The Fresh Fiction Podcast

Candace Lynn Talmadge didn’t just imagine the Stone Slayer series — she believes she lived it. A former business journalist turned dark high fantasy author, Candace joins Samantha Tennant on the Fresh Fiction Video Book Club to talk about the obsession that’s driven her since childhood, the literal demon she had to add to her nine-book-and-counting series, and why the fictional society of Asgard feels uncomfortably familiar right now. With four generations of fierce women, 24 planned books, and a story rooted in past-life healing, this is a conversation about what it truly means to be called to write.

USA Today bestselling author Naima Simone joins Samantha Tennant to talk about her journey from writing New Edition fan fiction in seventh grade to crafting some of the most emotionally layered romance series in the genre today. From the beloved Rose Bend small-town series to her boldly dark Huntsman fairytale reimaginings, Naima shares what drives her to write complex, unforgettable characters — and why fear is never a good enough reason to say no to a new creative challenge.

Bestselling author Kirsten Pursell joins Samantha Tennant to talk about THE UNABRIDGED LIFE OF MISSY KINCAID — an emotionally raw, ultimately uplifting novel about a woman who rises from her lowest point. Kirsten opens up about the real heartbreak and grief that shaped Missy's story, why she writes imperfect women who refuse to quit, and what's coming next in the Scarlet's Harlots trilogy.

In this episode of the Fresh Fiction Video Book Club, host Samantha Tennant sits down with award-winning bestselling historical romance author Eliana Piers to talk all things steamy Regency romance—and the bold multi-author series she dreamed up from scratch.

Emmy Award–winning investigative journalist turned thriller novelist Hank Phillippi Ryan joins Fresh Fiction to talk about her USA Today bestselling novel All This Could Be Yours — a spine-tingling thriller set on a book tour from hell. Hank reveals her unique 'discovery writing' process, what it's like to write 20 novels without an outline, and why she considers every reader a partner in bringing a story to life. A must-listen for fans of suspense, storytelling craft, and strong women who fight back.

Carolyn Dasher joins Fresh Fiction to discuss AMERICAN SKY, her debut historical novel inspired by the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) of World War II. In this episode, she shares the real history behind these groundbreaking female pilots, the emotional cost of their post-war dismissal, and how she crafted a multi-generational story spanning WWII and Vietnam. A must-listen for fans of historical fiction, women’s history, and powerful mother-daughter narratives.

Author Liz Alterman on psychological thrillers, writing across genres, surviving rejection, and why your neighbor might be scarier than any monster.

Audible Hall of Fame narrator Andi Arndt joins Fresh Fiction to discuss audiobook narration, dual vs duet recording, romance audiobook performance, pseudonyms, union contracts (SAG-AFTRA), and what really happens inside the recording booth. With over 700 audiobooks narrated, Andi shares how she physically embodies characters and why listeners trust her voice.

In this episode of the Fresh Fiction Podcast, historical romance authors Cathy Maxwell and Eliana Piers discuss the creation of the Busty Bodice Club—a collaborative Regency romance series celebrating body-positive heroines, creative freedom, and sisterhood. From writing one shared story chapter-by-chapter to publishing independently, this conversation explores how romance authors are reimagining the genre while delivering the escapist love stories readers crave.

What makes a story unforgettable? Sometimes, it’s the place. In this episode of the Fresh Fiction Podcast, bestselling author Heather Graham joins us for a warm, wide-ranging conversation about haunted cities, real history, and the stories that stay with readers long after the book is finished. From Salem and New Orleans to castles, legends, and mysteries, Heather shares how real locations inspire her novels—and why blending history, romance, and suspense keeps readers coming back for more. Perfect for fans of romantic suspense, paranormal thrillers, and immersive storytelling.

Award-winning authors Julie Buxbaum and Adele Griffin—writing together as Taylor Hutton—talk dark romance, creative freedom, and how collaboration brought the fun back to writing.

Bestselling author Abigail Owen joins Fresh Fiction to talk Greek gods, epic trials, cliffhangers, and the series that changed her career.

Brisa Carleton joins Fresh Fiction to talk about LAST CALL AT THE SAVOY, forgotten women in history, and how a Broadway producer became a debut novelist.

In this episode of the Fresh Fiction Podcast, bestselling author Julia London joins us to talk about WHILE IT WAS SNOWING, a holiday romance featuring characters in their fifties navigating love, family, and second chances during a North Texas snowstorm. Julia shares behind-the-scenes insights on writing older protagonists, the realities of publishing during the pandemic, and why Christmas trees belong in every holiday novel.

A heartwarming holiday conversation with bestselling romance author Andrew Grey about THE GIFT OF THE MALTIPOO, writing emotional dog POVs, the evolution of gay romance, cherished Christmas traditions, and the joy of storytelling.