Episode 110: Gayle Forman
November 10, 2024
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In today’s episode, Alex and Tara sit down with the wisdom-filled talent Gayle Forman.
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An award-winning author and journalist, Gayle has written several bestselling novels, including those in the Just One Day series, Where She Went, and the #1 New York Times bestseller If I Stay, which has been translated into more than forty languages and was adapted into a major motion picture. Her first middle-grade novel, Frankie & Bug, was a New York Times best children’s book of the year. Her second middle-grade novel Not Nothing has been hailed as a “masterpiece” and the “book we all need at the time we all need it.”
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Listen as they discuss this most recent Middle Grade, NOT NOTHING, the importance of empathy in fiction, respect across generations, how she wrote a book for young readers from the POV of a 107-year-old holocaust survivor, Jewish heritage, the real-life figures who inspired Josey and Olka’s story, and social media and her relationship with it.
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→ Connect with Gayle on her Instagram or preferably visit her website
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→ Buy Not Nothing HERE
Episode 109: Mansi Shah
October 14, 2024
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In today’s episode, Tara talks with Mansi Shah about her novel A GOOD INDIAN GIRL. Born in Toronto to Indian immigrants, Mansi is also the author of The Direction of The Wind and The Taste of Ginger. Now based in Los Angeles, Mansi left her long-time career as an entertainment attorney in Hollywood to travel the world and write full-time. She loves to cook, and food often plays a prominent role in her books.
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Listen as they discuss why Mansi decided to move from law to fiction writing, how being a lawyer ignited her passion for highlighting certain themes within her work, the importance of food within culture and fiction, how to use the recipes on her website, and what’s next for her
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Connect with Mansi on her Instagram(https://www.instagram.com/mansishahwrites/), TikTok, or visit her website (https://www.mansikshah.com/)
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Buy A Good Indian Girl HERE: https://bookshop.org/a/56741/9780778310648
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Content Warning: infertility, gaslighting
Episode 108: Ann Liang
Sept 30, 2024
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In today’s episode, Alex and Tara sit down with the icon herself, Ann Liang. Ann is the New York Times and Indie bestselling author of the critically acclaimed YA novels This Time It’s Real, If You Could See the Sun, and I Hope This Doesn't Find You. Born in Beijing, she grew up traveling back and forth between China and Australia but somehow ended up with an American accent. She now lives in Melbourne, where she can be found making overambitious to‑do lists and having profound conversations with her pet labradoodle about who’s a good dog.
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Listen as they discuss her debut adult historical romance, A SONG TO DROWN RIVERS, how she’s able to write so many books, the switch from YA to Adult, balancing life while on deadline, and how C-dramas inspire her.
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Connect with Ann on her Instagram(https://www.instagram.com/annliangwrites/), TikTok(https://www.tiktok.com/@annliangauthor?lang=en), or visit her website (https://www.annliang.com/a-song-to-drown-rivers)
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Buy A Song to Drown Rivers HERE (https://bookshop.org/a/56741/9781250289469
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Content Warning: contains scenes with murder, violence, blood, poison, suicide, and death.
Episode 107: Kerryn Mayne
September 8, 2024
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In the first episode of season 5, Tara sits down with the amazing Kerryn Mayne.
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Kerryn is an author, former wedding photographer, and current police officer. When not at work attempting to solve crime, she writes about it or prepares an endless stream of snacks for her kids. Kerryn lives in the Melbourne suburbs of Australia with her husband, four children, and a highly suspect lovebird.
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Listen as they discuss her debut novel, LENNY MARKS GETS AWAY WITH MURDER, her career pivot from wedding photographer to police officer, building tension within a story, the differences between the AU and the US publishing, and her latest book out in Australia Joy Moody is Out of Time.
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→ Buy Lenny Marks Gets Away with Murder HERE
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Content Warning: anxiety; dissociative amnesia; social anxiety; domestic abuse; animal abuse; child abuse; alcoholism; suicide.
Episode 106: Hannah Honneger
July 1, 2024
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In this episode of Hope Prose, Alex and Tara are throwing it way back in time and chatting with debut historical romance author Hannah Honegger
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Hannah is an author, screenwriter, and actress who was destined to write a series about the American Revolutionary War when she was born on July 4th. Finding obscure stories in history is one of her passions and she never seems to be without a new book idea.
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Listen as they discuss her debut A LADY, little-known spy stories, the research that goes into historical fiction, her love of acting and screenwriting, identity, and what k-dramas can teach you about writing relationships.
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Connect with Hannah on her Instagram or visit her website to find out more about her books and upcoming projects!
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Pre-order & order A Lady HERE
Episode 105: Bethany Jett
June 10, 2024
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In this episode of Hope Prose, Alex sits down with literary agent extraordinaire Bethany Jett.
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Bethany is an associate literary agent with the C.Y.L.E. agency, a multi-award-winning author, and a marketing strategist who earned top honors in her master’s program, where she earned her MFA in Communications focusing on Marketing and PR. Her motto is “Teach as you go,” which she lives out as the co-owner of Serious Writer, a company that teaches and empowers writers and authors.
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Listen as they discuss what Bethany is looking for when she reopens, what you should look for in a potential agent-author relationship, what she wishes authors would stop doing, and why celebrating the small things is important.
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Connect with Bethany on her Instagram or visit her website to find out how to query her
Episode 104: Tara Conklin
May 27, 2024
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In this episode of Hope Prose, Tara and Alex sit down to chat with Tara Conklin about writing across time and themes, why everyone should still read National Geographic, and all the details about her latest book, Community Board.
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A lawyer turned novelist, her books have been New York Times bestsellers, selected for Read With Jenna (the Today Show book club), Target book club, Barnes & Noble book club, IndieNext Pick, and have been translated into eight languages.
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Listen as they discuss the importance of community, why she switched from law to fiction, Community Board's unique format, the importance of stories featuring siblings, and how she writes a well-rounded cast of characters, who, in no way reflect her own siblings or neighbors.
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→ Connect with Tara on her Instagram or website!
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→ Buy Community Board HERE!
Episode 103: Elle Evans
April 2, 2024
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In this episode of Hope Prose, Tara sits down to chat with Elle Evans about her southern friendship debut, Wedding Issues.
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Originally from Massachusetts, Elle now lives in Philadelphia, where she works in health care. She is recovering from a recent five-year stint in Nashville for graduate school, punctuated by sweet Southern hospitality and even sweeter iced tea.
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Listen as they chat about balancing writing while training to be a doctor, what experiences in her own life influenced this story and her characters, writing books that border between women's fiction and romance, and what surprised her during her debut publication experience. (And Happy Release Day!)
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Connect with Elle on her Instagram or website!
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Buy Wedding Issues HERE!
Episode 102: Tracey Garvis Graves
March 26, 2024
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In this episode of Hope Prose, New York Times Bestselling author Tracey Garvis Graves sits down to chat with Tara and Alex about her latest release THE TRAIL OF LOST HEARTS.
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Listen as they chat about what jumpstarted her career into writing, geocaching, the struggle of writing a character-driven book rather than a plot-driven one, how early influences have woven into her stories, and her love of using landscapes as a secondary character.
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Connect with Tracey on her Instagram or website!
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Buy The Trail of Lost Hearts HERE!
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A Deadly Endeavor CW: Attempted sexual assault, grief, a few brief open-door sex scenes, easy to skip over without missing any plot
Episode 101: Jenny Adams
March 19, 2024
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In this episode of Hope Prose, Tara and Alex chat with debut Jenny Adams about her first book A Deadly Endeavor. She is a librarian turned novelist and holds degrees in Medieval Studies and Library Science from Ohio State University and Drexel University. She has studied fiction at Johns Hopkins University and is an alumna of Blue Stoop’s 2019 YA Novel Intensive and the 2021 Tin House YA Workshop, and was a 2021 PitchWars Mentor.
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Listen as Jenny walks us through her journey to publication, the trials of writing historical fiction, finding confidence as a writer, and fun facts about the characters within A Deadly Endeavor.
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Connect with Jenny on her Instagram or website!
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Buy A Deadly Endeavor HERE!
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A Deadly Endeavor CW: PTSD, Murder, descriptions of wounds
Episode 100: Erica Bauermeister
March 3, 2024
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In this episode of Hope Prose, Tara and Rebekah chat with Erica Bauermeister, the New York Times bestselling author of 5 novels, including The Scent Keeper, The School of Essential Ingredients, and her latest, No Two Persons.
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Listen as Erica showers them in wisdom about the craft of getting out of the way of your character, the art of the linked story, how to tell when you are ready to write your story idea, and the risks we take to share our work with others.
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Connect with Erica on her Instagram or website!
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If you have a book club and read No Two Persons, you can have Erica attend virtually and enter to win all of her books! Details are HERE.
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Buy No Two Persons HERE!
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No Two Persons CW: Suicide, physical abuse, drug abuse
Episode 99: Gillian Bronte Adams
February 4, 2024
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In this episode of Hope Prose, Tara and Rebekah talk with Gillian Bronte Adams about the most recent installment in her epic YA fantasy.
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Gillian writes epic fantasy novels, including the award-winning Of Fire and Ash and The Songkeeper Chronicles. She loves strong coffee, desert hikes, and trying out new soup recipes on crisp fall nights. When she’s not creating vibrant new worlds or dreaming up stories that ring with the echoes of eternity, she can be found off chasing sunsets with her horse, or her dog, Took.
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Listen as they chat about being a slow writer, the Lord of the Rings, writing epic fantasy for a YA audience, overcoming doubts as a creative, and the fictional characters that have shaped her over the years.
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→ Connect with Gillian on her Instagram or website!
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→ Buy Of Sea and Smoke HERE!
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Of Sea and Smoke CW: Fantastical violence, dark imagery
Episode 99: Kyla Zhao
January 14, 2024
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In this episode of Hope Prose, Rebekah sits down with Kyla Zhao to talk about her latest book “Valley Verified”, perfect for fans of Legally Blonde.
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Born and raised in Singapore, Kyla Zhao graduated in 2021 from Stanford University with an MA in Communications and BA in Psychology. Right now, she works in marketing at a tech company in Silicon Valley, California.
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Besides novel writing, Kyla has an extensive magazine editorial portfolio. Previously, she was a fashion and lifestyle writer at Vogue Singapore. She has also written for the Singapore editions of Harper's Bazaar and Tatler, covered the Asian Television Awards, and interviewed personalities such as singer Nathan Sykes.
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Listen as they chat about imposter syndrome, finding your people, blending tech and fashion in her real life and within Valley Verified, plus her best advice for aspiring and established authors.
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→ Connect with Kyla on her Instagram or website!
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→ Buy Valley Verified HERE!
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Valley Verified CW: Mild language, brief, non-descriptive mention of sexual harassment in the workplace
Episode 98: Emma Grey
December 18, 2023
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In this episode of Hope Prose, Rebekah and Tara sit down for a vulnerable, heartfelt discussion on grief, love, and hope with author Emma Grey.
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Emma is a novelist, feature writer, photographer, professional speaker, and accountability coach. She wrote her first adult novel, The Last Love Note, in the wake of her husband’s death. It’s a fictional tribute to their love, an attempt to articulate the magnitude of her loss, and a life-affirming commitment to hope, which has gone on to win hearts around the world.
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Listen as they chat about how fiction can heal us, the importance of tackling hard topics like grief in fiction, and the hope that seeps through even the darkest moments in our lives.
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Connect with Emma on her Instagram or website!
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Buy The Last Love Note HERE!
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The Last Love Note CW: Mild language, descriptions of grief and loss, infertility, miscarriage
Episode 97: Annette Christie
December 4, 2023
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In this episode of Hope Prose, Rebekah and Tara chat with rom-com/Women’s fiction extraordinaire Annette Christie. Annette is the author of For Twice in My Life and The Rehearsals, and the author/narrator of Love Lessons. She has a BFA in Theatre and a history of very odd jobs. The back of her head is featured prominently in the film Mean Girls and she currently resides with her husband and two children in Alberta, Canada
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Listen as they chat about what prompted her career change from actress/playwright to author, how long it takes her to write a book, the struggles of the publishing industry, and why she loves writing.
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Connect with Annette on her Instagram or website!
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Buy For Twice in My Life HERE!
Episode 96: Charlene Carr
Nov 19, 2023
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In this episode of Hope Prose, Tara sits down with Charlene Carr to discuss her latest novel HOLD MY GIRL. Charlene studied literature at university, attaining both a BA and MA in English, including a study program at Oxford. She has independently published nine novels and her first agented novel, Hold My Girl, has sold to HarperCollins Canada, Sourcebooks Landmark (US), and is set for adaptation to TV by Blink49 Studios in partnership with Groundswell Productions. She lives in Nova Scotia with her husband and young daughter.
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Listen as they chat about motherhood, the inspiration behind the story, what she hopes to say to women experiencing IVF themselves, her new novel out January 30th, and her advice for writers looking to write in a similar vein.
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Connect with Carlene on her Instagram or website!
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Buy Hold My Girl HERE!
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Hold My Girl CW: Infertility, pregnancy loss, mentions of rape, suicidal thoughts
Episode 95: Johanna Rojas Vann
October 30, 2023
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In today’s episode, Tara and Rebekah sit down with debut Adult fiction author Johanna Rojas Vann.
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With a background in journalism, Johanna is a big fan of words—speaking them, reading them, and (especially) writing them. She is passionate about stories that highlight the complexity and beauty of diverse families. But nothing brings her more joy than her role at home as a wife and mom of two toddlers. She lives and writes in Nashville, TN where the coffee is good and the people are even better.
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Listen as they discuss all things AN AMERICAN IMMIGRANT, how her mother inspired the book, family history and duty, the complexities of growing up diaspora, and the importance Columbian food plays in her novel.
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→ Connect with Johanna on her Instagram or website!
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→ Buy An American Immigrant HERE!
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→ Download a recipe book inspired by Johanna's book at johannavann.com/blog/recipes
Episode 94:Katherine Center
September 24, 2023
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Prepare for joy in the latest episode of the podcast! Rebekah and Tara sit down with the “reigning queen of comfort reads” Katherine Center, the New York Times bestselling author of ten novels, including How to Walk Away, Things You Save in a Fire, The Bodyguard, and her newest, Hello Stranger—an instant New York Times bestseller. Katherine writes laugh-and-cry books about how life knocks us down—and how we get back up. She’s been compared to both Jane Austen and Nora Ephron, and Emily Henry said her books are like the perfect hug.
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Listen as they discuss her manifesto to read for joy, her lengthy journey to publication, her passion for romance, and the problem with the snobs against it, and hear her read a special essay about why she started writing romance novels.
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Katherine’s books can be purchased from your local independent bookstore or online from the Hope Prose Podcast bookshop.org store (benefiting indie bookstores) at: https://bookshop.org/shop/thehopeprosepod
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→ Connect with Katherine on her Instagram, Tiktok, or website!
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→ Buy Hello Stranger HERE!
Episode 93: Ally Carter
September 10, 2023
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In our first episode of season 4, we sit down with powerhouse YA and now Adult author, Ally Carter.
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Ally Carter is the bestselling author of novels epitomizing action-adventure YA romance for over a decade. From the spy-centric humor of I’d Tell You I Love You, but Then I’d Have to Kill You to the globe-trotting glamour of Heist Society and Not If I Save You First, Ally Carter is synonymous with hilarious action and heart-pounding romance.
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Listen as they discuss her decision to break into the adult rom-com space, how she won’t be able to please everyone as a creative, her tips for writing page-turning novels, and who her favorite author is.
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Ally’s books can be purchased from your local independent bookstore or online from the Hope Prose Podcast bookshop.org store (benefiting indie bookstores) at: https://bookshop.org/shop/thehopeprosepod
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→ Connect with Ally on her Instagram or Twitter/X, or website!
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→ Buy The Blonde Identity HERE!
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The Blonde Identity CW: Brief language
Episode 92: Season Three Finale!
July 9, 2023
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Just like that, season three of the Hope Prose podcast is over! Join Tara and Rebekah as they reflect on the past season, tease their upcoming guests, update you on some exciting things happening in their lives, and ask YOU what you want their next season to sound like.
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Check back here soon for a survey to help us make season four even better!
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In the meantime, check out all the fun things Tara and Bekah are doing over the summer:
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Tara is on Instagram, Threads, and this website!
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Bekah is on Instagram, Tiktok, Threads and Twitter.
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Enjoy!
Episode 91: Ali Brady
June 26, 2023
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Today’s episode of Hope Prose showcases a first for the show! You’ve heard Tara and Bekah talk to authors before, but you’ve never heard them interview CO-AUTHORS. Well, today is the day they break that streak by having Ali Brady in the studio!
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Ali Brady is the pen name of writing BFFs Alison Hammer & Bradeigh Godfrey. Their debut novel, THE BEACH TRAP, was a ‘Best of Summer’ pick for The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, Parade Magazine, and Katie Couric Media last year. Their second book, THE COMEBACK SUMMER, came out May 9, 2023, from Berkley (PRH).
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Listen as they discuss the BFF’s “meet-cute” moment, the ins and outs of a writing partnership, how they resolve conflicts, sisterhood, breaking out of their comfort zones, and the most significant challenges they faced when writing The Comeback Summer
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Ali Brady’s books can be purchased from your local independent bookstore or online from the Hope Prose Podcast bookshop.org store (benefiting indie bookstores) at: https://bookshop.org/a/56741/9781728242651
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Connect with Ali Brady on their Instagram or Twitter, or website!
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Connect with Bradeigh on her Instagram or website!
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Connect with Alison on her Instagram or website!
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→ Join the Ali Brady Bunch!
Episode 90: Lily Chu
June 12, 2023
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Today’s episode of Hope Prose is for those that love romantic comedies, K-pop, K-drama, or maybe even none of those things and just want something fun to listen to on a long commute. No matter where you fall into those categories, Lily Chu is sure to have you laughing and running out to buy her latest book “The Comeback”.
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Her debut novel “The Stand-In”, released through Audible, is performed by Phillipa Soo and spent multiple weeks at number one in Audible Top Plus Listens. In print, “The Stand-In” was named Target’s Book Club Pick for May, an Amazon Book of the Month, and Apple Best Books of May.
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Her most recent novel “The Comeback” is available in print and as an Audible Original, also narrated by Phillipa Soo, and was named one of Audible’s Best of 2023.
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Listen as they have a fun-fill discussion about all things The Comeback, her jump from steampunk romance to rom-com, how BTS and K-pop have helped her both creatively and emotionally, what it was like finding out THE Philipa Soo was going to narrate her novels, and her tricks to writing the most delicious slow-burn.
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Lily’s books can be purchased from your local independent bookstore or online from the Hope Prose Podcast bookshop.org store (benefiting indie bookstores) at: https://bookshop.org/a/56741/9781728242651
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→ Connect with Lily on her Instagram, Twitter, or website!
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Check out the K-drama clip mentioned in the interview!
Episode 89: Karin Lin-Greenberg
May 28, 2023
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Karin Lin-Greenberg joins Rebekah and Tara to chat all things short stories and her debut novel You Are Here. Karin’s first story collection, Faulty Predictions, won the 2013 Flannery O'Connor Award in Short Fiction from the University of Georgia Press. Her second story collection, Vanished, won the 2021 Prairie Schooner Raz-Shumaker Book Prize in Fiction and was published by the University of Nebraska Press in 2022. You Are Here was published by Counterpoint Press this May 2023 and Tara is a tad obsessed with it!
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Listen for tips on finding magazines and journals to submit your short stories, what inspired You Are Here, writing interwoven narratives across multiple POVs, and so much more.
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Karin’s books can be purchased from your local independent bookstore or online from the Hope Prose Podcast bookshop.org store (benefiting indie bookstores) at: https://bookshop.org/a/56741/9781534497719
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Connect with Karin on her Twitter or Website!
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RESOURCES:
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Poets and Writers
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NewPages
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Chill Subs
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Episode 88: Suzanne Park
May 15, 2023
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In today’s episode of Hope Prose, Suzanne Park joins Rebekah and Tara to chat about her newest book The Do-Over. Suzanne is a Korean American writer born and raised in Tennessee and in her former life as a stand-up comedian, she appeared on BET, was the winner of the Seattle Sierra Mist Comedy Competition, and was a semi-finalist in NBC's "Stand Up For Diversity" showcase.
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Her novels have been featured in “best of” lists in NPR, Popsugar, Real Simple, Country Living, Bustle, Buzzfeed, Marie Claire, Parade, Shondaland, and The Today Show.
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Listen for a vibrant discussion on imposter syndrome, what sparked the idea for The Do-Over’s premise, how her comedy career helped her fiction writing, releasing books during the pandemic vs. after, and why she would eat an entire jar of mayonnaise.
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Suzanne’s books can be purchased from your local independent bookstore or online from the Hope Prose Podcast bookshop.org store (benefiting indie bookstores)
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Connect with Suzanne on her Instagram or website!
Episode 87: Becky Dean
May 1, 2023
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In today’s episode of Hope Prose, Becky Dean drops by to chat about her newest book Picture-Perfect Boyfriend. Becky is the author of two young adult contemporary romances, Love & Other Great Expectations and (soon!) Picture-Perfect Boyfriend, plus the science fiction series Shades of Starlight written under the pen name B.L. Dean.
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She is a fan of adventures both real and fictional and when she’s not writing or traveling, she can be found drinking tea, watching science fiction shows, or quoting The Lord of the Rings.
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Listen as we discuss the winding road that is getting from draft to publication, her numerous book ideas, how her time traveling has influenced her writing, and what it’s been like getting ready to launch and launching four books in three months (!)
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Becky’s books can be purchased from your local independent bookstore or online from the Hope Prose Podcast bookshop.org store (benefiting indie bookstores)
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Connect with Becky on her Instagram or website!
Episode 86: Jamie Chai Yun Liew
April 16, 2023
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In today’s episode of Hope Prose, author, podcaster, lawyer, and professor Jamie Chai Yun Liew sits down with Tara to discuss her debut novel Dandelion. Longlisted for the CBC Canada Reads 2023 and CBC's Best Canadian Fiction 2022 list, Dandelion is also the recipient of the Asian Canadian Writers’ Workshop Jim Wong-Chu Emerging Writers Award, aka…she’s a pretty big deal. With roots in South East Asia, Jamie lives with her family in Ottawa, Algonquin Anishinaabe territory.
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Listen as they discuss how her work as a lawyer specializing in immigration and stateless people helped spark the idea for Dandelion, the importance of food in her storytelling, and the decision to use Chinese characters as chapter titles within her work
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Jamie’s books can be purchased from your local independent bookstore or online from the Hope Prose Podcast bookshop.org store (benefiting indie bookstores) HERE
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→ Connect with Jamie on her Instagram, podcast, or website
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→ Buy Dandelion HERE
Episode 85: Emilie (E.A. Hendryx)
March 27, 2023
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In today’s episode of Hope Prose, Emilie (AKA E.A. Hendryx) sits down with Rebekah to talk about her YA fantasy/sci-fi novel Suspended in the Stars and her experience crowdfunding it. When she’s not reading, writing, or working in her Etsy shop, she loves long walks in the woods and listening to music.
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Listen as they discuss the pros and cons of crowdfunding a novel, the differences between self-publishing a novel and crowdfunding it, why she decided to write a sci-fi with magical elements, and her experience as a ghost writer and how it prepared her for her career.
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Guests books can be purchased from your local independent bookstore or online from the Hope Prose Podcast bookshop.org store (benefiting indie bookstores)
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Connect with Emilie on her Instagram or website!
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To support Emilie’s Kickstarter, check it out here
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Shop Emilie’s Etsy storefront
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To learn more about Kickstarter, please check out their website: https://www.kickstarter.com/learn
Episode 84: Mary Adkins
March 26, 2023
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In today’s episode of Hope Prose, acclaimed author Mary Adkins sits down with Tara and Rebekah to talk about her latest novel Palm Beach and her book coaching program, The Book Incubator. A former lawyer turned book coach and writer, Mary graduated from Duke University and Yale Law School. Her books have been published in 13 countries, and her essays and reporting have appeared in the New York Times, The Atlantic, Slate, and more.
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Listen as they have a robust discussion about why she left her corporate New York City law firm job to dedicate her life to her secret creative dream of becoming a writer, the social-economical differences between the upper and lower class, moms being represented in fiction, and all about her Book Incubator course for beginning to advanced writers.
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Mary’s books can be purchased from your local independent bookstore or online from the Hope Prose Podcast bookshop.org store (benefiting indie bookstores) at: https://bookshop.org/a/56741/9781534497719
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→ Connect with Mary on her Instagram, YouTube, or website!
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→ Check out The Book Incubator
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→ Check out QueryManager!
Episode 83: Candace Kade
March 12, 2023
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In today’s episode, Candace Kade stops by the studio to talk about her debut novel, Enhanced.
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Candace is a recovering over-achiever who spends her time dreaming up stories typically involving tech, psychology, culture, and/or swords. Candace Kade is a certified Krav Maga assistant instructor and loves writing action-packed martial art scenes. A third culture kid, she considers Chengdu and Austin to be her homes.
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Listen in as we chat about how the first book in the Hybrid series came to be, how her Krav Maga training has helped her write action scenes, how a mugging gave her inspiration, and why family and belonging are themes throughout the book and close to her heart.
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Candace’s book can be purchased from your local independent bookstore or online from the Hope Prose Podcast bookshop.org store (benefiting indie bookstores) at:
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→ Connect with Candace on her website and Instagram
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→ Buy her book(s) HERE
Episode 82: Dallas Woodburn
February 21, 2023
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In today’s episode, Dallas Woodburn drops in to talk with Rebekah and Tara about her YA novel Thanks, Carissa, For Ruining My Life, and her collection of short stories How to Make Paper When the World is Ending.
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Dallas Woodburn is an award-winning writer of fiction, nonfiction, and plays. She’s an in-demand book coach; and host of the Thriving Authors Podcast. Her debut YA novel, The Best Week That Never Happened, was the Grand Prize Winner of the Dante Rossetti Book Award for Young Adult Fiction. Her short stories and essays have appeared in many publications, including more than two dozen Chicken Soup for the Soul series books.
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Listen in as they chat about the inspiration behind Thanks, Carissa, For Ruining My Life, how short stories have helped shape her writing journey and her experience with writing in different genres and formats.
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Dalla’s books can be purchased on Amazon, your local independent bookstore or online from the Hope Prose Podcast bookshop.org store (benefiting indie bookstores) at: Buy her book(s) HERE
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Connect with Dallas on her website and Instagram
Episode 81: Daniel Aleman
January 22, 2023
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In today’s episode, Daniel Aleman stops by to talk with Rebekah and Tara about his newest novel Brighter Than the Sun (releasing March, 21st, 2023) about a teen girl shouldering impossibly large responsibilities and ultimately learning that she doesn’t have to do it alone.
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Daniel is the award-winning author of Indivisible, his debut novel. While born and raised in Mexico City, he currently makes the Toronto area home where he is passionate about books, dogs, and coffee.
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Listen in as they chat about the important message of Brighter Than the Sun, racism, the need for community, and the ups and downs of his journey to becoming an award-winning author.
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Daniel’s books can be purchased from your local independent bookstore or online from the Hope Prose Podcast bookshop.org store (benefiting indie bookstores) at:
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Connect with Daniel on his website and Instagram
Episode 80: Charity Elyse
January 9, 2023
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In today’s episode of Hope Prose, author Charity Alyse sits down with Tara and Rebekah to talk about her debut novel Other Side of the Tracks. Charity earned her bachelor’s degree in English literature at Rowan University and when she’s not writing, she is currently working toward a master’s degree in clinical mental health therapy.
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Listen as they have a robust discussion about her debut, racism, the importance of fiction in conveying heavy issues, her hopes for her readers, and fighting back against people who tell you to “quit” your daydream. Oh, and we can’t forget the tears shed during the recording. This is an episode you won’t want to miss!
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Charity’s book Other Side of the Tracks can be pre-ordered from your local independent bookstore or online from the Hope Prose Podcast bookshop.org store (benefiting indie bookstores) HERE
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Connect with Charity on her social medias via Instagram or TikTok!
Episode 79: Carmen Schoeber
December 5, 2022
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In today’s episode, Carmen Schober joins Tara and Rebekah to talk about her newest novel Pretty Little Pieces (releasing Dec. 6th, 2022) about the next Joanna Gaines.
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A mother of three, Rocky enthusiast, and perpetual project starter, Carmen writes clean, faith-based contemporary romance. Her MMA-themed debut After She Falls is available wherever you buy books. Listen in to hear what inspired her to write a story about a celebrity home designer, if a writing degree is necessary for being a successful writer, the redemption in brokenness, and her journey to publication.
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TRIGGER WARNING: the excerpt from Pretty Little Pieces read in the show contains mentions and brief descriptions of miscarriage. If you are sensitive to these themes, please protect your mental health and consider checking out our previous episodes
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Carmen’s books can be purchased from your local independent bookstore or online from the Hope Prose Podcast bookshop.org store (benefiting indie bookstores) HERE
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Connect with Carmen on her website and Instagram
Episode 78: Patrice Gopo
November 22,
2022
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In today’s episode, Patrice Gopo comes to the table with tender wisdom and advice for those looking to break into the creative non-fiction space. As an essayist, Patrice often returns to themes of race, immigration, identity formation, and belonging within her writing.
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Her essay collection, All the Colors We Will See, was a Barnes & Noble Discover Great New Writers selection and her debut picture book, All the Places We Call Home, was inspired by one of the essays in her collection.
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Listen in to hear how she discovered the art of the personal essay, tips she has for aspiring personal essayists, the difference between a school essay and a creative non-fiction essay, the process of writing her children’s book, and why sometimes it can feel like we’re telling the same stories over and over again.
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Connect with Patrice on her website and Instagram
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Buy her book(s) HERE
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Richard Blanco quote
Episode 77: Ashley Mays
November 6,
2022
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In today’s episode, Ashley Mays sits down with Tara and Bekah to chat about her clean YA novel, The Great Date Experiment, which is perfectly sweet and ROTLF hilarious!
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Ashley is a creativity connoisseur, nature nerd, and ardent fan of all things peanut butter. She lives with her husband in the Southeast United States where they enjoy stargazing, exploring local parks, and humidity.
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Listen in as they discuss Ashley’s heart for teens—specifically teen girls—, her unique ability to taste (?) names, and her journey from being surrounded by books to writing them.
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→ Connect with Ashley on her website and Instagram
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→ Buy her book HERE
Episode 76: Jennifer Chambliss Bertman
October 14,
2022
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This week's guest, Jennifer Chambliss Bertman, is the New York Times bestselling author of the Book Scavenger series and Sisterhood of Sleuths. Book Scavenger was an Indie Next Top Ten pick, an Amazon Book of the Year, a Bank Street College Book of the Year, an NCTE Notable Book!
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She holds an MFA in creative writing and has worked in a variety of roles with children and in publishing. A native of the San Francisco Bay Area, Jennifer now lives in Colorado with her family and so graciously took time out of her busy schedule to sit down and chat with us.
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While we would have loved to present her interview in an audio format, because of the corruption of audio when recording, we were unable to use the audio in our usual podcast segment. However, we couldn’t keep you from her infectious message of perseverance, and amazing talent, so in lieu of a recording, we will be sharing her journey via a unique blog post format! Check our her interview HERE.
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Sisterhood of Sleuths is out NOW wherever books are sold (you can find it HERE on our Bookshop.org account)
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→ Connect with Jennifer on her website, Instagram, or Twitter!
Episode 75: Melissa Ferguson
September 25, 2022
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In today’s episode, Bekah and Tara sit down with bestselling author and Instagram powerhouse over at @our_friendly_farmhouse, Melissa Ferguson to chat about her latest novel Meet Me in the Margins.
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Currently, she makes Tennessee her home, where she enjoys chasing her children and writing romantic comedies full of humor and heart.
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Listen in as they chat about her humble beginnings, how the Twilight series inspired her to start writing, the key to building a successful social media presence as an author, and some of the true stories behind the story of Meet Me in the Margins. (Which makes this story even more adorable, if that's even possible?!)
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Connect with Melissa on her website, Instagram, or TikTok!
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Buy her book HERE
Episode 74: Zoulfa Katouh
September 5, 2022
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In today’s episode of Hope Prose, debut author Zoulfa Katouh joins Rebekah and Tara to talk all things AS LONG AS THE LEMON TREES GROW (forthcoming September 13th, 2022). Zoulfa is a Syrian-Canadian based in Switzerland and currently pursuing her master's in Drug Sciences. She finds Studio Ghibli inspiration in the mountains, lakes, and stars surrounding her and will tell anyone who will listen that BTS paved the way.
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Listen as they have a heartfelt discussion about her debut, PTSD representation in literature, her journey from the draft on her computer to published novel, and her Syrian culture. Oh, and tears. Lots of tears.
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Zoulfa’s book AS LONG AS THE LEMON TREES GROW can be pre-ordered from your local independent bookstore or online from the Hope Prose Podcast bookshop.org store (benefiting indie bookstores) HERE
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Connect with Zoulfa on her website (content warnings can be found here as well), Instagram, or Twitter!
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PRE-order her book
Episode 73: Kristy Cambron
July 10, 2022
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Today on Hope Prose, Tara and Bekah sit down with the amazing Kristy Cambron, an award-winning, best-selling author who has also added literary agent to her list of activities.
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A self-proclaimed history nerd, she loves to chase all things research, like going behind the scenes at a Ringling Bros. Sarasota mansion. She holds a degree in Art History/Research Writing and spent 15 yrs in education and leadership development for a Fortune-100 corporation, partnering with such companies as the Disney Institute, before stepping away to pursue her passion for storytelling and championing her clients.
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Listen as she talks to us about the place where literature and art intersect, what inspired the idea for her latest book The Italian Ballerina, tackling dual timelines, what agenting has taught her about her own writing journey, and what she’s looking to acquire.
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Connect with Kristy on her website or on Instagram
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Pre-order Kristy’s book HERE
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Query Kristy HERE
Episode 72: Ann Kroeker
June 26, 2022
Today on Hope Prose, Tara and Bekah sit down with Ann Kroeker, a writing coach leveraging twenty-five years of writing and editing experience, author, speaker, and host of the podcast, “Ann Kroeker, Writing Coach”. Together with her Belgian-born husband, she has four adult children busy pursuing their own creative lives and be it at work or play, she strives to live a life full of wonder and curiosity…Oh, and drink a lot of tea!
Listen as she talks about her favorite parts about being a writing coach, why she decided to become one, the difference between a writing coach and a book coach, marketing, and how to make connections as an introvert.
→ Connect with Ann on her website or on Instagram
→ Liste to Ann’s podcast HERE
Episode 71: Sara Ella
June 12, 2022
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Today on Hope Prose, THE Sara Ella stops by the show and enchants us with her wisdom and humble spirit…oh, and of course talk about her newest book, THE WONDERLAND TRIALS (releasing from Enclave Publishing July 12th)!
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When she was younger, Sara Ella dreamed she would marry a Disney prince and live in a castle. Now she spends her days homeschooling her three Jedi in training, braving the Arizona summers, and reminding her superhero husband that it’s almost Christmas (even if it’s only January).
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Listen in as we talk about all things fairytales, the inspiration behind the games in THE WONDERLAND TRIALS, the importance of a writing community, and crafting life-like characters who have you rooting for them until the end.
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Connect with Sara Ella on her website or on Instagram
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Pre-order and buy your copy of THE WONDERLAND TRIALS HERE
Episode 70: Christopher Paolini
May 30, 2022
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Today on Hope Prose, Tara and Rebekah welcome author extraordinaire Christopher Paolini to the show. Christopher is the creator of the World of Eragon and the Fractalverse, holder of the Guinness World Record for the youngest author of a bestselling series, and qualified for marksman in the Australian army.
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Listen as we chat about his foray into the adult side of fiction with his sci-fi novel, To Sleep In A Sea of Stars, the first book in the Fractalverse series, his journey from being a best-selling teen author to now, and the lessons he’s learned along the way.
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This is an episode you won’t want to miss!
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Connect with Christopher on his website or on Instagram
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Buy To Sleep In A Sea of Stars HERE
Episode 69: Tessa Van Wade
May 15, 2022
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In today’s episode, Tessa Van Wade stops by to talk with Rebekah and Tara about OUT OF THE SHADOWS, the first installment in her Velieri Uprising series, cinematic writing, and the importance of tackling big themes in books.
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She currently makes Hawaii her home, and when she’s not being a mom of two or writing, she runs a boutique gym and pilates studio.
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OUT OF THE SHADOWS is her first book. Listen in as she discusses her unconventional path to publishing, her background in acting and producing, her podcast The Tessa Van Wade Show, and what she hopes readers take away from her books!
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Connect with Tessa on her website or Instagram
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Buy her book HERE
Episode 68: Don Pape - Industry Expert
April 25, 2022
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Today on Hope Prose, we’re switching things up a bit and instead of an author, you’re going to be hearing from someone who champions their books and gets them published. Our guest today is none other than literary extraordinaire himself, Don Pape! Former publisher-turned literary agent.
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Listen as Don takes us behind the scenes of agent life and explains what he thinks makes a good story, query, and what he’s looking to represent as an agent. Also, he lets us in on some trends in publishing right now and gives his best advice for those looking to query soon.
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Connect with Don on his website or on Instagram
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Need help crafting the perfect query package? Here are a few resources:
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The Quintessential Query
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How to Write a Killer Synopsis
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The Difference Between Querying in 2019 and 2022
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Episode 67: Ashley Bustamante
April 3, 2022
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Today on Hope Prose, Ashley Bustamante stops by to chat with Tara and Rebekah about her debut novel, VIVID, coming from Enclave in May of 2022.
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Ashley, hailing from Arizona, has been writing for as long as she can remember and strives to create stories that bring people together and offer positive messages of encouragement to her readers.
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Listen in as Ashely talks about her unorthodox foray into publishing, where her idea for a color-based magic system originated, imposter syndrome, all things VIVID, and her advice for writer’s looking to get traditionally published.
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Ashley’s book, VIVID, can be pre-ordered and purchased from your local independent bookstore or online from the Hope Prose Podcast bookshop.org store (benefiting indie bookstores) HERE
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Connect with Ashley on her website or on Instagram
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Pre-order her book HERE
Episode 66: Katherine Reay
March 21, 2022
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In today’s episode, Katherine Reay, a national bestselling and award-winning author of several novels, including one of Tara's favourites (Lizzie and Jane), stops by to talk to Rebekah and Tara about her wildly successful novel THE LONDON HOUSE.
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Listen as they chat about her first foray into historical split-time fiction, the research she conducted for the story, her love of the classics, the What the Dickens' Book Club and why food plays an important role in her novels. HINT: Jane Austen may have something to do with it!
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Katherine’s book THE LONDON HOUSE can be purchased from your local independent bookstore or online from the Hope Prose Podcast bookshop.org store (benefiting indie bookstores) HERE.
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Connect with Katherine on her website or Instagram
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Buy her book HERE
Episode 65: Nova McBee
March 8, 2022
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In this episode, Rebekah and Tara sit down with the marvelous Nova Mcbee, a Seattle native and helpless nomad and culture nerd who has lived nearly half her life in the Middle East, Europe, and Asia. However, you may know her as the brains behind the popular Calculated Series---including Calculated, Simulated, and soon Activated!
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Listen in as she talks about her time as a PitchWars Mentor, the extensive research behind the Calculated Series, and what it was like to write a math prodigy as someone not so mathy herself. She also gives us a sneak-peek into the upcoming film news for Calculated and enlightens us on what the most daring thing she’s done is.
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Nova’s book CALCULATED and the rest of the series can be purchased from your local independent bookstore or online from the Hope Prose Podcast bookshop.org store (benefiting indie bookstores) HERE.
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Connect with Nova on her website or Instagram
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Buy her book HERE
Episode 64: Social Media Expert: Danielle Wilkinson
February 20, 2022
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In today’s episode, Tara and Rebekah discuss the nitty-gritty of social media with Danielle Wilkinson, an aspiring author from Atlanta and Instagram coach for authors.
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Listen in as they tackle issues such as how to choose what platform to be on, what strategies to employ if you want to grow your audience, what mistakes you might be making, and so, so much more!
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If you are an author or aspiring author just trying to figure out how to gain exposure and connect with your audience, then this episode is for you.
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Resource’s mentioned:
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Forest focus app
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Danielle’s coaching site
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Connect with Danielle on her website or Instagram
Episode 63: Lillie Lainoff
February 7, 2022
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In today’s episode of Hope Prose, author Lillie Lainoff joins Rebekah and Tara to talk about her debut novel ONE FOR ALL (forthcoming March 8th, 2022). Lillie’s novel is close to Rebekah’s heart as it deals with Chronic illness, female friendships, loving yourself, and swords. Lots and lots of swords!
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Listen as they gab about Lillie’s journey to publication, her sports career as a fencer, and why it’s important that more books with disability representation get the visibility they deserve. Enjoy!
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Lillie’s book ONE FOR ALL can be pre-ordered from your local independent bookstore or online from the Hope Prose Podcast bookshop.org store (benefiting indie bookstores) HERE
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Connect with Lillie on her website, Instagram, or Twitter!
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For more information on POTS, please visit: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/postural-orthostatic-tachycardia-syndrome-pots
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To support and find more disabled authors, please visit the Disability Visibility Project
Episode 62: Jeff Zentner
January 24, 2022
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In today’s episode of Hope Prose, the amazing Jeff Zentner, award-winning and critically acclaimed author of IN THE WILD LIGHT, joins Rebekah and special guest Sarina White, in a heartfelt discussion about poetry, writing well-rounded characters, why misfit friendships make several appearances within his work, and how he handles pressure as a multi-award winning and nominated author.
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PLUS! Hear his best advice for authors when dealing with criticism and enabling the five senses to create an atmospheric setting for your reader to escape into.
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Jeff’s book IN THE WILD LIGHT, as well as all his others, can be purchased from your local independent bookstore or online from the Hope Prose Podcast bookshop.org store (benefiting indie bookstores)
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→ Connect with Jeff on her website, Instagram, or Twitter!
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→ Buy his book HERE
Episode 61: Candice Pedraza Yamnitz
January 9, 2022
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Welcome back and Happy New Year!
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In today’s episode, Rebekah and Tara welcome Candice Pedraza Yamnitz, author of the forthcoming UNBETROTHED, to the show. Listen as they talk about Candice’s whirlwind journey to publication, method writing, her many secret talents, (including digital art, picture book author, and podcasting), and what inspired her fantasy world, including Valle de los Fantasmas.
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Candice’s book UNBETROTHED can be purchased from your local independent bookstore or online from the Hope Prose Podcast bookshop.org store (benefiting indie bookstores) HERE.
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Get a sneak preview of the story world for UNBETROTHED, through Candice's podcast, where she shares a prequel Novella titled, UNBOUND
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You can also connect with Candice on her website or Instagram
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Pre-order and get some amazing pre-order goodies HERE
Episode 60: Allison K. Pittman
December 2021
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In today’s episode of Hope Prose, Allison Pittman, author of PUDGE AND PREJUDICE, joins Rebekah and Tara in a heartfelt discussion about true beauty, body image, how she balances being a full-time teacher and writing books, what inspired her to write a Jane Austen retelling set in the 80’s, and why it’s important to write books for YOU, not the market.
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Filled with laughter and Texan personality, this is a show AND novel you won’t want to miss!
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Allison’s book PUDGE AND PREJUDICE and her new Christmas Anthology can be purchased from your local independent bookstore or online from the Hope Prose Podcast bookshop.org store (benefiting indie bookstores) HERE.
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Connect with Allison on her website or Facebook page
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Buy her book HERE
Episode 59: Susie Finkbeiner
November 22, 2021
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Welcome back to Hope Prose! On this episode, CBA bestselling author Susie Finkbeiner of the books ALL MANNER OF ALL THINGS, THE STORIES THAT BIND US, and THE NATURE OF SMALL BIRDS, joins Tara and Rebekah in the studio.
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Together, they talk about the joys and trials of writing more recent historical fiction, her special warm spot for small birds, the blog post that will make you cry, and her search to accurately and gently portray adoption in fiction. Oh, and we find out the story behind her STUNNING titles and covers!
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Susie’s books, including her most recent, THE NATURE OF SMALL BIRDS can be purchased from your local independent bookstore or online from the Hope Prose Podcast bookshop.org store (benefiting indie bookstores) : BUY HERE.
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You can also connect with Susie on her website or Instagram
Episode 58: Marissa Meyer
November 7, 2021
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In today’s episode, Marissa Meyer stops by the studio to chat about her newest release GILDED, a haunting retelling perfect for the fall season!
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Listen in as she talks to Tara and Bekah about her world-building process, how she tackles imposter syndrome, balancing home life and work, and her top tips for writers’ getting ready to query agents.
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Marissa’s book GILDED can be purchased from your local independent bookstore or online from the Hope Prose Podcast bookshop.org store (benefiting indie bookstores) at:
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Connect with Marissa on her website or Instagram
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Buy her book HERE
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Check out THE HAPPY WRITER podcast!
Episode 57: Editing Industry Pro: Olivia Smit
October 24, 2021
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Listen in for our first in our new feature of Industry Pro Shows! (Just in time for all you Nanowrimo's out there!
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On this episode of Hope Prose, Rebekah and Tara sit down with the uber-talented Olivia Smit, author, and editor, to talk about all things drafting, editing, revisions, and how to move through each stage with ease.
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Allow Olivia to walk you through key things you should have in place before starting your novel, how to write your book quickly, editing tips on common problems beginner writers face and how to avoid them, plus advice on how to find CP’s and critique groups.
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You can find out more about Olivia and her services on her website or connect with her on Instagram
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Snag a copy of Olivia’s latest book release HERE
Episode 56: Lauren K. Denton
October 10, 2021
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Happy Canadian Thanksgiving! We can't think of a better way to relax after turkey and pumpkin pie, than sitting back and listening to tonight's guest.
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In today’s episode, USA Today Bestselling author Lauren K. Denton stops by the show to chat about her latest release THE ONE YOU’RE WITH, and all things Southern fiction!
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Listen as she takes Tara and Bekah back to where it all started, gives advice on how to write messy characters, and her tips for overcoming imposter syndrome.
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Lauren’s book can be purchased from your local independent bookstore or online from the Hope Prose Podcast bookshop.org store (benefiting indie bookstores) at: https://bookshop.org/shop/thehopeprosepod
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Connect with Lauren on her website, Instagram, or Facebook page!
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Buy her book HERE!
Episode 55: Melanie Dickerson
September 26, 2021
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On this episode of Hope Prose, Rebekah and Tara kick off a BRAND NEW season with New York Times Bestselling author, Melanie Dickerson.
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Listen as they chat about her newest releases CASTLE OF REFUGE and her soon to be released A PERILOUS PLAN, the first book of her new indie series: IMPERILED YOUNG WIDOWS
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We chat about what makes a good romance, how she keeps all her characters straight, the in’s and out’s of writing a series, and how she keeps her writing fresh over the course of 20+ books.
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Enjoy!
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To find out more about Melanie and her books, check out her website or find her on Instagram
Episode 54: Season Two Review
September 12, 2021
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Want to hear our favorite guests from Season Two and the most helpful writing tips we picked up along the way? Tune in for the wrap-up of season two and a behind-the-scenes look at what we've been up to this summer!
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We also offer a glimpse into some of the fabulous changes we are making for season three including mini-master classes, industry professional guests, and oh the guests! You are going to flip when you hear some of the amazing award-winning and NYTs best-selling authors we have booked for this season!
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Enjoy!
Episode 53: C. R. Stewart
July 7, 2021
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C.R. Stewart joins Rebekah and Tara in an almost hour-long discussion about his Britfield series for middle-grade through YA, education, and the alarming decline of creativity in our youth.
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Born in Newport Beach, California, C. R. Stewart has 20 years of experience in writing fiction, non-fiction, and screenplays. He is an award-winning, bestselling author, creativity specialist, international consultant, and prolific writer...not to mention a frequent flyer to the destinations where his books are set!
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You can hear more about his institute and passion for creativity in education at www.britfieldinstitute.org
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Here is the link for the TED talk mentioned during the podcast by Sir Ken Robinson.
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Don’t forget to buy the Britfield Series, starting with Britfield and the Lost Crown HERE
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You can also go on a virtual tour of over 400 pictures from England and connect with with C.R. Stewart on his website at: https://www.britfield.com/
Episode 52: Lindsay A. Franklin
June 27, 2021
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On today’s episode, Tara and Rebekah gab with Carol Award-winning and best-selling author, Lindsey A. Franklin!
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Lindsey is a native San Diegan who lives with her scruffy-looking nerf-herder husband, their precious geeklings, and three demanding thunder pillows (a.k.a. cats), and a stuffed marsupial named Wombatman. Listen in as Lindsey takes them behind the scenes of her querying journey, how the Story Peddler idea came to her through a conference presentation, how she fights to balance chronic illness and work, as well as what’s next for her down the yellow brick road. (Oh, and did you know that she's already written two nonfiction devotional books for teen girls?!)
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You can connect with Lindsey and find out more about her journey over on Instagram, Twitter, or her Website!
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Don't forget to buy the Weaver Trilogy HERE!
Episode 51 : Amy Michelle Carpenter
June 13, 2021
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Today, Tara and Rebekah interview Amy Michelle Carpenter, YA Sci-fi and fantasy author of the book BECOMING HUMAN.
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Listen as they discuss the highs and lows of writing sci-fi, writing from more than two POV’s in a book, how to world-build like a pro, and her tips for authors wanting to get published by either a small press or traditional!
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Tara also had the joy of, not only reading a portion of Amy's short story, Braving Stars, on the podcast, but she also narrateded BECOMING HUMAN for Amy's publisher, Immortal Works! To celebrate their partnership, they are giving away FIVE reviewer copies of the audiobook! To enter check out @the_hope_prose_podcast on Instagram for all the details!
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Find and connect with Amy on any of her social media:
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Instagram, Twitter, Website
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Buy Becoming Human HERE!
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Buy a copy of the Audiobook version with yours truly as the narrator HERE
Episode 50 : Special Listener Panel Show
May 30,
2021
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This week we had a very special episode to celebrate our 50th show! We are still amazed that we’re 50 episodes into this thing and that at the start of season two, we were completely booked for the year. 👀 To think we were scared no one would want to come on. 😂
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Listen in as we talk about some milestones that the show has reached since its inception, our most popular episodes, and we also get to interview FOUR listeners of the show: Jon Tilton, Joan White, Taryn Fraizer, and Megan Gerig!
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We cover everything from what inspired them to start their own creative journeys, their guest ideas for next season (including a shoutout to the One Year Adventure Novel, and some amazing Indy and Hybrid authors we might need to have), and their best advice for writers in the same boat as they are.
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Also, did we mention this show is COMPLETELY unedited and in its rawest form possible? We did this mostly on purpose to show you the magic of editing, and because the world is saturated in perfection, and because we wanted to get this episode to you ASAP!
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Enjoy and don’t forget to check out our guests at their social media handles below!
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Jon Tilton: Website, Instagram
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Joan White: Website, Instagram
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Taryn Fraizer: Website, Instagram
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Meghan Gerig: Website, Instagram
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OH! And you still have one more day to enter into our Anniversary and Book Birthday Giveaway over on Instagram. You could win YA books from some of your favorite authors and a personal critique from Tara and Bekah!
Episode Forty-Nine: Holly Goldberg Sloan
May 16,
2021
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What do you get when you cross a blockbuster film director turned writer with two curious cat authors from Canada and California? An hour-long episode full of heart, laughter, and an enlightening conversation about the impact words have on our young people today.
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Holly Goldberg Sloan is the author of seven books for young readers, which have been published in twenty-seven languages. Her most popular novel, Counting By 7s, was an E.B. White Honor book, made 44 state reading lists, and with English language sales now approaching one million copies. She also is a screenwriter and director for Disney & Disney+, Hallmark Hall of Fame, and various other projects.
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Listen as the trio talks about her latest release THE ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM, tackling hard subjects in children’s literature, infusing hope into a seemingly hopeless world, and being understanding of each other’s differences.
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You can connect with Holly on her website and social media!
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Don’t forget to buy THE ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM at these fine retailers:
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Amazon
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Barnes & Noble
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Powells
Episode Forty-Eight: Lani Forbes
May 2,
2021
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Today’s episode of The Hope Prose Podcast, brings you a conversation between your hosts and YA fantasy/adventure author Lani Forbes!
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Lani is the daughter of a librarian and an ex-drug smuggling surfer (which explains her passionate love of the ocean and books). A former teacher turned trauma counselor, her passion is showing readers the transformative and encouraging power of story on the human experience.
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Listen as they talk about her books THE SEVENTH SUN & and its sequel THE JADE BONES, her tips for research (and how she went about researching mesoamerican myths), mentorship with the Mary Webber, writing killer plots and memorable characters and what her biggest phobia is and why.
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Don’t forget to connect with Lani on her socials! Instagram, Twitter, Website.
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You can buy THE JADE BONES HERE!
Episode Forty-Seven: C. F. E. Black
April 13,
2021
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Today, Rebekah and Tara sit down with C.F.E. Black, YA sci-fi and fantasy writer. And no, she’s not related to Rebekah in any way, but hey, they are soul sisters so technically they are….anywho!
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C.F.E is a high school Spanish teacher with a love for stories that sweep her away into another world and when she’s not chasing her son, she’s reading & writing, or hiking in the great outdoors.
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Join them in a cozy roundtable where they discuss her debut book, The Veritas Project, a dystopian/sci-fi story that thrusts the main character V into a world shared by 15 other minds.
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Listen as they discuss:
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How working with teens help strengthen her writing
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Her love for all things sci-fi and how she got into the genre
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Why aspiring authors shouldn’t knock self-publishing before they try it
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Her advice for authors wanting to get into sci-fi and publishing in general
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You can connect with C.F.E Black on her socials and website: Website, Instagram, Twitter
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Don’t forget to buy THE VERITAS PROJECT HERE.
Episode Forty-Six: Chuck Black
March 28,
2020
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In today’s episode, Tara and Rebekah gear up and travel to a distant galaxy far, far away to chat with legendary YA fantasy (now turned Sci-fi!) author, Chuck Black!
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Chuck is a former F-16 fighter pilot and tactical combat communications officer, is the author of eighteen novels, including the popular and household name at this point, Kingdom Series.
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Listen in as he drops by to talk about what it’s like to make the switch from writing fantasy epics to sprawling sci-fi worlds in what is to be a 12 book series! Yes, you read that right folks….12 books! However, in this episode, they talk about his latest upcoming release LORE (book 3 in the STARELORE Legacy series!) and dig deep on topics such as the tips and techniques he uses to snap out of the dreaded imposter syndrome, the most daring things he’s done to date, the sweetest story behind why he started the Kingdom series and his heart for youth and the power of story.
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An interview with a master of story, characters, and allegory, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!
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You can connect with Chuck via his website and social media: Website, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter
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Order the first book in the STARLORE Legacy here!
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Buy the Kingdom series HERE!
Episode Forty-Five: Jael Richardson
March 14,
2020
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This week on the Hope Prose Podcast, we had the joy of speaking with Jael Richardson, a multi-published author, book columnist, guest host on CBC’s q, and founder and Executive Director for the Festival of Literary Diversity (FOLD). (She also might have been Tara's classmate in high school!)
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We chat with Jael about her latest release, GUTTER CHILD (a dystopian story of courage and resilience that arrived this past January with HarperCollins Cananda), racism and its many forms, what makes a YA book vs. Adult, the systems that make us, and how we can do and be better at breaking them down, and how important diversity is in literature--especially YA and Middle Grade.
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You can catch Jael on her socials at:
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Instagram, Twitter, and her website
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Oh, and don’t forget to order GUTTER CHILD! (We are on a mission to get it available in the US, but you can buy right now through Amazon.com!)
Episode Forty-four: Ellen McGinty
Sunday,
February 21,
2020
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In today’s episode, Bekah and Tara sit down with Ellen McGinty to talk about her YA debut, THE WATER CHILD which takes place in her current country of residence, Japan! Ellen originally hails from Texas with cowboy blood in her veins and is the working mom of not one, not two, but three boys.
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Listen as the trio discusses the dream and real-life event that inspired Ellen’s stunning novel, the Japanese word she would use to describe the Water Child, and the importance of mental health and illness representation in YA. Oh, and also how she once went undercover and saved a bunch of kids??? Yeah, you’re gonna wanna listen...
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Grab your tea or coffee, find a cozy spot, and enjoy!
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You can catch up with Ellen on her socials at: Instagram, Twitter, or her website.
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Pre-order/order THE WATER CHILD NOW
Episode Forty-Three: Christine Kindberg
Sunday,
February 7,
2020
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In today’s episode of The Hope Prose Podcast, Rebekah and Tara talk to Christy Award-winning author of The Means That Make Us Strangers, Christine Kindberg!
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Christine was born in Peru and grew up in Chile, Panama, Kentucky, North Carolina, and studied English at Wheaton College. Now, she lives in the Chicago area where she works as a Spanish-language editor at Tyndale House Publishers and guest teaches a creative writing class at Wheaton College.
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Listen in as they chat about her groundbreaking and thought-provoking novel, THE MEANS THAT MAKE US STRANGERS, the Shakespearian inspiration behind the title, how running marathons have helped her write books, what it was like to win a Christy Award for an independently published book, and the most daring thing she’s done in her years of traveling the globe.
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You can catch Christine on her socials at: Instagram, Twitter, and her website
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Don’t forget to order THE MEANS THAT MAKE US STRANGERS from these fine retailers:
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Amazon , Indie Bound , Fiction Addiction
Episode Forty-Two: Caroline George
Sunday,
January 25,
2021
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In today’s episode of The Hope Prose Podcast, Tara and Rebekah are absolutely thrilled to sit down with multi-award-winning YA author Caroline George. Caroline graduated from Belmont University with a degree in publishing and public relations and now travels the country, speaking at conferences and writing full-time. Her latest book Dearest Josephine from HarperCollins releases February 2nd and is available for pre-order now!
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Curl up with your warmest blanket and headphones as you listen to the trio discuss all things from what it’s like to be a young author in the publishing industry, what encouraged Caroline’s transition from dystopia/sci-fi to time-slip romance, her crazy journey from self-published author to signing with HarperCollins, and her biggest tip for aspiring authors.
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You can catch Caroline on her socials at: Instagram, Twitter, and her website
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Don’t forget to pre-order/order DEAREST JOSEPHINE from these fine retailers!
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Amazon
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Barnes & Noble
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Target
Episode Forty-One: Isabel Ibañez
Sunday,
January 10,
2021
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In their first episode of 2021, Rebekah and Tara are ecstatic to talk with Isabel Ibañez, a novelist born in Boca Raton, Florida, who is the proud daughter of two Bolivian immigrants. A true word nerd with a degree in creative writing, she has been a Pitch Wars mentor for three years. and authored Woven in Moonlight, her debut novel, named one of the best YA fantasy books of all time by Time magazine, and the soon to be released Written in Starlight.
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In a magical conversation highlighted by Isabel’s delightful laugh and energy, they speak about what prompted her to pivot from her career as a graphic design and card artist to writing novels, the inspirations behind her lush Woven in Moonlight series, and what it feels like to have her work named one of the best by TIME magazine.
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This is an episode you won’t want to miss, so grab your coffee or tea, a blanket, and get ready to learn more about Isabel and her works.
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To pre-order Isabel’s book, take a look HERE
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To connect with Isabel on socials, you can find her on Instagram & Twitter
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Visit Isabel on her website at: http://isabelibanez.com/
Episode Forty: Tabitha Caplinger
Sunday, December 27, 2020
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Today on Hope Prose, Tara and Rebekah have the joy of talking to YA author Tabitha Caplinger. Tabitha is the author of The Chronicle of the Three Trilogy, a Christian urban fantasy, and most recently authored, The Wolf Queen. When she’s not writing books, she either getting way too emotionally invested in the lives of her fictional characters, obsessing over a book or tv show, or traveling the vast realms of her own worlds.
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Listen as they talk about why Tabitha would rather be toast for a day, the story behind the uniqueness of her characters' names, why she loves working with a small press, and what inspired the fantastical world of THE WOLF QUEEN (spoiler alert: it’s one of the most heartwarming stories ever!
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To pre-order Tabitha’s book, take a look Here!
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To connect with Tabitha on social, you can find her on: Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest
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Visit Tabitha on her website at: https://www.tabithacaplinger.com/
Episode Thirty Nine: Wendelin Van Draanan
Sunday, December 13, 2020
- Tonight on the Hope Prose Podcast, Bekah and Tara have the pure joy of being encouraged by Wendelin Van Dranaan, bestselling author of more than thirty novels, including the long-running Edgar-winning Sammy Keyes mystery series.
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Her novel Flipped, named a Top 100 Children’s Novel for the 21st Century by SLJ, became a Warner Brothers feature film, and Shredderman became a Nickelodeon made-for-TV movie.
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In this interview, we chat with Wendelin about her first non-fiction book, Hope in the Mail, Reflections on Writing and Life which is part memoir, part craft guide, and part publishing insight.
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She shares about her own atypical start in writing, her patient journey toward publishing, her special relationship with her characters, and what extra exciting things are happening next for her!
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Get your own copy of Hope in the Mail and find out more about Wendelin’s other titles at www.wendelinvand.com. Also, check out Wendelin’s epic giveaway on Instagram, happening all the way up to Christmas!
Episode Thirty Eight: Gena Showalter
Sunday, November 29, 2020
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Today on Hope Prose, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Gena Showalter joins Tara and Rebekah for a light-hearted discussion about perseverance in writing, how she handles bad reviews as a creative, what inspires her novels and her tips for fast drafting (like in two and a half weeks)
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We also chat about the EVERLIFE trilogy (her clean YA series), and her latest YA release THE GLASS QUEEN.
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Gena lives in Oklahoma with her husband, two adult children who grew up way too fast, and menagerie of dogs and cats who enjoy walking across her keyboard during pivotal scenes and demanding pets at all hours of the day and night.
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Grab your tea or coffee, cozy up, and enjoy!
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P.S. There is also a giveaway being run right now on the podcast’s Instagram page (@the_hope_prose_podcast) where you can win a SIGNED copy of her book THE GLASS QUEEN or an EVERLIFE book so hop on over when you are done and check it out!
Episode Thirty Seven: Amie Woleslage
Sunday, November 15, 2020
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tToday on Hope Prose, Tara and Rebekah have the pleasure of hosting their first poetry author, Amie Woleslage! Amie is a suburban cowgirl with a penchant for words. What started as a coping mechanism quickly became a burning passion and a desire to help others with the same challenges she faces.
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Listen as they chat candidly about all things mental health, her debut poetry book FIFTEEN, healing from grief, the amazing job Amie did organizing her marketing campaign, and how writing can help aid in the recovery of a wounded spirit.
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This is a podcast episode near and dear to Tara and Bekah’s heart and we hope you enjoy and find a friend in Amie’s heart and vulnerability.
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You can find out more about Amie on her website, Instagram, and catch her on YouTube!
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BUY FIFTEEN HERE!
Episode Thirty Six: Laura Segal Stegman
Sunday,
November 1, 2020
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In today’s episode of The Hope Prose Podcast, Tara and Rebekah sit down with kid-lit novelist and Los Angeles' arts publicist, Laura Segal Stegman, to talk about her debut novel: SUMMER OF L.U.C.K..
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Listen in as they discuss Laura’s foray into the writing scene after being an actress for many years, what prompted her change in careers, why SUMMER OF L.U.C.K. is the embodiment of her own journey of self-discovery, why family issues can help craft relatable characters, and her best advice for aspiring authors.
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If you are interested in connecting with Laura you can find her on Instagram, Twitter, or her website at: https://www.laurastegman.com/
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Buy SUMMER OF L.U.C.K. here!
Episode Thirty Five: Shannon Dittemore
Sunday,
October 18, 2020
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In this week's episode of The Hope Prose Podcast, Tara and Rebekah chat with author, speaker, and cofounder/contributing writer to the blog GO TEEN WRITES, Shannon Dittemore.
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Bundle up in a warm blanket or grab a cup of tea and listen as they talk about her return to the publishing world with her newest book, WINTER, WHITE AND WICKED.
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Learn what sparked the idea for WINTER, why it took five years to appear, the hidden but not so hidden message found within the pages, and what catapulted her journey into the world of writing, teaching, and authordom.
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You can find Shannon at her website: https://www.shannondittemore.com/ or blogging over at https://goteenwriters.com/
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follow her on Instagram and buy WINTER WHITE AND WICKED HERE!
Episode Thirty Four: Marian L. Thomas
Sunday,
October 4, 2020
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In this week's episode of The Hope Prose Podcast, Tara and Rebekah pick the brain of award-winning author Marian L. Thomas, who pushes the boundaries of their usual YA genre format, but who they think you’ll enjoy listening to just the same.
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Settle in and listen as they chat about her book, “CAGED BUTTERFLY” which has been featured on national TV stations around the country such as the Oprah Winfrey Network, A&E, and Ovation to just name a few.
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Marian takes your hosts deep into her world and discusses all things ranging from how she wrote a book in 30 days, her love for butterflies, her greatest supporters, and the importance of loving the skin you're in.
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You can find Marian at her website: https://www.marianlthomas.com/ follow her on Instagram and buy THE CAGED BUTTERFLY wherever books are sold.
Episode Thirty Three: R. J. Anderson
Sunday, September 20, 2020
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In this week's episode of The Hope Prose Podcast, Tara has a heartfelt and lively conversation with award-winning and best-selling children's fantasy author R.J. Anderson.
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Listen in as they chat about the benefits of tackling difficult subjects and themes through a fantastical lens, and how great stories, including her newest releases, Swift, Nomad, and Torch (The Flight and Flames Trilogy, Enclave Publishing), encourage us to be brave in exploring how our differences can sometimes be our greatest strengths.
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We also get a sneak peek at Nomad and learn about R.J.'s final release in this series, Torch.
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Make sure to check out our Instagram page for details on how you can win your own advanced reader copy of Nomad.
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Learn more about Rebecca and her amazing collection of YA novels over at www.rj-anderson.com or follow her on Instagram for the latest updates.
Season Two: Episode Thirty Two - James Bird
Sunday, September 7, 2020
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New logo, new intro, new theme music and we didn't stop there! Welcome to the second season of the Hope Prose Podcast!
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Listen in as we spread our literary wings to chat with critically acclaimed debut middle-grade author of THE BRAVE, James Bird!
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James Bird, a California native of Ojibwe descent is a screenwriter/director and now middle-grade author generously agreed to answer anything we asked!
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His touching debut closely parallels his own experiences and perfectly captures the big questions that come with discovering our own culture, accepting and celebrating our neurodiversity, and learning to love oneself.
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James generously chatted with us for over an hour allowing/forcing us to create our first official after-show! If you are a part of our Patreon community, stay tuned for the uncensored and emotionally deep questions that poured out after we hit pause.
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You might find it challenging to find James' website, but you can buy his book basically everywhere and I personally know he is very active on Instagram (get ready for adorable toddler photos!)
Episode Thirty One - Season One Wrap Up!
Sunday August 2, 2020
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Get ready for a completed unscripted laugh-fest about all the highs and lows of our first season of the Hope Prose Podcast.
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We also discuss the results of our listener survey, including plans to continue in September with more diverse guests, clean reads from across genres, and the inclusion of some MG authors and expert opinions on writing, publishing, and becoming an author.
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We spill on some of the potential guests you've suggested for September, and (drum roll please), some of your requests will become a reality! Be sure to join up with Tara and Bekah's newsletters to be the first to hear about upcoming guests and more frequent giveaways!
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You can join Tara's newsletter from this website and Bekah's by visiting her on Instagram @bekah_teen_blogger
Episode Thirty - Robin Jones Gunn Bonus Episode
Sunday July 19, 2020
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In part two of Tara and Rebekah's interview with Robin Jones Gunn (best-selling and Christy Award-winning author of more than 100 books including the 3.5 million-selling Christy Miller Series), the three continue their chat about her newest book, Being Known, her lack of socks, why she chose to focus her novel on healing from grief, her God-story about Africa, and the importance of community.
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We also read the opening section of Being Known, learn about Robin's nonfiction book out this October, and hear the plans for another Father Christmas Hallmark movie!
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Make sure to listen to the end, where we announce the winner of FOUR books from Robin (the first three Christy Miller novels and Becoming Us (The second story in the Haven Maker's series)
Episode Twenty-nine - Robin Jones Gunn
Sunday July 12, 2020
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In this week's episode (one of TWO!), your hosts have the honour of sitting down with probably our most highly anticipated guest yet, Robin Jones Gunn!
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Robin is a best-selling and Christy Award-winning author of more than 100 books including the 3.5 million-selling Christy Miller Series.
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Listen as we pick her brain about her newest book, Being Known, her lack of socks, why she chose to focus her book on healing from grief, her God-story about Africa, and the importance of community.
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Find out more about Robin, her books, and to receive movie updates visit: https://christymiller.com/
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You can also find Robin on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook
Episode Twenty-eight - AnnMarie Pavese
Sunday June 28, 2020
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In this week's episode of Hope Prose, we had the chance to sit down with epic indie fantasy author, AnnMarie Pavese. Ann Marie is the author of So Sang the Dawn and abides in the mountains of Arizona. She writes far more than she reads and spends her free time mentoring other girls, not only in the art of writing but also in the art of navigating the hardest parts of life.
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Listen as we pick her brain about the trials and tribulations of writing a book that is (no joke!) 750 pages long, what inspired the unique world of Frostholm, and how her writing journey came to be.
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To find out more about AnnMaire and her book, visit: http://annmariepavese.com/
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To order So Sang the Dawn click HERE
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You can also find AnnMarie on Instagram and Facebook!
Episode Twenty-seven - Nadine Brandes
Sunday June 14, 2020
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Today's episode was a year in the making. When Rebekah and I first started this podcast, we made a list of authors we would love to interview on the show and today's guest was at the top for both of us.
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Nadine Brandes, award-winning author of Romanov, Fawkes, and the Out of Time Series joins us to talk about writing historical fantasies with allegorical elements, sharing stories that resonate deep and supporting the #bookstagram community.
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We also got hints about her bonus chapter in the newly-released paperback version of Romanov, what her next story world will involve, and read aloud one of Nadine's favorite scenes from Romanov...let's just say there's a swing and Stash involved.
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You can find out more about Nadine and the new paperback version of Romanov at www.nadinebrandes.com
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We also highly recommend following Nadine on Instagram for adorable baby cameos and gorgeous #bookstagram shots.
Episode Twenty-six - Tara K. Ross
Sunday May 31, 2020
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Rebekah and Tara switch roles in today’s episode for the launch of Tara’s debut novel, FADE TO WHITE.
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Listen as we have fun chatting about what started Tara on her journey towards authordom, how important mental health is in her writing life, and how reading and writing can help others in their own road to healing.
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We also chat about how FADE TO WHITE came to be and celebrated its official book launch!
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If you are reading this, you already know where to find out more about Tara.
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To buy a copy of Tara’s debut novel click HERE for all the links
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You can also find her on Instagram and Twitter
Episode Twenty-five - Kara Swanson
Sunday May 17, 2020
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In this week's episode, we are whisked away to Neverland by none other than beloved YA author, Kara Swanson!
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Listen as we pick her brain about her growing up in an African jungle, her unusual journey towards publication, co-authoring, and loving marketing.
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We learn more about her love-hate relationship with Peter Pan, and what it was like to tackle a classic retelling (spoiler alert: not easy!)
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To find out more about Kara, her books, and writing services visit: https://www.karaswanson.com/
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You can pre-order a copy of DUST here
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You can also find Kara on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook
Episode Twenty-four - Olivia Smit
Sunday, April 19, 2020
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In this week's episode, your hosts sit down with extremely talented middle-grade author, Claire Swinarski. Claire is the author of multiple books including What Happens Next (coming May 19th, 2020 from Harper Collins) and Girl, Arise: A Catholic Feminist’s Invitation to Live Boldly, Love Your Faith, and Change the World.
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Listen as they chat about what makes middle-grade books so special, why it’s important for books directed towards younger readers to tackle tough subjects, and what her favorite middle-grade books are and why.
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Find out more about Claire, her books, and podcast visit: http://www.claireswinarski.com/
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To pre-order WHAT HAPPENS NEXT visit these fine retailers: Barnes & Noble, Amazon, Indie Bound
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You can also find Claire on Instagram and Twitter!
Episode Twenty-three - Olivia Smit
Sunday, April 19, 2020
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In this week's episode, Tara and Rebekah get to celebrate the book launch of Seeing Voices with fellow debut Canadian YA author Olivia Smit.
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We learn about the benefits of completing an undergraduate program in creative writing, how to write from a hard of hearing character's POV, and how Olivia's passions for small towns, baking, and hope-filled stories work into her own novels.
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If you are looking for freelance editing assistance, or want to find out more about Oliva and her writing journey, check out her website www.oliviasmit.ca
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Buy a copy of Olivia's inspiration contemporary debut, Seeing Voices on Amazon or over at her publisher, WhiteFirePress
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You can also find Olivia on Instagram and Twitter and possibly helping Tara with her own book launch next month! (Stay tuned for details!)
Bonus Episode - Hope Collaboration
Saturday, April 11, 2020
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Happy Easter. This bonus episode is a collaborative effort created in light of the global pandemic we are currently faced with. As a member of the Christian Podcast Association, we wanted to come together to create a message of hope for listeners this Easter. And so began the Hope Collaboration.
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In this episode, we share some of the amazing hope-filled podcasts available for free through your favourite podcast player. These include:
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Jenna Erlandson from Bridge of the Faithful - www.botfpodcast.com
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Meg Glesener from Letters from Home Podcast - lettersfromhomepodcast.com
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Brandy J. Goebel from The Road Home to You - roadhometoyou.com
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We have also included some suggestions for hope-filled reads across ages in our own segment at the end. Thank you so much for your support on this journey. Let us know how we can support you and your creative journeys in the future and perhaps it will be the start of a new bonus episode.
Episode Twenty-one - June Hur
Sunday
April 5, 2020
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In this episode, we chat with critically acclaimed debut YA author, June Hur. (Cue cheers!)
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Her debut novel THE SILENCE OF BONES through Feiwel & Friends/Macmillan releases this April 2020. It is a murder mystery set in Joseon Dynasty Korea (the early 1800s), and it is also a coming-of-age tale about a girl searching for home. It was recently selected by the American Booksellers Association as one of the top debuts of Winter/Spring 2020 and it is on the top of both Bekah and My TBR lists.
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We chat with June about Pride and Prejudice fan fiction, writing historical mysteries, the legitimate fears that come with sharing your words, and writing on the theme of home.
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To find out more about June, visit her website at https://junehur.wordpress.com/
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Follow her on Twitter HERE or on Instagram HERE.
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June's virtual book launch is happening April 23rd at 7 PM EST in Instagram Live.
Episode Twenty- Taylor Bennett
Sunday
March 22, 2020
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In today’s episode of The Hope Prose Podcast, we sit down with widely successful YA author, Taylor Bennett to celebrate the release of her third contemporary YA novel, Barefoot Memories.
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Taylor is a dandelion-wishing, world-traveling lover of books, words, and stories. Based in the Pacific North West, she dreams of seeing the world and writing stories set in unique locations, including the enviable setting of Hawaii.
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Listen as she chats with us about all things hedgehogs, traveling, and how it feels to have ended her well-loved Tradewinds Trilogy after debuting with the first book of that series (Porch Swing Girl) at the tender age of seventeen!
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To find out more about Taylor, visit her website at: http://taylor--bennett.com/
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Connect with Taylor on her uber-esthetic Instagram feed
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Buy Taylor’s books on Amazon and feel like you are escaping to Hawaii for a while.
Episode Nineteen- Phillip Telfer
Sunday
March 8, 2020
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In today’s podcast, we sit down with the extremely talented Phillip Telfer, award-winning film producer and now, YA author. He began his journey as a creative communicator through singing and songwriting. He also started teaching and mentoring teens as a youth pastor and camp speaker. He now directs the non-profit ministry Media Talk 101 and is author of the book Media Choices: Convictions or Compromise and his first YA fiction novel, Why Save Alexander.
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Listen in as we chat about Phillip's passion for youth trapped in unhealthy technology habits, what inspired his newest endeavor of writing YA fiction, and why we can't help but love Alexander, despite his unlikeable starting point.
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To find out more about Phillip's film work and books visit: https://www.philliptelfer.com/
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To buy Why Save Alexandar click HERE
Episode Eighteen- Chawna Schroeder
Sunday
February 23, 2020
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In today’s podcast, we sit down with an extremely talented YA author and teacher. Chawna Schroeder is a Minnesotan writer who enjoys snow, chai tea, and playing “what if?”—even if that game occasionally gets her into trouble. She loves stretching both imagination and faith through story. Chawna’s books include The Vault Between Spaces, Beast, and the Bearing the Sword curriculum.
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Listen in as we chat about Chawna’s three hundred book traveling library, why a good story must have two CRUCIAL elements, and why being exposed to good books early in life matters.
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You can find out more about Chawna and her books by visiting her website: https://www.chawnaschroeder.com/
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You can also buy The Vault Between Spaces on her website or at these fine retailers: Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Enclave Publishing
Episode Seventeen- McCall Hoyle
Sunday
February 9, 2020
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In this episode of Hope Prose, Tara and Rebekah chat with McCall Hoyle who is a young adult and middle-grade author, including her two YA novels, The Thing with Feathers and Meet the Sky
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When not writing she teaches the next generation how to craft their own stories as a middle-grade teacher and previous highschool English teacher or can be found spending time with her family and one of their golden retrievers or their three-legged tabby cat, who may make a cameo in Meet the Sky.
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Listen as we discuss what makes a good novel, what inspired The Thing with Feathers, how we need to write with heart, and how Mccall's background in teaching helps her writing career as a whole.
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Find out more about McCall and her books at www.mcallhoyle.com
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You can also find her on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook
Episode Sixteen- Susan Miura
Sunday
January 26, 2020
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Today, Bekah and I sat down with YA author Susan Miura and chatted about her book SHARDS OF LIGHT. Susan is the author of three young adult novels, HEALER, SHARDS OF LIGHT (A continuation of the story form Healer), and her third novel SHOW ME A SIGN, which is set for rerelease in October of this year.
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Faith, family and a passion for nature, traveling, writing and photography nurture Susan’s soul. Her poetry and wildlife photos are featured in a children’s book, Pawprints in the Snow.
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Listen as we break down how working in public relations assisted her career as an author, what the most daring thing she’s ever done, and how her real-life travels inspires her as an author.
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You can learn more about Susan and her other novels at susanmiura.altervista.org/
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Listen to HEALER’s theme song written by Susan’s son here!
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You can also find out updates about her new releases on Facebook and Twitter
Episode Fifteen- New Year Q and A
Sunday
January 12, 2020
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In this episode of the Hope Prose Podcast, we answer your questions on everything from what our New Year’s goals are, what’s on our TBR list, and what our most anticipated reads of 2020 are. Listen as we give some exciting updates on our writing lives and give tips on finding clean YA reads and how to query an agent well. Enjoy!
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Here are some resources that we mention in our answers:
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Helpful Querying Resources:
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QueryTracker AND QueryShark
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Faith Pitch AND Transmedia Mutts
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Bookish Links for Finding Clean YA Reads:
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Goodreads Listopia
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Clean YA Books for Teens and Tweens (a list)
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Clean YA Book List (updated monthly)
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Tara's and Bekah's GoodRead Pages
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Book Vloggers we love: ChristianYABooksandMore AND BooksforChristianGirls
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Episode Fourteen- C. J. Lyons
Sunday
December 29, 2019
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In our last episode of 2019, we have the honor of speaking with New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over forty novels, C. J. Lyons.
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C.J. most recent novel, The Colour of Lies, veers from her usual adult 'Thrillers with Heart' to share the story of Ella, a young girl with synesthesia who can see everyone else's lies except the one haunting her own life. (See my review here)
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Find out why a library card was one of CJ's favorite gifts as a child and how empathy and method acting play strongly into her creating memorable and moving stories.
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You can learn more about CJ and her other novels (including a YA Sci-Fi Trilogy and her YA Thriller, Watched, about cyberbullying at cjlyons.net
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You can also find out updates about her newest releases on her Facebook page.
Episode Thirteen - Shawn Smucker
Sunday
December 15, 2019
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Award-winning novelist, Shawn Smucker joins us this week on the podcast to chat about his YA novels, The Day the Angels Fell and The Edge of Over There.
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We also talk writing routines, the influence of great stories on our craft, and why asking deep questions is a big part of what makes Shawn's work so intriguing. (Think,: What if death is a gift? OR What if someone could get out of Dante's inferno?)
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You can learn more about Shawn and his other amazing novels at shawnsmucker.com,
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We also highly recommend tuning into Shawn and Maile's new podcast, The Stories Between Us here
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Track with Shawn on Twitter here
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Follow along with Shawn on Facebook as well.
Episode Twelve - Melanie Kilsby
Sunday
December 1, 2019
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Fellow Canadian YA author, Melanie Kilsby joins us on the show this week to chat about her writing journey, starting her YouTube channel, Christian YA Books and More and how a difficult situations helped her find her genre sweet spot in historical fairytale retellings.
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Melanie also allowed us to preview her next novel, a Snow White retelling, which won runner-up at the Word Guilds In the Beginning Writing Award.
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You can learn more about Melanie's other novels, Darkness Into Light and Facing the Grey on Goodreads
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Catch up on all of Melanie's videos at ChristianYABooksAndMore
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Visit her at her blog www.realitywriter.wordpress.com
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Connect with Melanie on Instagram here
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Track with her on Twitter here
Episode Eleven - Nicole Quigley
Sunday
November 17, 2019
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In today’s episode of Hope Prose, we have the honor of sitting down with Nicole Quigley award-winning author of the young adult novel “Like Moonlight at Low Tide,” which was published by HarperCollins Christian Publishing/Zondervan. The book was later released in the Zondervan imprint Blink YA Books and also released in Germany. USA Today listed “Like Moonlight at Low Tide” as a “recommended teen read,” and the novel won the “Carol Award” for YA fiction by the American Christian Fiction Writers.
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Listen in as we chat about her novel, LIKE MOONLIGHT AT LOW TIDE, the first time she realized she wanted to be an author, how her experience in public relations and the newsroom helped her writing craft, and the impact of an email a reader sent had on her.
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You can purchase Like Moonlight at Low Tide here
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Connect with Nicole on Facebook here
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Check out Nicole’s website here
Episode Ten - Q & A - 2.0
Sunday
November 3, 2019
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In this episode of the Hope Prose podcast, we answer 5 of your questions about YA books, writing and living as a Christian teen. Some of the highlights include our outlining styles, ways to increase your writing speed, and what are some of the first steps towards publishing.
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Here are some of the resources and websites we recommended in our answers:
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NanoWriMo - National Novel Writing Month (Started November 1)
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American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW)
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The Word Guild (The Canadian version of ACFW)
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Girl Defined: Project Modesty
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Helping Writers Become Authors
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The Christian Publishing Show
Episode Nine - Savanna Roberts
Sunday
October 20, 2019
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This week we spoke with Savanna Roberts in Utah. Savanna delves into the Sci-Fi, Fantasy, and Contemporary genres and has written stories and poems since she could hold a pen. She published her first book on Amazon when she was eleven!
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We chat with Savanna about her latest release from the Quelmirian Duology, Storyteller, why she publishes independently and what she has learned along the way in the areas of marketing and book promotion.
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You can purchase Storyteller here
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To learn more about Savanna, her other books, and her super practical blog go to: https://booksbysr.com
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You can also connect with Savanna on: Instagram, and Twitter
Episode Eight - Stephanie Morrill
Sunday
October 6, 2019
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In this episode of Hope Prose, we chat with Stephanie Morrill, YA author and founder of Go Teen Writers! She writes books about girls who are on an adventure to discover their unique place in the world including her 1920s mystery, The Lost Girl of Astor Street, and the WWII era romance, Within These Lines.
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Join us as we talk about her latest release, who her favorite author is, how she juggles writing both contemporary and historical fiction, and what inspired her to start GoTeenWriters.
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You can purchase Within These Lines here
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To learn more about Stephanie, her other books, and speaking engagements, check out her website at: https://www.stephaniemorrill.com/
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Connect with Stephanie on: Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter
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To learn more about GoTeenWriters check them out here: https://goteenwriters.com/
Episode Seven - Tessa Emily Hall
Sunday
September 22, 2019
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In this episode of Hope Prose, we chat with Tessa Emily Hall, an award-winning author who writes inspirational yet authentic books for teens to remind them they’re not alone. Tessa writes both fiction and devotionals, including her most recent fiction release FALLEN LEAVES and her upcoming devotional, LOVE YOUR SELFIE, which is slated to release March 2020 from Ellie Claire.
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She talked with us about all things Fallen Leaves, her advice for writer’s looking to build their platforms, her favorite thing about the writing process, and what she hopes readers take away from her books.
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Purchase Fallen Leaves here
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To learn more about Tessa, her devotional books, speaking engagements, etc. check out her website at: www.tessaemilyhall.com
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Connect with Tessa on: Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter
Episode Six - Laura Gallier
Sunday
September 8, 2019
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This week we talk with Laura Gallier, 2018 Christy Award-winning author of The Delusion series. Having battled her own enemies of the soul, particularly during her teen and young adult years, Laura’s writing exposes deception with the light of truth, bringing hope and healing to a generation in need. She spoke with us about her new release, The Deception, the inspiration behind this work and what she hopes readers will take away from her stories. We also learned about perseverance, battling spiritual warfare and her journey toward making The Delusion into a movie!
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The Deception is now available for purchase here
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Learn more about Laura's novels, group bible studies and speaking engagements at her website : www.lauragallier.com
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You can also connect with her on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
Episode Five - Our First Q&A
Sunday
September 1, 2019
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In this episode of the Hope Prose podcast, we answer 10 of your questions about YA books, writing and living as a Christian teen. Some of the highlights include our favorite contemporary and historical Christian or Clean YA reads, how to finish your book and start your next one, and a guest response from Pastor Erik Jenson about some of the deeper questions related to faith, hope and the great beyond.
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Here are some of the resources and websites we recommended in our answers:
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Go Teen Writers - Hosted by Jill Williamson, Stephanie Morrill, and Shannon Dittemore
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Nanowrimo - National Novel Writing Month (Starting brainstorming and outlining for November 1st)
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The Young Writer's Workshop: CLICK HERE
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The Revision Post from fellow #roaring20sdebut Isabel Ibanez: CLICK HERE
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Want to Start a Podcast?
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Here is the Mic Bekah Uses : Blue Yeti
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Here is the YouTube Tutorial that got us started by Pat Flynn: CLICK HERE
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Episode Four - Douglas Bond
Sunday
August 18
AND
August 25, 2019
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Douglas Bond is the author of more than twenty-five books, is the husband of Cheryl, father of six, and grandfather of six. He is the director of the Oxford Creative Writing Master Class, a ruling elder in the PCA, a speaker at conferences, and a leader of Church history tours in Europe, and (in our opinion) a budding YouTube star.
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In this double episode of Hope Prose, you’ll get a peek at his latest release, THE RESISTANCE, a YA historical thriller, find out what inspired him to start writing, what he thinks makes a truly great story, and why he thinks young writers tend to have a hard time finishing the novels they start.
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You can find out more about Douglas at : https://www.bondbooks.net/
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Check out his latest book THE RESISTANCE here
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Follow him on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook for updates on his classes, tours, and upcoming novels.
Episode Three - Alison Gervais
Sunday,
August 4, 2019
Contemporary YA Author Alison Gervais first gained recognition by posting her writing at the age of 16 on Wattpad. Those chapters, read by millions, turned into her first novel, In 27 Days. That same story is now optioned for film!
We preview the first chapter of her next novel, The Silence Between Us (Blink YA Books) and discuss her growth as an author, and what it's like sharing an #ownvoice story about hearing loss and deaf culture.
You can pre-order The Silence Between Us and learn more about Alison at:
Follow her on Wattpad, Instagram and Twitter for updates on The Space Between Us
Episode Two - Elizabeth D. Marie
Sunday
July 21, 2019
Indiana native Christian YA fantasy author Elizabeth D. Marie published her first book “Awaiting the Dawn” at the tender age of nineteen (slightly jealous!) and enjoys writing stories that integrate faith, history, adventure, romance, and the real-life struggles of the human condition.
In this episode of Hope Prose, you’ll get a sneak-peek at her upcoming release, SAVING SNOW, find out what inspired her Crown of Stars series, and her advice for writers on crafting realistically flawed characters.
You can find out more about Elizabeth at:
http://elizabethdmarie.blogspot.com/
You can check out her CROWN OF STARS series here
Follow her on Instagram and Facebook for updates on GUARDING SNOW and her other novels.
Episode One- Hope Bolinger
Sunday
July 7, 2019
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It’s our inaugural episode!!
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Our Guest: Hope Bolinger, YA author and associate literary agent with Cyle Young Literary Elite and Hartline Literary Agency
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.Find out how she published over 300 works, including plays, poems, and articles before her 21st birthday! Her YA novel, BLAZE (LPC/IlluminateYA) released June 2019 and we preview the end of the first chapter.
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Hear how she juggles being a literary agent and author and what inspired her to write BLAZE.
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Want to know more about Hope?
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You can get your own copy of BLAZE here
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Follow her on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook for updates about her next novel, DEN (2020/LPC)