/jilltew Try Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

For episode 61, I had the honor of interviewing Sydney Langford, author of The Loudest Silence (7/30/24)!! Sydney joined me to talk about their debut novel, which is a YA coming of age with amazing queer a disability representation! Sydney talked about their early dislike of reading, the first book with queer and disability rep they read, what inspired their debut, how they wrote their book in a month, their advice for aspiring writers, we bond over our love for Julie and the Phantoms and The Half of It, Sydney shares why TLS would make a great song and graphic novel, and so much more! Sydney’s Linktree: https://linktr.ee/slangwrites Try Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

I am joined by a very special bookstagrammer and editor for episode 60! I had the honor of talking with the lovely Sophie Schmidt (aka @mindofabookdragon)! Sophie joined me to talk about her immense love for books and reading, what led her into publishing and what she loves about being an editor. She talks about starting her blog and bookstagram account in high school, her childhood start to journalism, maxing out her library card, why books and the community they form is so important, advice for anyone interested in working in publishing, and so much more! Sophie’s Linktree: https://linktr.ee/mindofabookdragon Try Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

On today's episode, I have the honor of being joined by the debut author, Cindy R. X. He! Cindy's debut thriller is Perfect Little Monsters and she joins me for episode 59 to talk about it! Cindy talks about her early love for reading and spending hours with her nose in a book, she shares the age at which she started reading Stephen King (too early in her opinion). She also talks about what inspired her debut novel, why she loves thrillers and horrors, what this debut journey has been like, what some of her favorite thriller/horror movies are, she shares her writing advice, and her hopes to see photos of her book on shelves! Cindy’s Website: https://www.cindyrxhe.com/ Cindy’s Linktree: https://linktr.ee/cindyrxhe Try Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

Today I have the amazing honor of interviewing the marvelous debut author, KT Hoffman! KT is the author of The Prospects, which is a trans baseball romance full of queer joy and baseball love! On this episode KT talks about his early love for reading and his longing to feel represented in stories, he shares how writing historicals led him to his debut, KT shares all about his love for baseball, his love for his characters, and his excitement and nervousness for the release of his debut. He also shares some amazing wisdom and writing advice! KT’s Linktree: https://linktr.ee/squashgoblin Try Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

On episode 57, I am joined by the debut author, Myah Hollis! Myah is the author of Not About a Boy (7/2/24), which is a YA contemporary about mental health and finding a sister you never knew you had. Myah talks about how she began this book when she was in high school and how our lord and savior Twilight slightly inspired her debut. Because Myah is a Twilight stan, she convinces me to read all of the books. Myah also talks about the process of publishing her debut, why she appreciated going into publishing blindly, what she's most excited for, why her debut would make a great album, scorpio men *eye roll*, amazing writing advice and so much more! Myah’s Linktree: https://linktr.ee/myahhollis Try Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

I had the biggest honor of getting to interview the amazing and marvelous Elba Luz for episode 56! Elba joins me to talk about her debut novel, Build a Girlfriend (Fall 2024). On this episode Elba explains how getting grounded and failing 6th grade caused her to love books, she shares how our tía JLO inspired her debut, we discover that Elba and I are cousins (I know, it's amazing), Elba gives some amazing writing advice, we share regrets about not investing in Zoom or Google, she shares why her book would slay as a video game, we obsess over Schitt's Creek, and so much more! This episode is full of magnificent chaos and I hope you love it as much as I do! Elba’s Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Elbaluz Try Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

For the 55th episode, I am joined by the debut author Wen-yi Lee! Wen-yi is the author of The Dark We Know (8/13/24) and she joins me to discuss her debut novel. On today's episode, Wen-yi talks about her childhood love for reading, maxing-out her library card, why she has PTSD from the aliens in Mars Attack, what musicals inspired her debut, why TDWK would make a great graphic novel, her writing advice, and we bond over our identities as musical theater kids. Wen-yi’s Linktree: https://linktr.ee/wenyilee_ Try Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

Today on Try Reading, Erin Baldwin, debut author of Wish You Weren't Here (6/4/24), joins me! Erin talks about her early love for reading, the inspiration for her debut, working at a summer camp, what TK really means in publishing, her advice for writers and her younger self, hockey eras, and much more! Erin’s Bio Site: https://bio.site/erinb Try Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

On episode 53, I get to sit down and chat with the debut author, Laura R. Samotin! Laura joins me to talk about her debut novel, The Sins On Their Bones (5/7/24), which is a queer, Jewish, dark fantasy romance. Laura and I begin the podcast by bonding over our shared love for So Let Them Burn, she gives a live reading of her first fantasy novel she wrote at 8 years-old, I learn about the inspiration for TSOTB and all about Laura's journey to publishing. She shares some amazing advice for her younger self and advice for any aspiring authors, and so much more! Laura’s Linktree: https://linktr.ee/laurarsamotin Try Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

On today's episode of season three, I'm joined by an amazing guest from season one! Maddie, aka, @love.from.maddie joins me to discuss why she left book content creation, what her time has been like after leaving, and her advice and experience is so inspiring! Of course we also discuss the latest Heartstopper news and updates, sob over Nick and Charlie, scream at Netflix, answer some 2023 Book Tag questions, spill some bookish tea, and so much more! This episode is not only perfectly chaotic, but it will also give you some amazing advice and book recs, so don't miss it! Maddie’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/love.from.maddie/ Maddie’s Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/user/dap54asvibbw0b2c72796yhvb?si=69674af60b2c4952 Maddie’s Pinterest: https://pin.it/4ljd7gc Try Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

We're back!!! On the first episode of season 3, I get the honor of interviewing Jessica Arrieta, the BookTokker and Bookstagrammer who's best known as @exclusivepalmbeachliving! On this episode, Jessica talks about her beginning to the book world, how the library was her safe space as a teen, her first impressions of BookTok, what being a book content creator has been like, the importance of diversity and representation, and of course, we dive into some Latinx book recs! Don't miss this fabulous start to season three! Jessica’s Beacons Page: https://beacons.ai/exclusivepalmbeachliving Try Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

It's the season finale! I cannot believe that we're already nearing the end of 2023 and ending yet another iconic season of Try Reading. For this fantastic finale, I am joined by the debut author, Anthony Nerada! Anthony is the author of Skater Boy (2/6/24) and he joins me to talk about this fantastic story! Anthony shares about his dream of being a director as a kid, his un-published fantasy novels, the inspiration for Skater Boy, what he hopes readers will take away from reading his work, and so much more! Anthony’s Website: https://anthonynerada.com/ Anthony’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anthonynerada/ Anthony’s TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@anthonynerada Anthony’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/AnthonyNerada Preorder Skater Boy: https://bookshop.org/shop/tryreading Add Skater Boy on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62693157-skater-boy Try Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

I had the BEST time talking with the iconic Kamilah Cole on today's episode! She is the author of So Let Them Burn, which is her debut novel releasing on 1/16/24! Kamilah has so many incredible stories; she talks about her early love for mystery books, we bond over our obsession of The Magic Treehouse, we talk about bee-related horror stories, Kamilah shares about the long journey of writing her debut and how Zendaya's Joan of Arc outfit was a big factor in the story, she gives her advice for aspiring writers, shares her favorite dragon media, and so much more! Kamilah’s Website: https://www.kamilah-cole.com Kamilah’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wordsiren/ Kamilah’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/wordsiren Preorder So Let Them Burn: https://bookshop.org/shop/tryreading Add So Let Them Burn on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61219118-so-let-them-burn Add The Sinister Elite on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/178251418-the-sinister-elite Add ‘So Let Them Burn 2’ on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61264897-untitled Try Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

On today's episode, I am joined by the icon and powerhouse, Carmen Alvarez, aka, @tomesandtextiles! Carmen joins me to talk about her life as a book lover and book content creator. She tells me how her love for reading began, what her first impressions of BookTok were, we discuss the importance of representation and diversity (especially for Latinx books), Carmen shares her favorite Latinx books and authors, she gives some stellar advice, and so much more! This episode is full of inspiration, amazing stories, and lots of laughs, so you don't want to miss it! Carmen’s Links: https://linktr.ee/tomesandtextiles Try Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

On today's episode I get the pleasure of chatting with the debut author, Erin Cotter! Erin joins me to talk about her debut novel, By Any Other Name. She talks about her love for historicals that has been there since childhood, I learn about the inspiration for BAON and what the research process was like for writing a historical novel, Erin talks about the journey of publishing, which playwright should adapt BAON, her advice to her younger self, and so many more amazing stories! Erin also wanted to mention, the author of That Self-Same Metal is Brittany N. Williams, not Brittany Morris. Erin’s Website: https://www.erincotterwrites.com/ Erin’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/erinseaotter/ Purchase By Any Other Name: https://bookshop.org/shop/tryreading Try Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

Today I am joined by the fabulous icon, Francis Dominic, aka, @fdreads! We talk all about Francis's journey onto bookstagram and what it has been like, Francis talks about the break he took from books because of the lack of representation, I learn all about his Disneyland and Heartstopper obsessions, he convinces me to read Fourth Wing, and so much more! This episode is not to be missed. Francis’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/francisdominiic/?hl=en Francis’s Bookstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fdreads/?hl=en Francis’s TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@francisdominiic?lang=en Francis’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/francisdominiic Francis’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/francisdominic Try Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

I am so excited to be joined by the fabulous Avery Palmieri, or @averylaylap on BookTok! Avery is not only an iconic content creator, but she is also a book podcaster! She is the host of the amazing book podcast: Shut Up I'm Reading. On today's episode, Avery talks about her beginning to reading and how she didn't always like reading, what inspired her to start a BookTok account, the ups and downs of being a content creator, the inspiration for her book club, the best parts about hosting a book podcast, her favorite classic novels, and so much more! If you aren't following Avery on TikTok or listening to her podcast, this is your sign to follow her and get obsessed with her podcast! Enjoy the episode! Avery’s BookTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@averylaylap?lang=en Listen to Shut Up I’m Reading: https://open.spotify.com/show/0Pf2jmvHltbDIXJDTbGhDY?si=6dd86a7c13ea47b6 Avery’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/avery_palmieri/ Avery’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@averylaylap Try Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

Rachael Cohen is an author, a spiritual and soul coach, an energy worker and intuitive medium, and a plant connector. She is also the amazing guest on episode 44! Today I have the biggest honor of interviewing Rachael all about her books and how she merged her love for plants with her love for books. Rachael talks about how she's always loved books and reading, how she fell in love with the magic and healing power of plants, the exciting journey of publishing her debut, the importance of being kind and helping mother nature, why grief, love, anger, and joy is equally important, and so much more! Rachael’s Website: https://www.infinitesucculent.com/ Rachael’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/infinitesucculent/ Rachael’s TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@infinitesucculent Rachael’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InfiniteSucculent Purchase Rachael’s Books: https://bookshop.org/shop/tryreading Try Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

Today I have the honor of being joined by the amazing author K. Sterling! K is the author of many self published MLM romance novels and today we talk a lot about her most recent series, the Nannies of New York! K talks about her beginning love for books, the experience of publishing her debut, the process of writing the Last Nanny in Manhattan, the freedom of being an indie author, her excitement for her next series, the best part of being an author, and so much more! K’s Website: https://www.ksterlingbooks.com/ K’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_ksterling_/?hl=en K’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/_ksterling_?lang=en Purchase K’s Books: https://bookshop.org/shop/tryreading Preorder Nelson and MacIlwraith: https://a.co/d/5S1YLyU Try Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

On episode 42, I have the honor of being joined by the debut author, Miranda Sun! Today Miranda and I talk all about her debut novel, If I Have To Be Haunted (9/26/23)! I learn about Miranda's upbringing and how reading and writing was a big part of her childhood, she talks about the process of writing her debut and how it's been ten years in the making, Miranda shares about the cover process, the most important aspects of her book, and the long but hilarious journey of picking a title. Miranda’s Website: https://www.themirandasun.com/ Miranda’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themirandasun/ Miranda’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/halcyonpen Miranda’s TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themirandasun Preorder If I Have To Be Haunted: https://linktr.ee/themirandasun Add If I Have To Be Haunted on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/75498172 Try Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

Today I am joined by the lovely Angela Montoya, debut author of Sinner's Isle! This episode is full of laughter, lovely stories, and inspiration. Angela talks about her first (never-to-be-published) book that could have made her an official Kardashian, how the inspiration for Sinner's Isle came about, what getting the call from Joy Revolution was like, why Sinner's Isle should be a Disneyland ride, and so much more! You'll get it all on episode 41 and you will fall in love with Angela and her stories. Angela’s Website: https://www.angelamontoyawrites.com/ Angela’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelamontoya_author/ Angela’s TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@angelamontoya_author?lang=en Angela’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/montoyasangel Preorder Sinner’s Isle: https://bookshop.org/shop/tryreading Add Sinner’s Isle on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/60197376 Listen to Of The Publishing Persuasion: https://open.spotify.com/show/0u1jCN4aj31kV0GnkfqRno?si=6f921c6624b144cc Try Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

Jennifer Chen, the journalist and debut author of Artifacts of an Ex (11/14/23) joins me on the podcast today! Jennifer is such an insightful person and she's full of inspiring stories and fantastic advice. She talks all about the beginning of her love for books and reading, what querying her never-published book was like, what led her to writing her debut, the things she can't wait for once it releases, her writer advice and so much more! Jennifer’s Website: https://jchenwriter.com/ Jennifer’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jchenwriter/ Jennifer’s TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jchenwriter Jennifer’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/jchenwriter/ Preorder Artifacts of an Ex: https://bookshop.org/shop/tryreading Add Artifacts of an Ex on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/65213388-artifacts-of-an-ex Try Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

Today I sit down and chat with the debut author, Victoria Wlosok! Victoria is the debut author of How to Find a Missing Girl (out 9/19/23). Victoria talks all about her beginning to the writing world, golden retriever fan-fiction, the inspiration for her debut novel, what thriller/mystery movies and shows she loves, and so much more! You do not want to miss out on this amazing, mystery-filled episode! Victoria’s Website: https://www.victoriawlosok.com/ Victoria’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xvictoriawrites/ Victoria’s TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@xvictoriawrites?lang=en Victoria’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/xvictoriawrites Preorder How to Find a Missing Girl: https://bookshop.org/shop/tryreading Request How to Find a Missing Girl on NetGalley: https://www.netgalley.com/catalog/book/288211 Add How to Find a Missing Girl on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/75593507-how-to-find-a-missing-girl Try Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

Put your hands in the air for today's amazing guest! I am joined by the poet and debut author Hannah V. Sawyerr! Hannah joins me on the Try Reading Podcast to talk about her debut novel, All The Fighting Parts. We discuss the journey of publishing her debut, getting chosen for the Indie's Introduce Picks, what performing poetry live is like, how Hannah burned some of her arcs and so much more! Hannah’s Website: https://www.hannahsawyerr.com/ Hannah’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannsawyerr/ Hannah’s TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hannahsawyerr Hannah’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/HannSawyerr Add All The Fighting Parts on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/58997615 Preorder All The Fighting Parts: https://bookshop.org/shop/tryreading Try Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading