Margs & Manuscripts

Cait & Jenna
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Two writer friends wrap up their writing session, pour a drink, and let the conversation flow, processing "the craft", the chaos, and everything in between.

  1. The AI Conversation in Publishing Has Gone Off the Rails

    1 DAG GELEDEN

    The AI Conversation in Publishing Has Gone Off the Rails

    AI in publishing is getting loud—and not always helpful Everyone has an opinion about AI right now, especially in the publishing and writing world. But instead of thoughtful conversations, what we’re seeing is a lot of noise, fear-based takes, and people rushing to pick a side. In this episode, we’re not here to give a definitive answer on AI. We’re here to talk about what’s actually bothering us about the conversation itself—the fearmongering, the “AI police,” and the pressure being put on writers in an already difficult industry. We waited to speak on this for a reason. We listened first. And now we’re sharing what feels off, what feels overblown, and where we think the focus should actually be. In this episode, we cover:  Why the AI conversation in publishing feels reactive instead of productive  The rise of fear-based takes and why they’re not helping writers  Where we personally draw the line with AI (workflow vs creativity)  The pressure and anxiety AI is adding to authors—especially debut authors  Why “AI isn’t going away” is the wrong starting point for the conversation  What writers should actually focus on right now instead of spiralingFor writers navigating AI right now: If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the noise around AI, you’re not alone. This episode is meant to ground the conversation back in reality and remind you of what actually matters: Your voice, your process, and the work itself. Listen now 🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube 📺 Full episode + clips on YouTube 📚 Explore books from our featured authors on our Bookshop page

    32 min.
  2. Sex Scenes Are Just Another Scene: How to Write Them Without Making It Weird

    14 APR

    Sex Scenes Are Just Another Scene: How to Write Them Without Making It Weird

    Let’s just say it: writing sex scenes is weird… until it’s not. In this episode of Margs & Manuscripts, we sit down with author Susan Ferber to talk about how to write sex scenes, why they matter in storytelling, and what separates a good scene from one that completely pulls the reader out. This isn’t a “how spicy should your book be” conversation. It’s about craft—how intimacy functions in a story, how to write scenes that actually move the plot forward, and why sex scenes should be treated like any other scene in your book. We get into the nuance of writing desire, tension, and connection—without overexplaining, overdescribing, or making your reader cringe. From dialogue-driven intimacy to the power of what you don’t show on the page, this episode breaks down what actually works. We also talk about the bigger conversation around women writing sex, the double standard around “smut,” and why stories centered on female desire are still treated differently in publishing. If you’ve ever wondered: Do I need a sex scene in my book?How explicit is too explicit?Why do some scenes feel natural and others feel… off?This one’s for you. What We Cover  How to write sex scenes that feel natural and not forced  Why sex scenes should function like any other scene in your story  Writing intimacy through dialogue vs description  How much detail is actually necessary (and when less is more)  The role of tension, power, and emotional stakes in intimate scenes  “Spice” vs “smut” vs storytelling—what’s the difference?  Do you need to show consent and protection on the page?  Writing awkward vs polished intimacy (and why both can work)  What makes a sex scene cringe vs compelling  The double standard around women writing sex  Why romance and intimacy are often labeled as “lesser”  How reader imagination plays a role in writing intimacy  Whether a book needs a sex scene at all About Susan Ferber Susan Ferber is the author of The Essence of an Hour and We Were Very Merry, with her third novel What Other Years Have Done releasing September 2026. Her work explores female identity, women’s relationships, and the complexities of love, desire, and power across time. She is particularly interested in how stories set in the past can shape our understanding of women’s rights today. Susan is also a book editor and currently lives in London with her husband—yes, very much a romance novel setup. Listen + Follow If you liked this episode, make sure to follow Margs & Manuscripts wherever you listen to podcasts and check out our full episode library on our website. You can also shop books from our featured authors (including Susan!) through our Bookshop—supporting both indie bookstores and the writers we love. Let’s Talk What’s your biggest pet peeve when reading sex scenes? Drop it in the comments or DM us—we’re dying to know.

    49 min.
  3. Why No One Warns You About Book Launch Anxiety | ft. Meg Rosenthal

    8 APR

    Why No One Warns You About Book Launch Anxiety | ft. Meg Rosenthal

    What happens when you finally finish your book… and then immediately spiral? In this episode, we sit down with Meg Rosenthal to talk about the very real anxiety that comes with putting your work into the world. From 2am panic spirals to the vulnerability of “bleeding on the page,” we unpack the emotional weight of publishing, the fear of critique, and the unexpected mental load that no one warns you about. We also dive into imposter syndrome, the tension between commercial vs. authentic writing, and what it actually means to create art in an industry that expects you to monetize it. Meg brings a unique perspective having worked across multiple sides of publishing—as an author, editor, and hybrid-published writer—offering both practical insight and honest reassurance for anyone navigating the writing journey. In this episode:  The reality of book launch anxiety (and why no one talks about it)  The vulnerability of “bleeding on the page” as a writer  Fear of critique, reviews, and putting your work out publicly  Imposter syndrome and feeling like you don’t “belong”  What actually defines “good writing” (and who gets to decide)  Traditional vs. indie vs. hybrid publishing paths  Writing for yourself vs. writing for the market  Commercial expectations vs. authentic storytelling  The emotional impact of sharing your work with people you know  Pricing your work and the challenge of valuing creative output  The balance between art, passion, and making money  Why community matters (and how it changes everything)Books: Beautiful and Deadly by Nicole YvetteRealms of Ruin by Nika McKinneyWe Would Never Tell by Anne-Sophie Jouhanneau About Our Guest: Meg Rosenthal Meg Rosenthal is a contemporary romance author, editor, and host of The Architecture of Story podcast. She is the author of The Right Words and The Wingman, and brings a unique perspective to the publishing world through her work across hybrid publishing, editing, and author education. Through her editorial work and podcast, Meg helps writers better understand story structure while encouraging them to create with both intention and authenticity. She is also an active member of the writing community, supporting authors at every stage of their journey.

    47 min.
  4. Nightmares, Plot Twists & Writing Psychological Thrillers | ft. Calvin Naraghi

    31 MRT

    Nightmares, Plot Twists & Writing Psychological Thrillers | ft. Calvin Naraghi

    What happens when a nightmare turns into a full-blown thriller novel? This week on Margs & Manuscripts, we’re joined by Calvin Naraghi, indie author of House Rules, to talk all things thriller writing, horror inspiration, and the very unhinged ways authors come up with ideas. From waking up in a cold sweat with a fully formed plot to building stories around music and cinematic moments, Calvin walks us through his creative process—and why horror writers might actually be the nicest people you’ll ever meet. We also get into:  The difference between horror vs. thriller vs. psychological thriller Writing plot twists and unreliable narrators Why dark stories can actually be… fun??  Turning ideas into books (without telling anyone you’re trying 👀)  The reality of indie publishing + social media growth And yes… the absolutely unhinged Google search histories required to write these books If you’ve ever wondered how thriller writers come up with their ideas, this one’s for you. In This Episode  How a nightmare became a published thriller  Horror vs. thriller: what’s the difference?  Writing plot twists that actually work  The appeal of unreliable narrators  Indie author marketing + social media tips  Building a story from music and cinematic scenes  Why horror writers are (surprisingly) the happiest people About Calvin Naraghi Calvin Naraghi is an indie thriller author known for his cinematic, twist-driven storytelling. His books blend psychological suspense, horror elements, and high-stakes mystery, with stories that keep readers guessing until the very end. Links + Resources  Follow Calvin on Instagram: @calvinnaraghi_writer Shop his books Join his newsletterSupport the Podcast If you’re loving Margs & Manuscripts:  Shop our merch Follow us on Instagram: @margsandmanuscripts Share the episode with your writing besties 🖤

    30 min.
  5. The Indie Author's Playbook with Debut Author Jourdana Webber (pt. 2)

    24 MRT

    The Indie Author's Playbook with Debut Author Jourdana Webber (pt. 2)

    In Part 2 of our conversation with author Jourdana Webber, we go deeper into the reality of building an author career from the ground up—no gatekeeping, no shortcuts, just figuring it out as you go. We talk about what it actually looks like to put yourself out there (spoiler: it’s uncomfortable), how Jourdana landed her book in Times Square, and why asking the right questions can change everything. From cold emails to audiobook production to navigating reviews, this episode is a candid look at the trial-and-error behind indie publishing. We also get into the emotional side of it all—the identity shifts, the fear of putting your work out into the world, and the reality that not everyone is going to love what you create. Jourdana shares what helped her push through that fear, why she stopped reading reviews, and how she reframed what it means to be “selfish” as a creative. If you’ve ever felt stuck, unsure, or like you’re just making it up as you go—this one’s for you. ✨ What We Cover  Jourdana’s Times Square billboard moment (and how she made it happen)  Why “just asking the question” is the real unlock  The power of community over gatekeeping in publishing  Trial-and-error marketing (and what didn’t work)  How indie authors can access opportunities like Publishers Weekly Behind the scenes of audiobook production  The emotional reality of publishing your work  Why you should probably stop reading your reviews 👀  Reframing “selfish” as choosing yourself  Letting go of other people’s opinions 🔗 Links + Resources  Grab your copy of Unconventionally Elle (Times Square Special Edition): 👉 https://jourdanawebber.com/products/times-square-special-edition-sprayed-edges-unconventionally-elle    Shop Margs & Manuscripts merch:  👉 https://margs-manuscripts-shop.fourthwall.com

    25 min.
  6. How an Indie Author Landed in Time Square: ft. Jourdana Webber (Pt. 1)

    17 MRT

    How an Indie Author Landed in Time Square: ft. Jourdana Webber (Pt. 1)

    In this episode, we’re raising a glass (literally) to indie author success with bestselling author Jourdana Webber, whose debut novel Unconventionally, Elle has taken the indie publishing world by storm. Jourdana joins us to talk about her journey from corporate life to writing swoony, heartfelt contemporary romance, and how she built her author career by learning the business side of publishing. From producing her own audiobook to cold-emailing bookstores and building industry relationships, Jourdana shares the strategies that helped her break through as an independent author. We also celebrate a massive milestone: Unconventionally, Elle appearing in Times Square, proving that indie authors absolutely belong on the biggest stages in publishing. To celebrate the moment, Jourdana is releasing a limited Times Square special edition with sprayed edges, available now in an extremely limited run. 👉 Order the Times Square Special Edition: https://jourdanawebber.com/products/times-square-special-edition-sprayed-edges-unconventionally-elle If you’re an aspiring author—or just love behind-the-scenes conversations about the publishing world—this episode is packed with honest advice, hilarious moments, and plenty of margarita-fueled encouragement. In This EpisodeHow Jourdana went from corporate burnout to bestselling authorThe truth about indie vs traditional publishingWhy audiobooks can be a game changer for indie authorsHow asking the right questions (and sending cold emails) can open doorsWhat it actually takes to market your book outside of social mediaWhy building your own publishing company and retaining rights mattersThe mindset shift that helps authors keep going after rejectionCelebrating Jourdana’s Times Square feature for Unconventionally, ElleAbout Jourdana WebberJourdana Webber is the bestselling author of Unconventionally, Elle, a heartfelt contemporary romance about ambition, love, and redefining success. Her stories blend humor, vulnerability, and the messy magic of real relationships while celebrating women’s voices, resilience, and found family.  She lives in New Orleans with her husband and four dogs and is known for crafting emotionally resonant romances that remind readers happily-ever-afters still exist—even when life doesn’t go as planned.  About the BookUnconventionally, Elle Elle Watson climbed the corporate ladder and achieved everything she thought she wanted—until burnout and betrayal force her to rethink everything. As she leaves the corporate world behind to pursue her dream of becoming a writer, Elle finds herself caught between a new love and the past she thought she left behind.  Perfect for fans of Emily Henry, Carley Fortune, Abby Jimenez, and Sophie Kinsella, the novel blends romance, humor, and emotional depth with themes of ambition, love, and building an unconventional life.  Follow JourdanaInstagram: @authorjourdanawebber Website: https://jourdanawebber.com Follow Margs & ManuscriptsInstagram: @margsandmanuscripts Listen If You LoveEmily HenryAbby JimenezCarley FortuneSophie KinsellaContemporary romance with humor, heart, and real-life chaos If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow, rate, and share the podcast with a fellow writer or book lover.

    25 min.
  7. What It’s Really Like to Be a Literary Agent | ft. Tali & Lauren of The Prose Pros

    10 MRT

    What It’s Really Like to Be a Literary Agent | ft. Tali & Lauren of The Prose Pros

    What is it actually like to be a literary agent? In this special collaboration episode, we’re joined by Tali and Lauren from The Prose Pros for an honest, behind-the-scenes conversation about agenting, publishing, querying, and what authors often misunderstand about the industry. This is not an episode about how to get a literary agent. It’s a candid look at what literary agents do, what their inboxes really look like, how they evaluate queries, and why agenting is far less glamorous—and far more emotional—than it seems from the outside. We talk about the reality of reading thousands of queries, balancing client communication, handling rejection from the agent side, burnout in publishing, and the huge highs that come with helping authors land book deals. Tali and Lauren also share what they’re looking for in submissions, why fit matters so much, and what makes a query or manuscript stand out. Whether you’re querying, revising, or just wildly curious about the publishing world, this episode pulls back the curtain in the best way. In this episode, we discuss: What literary agents actually do behind the scenesThe truth about querying and agent inboxesWhy agenting is really client service at its coreHow agents evaluate query letters and full manuscriptsCommon querying mistakes writers makeRejection, manuscript fit, and why “no” does not always mean “bad”Burnout in publishing and on the agent sideWhy a bad agent can be worse than no agentThe kinds of books Tali and Lauren are excited to read About our guests: Lauren and Tali of The Prose Pros bring a unique perspective to the publishing conversation as agents, authors, and lawyers. Their insight into both the creative and business sides of publishing makes this episode especially helpful for writers trying to better understand the industry. Connect with our guests: Lauren: Instagram Query Tracker Tali: Instagram Substack Check out The Prose Pros for more conversations on writing, publishing, and agenting. Youtube Apple Pod Spotify If you enjoyed this episode: Be sure to follow Margs & Manuscripts on your favorite podcast platform, leave a rating or review, and share this episode with a writer friend who’s deep in the querying trenches. Follow Margs & Manuscripts on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/margsandmanuscripts/  Subscribe for more real-talk conversations about writing, publishing, and building a bookish life with zero gatekeeping. If you loved this episode, leave a quick rating + review—it helps more writers find the show.

    44 min.
  8. YA Books are Booming: What’s driving the surge + what’s trending now, with literary agent and owner of the Reading Chamber, Jess Taylor

    24 FEB

    YA Books are Booming: What’s driving the surge + what’s trending now, with literary agent and owner of the Reading Chamber, Jess Taylor

    In this engaging conversation, Jess Taylor shares her journey of opening an online bookstore dedicated to young adult literature and her role as a literary agent. The discussion explores the evolution of YA fiction, the importance of addressing banned books, and the unique challenges of running a bookstore in a digital age. Jess emphasizes the joy of connecting with readers and authors alike, highlighting the need for more diverse representation in literature, particularly for younger audiences and male protagonists. The conversation concludes with insights into the current trends in YA literature and the significance of passion in writing and publishing. Takeaways Jess Taylor opened an online bookstore to fill a gap in YA literature.The joy of seeing teens excited about books is validating.YA literature allows for creativity and exploration of complex themes.Banned books discussions highlight the importance of exposure to diverse topics.Personalization in online bookstores can differentiate from larger retailers.Social media content creation is a significant challenge for online sellers.Jess transitioned from publishing to agenting to advocate for authors.The YA audience is growing up, leading to a demand for new adult stories.There is a need for more books featuring younger protagonists in YA.Jess is open to queries for contemporary YA fiction. Connect with Jess Taylor Shop The Reading ChamberFollow on TikTokFollow on InstagramDiscount Code Shop The Reading Chamber and use the code MARGS at checkout for 15% off your entire purchase including the first month of a subscription!Querying Jess Jess is currently open to queries and can be found on Query TrackerChapters 00:00 Introduction to the Bookstore Dream 02:17 Inspiration Behind the Reading Chamber 03:39 Nostalgic Reading Experiences 05:11 The Appeal of YA Literature 07:53 The Journey of Opening a Bookstore 10:21 Current Trends in YA Literature 12:50 The Evolution of Young Adult Readers 13:40 Navigating Content in YA Books 14:29 Addressing Difficult Topics in YA Literature 17:20 The Need for Diverse Protagonists in YA 17:46 The Importance of Passion in Writing 18:38 Understanding Young Adult Literature 19:11 Curating a Bookstore: Personal Touches and Choices 21:08 Challenges of Running an Online Bookstore 23:59 The Journey to Becoming a Literary Agent 26:32 Open for Queries: Insights into the Agenting Process 26:41 Quirks that Capture an Agent's Interest 26:48 Expanding Genres: YA and Beyond 29:40 105-End Credits Animation .mp4

    30 min.
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Info

Two writer friends wrap up their writing session, pour a drink, and let the conversation flow, processing "the craft", the chaos, and everything in between.

Informatie

  • Maker
    Cait & Jenna
  • Jaren actief
    2025 - 2026
  • Afleveringen
    21
  • Beoordeling
    Expliciet
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Margs & Manuscripts
  • Website van aflevering
    Margs & Manuscripts

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