Show overview
Book Lover's Companion - The English Version has been publishing since 2019, and across the 7 years since has built a catalogue of 196 episodes, alongside 2 trailers or bonus episodes. That works out to roughly 190 hours of audio in total. Releases follow a fortnightly cadence, with the show now in its 5th season.
Episodes typically run thirty-five to sixty minutes — most land between 53 min and 1h 1m — and the run-time is fairly consistent across the catalogue. None of the episodes are flagged explicit by the publisher. It is catalogued as a EN-language Arts show.
The show is actively publishing — the most recent episode landed 5 days ago, with 17 episodes already out so far this year. The busiest year was 2023, with 52 episodes published. Published by EZ Fiction.
From the publisher
A podcast about books, authors, genres, readers and more.
Latest Episodes
View all 196 episodesAuthor Visibility Without Burnout: Lisa Towles on The Me Factor (Branding, Audience & Social Media)
Caroline Ailanthus on The Elf, The Dwarf and the Telegraph (Book 1): Epic Fantasy, Democracy, and Environmental Justice
Peg Unhinged: Menopause, Dating Apps, and Reinventing Life — with Author Teri M. Brown
S5 Ep 218Author Jess Bowers on Horse Show: Spectacle, History, and Writing Short Stories
Host Edith interviews author and college professor Jess Bowers about her debut short story collection, Horse Show, named one of Electric Literature’s most exciting debut collections of 2024. Bowers, a lifelong equestrian and haflinger owner, explains that each story features a horse (or horse-adjacent animal/object) and a “show,” using entertainment and spectacle to examine human mistreatment and misunderstanding of horses and other sentient beings. She discusses research methods shaped by her PhD in English, including archives, photographs, and repeated film viewing, and shares a disturbing unused anecdote about Eben Byers giving radioactive water to racehorses. Bowers reflects on favorite stories, the appeal and demands of short fiction, challenges of dialogue, harmful breeding trends, and her next animal-focused collection, including a new story, “Canis X Machina.”00:00 Welcome and Introductions00:29 Horse Woman Origins02:06 Vienna Horse Culture05:14 Inside Horse Show07:37 Write What You Know12:36 Research Rabbit Holes16:17 Darkest Unused Fact19:39 Most Touching Stories22:23 Breeding for Vanity26:50 Spanish Riding School29:51 Why Short Stories Work31:28 Why Short Stories Win33:12 Reading Short Stories Differently35:50 Writing Short Stories Takes Patience40:18 Ideas Over Plot42:12 Visual Thinking and Photos46:22 Dialogue and Script Curiosity50:29 Horses and Forgotten History53:29 Advice for Aspiring Writers55:46 New Work and Animal Collection58:36 Final Thoughts and FarewellIf you like what we do, you might consider buying us a coffee. You can do so here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/booklovercom or here: https://ko-fi.com/bookcompanion Follow us: Web: https://book-lovers-companion.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/book_companion Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ez.fiction.7/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/book_companion/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6vyAyrh3zzsxNeexfyU0uA Feedback is always welcome: [email protected] Music: English Country Garden by Aaron Kenny Video Link: https://youtu.be/mDcADD4oS5E
S5 Ep 217Through the Lens of Fiction: Bringing Family Stories to Life
Host Edith welcomes author Tudor Alexander to Book Lover’s Companion to discuss his historical fiction family saga The Last Patient, published in February 2025. Alex explains the novel is inspired by his parents’ and his own experiences across five decades of communism in Romania, ending with his parents’ immigration to the United States and the challenges of starting over in their sixties, including a doctor’s inability to practice without U.S. exams. He describes limited research due to lived experience, the need to fictionalize for narrative arc, and generally positive reader reception with over 100 strong reviews. Alex previews a companion novel based on his Jewish wife’s family history, In Darkness and Light, and shares his writing routine (about 500 words daily), views on marketing, and advice to aspiring writers to write daily and organize life around the craft.00:00 Welcome and Introductions01:05 What The Last Patient Is03:36 Romania Under Communism06:34 Research vs Lived Memory10:05 Reader Reception and Reviews11:28 Companion Book on Jewish Story17:06 Defection and Leaving Romania24:40 Why People Don’t Revolt27:38 Immigrating in Your Sixties29:50 Writing Routine and Marketing35:18 Marketing Grind Reality36:37 Breakthrough Success Stories38:57 Maturity To Write Novels41:25 Romania Readings Translation42:39 POV And Editing Notes45:15 Writing What You Know47:07 Immigrant Experience Theme54:01 Advice For Aspiring Authors56:59 History Books Connections01:01:18 Upcoming Books And Wrap UpIf you like what we do, you might consider buying us a coffee.You can do so here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/booklovercom or here: https://ko-fi.com/bookcompanionFollow us: Web: https://book-lovers-companion.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/book_companionFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ez.fiction.7/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/book_companion/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6vyAyrh3zzsxNeexfyU0uAFeedback is always welcome: [email protected]: English Country Garden by Aaron Kenny Video Link: https://youtu.be/mDcADD4oS5E
S5 Ep 216A Writer's Odyssey: Lexy's Path from Legal Ventures to Literary Adventures
Host Edith welcomes fiction author Lexy, a retiring or recovering lawyer joining from Paris, to discuss her cross-genre romantic supernatural thriller series. Lexy explains that the first three books can be read in any order (including a legal thriller, a coming-of-age high school story, and a WWII Deep South historical romance), with storylines converging later, and that the series will span eight books. They focus on book five, released in October, which tells the villains’ backstory through an eternal-mates couple tasked with keeping reality functioning, drawing on comparative religion, mythology, metaphysics, biology, and themes of consciousness. Lexy shares her varied career path (modeling, acting, music, science, law, startups, 23andMe), discusses neuroscience sparked by medical experience, critiques traditional publishing gatekeeping, and advocates self-publishing, comic cons, and clear goals for writers.00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro00:40 Series Genres and Structure02:01 Book Five Overview03:33 Metaphysics and Consciousness05:54 From Arts to Law08:59 Law School Stress Stories13:48 Neuroscience and Serotonin Crisis17:36 Raising Kids and Family Editing20:41 Forces of Nature Romance25:11 Building an Eight Book Saga28:23 Editing and Spinoff Tales33:33 History Politics and Publishing39:51 Comic Cons and Self Publishing41:50 Agent Conference Reality Check43:04 Prologues and Gatekeeping44:44 Why Self Publish44:51 Kayo Plot and Pushback47:01 Misogyny on Zoom Call48:07 Control and Indie Power49:49 Appearance Versus Reality52:46 Fanning Fireflies Characters55:48 Planting Seeds Through Fiction59:44 Echo Chambers and Oligarchy01:05:15 Publishing Funnel to Mediocrity01:09:37 Advice for Aspiring Authors01:14:08 Readers Not Fans01:16:31 Write Crap and Support Indie01:17:17 Final Thanks and Sign OffIf you like what we do, you might consider buying us a coffee.You can do so here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/booklovercom or here: https://ko-fi.com/bookcompanionFollow us: Web: https://book-lovers-companion.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/book_companionFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ez.fiction.7/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/book_companion/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6vyAyrh3zzsxNeexfyU0uAFeedback is always welcome: [email protected]: English Country Garden by Aaron Kenny Video Link: https://youtu.be/mDcADD4oS5E
S5 Ep 215Creating Realities: Kristina Bak on Writing for Every Age
Host Edith welcomes returning guest Kristina Bak from Bellingham, Washington to discuss the third and final book in Bak’s near-future, non-dystopian YA trilogy about Stevie, a young healer shaped by her father’s disappearance, a childhood abduction, and traumatic amnesia. Bak explains how Stevie’s coming-of-age from 16 to 18 culminates in new strength as she navigates an uneasy friendship with Coral, a homeless teen caregiver who claims a gift for accompanying the dying and asks Stevie to ease patients’ pain, raising questions of trust and escalating toward a life-and-death climax. The conversation also covers characters “talking” to authors, reading as comfort and escapism, the value of writers’ groups, marketing via Facebook and a website, plans for an audiobook collection, support for independent bookstores and libraries amid censorship pressures, and Bak’s shift toward a dark adult literary project set in Australia.00:00 Welcome Back Kristina01:05 Stevie Takes Over02:51 Fatherless Daughters Theme06:09 Book Three Setup07:49 Coral And Hospice10:59 Characters That Talk13:45 Why We Read Fiction19:02 Non Dystopian Comfort22:38 YA Fiction Bravery26:05 Finding Coral Voice28:19 Next Writing Chapter29:37 Writers Group Life31:27 Self Doubt And Marketing32:43 Social Media And Website37:25 Bookstores Kindle Audiobook41:25 Writing For Readers Not Money44:26 Libraries Censorship And Control50:17 Politics Anxiety And News53:59 Next Dark Australia Novella58:04 Authentic Marketing And FarewellIf you like what we do, you might consider buying us a coffee.You can do so here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/booklovercom or here: https://ko-fi.com/bookcompanionFollow us: Web: https://book-lovers-companion.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/book_companionFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ez.fiction.7/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/book_companion/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6vyAyrh3zzsxNeexfyU0uAFeedback is always welcome: [email protected]: English Country Garden by Aaron Kenny Video Link: https://youtu.be/mDcADD4oS5E
S5 Ep 214Whimsical Worlds: The Enduring Allure of Fairy Tales with Ekta Garg
In this episode of Book Lover‘s Companion, host Edith welcomes author, editor, and book podcast host Ekta Garg Ekta from Illinois to dive into the world of modern fairy tales. They discuss Ter's book, 'The Witch's Apprentice and Their Stories,' a micro collection of short stories filling the gaps in beloved fairy tales and nursery rhymes. They explore the relevance of fairy tales today, the process of fracturing fairy tales, and the importance of universal themes. The conversation also touches on the impact of AI on creative writing, the preservation of languages, and Ter's future writing projects. Tune in for an enriching discussion about the timeless magic of fairy tales and storytelling!00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:57 Discussing 'The Witch's Apprentice'01:35 The Relevance of Fairy Tales Today02:45 Exploring the Origins of Fairy Tales03:58 Diving into the Writing Process06:39 Modern Takes on Classic Tales08:37 The Emotional Impact of Fairy Tales16:02 Fairy Tales for Adults28:22 The Evolution of Fairy Tales29:01 The Little Mermaid: A Tale of Transformation29:41 The Role of Reading in Historical Context30:30 Language Preservation and Cultural Identity34:12 The Impact of AI on Art and Creativity47:40 Hollywood Gossip and Movie Insights51:45 Upcoming Projects and Final ThoughtsIf you like what we do, you might consider buying us a coffee.You can do so here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/booklovercom or here: https://ko-fi.com/bookcompanionFollow us: Web: https://book-lovers-companion.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/book_companionFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ez.fiction.7/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/book_companion/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6vyAyrh3zzsxNeexfyU0uAFeedback is always welcome: [email protected]: English Country Garden by Aaron Kenny Video Link: https://youtu.be/mDcADD4oS5E
S5 Ep 213Crafting Complex Characters: Carmen Amato on Writing and Cultural Influence
In this episode of Book Lover‘s Companion, Edith interviews Carmen Amato, a CIA veteran, crime fiction writer, and dog mom, about her exciting novels. They delve into Carmen's popular Emelia Cruz Mystery series and the Gallo Club historical fiction thrillers. Carmen shares insights about her characters, her experiences in the CIA influencing her writing, the research process behind her books, and the inspiration from her family history. They also discuss the challenges and triumphs of writing about complex themes like corruption, femicide, and Mexican society. Carmen offers valuable advice for aspiring authors and gives a sneak peek into her upcoming releases and audiobooks.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:37 Meet Carmen Amato: Dog Mom and Author01:50 Diving into the Emelia Cruz Mystery Series02:29 Barracuda Bay: Plot and Characters08:38 Exploring Mexican Society and Corruption18:34 Challenges and Realities of Publishing25:52 Carmen's Writing Process30:26 Organized Writing System31:03 Challenges with Character Names32:21 First Person Narration33:32 Femicide in Mexican Society39:39 Historical Fiction Inspiration44:07 Researching for Historical Fiction47:49 Advice for Aspiring Authors53:45 Upcoming Releases and Projects57:25 Audiobooks Announcement59:13 Conclusion and FarewellIf you like what we do, you might consider buying us a coffee.You can do so here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/booklovercom or here: https://ko-fi.com/bookcompanionFollow us: Web: https://book-lovers-companion.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/book_companionFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ez.fiction.7/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/book_companion/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6vyAyrh3zzsxNeexfyU0uAFeedback is always welcome: [email protected]: English Country Garden by Aaron Kenny Video Link: https://youtu.be/mDcADD4oS5E
S5 Ep 212Unfolding San Francisco: Magic, Mystery, and Memory with Laura McHale Holland
In this episode of Book Lover's Companion, Edith welcomes author Laura McHale Holland to discuss her latest novel 'Shinbone Lane,' set in 1974 San Francisco. Laura shares insights into the characters, the plot, and the magical realism that infuses her storytelling. The conversation also touches on themes of nostalgia, societal changes, and the impact of the past on the present. Tune in for a deep dive into the writing process and an engaging discussion about the power of fiction to offer hope and connection.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:51 Discussing 'Shinbone Lane'03:23 Writing Process and Inspirations04:45 Magical Realism and Character Development09:52 Nostalgia and Setting in the 1970s28:54 Challenges of Modern San Francisco35:28 Art's Role in Dark Times40:16 Discussing New Year Resolutions and Cultural Differences41:58 Reflections on Career Choices and Life Paths44:24 The American Work Ethic vs. European Perspectives45:51 Debating Universal Healthcare Systems47:01 Challenges in the US Healthcare System54:22 Writing About the 1970s: Research and Memory58:00 Character Development and Writing Process59:30 The Role of Setting in Storytelling01:00:53 Exploring Antagonistic Characters01:03:38 The Importance of Love and Home in Stories01:06:49 Writing Dark Characters: Challenges and Thoughts01:10:20 Connecting with Readers and Social Media01:13:36 Conclusion and FarewellIf you like what we do, you might consider buying us a coffee.You can do so here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/booklovercom or here: https://ko-fi.com/bookcompanionFollow us: Web: https://book-lovers-companion.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/book_companionFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ez.fiction.7/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/book_companion/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6vyAyrh3zzsxNeexfyU0uAFeedback is always welcome: [email protected]: English Country Garden by Aaron Kenny Video Link: https://youtu.be/mDcADD4oS5E
S5 Ep 211From Venice Mysteries to Dog Tales: A Session with Laury A. Egan
Join host Edith in this engaging episode of Book Lover's Companion as she welcomes back returning guest Laury A. Egan. Dive into a captivating discussion about Egan's thriller, 'Jenny Kidd,' set in the atmospheric Venice, and uncover the main character's journey and the dark, thrilling narrative. They also explore the psychological elements inspired by Patricia Highsmith and discuss the multifaceted city of Venice as both a setting and character. Additionally, hear about Egan's charming and humorous book about a basset hound named Morley. Tune in for a literary and psychological exploration with these intriguing reads!00:00 Welcome to Book Lover's Companion01:02 Diving into 'Jenny Kidd'04:47 Exploring Jenny's Character and Journey06:28 The Dark and Sinister Elements11:05 Influences and Inspirations15:52 Venice as a Character20:53 Psychological Elements in Thrillers25:26 The Impact of Patricia Highsmith28:18 Exploring a Complex Personality29:14 Literary Success and Struggles29:56 The Intriguing Love Triangles30:18 A New Book Project30:41 A Fun and Exhausting Journey32:08 Introducing a Charming Dog Book33:04 The Unique Perspective of Morley33:27 Challenges in Publishing37:10 The Joy of Writing from a Dog's View42:43 Reflections on a Writing Career43:41 The Publishing Experience45:20 Future Projects and Audiobooks49:28 Final Thoughts and RecommendationsIf you like what we do, you might consider buying us a coffee.You can do so here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/booklovercom or here: https://ko-fi.com/bookcompanionFollow us: Web: https://book-lovers-companion.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/book_companionFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ez.fiction.7/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/book_companion/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6vyAyrh3zzsxNeexfyU0uAFeedback is always welcome: [email protected]: English Country Garden by Aaron Kenny Video Link: https://youtu.be/mDcADD4oS5E
S5 Ep 210Historical Insights and Fictional Journeys with Author Libby Fisher Hellman
In this episode of Book Lover's Companion, host Edith welcomes crime fiction and historical fiction author Libby Fisher Hellman from Chicago. They discuss Libby's latest book 'Max's War,' part of her saga series focusing on World War II. Libby shares her extensive research process, including the role of the Richie Boys, a group of Jewish refugees trained in counterintelligence. They also delve into the complexities of writing historical fiction, the impact of Hitler's rise to power, and Libby's unique writing process. This episode offers a deep dive into the historical context of her work and provides valuable insights for aspiring authors.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:44 Discussing 'Max's War'02:43 The Richie Boys and Their Role05:56 Historical Context and Research10:08 Personal Connections and Inspirations19:16 Comparisons to Modern Times33:10 The Role of Generals in Blitzkrieg34:10 The Richie Boys: Unsung Heroes36:35 Camp Ritchie: Training Ground for Intelligence37:47 The German Translation and Reader Feedback38:45 The Rise of Audiobooks41:51 Libby's Writing Process52:51 Advice for Aspiring Authors54:43 Upcoming Projects and Future Plans56:48 Closing Remarks and FarewellIf you like what we do, you might consider buying us a coffee.You can do so here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/booklovercom or here: https://ko-fi.com/bookcompanionFollow us: Web: https://book-lovers-companion.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/book_companionFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ez.fiction.7/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/book_companion/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6vyAyrh3zzsxNeexfyU0uAFeedback is always welcome: [email protected]: English Country Garden by Aaron Kenny Video Link: https://youtu.be/mDcADD4oS5E
S5 Ep 209Beyond Humpty Trump: Exploring the Literary Mind of David Finkle
Join host Edith on the Book Lover‘s Companion podcast as she welcomes writer and journalist David Finkle. In this riveting episode, Edith and David delve into his books 'Humpty Trump and the Second First Hundred Days' and 'Humpty Trumpy Hit a Brick Wall,' which present the tumultuous presidencies of Donald Trump through verse. David shares inspirations, challenges, and candid thoughts on the political landscape. The conversation also touches upon David's mystery novel, 'The Great Gatsby Murder Case,' and the upcoming 'Oliver Twist Murder Case.' Don't miss out on this compelling dialogue about writing, history, and societal upheaval.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:32 Discussing Trump's First 200 Days01:59 Writing Humpty Trumpy03:16 Trump's Second Term and Healthcare Act05:39 Zelensky's Visit and Global Reactions07:45 Reflections on Trump's Administration15:14 Marjorie Taylor Greene and Political Shifts31:02 David's Writing Process and Inspirations31:25 The Great Gatsby Murder Case48:47 Teaching and Encouraging New Writers51:07 Holiday Parody and Final Thoughts53:36 The Changing Dynamics of US-Europe Relations54:31 The Impact of Leadership on International Relations59:26 The Influence of Media and Fictional Characters01:04:53 Exploring Literary Inspirations and Travel01:11:40 The Reality of Historical and Political Tensions01:16:51 The Role of Fear in Politics and Society01:32:04 Upcoming Works and Reflections on Writing01:37:19 Conclusion and FarewellIf you like what we do, you might consider buying us a coffee.You can do so here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/booklovercom or here: https://ko-fi.com/bookcompanionFollow us: Web: https://book-lovers-companion.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/book_companionFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ez.fiction.7/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/book_companion/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6vyAyrh3zzsxNeexfyU0uAFeedback is always welcome: [email protected]: English Country Garden by Aaron Kenny Video Link: https://youtu.be/mDcADD4oS5E
S5 Ep 207Building Worlds with Dakota Jackson: The Construction of Shadows
Join host Edith in this episode of Book Lover’s Companion with special guest Dakota Jackson. They discuss Dakota's new fantasy book, 'The Construction of Shadows,' which is the first in a planned five-book series. Discover the fascinating world Dakota has created, where the 16 Divinities of the Sun and Moon have reshaped the earth, and dive deep into the lives of two best friends from divergent backgrounds. Dakota shares insights about the inspirations behind the book, the challenges of making a complex character arc for a 'golden child', and the joys and hurdles of being an indie author. Stay tuned for upcoming releases and Dakota's journey in bringing compelling fantasy stories to life.00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:45 Discussing the New Book: The Construction of Shadows01:28 Exploring the Book's Universe and Characters02:39 Politics and World-Building in Fantasy08:58 The Lunar Eclipse Massacre14:26 Influences and Inspirations from Mythology16:21 Writing Process and Character Development17:59 Target Audience and Series Growth21:01 Challenges of World-Building in Fantasy26:01 Character Development and Redemption Arcs26:59 Gender Double Standards in Fiction27:41 Complexity and Representation in Female Characters30:20 Fantasy and Sci-Fi as Tools for Broader Perspectives35:08 Challenges and Community in Indie Publishing38:55 Editing and Cover Design Insights43:09 Advice for Aspiring Authors47:30 Future Projects and Final ThoughtsIf you like what we do, you might consider buying us a coffee.You can do so here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/booklovercom or here: https://ko-fi.com/bookcompanionFollow us: Web: https://book-lovers-companion.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/book_companionFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ez.fiction.7/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/book_companion/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6vyAyrh3zzsxNeexfyU0uAFeedback is always welcome: [email protected]: English Country Garden by Aaron Kenny Video Link: https://youtu.be/mDcADD4oS5E
S5 Ep 208Exploring the Dark World of Medical Mysteries with David Shactman
In this episode of Book Lover‘s Companion, host Edith interviews healthcare expert and fiction author David Shactman about his book 'Mortal Choice: A Medical Mystery.' The conversation delves into the harrowing realities of the illegal kidney trade, the ethical dilemmas faced by parents with critically ill children, and the real-life inspiration drawn from David's experience researching medical tourism. They also discuss the development of the book's protagonists - an FBI agent and a Boston detective - and the challenges David faced in writing fiction, particularly from diverse perspectives. The episode also touches on broader healthcare issues, the complexities of organ donation laws, and the socio-political landscape affecting these issues today.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:40 Discussing 'Mortal Choice': A Medical Mystery01:42 The Reality of Kidney Trade02:49 International Black Market for Kidneys04:41 Organ Donation Systems: US vs. Austria07:27 Introducing the Protagonists10:02 Character Backgrounds and Dynamics13:12 Moral Dilemmas in the Story15:19 Inspiration Behind the Book15:26 Medical Tourism and Its Implications20:00 Fiction vs. Nonfiction: Conveying Truths21:53 Ethical Questions on Organ Trade26:42 Blood Donation Program27:28 Challenges in Policing Black Market Organs28:33 International Organ Trade and Legal Loopholes34:13 Writing Fiction vs. Nonfiction36:10 Navigating First Person Narration42:36 Addressing Misogyny in the FBI43:51 Reflections on Social Progress and Prejudices46:50 Advice for Aspiring Authors47:37 Upcoming Books and Future Plans49:17 Final Thoughts and FarewellIf you like what we do, you might consider buying us a coffee.You can do so here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/booklovercom or here: https://ko-fi.com/bookcompanionFollow us: Web: https://book-lovers-companion.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/book_companionFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ez.fiction.7/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/book_companion/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6vyAyrh3zzsxNeexfyU0uAFeedback is always welcome: [email protected]: English Country Garden by Aaron Kenny Video Link: https://youtu.be/mDcADD4oS5E
S5 Ep 206Writing Without Borders: A Chat with Izzy Arnfeld
Join host Edith on the latest episode of Book Love Companion as she interviews Izzy Arnfeld, an aspiring author from Upper Austria. Izzy discusses her lifelong passion for writing, from early storytelling with a childhood friend to her current projects. She delves into her fascination with true crime, discusses her writing process, and debates between prose and scriptwriting. They also cover the challenges of maintaining focus, the importance of writing communities, and Izzy's upcoming films and projects. Tune in for an engaging conversation on the craft of writing and literature.00:00 Welcome to Book Love Companion00:42 Izzy Arnfeld's Journey to Becoming an Author02:27 Childhood Reading Influences04:48 True Crime and Personal Experiences07:41 Exploring Different Writing Forms09:48 The Challenge of Choosing a Writing Form12:34 The Importance of Writing Communities15:53 Balancing Perfectionism and Creativity20:46 Writing for Different Audiences26:22 Writing for the Market vs. Writing for Yourself28:48 The Challenges of Following Market Trends31:39 Balancing Writing and Day Jobs33:27 The Writing Process: Tools and Techniques36:08 Editing and Overthinking39:01 Future Goals and Publishing Aspirations48:01 Film Projects and Creative Ventures52:03 Final Thoughts and Where to Find MoreIf you like what we do, you might consider buying us a coffee.You can do so here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/booklovercom or here: https://ko-fi.com/bookcompanionFollow us: Web: https://book-lovers-companion.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/book_companionFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ez.fiction.7/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/book_companion/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6vyAyrh3zzsxNeexfyU0uAFeedback is always welcome: [email protected]: English Country Garden by Aaron Kenny Video Link: https://youtu.be/mDcADD4oS5E
S5 Ep 205Exploring Historical Fiction and Nonfiction with Emma Woodhouse and Caroline Ailanthus
Welcome to 'Book Lovers Companion' with your host Edith! Join us in this captivating episode as we delve into the fascinating world of historical fiction and nonfiction. Edith is joined by special guests Emma Woodhouse and Caroline Ailanthus, discussing their unique approaches to writing, the joys of historical research, and the challenges of blending fact with fiction. From the detailed historical elements in Emma's works to Caroline's imaginative fantasy rooted in Civil War era characters, this episode is a treasure trove for lovers of history and storytelling. Don't miss their insights on giving voice to forgotten histories, the importance of thorough editing, and the intriguing 'what if' scenarios that make historical narratives so compelling. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that combines creativity, meticulous research, and a passion for uncovering the past.00:00 Welcome and Introductions00:55 The Beginnings of a Writing Journey01:59 Exploring Historical Fiction05:09 Diving into Nonfiction07:31 Research Challenges and Discoveries13:51 Balancing Science and Fantasy15:06 Technical Difficulties and Continuation18:47 Historical Context and Character Development30:38 The Appeal of Historical Eras47:23 Understanding Triggers vs. Being Upset47:34 Personal Experiences with Triggers48:08 The Ineffectiveness of Trigger Warnings50:11 The Market for Historical and Fantasy Fiction53:39 Balancing Historical Accuracy and Modern Sensibilities01:02:08 Writing Techniques and Perspectives01:09:32 Creative License in Historical Fiction01:21:38 Final Thoughts and Advice for WritersIf you like what we do, you might consider buying us a coffee.You can do so here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/booklovercom or here: https://ko-fi.com/bookcompanionFollow us: Web: https://book-lovers-companion.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/book_companionFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ez.fiction.7/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/book_companion/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6vyAyrh3zzsxNeexfyU0uA Feedback is always welcome: [email protected]: English Country Garden by Aaron Kenny Video Link: https://youtu.be/mDcADD4oS5E
S5 Ep 204Retribution and Redemption: Inside James Bateman's Dark Fantasy World
Join Edith, host of Book Lovers Companion, as she engages in a captivating conversation with fantasy author James R. Bateman from the United Kingdom. They delve into his book 'Savior of Lost Souls,' the first in the Retribution series, released in 2024. Bateman shares the intriguing plot involving a God named Levek who travels to various timelines to prevent untimely deaths and deliver justice. The discussion touches on genre-blending, mythological influences, the resilience of the human spirit, and the detailed process of writing and publishing the novel. Bateman also hints at future works in the series. Don't miss this exploration of dark fantasy thrillers and the creative journey behind them.
S5 Ep 203Pickles, Poetry, and Passion: Mark McCraw's Literary Adventure
Join host Edith on Book Lovers Companion as she sits down with Mark McCraw, a former elementary teacher turned children's book author. They delve into Mark's journey from military service and various jobs to becoming an author in his forties. Learn about his creative process, inspirations, and the themes he focuses on, including the fascinating story behind 'Niccoli Piccoli.' Mark also discusses collaboration with his grandson, the challenges of self-publishing, and the importance of promoting literacy among children. Tune in for an inspiring conversation exploring the world of children's literature.
S5 Ep 202Tides of Change: Deborah Hammett on Life and Sailing
Join Edith, the host of Book Lover's Companion podcast, as she interviews Debra Hammett, a former educator turned sailor and author. Sailing presently between Rhode Island and Massachusetts, Deborah shares her transformative journey from a school principal to a single-handed sailor navigating the East coast. The discussion covers Debra's book 'Young Salt at 60,' her unexpected transition into sailing, life on a sailing boat, and the challenges and rewards of embracing a new adventure post-retirement. Throughout the conversation, Deborah reflects on her growth, overcoming biases, and the importance of staying mentally and physically active. Perfect for anyone looking for inspiration to embark on a new adventure at any stage of life! Chapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:37 Life on a Sailing Boat03:48 Debra's Journey to Sailing06:17 Learning and Teaching Sailing12:00 Challenges and Reflections25:45 Confronting Biases and Stereotypes30:58 Facing Challenges and Taking Risks32:17 Transition from Teacher to Principal34:53 The Power and Beauty of Nature38:46 Encounters with Marine Life42:18 Advice for Retirees48:56 Reflections and Regrets51:19 Final Thoughts and FarewellFind out more about Deborah here:https://www.youngsalt60.com/ If you like what we do, you might consider buying us a coffee. You can do so here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/booklovercomor here: https://ko-fi.com/bookcompanionYou can also support us via Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/bookcompanion or via Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/bookcompanionFollow us: Web: https://book-lovers-companion.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/book_companionFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ez.fiction.7/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/book_companion/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6vyAyrh3zzsxNeexfyU0uAFeedback is always welcome: [email protected]: English Country Garden by Aaron Kenny Video Link: https://youtu.be/mDcADD4oS5E