Swords & Sapphics

In this week’s episode we talk about Mira’s Story with author Nikki Ali, exploring how the novel balances romance and erotica through the lens of social activism. Nikki also tells us about her writing guides and passion projects, which we were lucky enough to be part of last year!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us as we interview the lovely Francesca McMahon about their fantasy YA novel, The Spiral of Life. We chatted about everything from the first idea for the story, the mythology that inspired it, to Francesca trying their hand at blacksmithing, too!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Spend this week's episode with us as we each share 25 things that bring us joy and make us happy! And don't forget to let us know some of yours. Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For this week's episode, we finally sat down with an audiobook narrator! Frankie Porter walked us through the process of narrating an audiobook, from picking the right project for her to learning about the characters and finding their voices. It was so lovely to learn all the work that goes into creating this version of storytelling! So don't forget to tune in (and get some of our audiobook recommendations).Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back! After a little hiatus, the first episode of season five (FIVE!) is out now! As is usual, we kicked it off with a little catch up of what media we're currently loving and shared what we would like to achieve this year.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For our newest episode, we were joined by Maddie Martinez to chat about her debut sapphic novel, The Maiden and Her Monster. We talked about the Golem of Prague legend that inspired the story, how Maddie created the fantasy languages, and so much more!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, catch up with the sapphics for their final episode before their September break. We talk all about our current interests, including games, shows, and books, plus look back on some of our early queer experiences — before we knew queer was even a thing!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our guest for this week's episode was the wonderful Olivia Dade, author of our favourite Spoiler Alert series (among many others) and her new upcoming supernatural book, Zomromcom. Listen to us fangirl- I mean, learn about how Olivia chose to balance the combination of zombies and romcom, about where she gets her inspiration and so much more!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Listen to our new episode to meet Miranda Mundt, the creator of queer graphic novel, Muted. We learned all about their process, their inspiration and how they got their originally Webtoon comics traditionally published. Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For our newest episode, we were joined by Kelly Farmer to chat about her sapphic superhero book, Secret Spark, and the upcoming sequel, Fanning the Flames. Our conversation involved everything superheroes, villains and the normies who can't get insurance in the cities full of superpowered people.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For what was supposed to be last week's episode until someone (Ivy) messed up the schedule, we sat down with author Annie Bennet to chat about her new achillean cozy fantasy Somewhere New. We asked about her inspiration for the story, learned about Annie's love for Teen Wolf fan fiction (we can relate), and also talked about her crime series that she writes under her real name, Anna Britton.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We were lucky enough to chat with Brenna Bailey for this week’s episode! Listen now to learn all about her newest book in the Juniper Creek universe, And They Were Neighbors, as well as her focus on characters in their golden years, her freelance editing business, and her struggles with writer’s block.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We prepare for our first break of the season this week with a one-on-one catch-up about everything we're enjoying - including all things Sims 4 (buckle in; it gets weird). We then answer some questions from our much appreciated listeners about writing, upcoming publishing plans, and the journey so far as indie and trad authors.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We have a returning guest this week! Rebecca Thorne is back to update us about all things Tea and Tomes, including how she wrote a wedding heist and what's next for beloved characters Kianthe and Reyna. Plus, she shares some valuable publishing insight and updates us on what's changed from her first episode with us as an indie author in season one to now.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode, we get apocalyptic with L.M. Juniper, chatting all about his zombie novel HOW WE END alongside the vast array of representation it features, including the importance of Asian and trans identities within the genre. We also get excited for L.M.'s upcoming sapphic romantasy and explore the importance of found family at the end of the world.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we chat with author and tattoo artist Samantha Leigh about her queer literary romance novel, Joy, including the book's Liverpudlian roots, how the characters came to life, what it was like to work with a small northern press, and future plans!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For this week's episode, we were joined by Stephanie Burgis to talk about her new romantasy book, Wooing the Witch Queen. She told us all about the first book in the Queens of Villany series, what we can be excited about next, and where she finds her inspiration to write new stories after creating over 50 of them!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our first guest of this season is the author of Modern Divination, Isa Agajanian. We talked about what inspired this book, all the changes it went through, and Isa's experience in both indie and trad publishing. They also teased a few more projects they're working on (we're so excited).Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’re back for season 4! Join us for a catch up where we share how we’re staving off the winter blues, not just with our usual media, but also with our beloved hobbies. Plus, find out what we have planned for the coming year!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, we're wraping up season 3 of Swords & Sapphics. It's been one hell of a year, so for today's episode, we've decided to take a look back at our accomplishments and joys. We also shared what we're excited about or would like to do next year! Thank you all for being part of our journey. We can't wait to show you what we have planned. We wish you happy holidays and a happy New Year!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For our newest episode, we were joined by our last guest of the year – Kitty Murphy! We asked about the inspiration behind her Dublin Drag Mysteries series, how she fell in love with drag, what type of research, if any, she does for her murders (visiting an autopsy was mentioned), and so much more!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s episode, we’re lucky enough to sit down with talented rock siren Poesy to chat all about her songwriting process and what her upcoming EP means to her, as well as the similarities and differences between writing prose. Plus, Epic the Musical fans will be thrilled to hear more about how Poesy came to play the role of Hera in The Wisdom Saga.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we picked out ten books we'd like to finish before the end of the year. Get a glimpse into our TBR and wish us luck as we try to combat our reading slumps!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we sit down with Webtoon creator Wendy Martin to chat all things Castle Swimmer! She tells us about how she came to pursue art and storytelling, the differences between Webtoon vs. traditional publishing, and her interest in fantastical sea creatures. Listen to our episode now and then be sure to dive into the first volume of this heartwarming achillean underwater romance! Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're getting into the autumn spirit this week as we chat with author and commissioning editor Nadia El-Fassi about her brand new steamy bi romantasy, Best Hex Ever. Listen to our latest episode to discover more about how Nadia began writing this perfect, witchy romance, why including Moroccan ties and a unique magic system was important to them, and what may be next for some of the fun side characters! Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For this week's episode, we were joined by The Liverpool Literary Agency's Laura Bennett. She shared with us how she became a literary agent, what she loves about it and other things about the job, that might come as a surprise to us all. And if you're a writer looking to be represented, you will learn a few tips on how to pick and query an agent!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we sit down with the lovely author, editor, and PhD student Ali Williams, also known as Ellie Rose, to talk about her experience of queerness and neurodiversity, and how they are represented alongside romance and kink both in her books and in her studies. We also explore her love of retellings in the Godstouched Universe, from the local myths of her Irish and Italian heritage to Greek pantheons. Her newest work, Flogging Faith, is out this Thursday - don't miss it!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For this week's episode we sat down with Jennifer J. Coldwater, the author of When Ivy Met Adam. We chatted about the book (and the strange similarities between book Ivy and our Ivy) and the unusual but wonderful mix of queerness and religion in Jennifer's work.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we sit down with award-winning author, Barbara Havelocke, to chat about her newest novel, Estella's Revenge, which follows the famous Miss Havisham's daughter. We talk all about female rage, genre, and Great Expectations, with insight into how Barbara's background in true crime journalism helps her to step into the powerful shoes of her main character!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we properly introduce Swords, Sapphics & Scribbles with the ongoing month-long writing event #CampPride. We also share what we need before sitting down to write our own WIPs and what we do to reward ourselves (because that's always needed).Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dearest gentle listener, these podcasters have much to say about the newest season of Bridgerton. After a much needed catch up, we share our thoughts on the popular regency show's latest installment, including our love for Nicola Coughlan and the introduction of not one, but two, queer storylines.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're back after our short break! This week, we bring you an interview with award-winning crime author Rachel McLean. She tells us how she plots her murders (fictional, of course), how she came to write full-time with the Dorset Crime series, and how her own relationship to her sexuality inspired main character DCI Lesley Clarke's journey as a later-in-life lesbian. Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For this week's episode we were joined by another podcasting duo – the Librorians! We found out how they started their podcast and what listeners can find when tuning in. They shared what they love about working in a library, but also what it's like these days, especially with all the book bans happening across the US.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we bring you a very exciting episode! We chat about A Sweet Sting of Salt with none other than Rose Sutherland! She told us how this wonderful story came to be, what inspired her writing and perhaps a little tease on what comes next. Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode, we have a guest you might already be familiar with – Merlina Garance. We chat about their Achillean Book Bingo, what both readers and writers can expect from this wonderful event, and then we share some recommendations!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For this week's episode, we've watched two queer movies, Good Grief and Bottoms, and chatted about them! We of course started with a catch-up and ended up spilling some book twitter tea (we also hated on Taylor Swift, so be aware).Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In our second episode of the new season, we bring an exciting interview with Oliver Brackenbury, the editor of New Edge Swords & Sorcery magazine. He shares some exciting secrets and lots of his plans for the future, as well as everything readers and fans of the genre can expect next!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WE. ARE. BACK! Season 3 is here and we're kicking it off with a catch up. After Rach shows off her Czech vocabulary, she spills lots and lots of tea from the end of last year so get ready for some great laughs. We end the episode by sharing what are our goals and dreams for 2024!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, after our usual catch-up on what we’re currently enjoying, in which we dive into a conversation about Grey’s (shocker, I know, who could have seen this coming), we share our thoughts on the new season of Heartstopper! Then we chat about NaNoWriMo and how we're doing. And before we say our goodbyes, Rach spills some tea!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Boo! The scariest time of the year is upon us: preptober. After our usual catch up, we shortly talk about how we get into the Halloween spirit, our small spooky traditions, and our favourite scary media to consume during these weeks. Then we dive into the yearly subject of how we're preparing for NaNoWriMo.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After a little break, we're back with quite the exciting episode. This week, we chat with the lovely Rachel Runya Katz, the author of Thank You For Sharing. We talk about her book, what inspired them to write it, and what we can expect from her next!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we decided to share a secret... Yes, the rumours are true. We're neurodivergent. After our usual catch-up, we talk about how we figured out we're autistic and ADHD respectively and we share how it impacts our life, as well as our media and creative experiences.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After our usual media catch-up, we share our thoughts on the Red, White & Royal Blue movie and compare this new adaptation to the book by Casey McQuiston. At the end of this episode, we answer some of our listener's questions in a new segment!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is not a drill – we are back! After a small break, we are returning with a new episode in which we simply catch up on all the things we're enjoying. We, of course, close the episode with a little bit of tea to spill and some ongoing drama in the book community.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After we catch up on what we're currently enjoying as usual, we dive into what might be a painful subject to some... marketing. In Episode 6, we discussed our writing processes and in Episode 8, we talked about publishing your book. Now it's time to talk about how to market your little brainchild! Ivy offers her expert insights on how to approach marketing and what channels might be the best for you when promoting your story.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After we catch up on what we're currently enjoying, we dive into the broad subject of publishing. In Episode 6, we discussed our writing processes, but what comes next? Find outwith our published author, Rach, who shares her views and tips on both indie and traditional publishing, and how to get your manuscript ready for readers!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we dived into another activity we enjoy and a subject we mention here and there: gaming. We discuss the games we are currently loving and then head back in time to look at our gaming journey and share what games we loved as kids. The spot of this week's "Forgotten Women in History" belongs to Mary Elizabeth Anderson, the inventor ofwindshield wipers.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Extra Tea Hour is our new episode feature, in which we have a little chat (okay, a rant) about current social media discourse making the rounds, usually within the book community or pop culture. This week, we discuss the varying attitudes towards representation and diversity in literature, discussing what these words really mean to marginalised identities and how hostility within the industry is sometimes misdirected towards individual authors when it comes to marginalisation. We argue that instead of expecting a multitude of representations from one author who is unqualified to write from so many perspectives, we should hold publishers accountable for their underrepresentation of certain identities. Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As always, we catch up with our current reads as well as the shows we’re currently watching. Then, in honour of Camp NaNoWriMo month, we talk about our writing challenges, works in progress, and how we feel about setting our books in places we know well. As usual, random tangents may be included.Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We are back after quite the hiatus! Ivy kicks the episode off with her new segment in whichshe introduces a woman forgotten in history, then as usual, we catch up on what we're currently consuming. Rach tells us all about the Indie Author Spring Festival about which youcan find more details in our article before we dive into Netflix's new season of Shadow and Bone! We discuss the made disservice to the characters and how rushing storylines is never really a good idea.Last but not least, Ivy spills some Selena Gomez x Hailey Bieber tea and takes over Rach's attempts at promoting her new book Summer at the Scottish Castle which is out now!Theme song: Forces of Attraction by Scott Holmes Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.