Spill the Smut

The romance bookshop that feels like home.We sit down with Amanda Anderson, the owner of The Last Chapter Bookshop in Chicago, to talk about what it truly looks like to build a modern independent bookstore that’s equal parts retail, event venue, and community home for romance readers.Amanda shares her path from corporate sports business to entrepreneurship, why she started The Last Chapter Bookshop as an online bookstore first, and how book boxes, preorder campaigns, signed books, and merchandise helped her prove demand before opening a brick-and-mortar space. Then we get into the fun stuff that romance readers search for: what subgenres are flying off the shelves, how she decides which indie romance authors to champion, and why big releases can spark waves of demand. If you love romance novels, Chicago bookstores, author signings, and the behind-the-scenes of small business ownership, press play, then subscribe, share the show with a fellow reader, and leave a review with your go-to romance trope.Follow The Bookshop on IG: @thelastchapterchi  and follow Amanda on IG: @xoxoaandersonBookshop Website: https://thelastchapterbookshop.com/ Cover Art by: moiIntro/Outro Music: positive vibes by nanaacom on CapcutContact Email: [email protected] IG: @spillthesmutpodcast TT: @spillthesmutpodcastJordan IG: @sipsoffiction TT: @sipsoffiction

A confident heroine refuses to take up less space.A dark romance heroine who’s plus-size, confident, and fully aware of her worth should not be a rarity. Author Lila Herron, whose book Any Means Necessary delivers sharp banter, undeniable tension, and a heroine who refuses to dim her light for anyone.We go behind the scenes on publishing and platform strategy. Lila breaks down how teasing an unwritten idea on BookTok went viral, what self-publishing taught her about craft and marketing, and what changed when Any Means Necessary was re-released through traditional publishing. If you’re curious about hybrid publishing, Kindle Unlimited page reads, and what it’s like to build a romance career in public while the algorithm shifts under your feet, you’ll get both honesty and useful detail.Listen now, share this with a romance reader who wants more representation, and leave a review if you like what you hear. What’s the one thing that makes you trust a romance couple on the page?Follow Lila on IG: @authorlilaherron & TT: @authorlilaherron Website: www.authorlilaherron.com  Cover Art by: moiIntro/Outro Music: positive vibes by nanaacom on CapcutContact Email: [email protected] IG: @spillthesmutpodcast TT: @spillthesmutpodcastJordan IG: @sipsoffiction TT: @sipsoffiction

Anonymous peer review, professional grudges, and a conference that could make or break your career aren’t the usual ingredients for a swoony romance, which is exactly why this conversation works. We’re joined by neuroscientist and debut author Hannah Brohm to unpack how real academic life shaped Love and Other Brain Experiments, a STEM romance that pairs sharp humor with the very real instability of early-career research.We also get personal about craft and process: drafting while doing neuroscience, learning where to bend reality for story, and why Hannah needs a little surprise to stay motivated as a plotter-pantser hybrid. She shares a key theme that runs through the romance and the research mindset: when you get new information about someone, you should be willing to update your view. We close with what she’s working on next, plus where to follow her online.If you love STEM romance, women in STEM stories, academic rivals-to-lovers, and fake dating done with heart, subscribe, share this with a romance friend, and leave a review so more listeners can find the show.Follow Hannah on IG & Threads: @hannahbrohm & TT: @Hannah.brohmwebsite: https://www.hannahbrohm.comnewsletter: https://substack.com/@hannahbrohm Cover Art by: moiIntro/Outro Music: positive vibes by nanaacom on CapcutContact Email: [email protected] IG: @spillthesmutpodcast TT: @spillthesmutpodcastJordan IG: @sipsoffiction TT: @sipsoffiction

A book goes viral on TikTok and the author isn’t even on TikTok. That’s where our chat with dark and paranormal romance author KL Hill begins, with the adrenaline of waking up to huge KDP page reads, the weird psychology of monthly dashboard resets, and how reader-driven hype can change your week before you’ve had coffee. From there, we get into the real story behind her debut Coded In Control and the Masquerade series: organized crime, a masked nightclub with an underground kink club, found family, forced proximity, and why choose chaos. KL shares how the entire concept started as a workplace comedy bit, then grew into a multi-book world once the characters took the wheel. We also talk writing craft in plain language, including being a pantser with quilter tendencies, living in the Notes app, and why your first draft should be written for you before it’s shaped for readers. If you like dark romance, romantasy, indie publishing realities, and honest creative process talk, hit play. Subscribe, share with a romance-reading friend, and leave a review so more readers can find the show.Follow KL Hill on IG: @klhill_author Cover Art by: moiIntro/Outro Music: positive vibes by nanaacom on CapcutContact Email: [email protected] IG: @spillthesmutpodcast TT: @spillthesmutpodcastJordan IG: @sipsoffiction TT: @sipsoffiction

Ever wondered how a late-night creative outlet can turn into a full-fledged fantasy trilogy? We sit down with Alecia B. Kirby—tourism marketing pro by day, author by night—to trace the unlikely path from a tough season in life to the release of A Crown In Shadows, a medieval fantasy charged with political intrigue, a framed-for-murder twist, and the kind of grumpy-sunshine pull that keeps pages turning.Alicia opens up about her writing process: embracing pantsing with a vision of the ending, a chaotic yet effective post-it wall, and a nightly ritual of rereading to avoid repetition and re-enter the scene’s emotion. When the words stall, she looks outward—shows like Blue Eye Samurai can reignite the spark even if they share nothing with her world. We also get honest about the realities of balancing art with a 9–5, the tradeoffs of weekends and social life, and why listening to your body is more sustainable than forcing word counts.If you crave court intrigue, high-stakes choices, and a heroine forced to flee after a wedding-eve murder shock, Alicia’s world belongs on your TBR. A Crown In Shadows is available at major retailers and on Kindle Unlimited. Enjoy the conversation, then tap follow, share this episode with a book-loving friend, and leave a quick review to help more readers find us. Cover Art by: moiIntro/Outro Music: positive vibes by nanaacom on CapcutContact Email: [email protected] IG: @spillthesmutpodcast TT: @spillthesmutpodcastJordan IG: @sipsoffiction TT: @sipsoffiction

A dream, a superhero, and a kiss that can kill—Karina Halle joins me for a wildly honest, high‑energy conversation about Vanguard and the creative path that brought it roaring to life. From process to publishing, Karina is disarmingly practical. She writes in sprints, outlines lightly, sees scenes like movies, and lets characters bend the plan. We talk hybrid publishing and non‑competes, why she’ll always keep an indie lane for control, and how chasing reviews kills joy. She pinpoints backlist highlights—Sins and Needles for morally gray adrenaline, Ship of Bones and Teeth for pirate‑mermaid mayhem, Black Sunshine for obsessive vampires—and offers smart starting points for new readers.Press play for craft insights, industry truths, and a reminder that romance isn’t fluff; it’s a lifeline that teaches us to want more and fight for it. If you enjoyed this conversation, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review to help others find us.Follow Karina Halle on IG: @authorhallewww.authorkarinahalle.com Cover Art by: moiIntro/Outro Music: positive vibes by nanaacom on CapcutContact Email: [email protected] IG: @spillthesmutpodcast TT: @spillthesmutpodcastJordan IG: @sipsoffiction TT: @sipsoffiction

MY FIRST SOLO EPISODEI saw LarryReads do a beginning of the year tag on her BookTube and I thought you know what, let me try that on the podcast. HERE WE ARE! my first solo episode where I answer all the questions Larry had for her tag.And I hope you all love it and if you don't please don't tell me, just lie to me and say you love it.Is there someone you are dying for me to interview or have a conversation with? LET ME KNOW!! Cover Art by: moiIntro/Outro Music: positive vibes by nanaacom on CapcutContact Email: [email protected] IG: @spillthesmutpodcast TT: @spillthesmutpodcastJordan IG: @sipsoffiction TT: @sipsoffiction

MEET US AT THE COTTAGE!!Spoilers for both the show and bookI brought Genesis back for us to talk about all things Heated Rivalry!!A hockey romance that actually trusts intimacy to carry the story? That’s the magic we dig into as we break down Heated Rivalry—from the viral cottage vibes to the quiet beats that make every look feel loaded. We talk about how a show that starts hot becomes something unexpectedly tender, why the mother–son conversation shattered us, and how consent shows up on screen in ways that feel natural, caring, and wildly compelling.If this conversation resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend who’s “still at the cottage,” and leave a quick review—what moment sealed it for you? Cover Art by: moiIntro/Outro Music: positive vibes by nanaacom on CapcutContact Email: [email protected] IG: @spillthesmutpodcast TT: @spillthesmutpodcastJordan IG: @sipsoffiction TT: @sipsoffiction

We swear we're not buying more books... After December!Goals that actually stick rarely start with spreadsheets—they start with a feeling. We as in Olivia and I decided our feeling for 2026 is consistency, and it changed everything about how we read, buy, and share books. From a simple 45‑minute daily target to a color‑coded year‑in‑pixels page, we map a routine that protects mental health, surfaces patterns, and keeps stories fun. No shame, no streak anxiety, just a gentle checkpoint that tells us when life is getting loud and what to tweak next.We also get real about the TBR and the dopamine loop of book mail. Tabs on unread spines, shelf counts in Notion, and a “shop your shelves” ritual help us see what we already love. Content creation gets its own reset. Batching shoots and edits reduces burnout, and each platform has a lane: TikTok for raw hot takes and TBR experiments, Instagram for polished favorites and visuals, YouTube for vlogs and deep dives. ARC boundaries return control to our tastes—we stay with core teams and skip the ad hoc rush. We close with rapid‑fire 2026 anticipated releases and the 2025 reads we can’t stop thinking about, from heart‑stopping romantic suspense to nostalgic favorites that felt like home. If you’re craving a reading year that fits your real life, this is your blueprint: simple habits, visible progress, fewer shoulds, more savoring. Subscribe, share with a bookish friend, and tell us the one change you’re making to design your best reading year yet.Follow Olivia IG & TT: @pages.and.journeys Cover Art by: moiIntro/Outro Music: positive vibes by nanaacom on CapcutContact Email: [email protected] IG: @spillthesmutpodcast TT: @spillthesmutpodcastJordan IG: @sipsoffiction TT: @sipsoffiction

SPOILER FILLED!!I AM BACK WITH MY ROOMIE AKA HUBBY!!A glossy thriller can hold your breath and still leave you wanting more, and that’s exactly where our take on The Housemaid lands. We walked into the theater from different angles—one of us with the book’s twists stored in the back of our mind, the other meeting the story cold—and still found ourselves circling the same questions: did the “too perfect husband” give it away, did the inner monologues help or hurry the plot, and why did the final music cue feel like the sharpest blade in the drawer?If you’re on the fence, our verdict is simple: a solid, entertaining watch with a standout ending and just enough bite to spark debate. Press play on our spoiler-heavy breakdown, then tell us your rating out of ten, your favorite scene, and whether you want the sequel. If this conversation hits, follow the show, share it with a friend who loves psychological thrillers, and drop a review to help more listeners find us. Cover Art by: moiIntro/Outro Music: positive vibes by nanaacom on CapcutContact Email: [email protected] IG: @spillthesmutpodcast TT: @spillthesmutpodcastJordan IG: @sipsoffiction TT: @sipsoffiction

I sit down with Canadian author Nova Adams to unpack how a “quick” holiday novella turned into an 80,000-word small-town slow burn that balances cozy cheer with real emotional stakes. Nova shares the origin story behind The Crush of Christmas Past—written to brighten a friend’s darkest season—and how found family, age gap dynamics, and a grumpy-sunshine pairing come together without glossing over grief or growth.We get candid about the indie author grind: juggling a full-time job, sneaking in 2 a.m. drafting sprints, and learning to market a debut without a big budget. Nova breaks down her craft choices, from acting out dialogue to keep conversation natural to using dual POV so readers can see beneath a broody exterior. Add The Crush of Christmas Past to your holiday TBR on Amazon or Kindle Unlimited, then press play and join the conversation. If this episode made your TBR taller, follow, share with a romance-loving friend, and leave a quick review—it helps more readers find the show.Follow Nova Adams on IG & TT: @nova.adams.writes Cover Art by: moiIntro/Outro Music: positive vibes by nanaacom on CapcutContact Email: [email protected] IG: @spillthesmutpodcast TT: @spillthesmutpodcastJordan IG: @sipsoffiction TT: @sipsoffiction

Slutty Little GlassesA ghost of Christmas past with memory magic, a cinnamon-roll bodyguard, and a door knocker with opinions—Cass Geller brings the holidays to life in a way that’s equal parts tender, funny, and haunting. I sit down with Cass to unpack Mary & Brite, her urban fantasy romance set in present-day London with a secret world of Spirits Incorporated, where grief becomes a character and love learns to speak in the quiet.Cass opens up about writing at night while working full-time and parenting, how she protects the joy of making by simplifying her launch process, and why she’s unapologetically character-driven. We get into the craft: building slow-burn tension, handling spice without cliché, keeping humor close to heartbreak, and pacing a novella so it still feels rich. She shares the unlikely spark behind the book—Dickens, Muppets, and a single title pun—and explains how Maurice the talking door knocker became the emotional glue she didn’t know she needed.If you loved the episode, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs a new festive read, and leave a quick review to help others find us.Follow Cass on IG: @wonderlandandwhisky Cover Art by: moiIntro/Outro Music: positive vibes by nanaacom on CapcutContact Email: [email protected] IG: @spillthesmutpodcast TT: @spillthesmutpodcastJordan IG: @sipsoffiction TT: @sipsoffiction

What does it really take to keep an author’s world running? We sit down with Erin—aka @SinfulShelves—to unpack the real work of an author PA: building Airtable databases packed with character details and settings, pulling market-ready quotes and hooks, managing launches, and keeping creative teams moving. Erin’s approach blends meticulous systems with real empathy, showing how collaboration beats lone-wolf myths and why the right boundaries can actually improve results.The conversation travels from Bookstagram beginnings to a full-time career, where late-night deep work powers newsletters, graphics, and content libraries. Erin explains how she blocks time, schedules client updates, and balances alpha, beta, and ARC reads with a packed calendar. She also shares the hard-won lessons behind sustainable pricing, capacity, and choosing clients who value people over pace. We also dive into Erin’s mental health journey, including years of misdiagnosis before an ADHD combined-type evaluation changed the trajectory of her life and work. Her openness about therapy, medication, and self-advocacy offers a clear path forward for listeners navigating similar terrain. Then she brings the same candor to chronic illness: living and handling flares, and adjusting workloads without losing momentum. If this conversation resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend who loves behind-the-scenes craft, and leave a quick review to help more listeners find us.Follow Erin on IG: @sinfulshelves Cover Art by: moiIntro/Outro Music: positive vibes by nanaacom on CapcutContact Email: [email protected] IG: @spillthesmutpodcast TT: @spillthesmutpodcastJordan IG: @sipsoffiction TT: @sipsoffiction

Love, Lies, And A “Fake” AI BoyfriendWhat if the flirty “AI boyfriend” on your phone wasn’t artificial at all? Debut author Laura Bishop joins us to unpack the addictive hook behind Love Me, Stalk Me—a slow-burn, body-positive romance where obsession meets accountability and intimacy waits for honesty to catch up. Laura shares the real-world spark that lit the concept. From there, she built a story that asks sharp questions about privacy, consent, and the comfort we seek in digital confessionals—then grounded it with a heroine learning to trust her voice and a security-chief hero who won’t cross the final line until truth is on the table.And because a great book deserves great buzz, we dig into Laura’s unexpectedly brilliant marketing: partnering with BikeTok creators, filming bookstore rides, and keeping content authentic to each creator’s voice. We also preview the series trajectory. Come for the spicy tension and morally gray hero; stay for a candid, generous look at creativity, confidence, and the line between fantasy and reality.Loved the conversation? Follow and share the show, subscribe for more author deep-dives, and leave a review to help other romance readers find us.Follow Laura on IG & TT: @laurabishopauthor and her website: https://laurabishopauthor.com/ Cover Art by: moiIntro/Outro Music: positive vibes by nanaacom on CapcutContact Email: [email protected] IG: @spillthesmutpodcast TT: @spillthesmutpodcastJordan IG: @sipsoffiction TT: @sipsoffiction

A Beginner-To-Diehard Tour Of Sarah J. Maas: Where To Start, What To Skip, And Why Throne Of Glass Reignsp.s. this episode is filled with SPOILERS!!The Maas-verse can feel like a beautiful trapdoor—you think you’re sampling a single series and suddenly you’re free-falling through worlds, prophecies, and characters you can’t stop thinking about. We invited back the friend who first pushed us into A Court of Thorns and Roses to map the entire journey: how to start, what to savor, and when to brace for emotional whiplash.We dig into why Throne of Glass remains our gold standard for scope and payoff, and how ACOTAR’s first-person POV makes fantasy accessible for new readers. Expect passionate takes on favorites like Queen of Shadows, Kingdom of Ash, and Heir of Fire; a love letter to Manon and Dorian; and a candid look at the craft that makes “simple” prose a myth. We also get into the hot-button stuff: Tower of Dawn’s importance, whether tandem reading helps or hurts, and how official marketing around [redacted] undercut a once-in-a-decade twist for many fans.Ready to reframe your journey through Sarah J. Maas’s worlds? Press play, bring your boldest theory, and tell us your definitive reading order. If you enjoy the show, follow, share with your fellow Maas fans, and leave a quick review—it helps more readers find us and keeps the multiverse talk going. Cover Art by: moiIntro/Outro Music: positive vibes by nanaacom on CapcutContact Email: [email protected] IG: @spillthesmutpodcast TT: @spillthesmutpodcastJordan IG: @sipsoffiction TT: @sipsoffiction

Two creatives walk into a fantasy—with dragons that talk back, gods who meddle, and a forbidden bond that refuses to break. That’s the energy Rachel Tork brings as we explore the making of To Kill A Goddess, a standalone fantasy romance that blends star-crossed devotion with the sweep of high fantasy. Rachel opens up about the long arc of worldbuilding—mythology, deities, and culture—then shows how the romance stepped forward, sharpening the pacing while keeping the prose textured and immersive. If you love yearning MMCs, trainer-trainee chemistry, a subversive shadow mommy, and that perfect “she treats his wounds” moment, you’re in the right place.If dragons, forbidden love, and emotionally honest storytelling are your sweet spot, queue this one up. Subscribe, share with a friend who loves romantasy, and leave a quick review to help others find the show.Follow Rachel Tork on IG @racheltorkauthor Cover Art by: moiIntro/Outro Music: positive vibes by nanaacom on CapcutContact Email: [email protected] IG: @spillthesmutpodcast TT: @spillthesmutpodcastJordan IG: @sipsoffiction TT: @sipsoffiction

Cozy coastal streets, siblings you’ll swear you’ve met, and a carpenter with a secret dirty mouth—welcome to Sutton Bay. We sit down with author Ronnie Mathews to unpack how a lifelong reader who never planned to publish built a small-town romance series that blends tenderness, banter, and genuine stakes without losing the fun. From the first spark of a debut to the final chapter of a four-book arc, Ronnie takes us inside her creative process and the choices that make these stories feel like home.We talk craft in the trenches: why she writes in chronological order, how she rewrites beginnings until the characters breathe, and the moment she knows a book is ready for ARC readers. She reflects on her Bookstagram roots, the value of an author peer group, and why she avoids reading in-genre while drafting to protect her voice. If you crave small-town romance with disability and neurodivergent representation, layered characters, and dialogue that snaps, this conversation is your next listen. Subscribe, share with a romance-loving friend, and leave a review to tell us which Sutton Bay couple owns your heart.Follow Ronnie Mathews on IG @author.ronniemathews Cover Art by: moiIntro/Outro Music: positive vibes by nanaacom on CapcutContact Email: [email protected] IG: @spillthesmutpodcast TT: @spillthesmutpodcastJordan IG: @sipsoffiction TT: @sipsoffiction

Want to see what happens when a marketer leaves corporate sameness for the wild, fast world of indie romance? Alyssa, founder of Plot Twist Marketing, shares how she builds custom strategies that actually move books: aligning ads, PR, social, and ARC outreach so every touchpoint pulls in the same direction. No boilerplate, no fluff—just smart diagnosis, careful execution, and a deep respect for the reader experience.Along the way, she drops binge-worthy recs—angsty duets, dark mafia heat, hockey romance, and clever retellings—and a mantra worth stealing: time is precious, waste it wisely.If you’re an author ready to grow with intention, or an influencer who wants ARCs that match your taste, this conversation is your roadmap to smarter marketing, better targeting, and more joyful launches. Subscribe, share with a romance-loving friend, and leave a review to tell us which trope you want us to tackle next.Follow Plot Twist Marketing on IG @plottwistmarketing Cover Art by: moiIntro/Outro Music: positive vibes by nanaacom on CapcutContact Email: [email protected] IG: @spillthesmutpodcast TT: @spillthesmutpodcastJordan IG: @sipsoffiction TT: @sipsoffiction

Fog, streetlights, and a city that bites back—this one takes you straight into Gothic Grove, where witches and vampires fall hard and break rules even harder. I sit down with JA George, a therapist who writes before sunrise, to trace how a mafia draft transformed into a magic-soaked world and why letting the story lead can change everything. From scene-hopping chaos to Google Docs resurrection, she walks us through the tools, rituals, and brutal honesty that keep an indie series alive.The conversation veers joyfully into genre play, too. JA opens up about a creative reset: an MMMF small-town dark cowboy romance spanning Halloween through winter, proof that switching settings can refill the well without losing voice. Expect sharp recs for spooky season reads, a one-sitting Halloween prequel (Venomous Love) with graveyard chases, and a collector’s heads-up on special editions with sprayed edges. We end on a surprising goal—nailing pole inversions without a spotter—which feels exactly right: core strength, on and off the page.If this episode makes your TBR grow fangs, share it with a friend, hit follow, and leave a quick review with your favorite dark romance trope. Your words help others find the show.Follow JA George on IG: @authorjageorge Cover Art by: moiIntro/Outro Music: positive vibes by nanaacom on CapcutContact Email: [email protected] IG: @spillthesmutpodcast TT: @spillthesmutpodcastJordan IG: @sipsoffiction TT: @sipsoffiction

What if your brand felt like a room you actually live in—soft light, a good playlist, books stacked next to lip gloss and a tote that’s seen a few city sunsets? That’s the world Liz built as The Boho Book Blogger, and she’s here to unpack the craft behind the cozy: how to design a feed around feeling, grow a loyal community without chasing trends, and still keep reading joyful when algorithms get loud.We get into the origin of her handle and why the bohemian aesthetic wasn’t a costume but a reflection of her wardrobe, work history, and taste. She walks us through her full creative workflow—Pinterest moodboards for color and texture, playlists that score the shoot, hauling blankets and hardcovers outside for flatlays, then editing and curating with an editorial eye. The heart of the conversation is sustainability. Liz shares how she navigates burnout, embraces DNF as self-care, repurposes strong visuals, and posts for the “five friends” who matter most. If you’re a reader, creator, or brand-builder chasing warmth over noise, this conversation doubles as a playbook: lead with intention, treat your vibe as a promise, and let craft outlast trends. Listen now, then share it with a friend who needs a boost—and if this resonated, subscribe, leave a review, and tell us your best burnout fix.Follow Liz on IG: @thebohobookblogger x TT: @thebohobookblogger Cover Art by: moiIntro/Outro Music: positive vibes by nanaacom on CapcutContact Email: [email protected] IG: @spillthesmutpodcast TT: @spillthesmutpodcastJordan IG: @sipsoffiction TT: @sipsoffiction

What if the publishing experience felt personal, fast, and genuinely supportive—and the books brought the heat? I sit down with MK Ahearn, the romantasy author behind Broken Flames and the founder of Azala Press, to talk about building a small press that acts like a trusted partner. From a pandemic spark that led to her first manuscript to a growing catalog of romance and fantasy romance, MK shares the choices, systems, and scrappy experiments that turned a lone imprint into a full-service publisher.Romantasy and dark romance take center stage as we explore the genre’s rise, the power of BookTok and Bookstagram, and the cultural shift from hiding steamy reads to celebrating them. MK spotlights her spiciest release yet, Hollow House—a Halloween novella filled with masks, secrets, and a house of pleasures—plus rapid-fire recommendations. We close with a roadmap for what’s next: more audiobooks for accessibility, smarter distribution, and a thoughtful path to international reach.Follow MK Ahearn IG: @authormkahearn and Azala Press IG: @azalapress and Azala Romance IG: @azalaromance Cover Art by: moiIntro/Outro Music: positive vibes by nanaacom on CapcutContact Email: [email protected] IG: @spillthesmutpodcast TT: @spillthesmutpodcastJordan IG: @sipsoffiction TT: @sipsoffiction

Behind the Books: Inside the World of a Publishing EditorEver wondered what it's really like to work in publishing? Spoiler alert: it's not just reading books all day in a cozy armchair. In this episode, I sit down with Kelly, an acquisitions editor who pulls back the curtain on the realities of the publishing industry.Kelly shares her journey into publishing—a path that began with a simple suggestion from a friend and led to her dream career. With refreshing honesty, she reveals that her job consists of 75% emails, with only about 20% of her time actually spent reading manuscripts. Yet despite the administrative load, her passion for books shines through as she describes the joy of championing stories she truly believes in.Whether you're a book lover curious about how your favorite stories make it to shelves, an aspiring publishing professional, or simply enjoy insights into creative industries, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the complex world of bringing books to life. Subscribe, share, and join the conversation about your own publishing questions or book recommendations! Cover Art by: moiIntro/Outro Music: positive vibes by nanaacom on CapcutContact Email: [email protected] IG: @spillthesmutpodcast TT: @spillthesmutpodcastJordan IG: @sipsoffiction TT: @sipsoffiction

Building a Bookish Brand and Navigating ConventionsHow does a passion for reading transform into a thriving business and community? Olivia from Pages and Journeys shares her remarkable journey from bookstagram influencer to Etsy shop owner, revealing the thoughtful philosophy behind her popular bookish merchandise brand, Dreamy Pages Co.What began with stickers and crocheted book sleeves has evolved into a refined collection of apparel and jewelry designed with a powerful purpose. Her minimalist designs embody this approach—providing readers with touchstones to carry the confidence and lessons from their favorite stories into real-world situations.For those planning to attend book conventions, Olivia shares invaluable insider tips. We also discuss the recent Sinners and Stardust controversy, emphasizing the importance of author safety and boundaries at these events.Follow Olivia on IG: @pages.and.journeys x TT: @pages.and.journeys and her bookish shop at IG: @dreamypagesco AND you can also find her on Etsy at https://www.etsy.com/shop/DreamyPagesCo?ref=shop-header-name&listing_id=1877378536&from_page=listing Cover Art by: moiIntro/Outro Music: positive vibes by nanaacom on CapcutContact Email: [email protected] IG: @spillthesmutpodcast TT: @spillthesmutpodcastJordan IG: @sipsoffiction TT: @sipsoffiction

Breaking Hearts with Shakespeare"The Casualty of Us" draws inspiration from Shakespeare's Hamlet, following the journey of Ophelia, a philosophy major beginning her freshman year of college just three months after surviving a kidnapping. What sets this narrative apart is its thoughtful structure—divided into two theatrical acts spanning 18 months of character development. The novel masterfully weaves multiple storylines: the mystery of Ophelia's unsolved kidnapping, her healing journey, the protective brother-sister relationship, and the developing romance. For fans of emotionally complex college romances with characters who feel startlingly real despite their larger-than-life qualities, "The Casualty of Us" delivers on every level. The first book in the Philosophies of Heart duet is available now on Kindle Unlimited, with book two coming soon. Don't miss this chance to experience R Phillips' remarkable talent for creating unforgettable characters and relationships that linger long after the final page.Follow R. Phillips on IG: @rphillipswrites x TT: @rphillipswrites and her website https://www.rphillipswrites.com/ Cover Art by: moiIntro/Outro Music: positive vibes by nanaacom on CapcutContact Email: [email protected] IG: @spillthesmutpodcast TT: @spillthesmutpodcastJordan IG: @sipsoffiction TT: @sipsoffiction

What happens when the darkest corners of desire meet the written page? Author, Holly Guy invites us into her world of villains who would "burn the whole world down just to turn up the heat."Our conversation with Holly reveals the powerful philosophy behind her work: creating spaces where women can confront trauma, desire, and darkness without apology. She brilliantly distinguishes between dark romance and erotic horror, explaining how both genres serve readers seeking to explore taboo themes within the safety of fiction.Ready to discover why some readers use trigger warnings as shopping lists? Want to understand how fiction allows us to experience desires we'd never pursue in reality? Listen now.Follow Holly Guy on TikTok and Instagram @hollyguyauthor. Cover Art by: moiIntro/Outro Music: positive vibes by nanaacom on CapcutContact Email: [email protected] IG: @spillthesmutpodcast TT: @spillthesmutpodcastJordan IG: @sipsoffiction TT: @sipsoffiction

Dark Romance with a Secret Baby TwistEver wondered what happens when you can't find the exact romance novel you're craving? For Nikki Ash, the answer was simple: write it yourself. In this captivating conversation, the USA Today bestselling author shares the unexpected journey that transformed her from an English literature teacher into a prolific romance novelist with nearly 40 books to her name.What stands out most is Nikki's genuine passion for storytelling. "Writing is the only thing that doesn't stress me out," she confesses, describing how she becomes noticeably restless after just a few days away from her manuscript. Her approach to publishing—writing what she loves rather than chasing trends—reflects an authenticity that resonates throughout her work, even as she navigates the ever-changing landscape of indie publishing.Grab your coffee (Nikki's other passion), settle in, and discover why sometimes the most satisfying stories are the ones we create ourselves.Follow Nikki Ash on IG @authornikkiash and her website authornikkiash.com Cover Art by: moiIntro/Outro Music: positive vibes by nanaacom on CapcutContact Email: [email protected] IG: @spillthesmutpodcast TT: @spillthesmutpodcastJordan IG: @sipsoffiction TT: @sipsoffiction

The Evolution of BookstagramThe digital book world has transformed dramatically since its inception, and few people have witnessed this evolution as closely as Genesis, the creator behind Whispering Chapters. Long before BookTok exploded and before most of us even knew what "Bookstagram" meant, Genesis was sharing her love of stories through carefully filtered photos and thoughtful reviews.In this candid conversation, Genesis takes us back to 2013 when Bookstagram was in its infancy – a time of heavy filters, unplanned aesthetics, and a completely different approach to engagement. Whether you're a content creator navigating similar challenges, a reader looking for authentic recommendations, or simply curious about how book communities have evolved online, this conversation offers honest insights into the past, present, and future of digital book spaces. Ready to enhance your own content? Don't miss Genesis's practical tips on creating shareable posts that actually beat the algorithm!Follow Genesis on IG: @whisperingchapters x TT: @whisperingchapters Cover Art by: moiIntro/Outro Music: positive vibes by nanaacom on CapcutContact Email: [email protected] IG: @spillthesmutpodcast TT: @spillthesmutpodcastJordan IG: @sipsoffiction TT: @sipsoffiction

Ever wondered how book influencers get those coveted Advanced Reader Copies months before release? Lissa pulls back the curtain on the mysterious world of ARCs, publisher relationships, and the authentic journey of a multi-genre bookstagrammer. Whether you're an aspiring book influencer or simply curious about what happens behind those perfectly staged bookstagram photos, this episode offers both practical wisdom and heartfelt encouragement. Lissa's parting advice? Remember why you started sharing books online in the first place, and don't let algorithm anxiety steal your joy. Connect with Lissa - IG: @notesfromliterature TT: @notesfromliterature  Cover Art by: moiIntro/Outro Music: positive vibes by nanaacom on CapcutContact Email: [email protected] IG: @spillthesmutpodcast TT: @spillthesmutpodcastJordan IG: @sipsoffiction TT: @sipsoffiction

The unsung heroes behind your favorite authors' seemingly effortless social media presence, newsletter magic, and seamless book launches are often their personal assistants—and Lauren represents the gold standard in this demanding profession. In this engaging deep dive, she pulls back the curtain on what it actually takes to support multiple bestselling authors while maintaining her sanity and passion for books.Whether you're a reader curious about publishing's inner workings, an author considering assistance, or someone intrigued by this unique career path, Lauren's insights offer a fascinating glimpse into the essential but often invisible role that keeps the book world turning. Ready to see what happens when one assistant manages four major book releases in a single month? As Lauren would say: "It's a lot!"Lauren's Links: IG: @lbcreads TT: @lbcreads x Author Assistant IG: @lbcreadsauthorservices x Website: www.lbcreads.com Cover Art by: moiIntro/Outro Music: positive vibes by nanaacom on CapcutContact Email: [email protected] IG: @spillthesmutpodcast TT: @spillthesmutpodcastJordan IG: @sipsoffiction TT: @sipsoffiction

"He understood the assignment," as I welcome my roomie as the first guest on Spill the Smut. The conversation flows effortlessly from the highlights of our week (our recent wedding and Taylor Swift's new album announcement) to the heart of what it means to share your life with someone whose bookshelves overflow with spicy romance.The conversation takes a delightfully frank turn when discussing bedroom communication, with my roomie offering this gems of advice. His emphasis on open communication, willingness to try new things, and the importance of laughter during intimate moments provides a refreshing perspective on how romance novels can influence real relationships.Whether you're a dedicated romance reader, curious about the genre, or simply interested in the dynamics of relationships where books play a central role, this episode offers honest insights, plenty of laughs, and a reminder to "stay spicy" in both your reading life and relationships. Cover Art by: moiIntro/Outro Music: positive vibes by nanaacom on CapcutContact Email: [email protected] IG: @spillthesmutpodcast TT: @spillthesmutpodcastJordan IG: @sipsoffiction TT: @sipsoffiction

Welcome to Spill the Smut, where I am tearing down the walls of embarrassment around romance. This podcast creates a judgment-free zone for everyone who loves their books with a side of steam. Each week, I'm sitting down with the fascinating people behind your favorite spicy reads—authors who craft those unforgettable scenes, creators who bring book worlds to life, and industry insiders who know all the publishing secrets worth sharing.Whether you're a longtime romance devotee or curious about what all the fuss is about, Spill the Smut invites you into a community where your reading choices are celebrated, not judged. So grab your favorite drink, get comfortable, and join us for conversations that are just like the books we love—passionate, entertaining, and completely unapologetic. Subscribe now and become part of our bookish rebellion! Cover Art by: moiIntro/Outro Music: positive vibes by nanaacom on CapcutContact Email: [email protected] IG: @spillthesmutpodcast TT: @spillthesmutpodcastJordan IG: @sipsoffiction TT: @sipsoffiction