Lex.Btw.TheLines...

We talk with erotic romance author Skyline A. Millbow about writing My Kind of Love with heat, consent, and emotional weight after life changed her relationship to romance. We dig into Club Inana, character inspiration, indie publishing lessons, and what it takes to keep writing when the story keeps talking back. • moving from erotica reader to debut author and choosing erotic romance on purpose • writing infertility and a hysterectomy without defaulting to pregnancy tropes • building Club Inana as a consent-centred lifestyle club with clear boundaries • using research and beta readers for lifestyle and BDSM-adjacent accuracy • creating Enobi, Bronson, Zeke, and Jody from real experiences and friendships • shaping trauma scenes through developmental editing and lived grief • finding editors, ARC readers, and trustworthy collaborators through community • indie author realities: cover art, marketing, shipping, timelines, and scams • dealing with platform quirks like Amazon review changes • upcoming releases The Fall and Where I Sleep plus future ideas like The Eve Gene Make sure that you guys follow her across all her social media platforms outro

We trace Lex’s path from closed-door romance to dark romance and into horror, breaking down why anti-heroes, revenge arcs, and detailed prose changed how we read and review. We trade messy trope confessions, memory hacks for multi-reading, and how BookTok helped us show up on camera with our full voices.• shifting from soft romance to dark romance, thrillers and horror• why revenge horror and splatterpunk land on the page• when spice enhances plot and when it distracts• favorite tropes including enemies to lovers and secret baby• reading anywhere with zero shame and some strategy• DNF rules, mood reading and avoiding “homework” books• note-taking, highlights and memory systems for multi-reading• prepping author interviews with catalog deep dives• BookTok as community, confidence and creative practice• choosing formats, series styles and favorite narratorsYou guys can find her on TikTok and Instagram and on Facebook as Lex Between the Lines. That’s BTW.outro

We meet author Anna J, trace her path from urban drama to erotic thriller, and dig into how she builds unforgettable characters like Monica and Dylan. We unpack why representation matters, how warnings protect readers, and what’s coming next in her expanding thriller universe.• creating the book she wanted to read when no one else was writing it• designing Monica as a disruptive, cautionary force• flipping zodiac traits to subvert character expectations• crafting The Hunt as an erotic thriller with a Black lead• balancing realism, terror and informed consent with trigger warnings• using dialect and a glossary for authentic island voices• co‑writing methods and pushing boundaries in Erotic Snapshots• side projects including Big Back coloring books and Black‑centric journals• previewing Copycat, a Morgan prelude and the name to remember, Zanaya• rebuilding confidence after an eight‑year break and returning gloves offFollow Anna on Facebook: author Anna J; Instagram: author Anna J; TikTok: scribeatphilly. “Type in Anna J. I’m on the Google, I’m on air.”outro

Thriller author Toni LaRue shares her journey from urban fiction to becoming an NBCC-nominated author with several number one releases on Amazon. She discusses her meticulous character development process, representation challenges for Black thriller writers, and how she approaches trauma and emotional depth in her stories.• NBCC-nominated thriller author with 10+ novels and multiple #1 Amazon releases• Discovered thriller writing after reading Lisa Gardner's "The Other Daughter" during a graveyard shift• Creates detailed character profiles before writing, including birthdays, traits, and preferences• Works full-time with unhoused populations while maintaining her writing career• "Juneteenth" explores themes of racial injustice and vigilante justice through emotional storytelling• Emphasizes the importance of Black representation in thriller genres• Uses trauma in her stories to humanize characters rather than glorify violence• Upcoming novel "Safe House" features a domestic abuse survivor encountering serial killers• Co-writing a Christmas horror anthology with Tanisha Stewart• Believes thrillers offer realistic perspectives on life's uncertainties and unresolved situationsoutro

Keira N James, bestselling indie thriller author, joins us to discuss her journey from a small town in Georgia to becoming a powerful voice in the thriller genre with 15 books under her belt.• Drawing inspiration from real-life experiences to create what she calls "exaggerated realities"• Transition from urban fiction to thriller writing after finding her voice in the "dark side of fiction"• Finding success with bestsellers like "The Grave Mistake" and the spicy short story collection "Embodied"• Challenging stereotypes about Black women and creating morally ambiguous characters readers can't help but root for• Using writing as therapy to process personal experiences, especially in her military thriller "Love and War"• Being part of "Black Women Who Write Thrillers" collective creating space for diverse voices in the genre• Upcoming release of psychological novella "Orchid" on October 3rd• Participating in the Black Book Bash in Jacksonville, Florida with her pen sistersFollow Keira N James on Facebook at Keira N James and on Instagram, Threads, and TikTok @TheKeiraNJames.outro

Louisiana author Lakisha Burkett shares her journey from avid reader to published writer, revealing how personal experiences and her grandmother's stories shape her emotionally charged novels.• Writing journey began with husband's support, who bought her first book cover• Draws story inspiration from real-life experiences and family stories• "Dear Diary" inspired by grandmother's stories, written in just one month• Creates realistic endings that don't always resolve happily• Book "Everybody Ain't Your Friend" based on a real toxic friendship• Balances motherhood, working from home, and writing at her own pace• Upcoming book "Let You Down" explores difficult choices when dreams clash with family obligations• Writes part-time but aspires to potentially become a full-time author• Husband is also writing a book seriesFind Lakisha Burkett on Instagram at there_go_keisha, on TikTok as Arthur Lakisha Burkett, and on Facebook as LaKeisha Burton.outro

In this episode, we explore the creative journey of Selena Brooks as she discusses her latest projects, including "Southern Sizzle" and the upcoming "Southern Scramble." Her insights provide a unique look into character development and the spice of Southern drama.• Introduction and trigger warnings • Background of author Selena Brooks • Overview of "Southern Sizzle" and its impact • Insight into "Southern Scramble" and character relationships • Discussion of drama and romance intertwined in storytelling • Exploration of reader expectations and tropes used • Engagement with marketing strategies and influencers • Selena's thoughts on balancing personal experiences in writing • Future projects and where to follow Selena Brooks outro

This episode explores the rich themes of love, trauma, and personal growth depicted in Christian Cashelle's book 'Loving You Blind.' With discussions on character development, the writing process, and the publishing journey, listeners gain insight into how real-life experiences shape fictional narratives.• Christian introduces herself and discusses her accomplishments • Trigger warnings regarding adult language and emotional topics • The importance of Google Alerts for authors and engagement • Nicole's character journey and the lessons from her relationships • The impact of music on character development • Insights into Dynamic Image Publications and its mission • Christian shares her writing process and handling heavy emotional themes • Preview of her upcoming literary project, ‘What Keeps Us Up at Night’outro

The episode features an engaging conversation with New York Times bestselling author Katie Ashley, highlighting her transition from indie author to bestseller, her insight into the evolving landscape of publishing, and her success in the Mafia romance genre. Katie shares personal anecdotes about her writing journey, upcoming projects, and the emotional connections that drive her stories.• Katie's experience navigating the current publishing landscape • Discussion of her breakthrough book "The Proposition" • The inspiration behind her Mafia romance series • Personal account of balancing teaching and writing • Insights into her creative process and character development • A preview of her upcoming releases and events • Shared laughter and reflections on personal experiences Make sure to check out Katie Ashley's work and follow her on social media for updates and more engaging conversations about the world of romance literature!outro

This episode delves into the captivating world of writing within the mafia romance genre, featuring author Darma Day, who shares her inspiring journey of character development and storytelling. Throughout the discussion, we explore various tropes, the creative process behind writing, and the vibrant community supporting indie authors.• Exploration of inspirations behind writing and character creation • Discussion on the accidental pregnancy trope and its significance • Insight into the transitional journey from paranormal to mafia romance • Importance of feedback and editing within the writing community • Conversations about the darker themes in literature and their impact • Dharma's visions for future projects and character storiesoutro

The episode illuminates the challenges and triumphs of writing diverse characters in romance fiction. With insights from authors SK Presley and Ashley, the discussion touches on representation, emotional journeys of characters, and how personal experiences shape narratives.• Exploration of the inspiration behind creating Frank and Lola as relatable characters• Importance of diverse representation in literature • Insights into the emotional realities of authors facing reader feedback • The art of crafting cliffhangers that leave an impact • Future plans for character development in upcoming booksoutro

This episode features an engaging conversation with debut author B. Bewtie, who explores her unique experiences in the creative process and the emotional connections within her storytelling. Bee shares her journey of writing her debut novel, which touches upon themes of identity, resilience, and community support.• Introduction of B. Bewtie and her debut novel • Exploration of LGBTQIA representation in characters • Discussion on character inspiration from real life • The impact of trauma and mental health on writing • The journey of editing and publishing her book • Importance of community in indie publishing • Future plans and potential sequels for her storiesoutro

This episode features author Selena Brooks discussing her debut novel, "Southern Sizzle," and her journey through the challenges of self-publishing and character creation. The conversation emphasizes the complexities of writing relatable characters amid drama and trauma, offering valuable insights for aspiring authors. • Introduction of author Selena Brooks • The long journey to publishing "Southern Sizzle" • Insights into the vanity press experience • Discussing family dynamics and character relationships • The emotional themes of trauma and healing • Preview of the upcoming sequel, "Southern Scramble" • Tips for aspiring authors navigating self-publishing

Zola Fontaine, a ghostwriter known for her work in serialized fiction, discusses the challenges and rewards of writing for others while striving for her own creative fulfillment. She shares insights on the financial realities of the ghostwriting industry, the importance of mentorship, and her exciting projects, including a unique urban fantasy romance. • Zola's background as a ghostwriter and her work in serialized fiction apps • The intricate business model behind serialized fiction and monetization strategies • The financial aspects of being a writer today and the need for multiple income sources • The transition to independent publishing and personal creative fulfillment • Current projects, including an urban fantasy romance featuring vampires and political intrigue • The value of mentorship in the writing industry and opportunities for diverse voices

Dive deeper into the story of Lex with this powerful introduction! Discover the essence of Lex's journey, their motivation, and how they embody the spirit of resilience and determination. In this installment Lex takes center stage, sharing their background, challenges, and ultimate drive to succeed. Whether you’re here for inspiration, motivation, or simply to learn more about what makes Lex unique, this video promises to deliver. Watch now and get ready to be inspired! #WhoIsLex