Heartracers

We're BACK! Sierra has a book publishing and Claire is opening a second store location and WOW do we have a lot to talk about! Plus the authors to introduce you too...whoo! We kick off season 3 with the chatter and laughs that you know and love.

We talked with prolific author, Rex Ogle (over 100 books!) about his career writing MG, YA, and graphic novels, and about finding and maintaining joy.Find all his books here.

Claire and Sierra talk about how authors can work with indie bookstores, including the author's perspective of walking into a bookstore, and the bookseller perspective of authors walking in (hint: they're very different!) Then we welcomed audiobook narrator Megan Wicks to talk about the ins and outs of audiobook narration! Megan began narrating in 2022 and has quickly become a sought-after voice in the romance and fantasy world. With a diverse portfolio that spans 15 audiobooks in only a few years, Megan has showcased her versatility by working across multiple genres, bringing stories to life with her unique vocal talent. Her collaborations with acclaimed authors such as Kandi Steiner and Liz Tomforde have solidified her reputation as a top-tier narrator.Follow her @meganwicks on Instagram.

Christy Mandin is a New York Times bestselling children's book author and illustrator. She grew up in rural Georgia and credits her country life of solitude as an only child for much of her love of books and nature. You'll find this love of nature along with nostalgia, magic, and whimsy woven into the fabric of her art. When she isn't drawing she can be found gardening, beekeeping, or cozied up with a cup of coffee and the latest period drama on BBC or PBS. Christy currently lives in Georgia with her husband, 4 children, and a menagerie of animals and insects.Order her incredible books here:Bittersweet: Based on the True Tale of the Berlin Candy BombersMillie Fleur's Poison GardenMillie Fleur Saves the NightMillie Fleur's Pumpkin Problem

What are preorders? Why do they matter? What can readers do to pay attention to preorders? Claire and Sierra discuss this and what they mean for both authors, booksellers, AND readers!

Sierra surprises Claire with a ROMANCE AUTHOR MYSTERY GUEST (Alicia), and Claire tries hard to guess who it is. It's Alicia Thompson! She is the author of four hit novels, and graciously discusses author newsletters, her path to publishing, and how to break into publishing romance books.Buy her books:Love in the Time of Serial KillersWith Love, from Cold WorldThe Art of Catching FeelingsNever Been ShippedIn Every Possible Way (Preorder!!)

We were delighted to welcome the cover artist behind books like BK Borison's First Time Caller, Myriam Strasbourg! She is an incredibly talented artist and you can see her work at @peaches.obviously on Instagram. She talks about how she got started in cover design, going from indie to becoming a very in-demand designer by Big 5 publishers. https://www.myriamstrasbourg.com/

We talked to the incredible NYT bestselling author and Reese pick, Andrea Bartz, about her career trajectory including pandemic setbacks and what's next. We also touch on the landmark case, Bartz v. Anthropic. Buy Andrea's books!The Last Ferry OutThe Spare RoomWe Were Never HereThe HerdThe Lost Night

Claire and Sierra talk about the recent Threads discussion among writers that suggested readers want shorter novels; Sierra brings the pacing and writing perspective while Claire brings the "what's selling" POV. We also talked to author Christina Dotson, whose novel Love You To Death is a dynamite, fast-paced thriller with Thelma and Louise vibes.Buy it:Love You To Death by Christina Dotson

We welcomed back our first return author guest - Liz Parker! Her new book, The Witches of Honeysuckle House, has special preorder goodies (order ahead of its October 21, 2025 pub date). We talk PR boxes, laugh a lot, and discuss why Claire isn't on the group chat!!Order Liz's books:The Witches of Honeysuckle HouseIn the Shadow GardenThe Other March Sisters

Claire and Sierra discuss author PR boxes, and talk to Gretchen Schaffer and Nicole Meier from Bookworks, a boutique author branding firm with a ton of great ideas for every author at any stage of their career. Bookworks helps writers of all genres build an authentic author presence that gets their stories noticed. Combining book coaching and branding insight, they guide writers to expand their creative community and connect with ideal readers. Find Bookworks at bookworks.co, Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/bookworks.co/and https://bookworksgretchenandnicole.substack.com/.

We talked to Mark Waddell, author of Colin Gets Promoted and Dooms the World!Mark Waddell grew up on the cold, windswept prairies of western Canada and later earned a Ph.D. in the history of science, medicine, and technology from the Johns Hopkins University. After teaching at Michigan State University for fifteen years, he and his husband moved to Vancouver Island. When not writing, he plays the viola in the Civic Orchestra of Victoria, walks his dogs on the beach, and slays fearsome monsters in Dungeons & Dragons.Buy:Colin Gets Promoted and Dooms the WorldThe Body in the Back Garden

On this special SILVER ANNIVERSARY 25th episode, Sierra and Claire talk about their season, take listener questions, and talk a little about their process bookselling (Claire, obvs), and writing and publishing (Sierra, obvs). We'll be back in the fall and we can't thank you enough for listening, enjoying, and supporting us. Please leave a review if you can, feel free to send in questions to [email protected], and give us a rating on whatever podcast platform you use. Thank you!!!

Our last author guest of season 1! Dianne Freeman has written an 8.5 book series and has a lot of insights about writing a series, Plus:Haunted hotels on Route 66How Claire sells a series in her storeSierra points out that Claire has not yet, yet again, read ACOTAR.Dianne Freeman is a life-long book lover who left the world of corporate finance to pursue her passion for writing. After co-authoring the non-fiction book, Haunted Highway, The Spirits of Route 66, she realized her true love was fiction, historical mystery in particular. She also realized she didn’t like winter very much so now she and her husband pursue the endless summer by splitting their time between Michigan and Arizona. Her debut novel, A Lady’s Guide to Etiquette and Murder won an Agatha Award for Best Debut, a Lefty Award for Best First Novel, and was nominated for a Mary Higgins-Clark Award.Books discussed in this episode:The Countess of Harleigh series by Dianne Freeman, especially her newest book, A Daughter’s Guide to Mothers and MurderGeorge and Frances Roll the Dice (novella) by Dianne FreemanA Death on Corfu by Emily SullivanEarly Termination by Cindy GoyetteThis Book Will Bury Me by Ashley WinsteadA Fashionably French Murder by Colleen CambridgeThe Big Fix by Holly JamesThe Will Trent series by Karin Slaughter Broken Country by Clare Leslie HallMeet Me At Wonderland by Julia DeVillers

We spoke to author Meredith Schorr about the origins of chicklit, romcoms, WF, and contemporary romance. We also talked about marketing for authors from Sierra’s perspective and from Claire’s, how to navigate events for the socially awkward, and social media for authors.Meredith's latest book, Roommating, is published today June 10, 2025 (happy book birthday!). A born and bred New Yorker and lifelong daydreamer, Meredith fueled her passion for writing everything from restaurant reviews, original birthday cards, and even work-related emails into a career penning romantic comedies. When she’s not writing books filled with grand gestures and hard-earned happily-ever-afters or working as a trademark paralegal, she’s most often reading, running, or watching TV…for research, of course. Follow her at https://www.instagram.com/meredithschorrBooks discussed in this episode (all links benefit Wild Sisters Books)Roommating by Meredith SchorrSomeone Just Like You by Meredith SchorrAs Seen On TV by Meredith SchorrThe Hating Game by Sally ThorneMaine Characters by Hanna Orenstein Remember Me Tomorrow by Farah HeronSilver Elite by Dani Francis

We get into the recent TikTok book deal for the Australian guy, hot Sacramento summers and how that affects business, and kid literacy. As usual, Claire gives her bookseller view and Sierra views her author view on those issues.Then we welcomed author Mara Williams, whose debut novel The Truth is in the Detours pubs in August 2025, and the surprising little secret about your work that editors may looking for.Mara Williams drafted her first novel in third grade on a spiral notebook—a love story about a golden retriever and the stray dog who admired her from beyond the picket fence. Now she writes about strong, messy women finding their way in the world. Mara has a BA in English Literature from the University of California at Berkeley, takes creative writing from Stanford Continuing Studies, and actively engages in writing groups and critique circles. Mara’s novel The Second Chance Playlist was a winner of the 2024 Emily Contest. When not writing or reading, Mara can be found enjoying California’s beaches, redwoods, and trails with her husband, three kids, and disobedient dog.Books mentioned in this episode:The Truth is in the Detours by Mara WilliamsThe Epicenter of Forever by Mara WilliamsLight a Penny Candle by Maeve BinchyEchoes by Maeve BinchyCan’t Get Enough by Kennedy RyanBefore I let Go by Kennedy RyanHow to Solve your own murder by Kristen PerrinWaterMoon (again) by Samantha Sotto YambaoDemon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver

Lauren Parvizi is the author of Trust Me on This and La Vie, According to Rose, winner of the 2024 Women’s Fiction Writers Association STAR Award in the Debut category. She worked for more than a decade as a digital editor and content writer, and earned an MFA from San Francisco State University. She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and sons. Books discussed in this episode:La Vie, According to Rose by Lauren ParviziTrust Me on This by Lauren ParviziAn Island Strange and Wild by Lisa AmowitzLula Deans Little Library of Banned Books (voicy!) by Kristin MillerDemon Copperhead by Barbara KingsolverHello Beautiful by Ann NapolitanoOur Infinite Fates by Laura StevenBig Chief by Jon HickeyMy Name Is Emilia del Valle by Isabel Allende If We Were a Movie by Zakiya N. Jamal

We talked to Liz of My Secret Copy, who creates incredible, reader-centric book merch! We discuss what her inspiration was for starting the shop, challenges as a small business, and much more -- including TONS of book recs!Shop stickers, bags, pins, bookmarks and more at https://mysecretcopy.com/Books mentioned on this episode:The Wife Between Us by Greer HendricksThe Kind Worth Killing by Peter Swanson The Dagger and the Flame by Catherine DoyleLost and Lassoed by Lyla sageSay You’ll Remember Me by Abby JiminezGreat Big Beautiful Life by EmHenPS I Hate You by Lauren HollyHead Cases by John McManThe Naturals by Jennifer Lynn BarnesYou Between the Lines by Katie NaymonDeath in Bloom by Jess DylanPassion Project by London SperryBefore the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu KawaguchiThe Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Hartnett

Author Maggie North joins us to talk about romances, second chance stories, Canadian wilderness, autism rep, and Sierra gushing over her. Maggie writes deeply emotional, strangely hilarious novels about introverts at the end of their @#$% ropes, STEM, Canada, and other overlooked, underrated things you'd love to discover. She lives in Ottawa, Canada, with her spouse, The Kid, and a rotating cast of hypoallergenic aquarium friends. Books mentioned in this episode:Rules for Second Chances by Maggie NorthThe Ripple Effect by Maggie NorthThe Favorites by Layne FargoReady or Not by Cara BastoneYou, Again by Kate GoldbeckThe Courting of Bristol Keats by Mary E. PearsonAugust Lane by Regina BlackOn Freedom by Dr Timothy SnyderScot and Bothered by Alexandra KileyAll the Blues in the Sky by Renee Watson (middle grade)The Celebrants by Stephen RowleyWild and Wrangled by Lyla SageWrong Place Wrong Time by Gillian McAllisterBuy all of these here https://bookshop.org/shop/wildsistersbookco

We talked about the reach of libraries their programs, imposter syndrome and how it never goes away and, themes in books. Listen to the end for bookshelf hacks!Terah is an author and former librarian, who now writes upmarket fiction with bittersweet endings. She is the author of One Summer in Savannah and Long After We Are Gone. Her books have been chosen as a Target Book Club pick, LibraryReads pick, Kobo Best Book, Together We Read pick, Publisher’s Marketplace Buzz Book, and a Goodreads Choice Awards nominee for Best Debut. Terah was also named Target’s first Author of the Year. Her third book, Where the Wildflowers Grow, will be published in February 2026.Books discussed in this episode:On Summer in Savannah by Terah Shelton Harris (buy here)Long After We Are Gone by Terah Shelton Harris (buy here)______Broken Country by Clare Leslie HallWild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghyBruno, Chief of Police by Martin Walker(buy all here)Buy links support Wild Sisters Book Co on Bookshop.org.

Jordan Morris is the author of graphic novel Youth Group, and a comedy writer with experience working in TV, features, comics, podcasts, digital comedy and video games. He's written for shows on Max, Disney Plus, Comedy Central, Cartoon Network and YouTube Originals. He also created and co-wrote the 2x Eisner nominated graphic novel Bubble. He has also written stories for Marvel, IDW’s Godzilla and Archie: Chilling Adventures.He co-hosts Jordan, Jesse, Go!, a podcast with Jesse Thorn (NPR) and Free With Ads, a movie recap show with comedians Emily Fleming & Matt Leib. Books discussed on this episode:Youth Group by Jordan MorrisGodzilla vs LA (comic) by Jordan Morris et alEarth Abides by George R. StewartYou Belong Here by Sarah Phoebe MillerSea of Tranquility by Emily St. John MandelStation Eleven by Emily St. John MandelWaterMoon (as per usual) by Samantha Sotto YambaoSunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne CollinsA Very Typical Family by Sierra GodfreyFind Jordan at Jordanmorris.net - a nice/good website. He’s signing at Things From Another World on May 3 in LA and Altadena Lit fest (Listfest in the Dena) on May 4, 2025.Buy all books from

We talked to children’s book author Bea Birdsong about what it takes to get traditionally published and how to pivot in a writing career.Bea Birdsong is the author of I Will Be Fierce!, Sam’s First Word, How to Spot a Best Friend, Boop!, Goat Is the G.O.A.T., How to Grow a Family Tree (2025), That Is Not a Dog! (2026), You Did It! (2026), Me Too! (2027), and other forthcoming books for children.Bea is also a former teacher who believes in the awesome power of books to educate, entertain, and empower. She is represented by Melissa Edwards of Stonesong. Bea invites you to connect with her on social media @beabirdsong and to visit her online at beabirdsong.com.I Will Be Fierce by Bea Birdsong and Nidhi ChananiSam's First Word by Bea Birdsong and Holly HatamBoop by Bea Birdsong and Linzie HunterHow to Spot a Best Friend by Bea Birdsong and Lucy FlemingGoat Is the G.O.A.T. by Bea Birdsong and Kelly MurphyThe Monster at the End of this Book by Jon StoneThere Might be Lobsters by Carolyn Crimi and Laurel Molk The Mystery Beast of Ostergeest by Steven KellogA Visit to William Blake’s Inn by Nancy Willard and Alice Provensen Millie Fleur's Poison Garden by Christy MandinLittle rabbit’s loose toothWaterMoon by Samantha Sotto YambaoDear Genius the letters of Ursula Nordstrom The night ends with fire by KX Song

We talked 2025 book buying trends that Claire learned at ABA (American Booksellers Association). And we welcomed USA Today Bestselling author Xio Axelrod, who writes contemporary fiction and romance. Her award-winning novels have earned both critical acclaim and a passionate readership. Her Lillys series, including The Girl with Stars in Her Eyes and Girls with Bad Reputations, explores themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. Xio actively connects with her readers through social media, fostering a dedicated and supportive community. Xio is a recording artist, a native of Philadelphia, and lives in complete denial of the last five minutes of Buffy with one very patient, full-time indoor husband and two part-time, supremely pampered outdoor cats.Books discussed in this episode:The Girl With the Stars In her Eyes by Xio AxelrodGirls with Bad Reputations by Xio AxelrodWhen the Tides Held the Moon by Venessa Vida KelleyDeep End by Ali HazlewoodNo Ordinary Love by Myah ArielI Got Abducted by Aliens and Now I'm Trapped in a Rom-Com by Kimberley lemmingAugust Lane by Regina BlackCan't Get Enough by Kennedy RyanBuy all these through Bookshop.org supporting Wild Sisters. Every print or ebook you buy with Wild Sisters designated as your shop sends money directly to the store.

In this episode, we welcomed New York Times bestselling author Jasmine Guillory to talk about donuts, farmers markets, and origins of contemporary romance. Jasmine is the author of six romance novels including The Wedding Date, The Proposal, and While We Were Dating. Her work has appeared in O, The Oprah Magazine, Cosmopolitan, Bon Appetit, and Time. Her newest novel, Flirting Lessons, is out today (April 8, 2025)! She lives in Oakland, California. Books discussed in this episode:Flirting Lessons by Jasmine GuilloryBy the Book by Jasmine GuilloryAlong Came Amor by Alexis DariaFirst Time Caller by BK MorrisonThe Menopause Manifesto by Dr. Jen GunterEverything is Tuberculosis by John GreenThe Ghost Map by Stephen JohnsonStop me if you’ve heard this one by Kristin ArnettAugust Lane by Regina BlackAudrey and Bash are just friends by Tia WilliamsBuy these books here!

Claire and Sierra talk about what makes a good story, and whether a good story meets the hype. We talked about proven elements of a great story.We also discuss the bookstore's space challenges as it relates to selling, and what happens at book industry events.We discussed these books:Water Moon (again) by Samantha Sotto YambaoBefore the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu KawaguchiHarlem Rhapsody by Victoria Christopher MurrayBuy the books!

We talked to Holly James, aka Holly Michele, about how authors feel about our covers, genre mashups, and using pen names. Books discussed in this episode:Nothing But the Truth by Holly JamesThe Deja Glitch by Holly JamesName Your Price by Holly JamesThe Big Fix by Holly JamesLast Night Was Fun by Holly MicheleAlso:All I Want Is You by Fallon BallardSwiped by LM ChiltonYou Can Trust Me by Wendy Heard

We spoke to freelance editor Erin McClary, who is Sierra's former editor at Sourcebooks, about traditional publishing's acquisition process, what editing really means, and some secrets every writer should know about editing, whether self-publishing or seeking traditional publication.Find Erin at erinmcclary.comBooks discussed in this episode:A Very Typical Family by Sierra GodfreyThe Second Chance Hotel by Sierra GodfreyA little something different by Sandy HallThe Quiet Tenant by Clémence Michallon Thrill Me by Benjamin Percy1000 Words by Jami AttenbergFrom a Certain Point of View: Empire Strikes BackBlades of Furry by Emily Ardos (check name)Harlem Rhapsody by Victoria Christopher MurraySweet Filthy Boy by Christina Lauren

We talked to NYT bestselling author Mike Chen about his books, publishing, hockey romance, and cool band memorabilia. Plus, do authors get a say in their covers and titles in traditional publishing?Books discussed in this episode:Here and Now and Then by Mike ChenA Beginning at the End by Mike ChenWe Could be Heroes by Mike ChenLight Years From Home by Mike ChenVampire Weekend by Mike ChenQuantum Love Story by Mike ChenStar Wars: Brotherhood by Mike ChenFrom a Certain Point of View: Empire Strikes Back featuring Mike ChenStar Trek Deep Space 9: The Dog of WarGood Pop, Bad Pop by Jarvis CockerFind Mike at https://www.mikechenbooks.com/

Jessica Joyce is the author of the USA Today bestselling novels You, With a View and The Ex-Vows. She lives in the Bay Area with her family. On this episode we discuss people pleasing, fan fiction, and finding your voice.Books discussed:The Ex -Vows by Jessica JoyceYou, With A View by Jessica JoyceWhere You Are Planted by Melanie SweeneyThe French Ingredient by Jane BertchBeg, Borrow, or Steal by Sarah AdamsHeartbreak Hotel by Ellen O’CloverFirst-time Caller by B.K. BorisonWater Moon by Samantha Sotto YambaoNightwatching by Tracy SierraListen to Your Sister by Neena VielBuy them all at Wild Sisters Book Co on Bookshop.org.

We talked to USA Today bestselling author Tarah DeWitt and her career and what's next!Tarah writes character-driven romances filled with laughter and big feelings. She loves stories centered around perfectly imperfect characters, especially those with just enough trauma to keep them funny, without ever being forcefully cavalier.Books discussed:Funny FeelingsThe Co-OpSavor ItLeft of Forever

Author Lindsay Hameroff joins us to talk about her evolution of writing sweet to spicy romance.Lindsay is the author of Till There was You and Never Planned on You!Books discussed in this episode:Till There was You by Lindsay HameroffNever Planned on YouYou With a View by Jessica JoyceYou Deserve Each Other by Sarah HogleThe Notebook by Nicolas Sparks The September House by Carissa OrlandoListen for the Lie by Amy TinteraName Your Price Holly JamesThe Paradise Problem by Christina LaurenThe magic of lemon drop pie by Rachel Linden

We talk about bookclubs in indie bookstores-- both starting one or joining one-- and are joined by Wild Sisters Books' romance bookclub manager, Gracie to talk about the interesting insights gained from the bookclub.Books discussed in this episode:A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor TowlesForget Me Not by Julie SotoNot Another Love Song by Julie Soto Make the Season Bright by Ashley Herring BlakeThe Kamogawa Food Detectives by Hisashi KashiwaiLike Water for Chocolate by Laura Esquivel

We talk all things magical realism and Tarot with author Liz Parker!Liz Parker is the author of HONEYSUCKLE HOUSE and IN THE SHADOW GARDEN and co-author of THE OTHER MARCH SISTERS. An herbalist and a witch, Liz loves gardening, a good cup of tea and the kind of story that sinks it hooks into you and refuses to let go.Find Liz at https://www.lizparkerwrites.com/Books discussed in this episode:In The Shadow Garden by Liz ParkerThe Other March SistersThe Gentle TarotThe Wild Unknown Tarot

We talk with author Lily Chu about fandoms and writing.Lily Chu loves ordering the second-cheapest wine, wearing perfume all the time, and staying up far too late with a good book.Four of her books have been released in audio as Audible Originals, performed by Phillipa Soo (The Stand-In, The Comeback, The Takedown, and Drop Dead) and John Cho (Drop Dead). Lily’s best-selling stories are critically acclaimed and have spent multiple weeks at number one in Audible Top Plus Listens, and have been named in Best of the Year lists. Find her at https://lilychuauthor.com/ and https://www.instagram.com/lilychuauthor/Books discussed in this episode:The Stand-InThe ComebackThe TakedownThe Moonflower Murders by Anthony HorowitzMagpie Murders by Anthony HorowitzFang Fiction by Kate Stayman-LondonI'm Starting to Worry about This Black Box of Doom by Jason Pargin

Cozy mystery author Ellie Alexander joins us to talk about writing mystery, setting them in small towns, what's next for her, and how books give you strength and opportunity.Ellie Alexander is a voracious storyteller and a lover of words and all things bookish. Ellie believes that stories have the power to transport and transform us. With over thirty novels published and counting, her goal is to tell stories that provide points of connection, escape, and understanding.Ellie loves inhabiting someone else’s skin through the pages of a book and is passionate about helping writers find their unique storytelling lens. As a writing teacher and coach, she guides writers through every phase of the process from brainstorming an initial idea to brand building and helping new writers find their path to publication.Find her at https://www.elliealexander.co | IG: https://www.instagram.com/ellie_alexanderBooks discussed in this episode:Ellie's books We Solve Murders by Richard OsmanMurder Your Employer by Rupert HolmesBroken by Karin Slaughter

Julie Soto is a USA Today bestselling author, playwright, and actress originally from Sacramento, CA. Her books include:Not Another Love Song (romance)Forget Me Not (romance)Thrashers (YA)Rose in Chains (Fantasy)Find her at https://www.juliesotowrites.com/ https://www.instagram.com/juliesotowriteshttps://www.tiktok.com/@juliesotowrites

Our inaugural episode! Claire and Sierra talk about who they are (a bookstore owner and an author), what they love to read, and how to read books when you have a busy day job and a family. A LOT of laughing and banter.Books mentioned:A Very Typical Family by Sierra GodfreyThe Second Chance Hotel by Sierra GodfreyDone and Dusted by Lyla SageThe Ex Vows by Jessica Joyce

A short introduction to our podcast, Heartracers, a podcast about reading, writing, publishing, and selling books-- from a published author and a bookstore owner!