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Ever wondered what it takes to turn a childhood passion for stories into a published novel? Join us on Craft Chat Chronicles as we sit down with debut author Jamie D'Amato also known as J.L. D'Amato to discuss her journey to bringing "The Good Vampire's Guide to Blood and Boyfriends" to life. Jamie's delightful and humorous gay vampire rom-com embodies the essence of a college student's transformation into a vampire while unraveling a mystery and finding love with a charming librarian. Through her captivating storytelling, Jamie shares the highs and lows of securing an agent and navigating the publishing world.

Experience the exhilaration and anxiety of a book auction through Jamie's eyes, as she recounts the nerve-wracking wait for that all-important offer and the emotional rollercoaster of multiple rejections and eventual success. We delve into her admiration for her dedicated editors at Wednesday Books, Vicky Lame and Vanessa Aguirre, who believed in her vision. Discover the serendipitous and thrilling moments that led to her dream becoming a reality, making this segment a must-listen for aspiring authors and book enthusiasts alike.

Lastly, we explore the broader aspects of the publishing journey, from the importance of sensitivity readers to the financial intricacies of writing for intellectual properties (IP) for the Stranger Things series. Jamie shares her insights on managing a growing Discord community for other debuts and the strategic nuances of marketing her book. We also celebrate the evolving landscape of publishing, highlighting the significance of diverse and inclusive narratives. Tune in for a rich blend of personal anecdotes, professional wisdom, and heartfelt reflections that promise to inspire and inform.

Keywords: Debut author, Jamie D'Amato, published novel, writing tips, Craft Chat Chronicles, publishing journey, "The Good Vampire's Guide to Blood and Boyfriends", gay vampire rom-com, college student, vampire, mystery, love, captivating storytelling, literary agent, publishing, publishing journey, sensitivity readers, financial intricacies, intellectual properties, Stranger Things series, Discord community, debuts, marketing, diverse narratives, Stranger Things: The Dustin Experiment, J.L. D'Amato

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Ever wondered how a former clown from Ringling Brothers transitions to writing a Joker graphic novel for DC Comics? Join us on this episode of Craft Chat Chronicles as we sit down with Kimberly Latrice Jones, a New York Times bestselling author and NAACP Image Award nominee. From her early ambitions of becoming a picture book author to co-writing a novel inspired by the civil unrest following Freddie Gray's death, Kimberly’s journey is both unique and inspiring. She shares intimate details about facing numerous rejections, the exhaustive revisions she endured, and the relentless promotion efforts that turned around the initial disappointing sales of her co-authored book.

Kimberly opens up about her unconventional career path, including stints as a professional boxer and production secretary for Tyler Perry, offering a fascinating perspective on creative perseverance. We discuss the art of storytelling, focusing on crafting suspense, the importance of pacing, and how to handle rejection constructively. Kimberly also breaks down her strategies for effective writing, emphasizing hard work over innate talent and sharing her go-to resources for aspiring screenwriters. From navigating complex entertainment contracts to the intricate process of turning a novel into a television series, there's a wealth of knowledge here for anyone looking to break into the creative industry.

Listen as Kimberly provides practical tips on writing with a partner, the benefits of using specific screenwriting software, and how to humanize narratives on racial injustice. She also discusses exciting upcoming projects, including a Joker graphic novel and the Aster Project, which honors victims of police violence through various art forms. Don't miss this episode packed with career insights, valuable resources, and inspirational stories that promise to fuel your creative ambitions. Tune in for an enlightening conversation with one of the most dynamic voices in literature and film today.

Keywords: Kimberly Latrice Jones, Craft Chat Chronicles, Joker graphic novel, DC Comics, New York Times bestselling author, NAACP Image Award nominee, Freddie Gray, civil unrest, rejections, revisions, promotion efforts, professional boxer, production secretary, Tyler Perry, storytelling, suspense, pacing, rejection, effective writing, aspiring screenwriters, entertainment contracts, novel to television series, writing partner, screenwriting software, humanizing narratives, racial injustice, upcoming projects, Aster Project, police violence, career insights, valuable resources, inspirational stories, creative industry, literature, film, screenwriting, screen, writing, diy mfa, mfa,drexel,drexel university, creative writing

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Ever wondered how fan fiction could pave the way to a bestselling author career? Tune into this inspiring double episode of Craft Chat Chronicles as we sit down with the multifaceted Denny S. Bryce, who transitioned from running a PR and marketing firm to becoming a celebrated author and faculty member at Drexel University. Denny takes us through her early days writing "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" fan fiction, her journey to finding an agent, and the invaluable lessons she imparts to her MFA students about visibility and branding. Whether you're an aspiring author or a seasoned writer, Denny’s insights and experiences offer a wealth of knowledge to fuel your own literary aspirations.

Struggling with sagging middles or crafting that perfect ending? This episode covers those challenges and more. We break down the crucial differences between nonfiction and fiction proposals, shedding light on why debut fiction writers typically need a completed manuscript before pitching. Get the lowdown on the benefits of MFA programs, including the critique and workshopping process, and the importance of diverse feedback. With practical advice on what makes a manuscript’s first-page pop, this segment is a treasure trove of actionable tips for writers at every stage.

Finally, join us as literary agent Eric Smith shares his expertise on high-concept romances and market trends. From intentional world-building to understanding your target audience, this segment is packed with essential advice for avoiding common pitfalls new writers face. Hear Smith’s personal stories of perseverance, along with recommendations for valuable resources to help you navigate your writing journey. Plus, discover the unique opportunities within MFA programs and the challenges of maintaining critique partnerships post-graduation. This episode promises to be an enriching experience for anyone passionate about the craft of writing.

Keywords:
fan fiction, bestselling author, Denny S. Bryce, literary agent, interview, Eric Smith, Craft Chat Chronicles, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, writing journey, PR to published, MFA programs, manuscript tips, visibility, writing tips, writing life, branding, fiction proposals, critique process, high-concept, romance, world-building, market trends, writing advice, aspiring authors, literary success, marketing, publishing

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