Literary Lines: Interviews with Indie Authors

GiGi Meier
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Dive into the world of independent books with 'Literary Lines,' a captivating podcast hosted by GiGi Meier. Every week GiGi chats live with upcoming authors, publishers, promoters, and social media stars who are passionate about books and want to share that passion. From romance to mystery to fantasy, explore the diverse genres that these talented individuals bring to life. Discover the realities and joys of pursuing a career in writing, as they delve into the creative process, challenges, successes, and everything in between.

  1. From DID Thrillers to Rom-Coms: Danielle Blum on Research, Representation & Radical Genre Switches

    10/30/2025

    From DID Thrillers to Rom-Coms: Danielle Blum on Research, Representation & Radical Genre Switches

    In this episode of Literary Lines, host GiGi Meier sits down with author Danielle Blum for a powerful conversation about the research and responsibility behind her upcoming psychological thriller, Fragments of Affection. Danielle shares her meticulous process of researching over 100 systems to accurately portray Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), delving into the realities of switching, "freezing" alters, and the experience of discovering DID later in life. We also explore the launch of her Kickstarter campaign, which offers readers a unique, personal connection to her work through special editions. But the conversation doesn't stop in the world of thrillers—Danielle reveals her exciting pivot to rom-com with a hilarious new project, "Odeli O'Dell," slated for an April 2026 release. She opens up about her "pantser" writing process, how 15 years of world travel are fueling a new book series, and her inspiring work hosting writing and women's empowerment retreats in Portugal. For anyone interested in the craft of writing deeply researched fiction, the logistics of a successful Kickstarter, or the joy of genre-hopping, this conversation with Danielle Blum is an enlightening and inspiring listen.   Find Danielle here: Substack: https://iamdanielleblum.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamdanielleblum/   How to find GiGi: Website: https://www.gigimeier.com/ Free Bonus and Deleted Scenes: https://www.gigimeier.com/freebies Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorgigimeier Substack: https://gigimeier.substack.com The Cougar Den Facebook Reader Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/authorgigimeier YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gigimeier

    1h 7m
  2. Love Blooms in the Darkness: Sienna Gypsy on MC Romance, Writing Sprints & Viking-Coded Futures

    10/16/2025

    Love Blooms in the Darkness: Sienna Gypsy on MC Romance, Writing Sprints & Viking-Coded Futures

    Rev your engines and get ready for a high-octane episode of Literary Lines! Host GiGi Meier sits down with the fierce and fabulous Sienna Gypsy, the powerhouse behind the gritty Angels of Fire MC series and the mystical anthology Mystical Embrace. Sienna pulls back the curtain on why she’s drawn to the dark side of romance, explaining how "love blooms in the darkness" and how her writing acts as a "reset button" alongside therapy. We dive into her explosive series, her tools and writing process, and the exciting future projects she has in the works—including a Viking-coded romance and a Mafia spinoff. As a co-host of the popular thrice-weekly live writing sprints on Instagram, Substack, and TikTok, Sienna also shares how community and accountability fuel her creativity and help her cheer on fellow authors. Full of laughter, raw insight, and a whole lot of girl power, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone who loves their romance with a side of danger and a strong sense of sisterhood.   Find Sienna here: Substack: https://siennagypsy.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sienna_gypsy_author/   How to find GiGi: Website: https://www.gigimeier.com/ Free Bonus and Deleted Scenes: https://www.gigimeier.com/freebies Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorgigimeier Substack: https://gigimeier.substack.com The Cougar Den Facebook Reader Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/authorgigimeier YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gigimeier

    1h 4m
  3. From Wattpad to Watty Winner: Lux Raven on Chronic Illness, Charmed, and 3.5 Million Reads

    10/09/2025

    From Wattpad to Watty Winner: Lux Raven on Chronic Illness, Charmed, and 3.5 Million Reads

    In this inspiring episode of Literary Lines, host GiGi Meier talks with paranormal romance sensation Lux Raven about her incredible journey from writing as a coping mechanism during a debilitating health crisis to winning a Watty Award and amassing 3.5 million reads on Wattpad. Lux shares how, while navigating the uncertainty of undiagnosed chronic illness, she found solace and strength in creating heroines who reflected her own reality, inspired by the magical sisterhood of Charmed. Lux opens up about the moment her story took off, garnering thousands of reads a day and giving her the motivation to push through one of the hardest periods of her life. We dive into her writing process, the structure of her popular duology, and the spin-off standalones that have expanded her universe. She also discusses her exciting side projects, including a celebrity romance and a deeply personal story featuring a non-identified autistic female lead, inspired by her own late-in-life discovery of being autistic. For anyone looking for a story of resilience, a lesson in building an audience from the ground up, or simply a love letter to paranormal romance, this conversation with Lux Raven is a must-listen.   Find Lux Raven here: Website: https://www.luxravenwrites.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luxravenwrites/   How to find GiGi: Website: https://www.gigimeier.com/ Free Bonus and Deleted Scenes: https://www.gigimeier.com/freebies Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorgigimeier Substack: https://gigimeier.substack.com The Cougar Den Facebook Reader Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/authorgigimeier YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gigimeier

    59 min
  4. Writing as Survival: Sue William Silverman on Trauma, Truth, and the Power of Memoir

    09/25/2025

    Writing as Survival: Sue William Silverman on Trauma, Truth, and the Power of Memoir

    In one of the most courageous and profound conversations on Literary Lines, host GiGi Meier sits down with acclaimed author and teacher Sue William Silverman. A winner of the Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP) Award in Creative Nonfiction, Sue opens up about the difficult genesis of her writing career: her therapist’s suggestion to write about being molested by her father as a child, which became the award-winning memoir Because I Remember Terror, Father, I Remember You. Sue discusses the transformative relief of bringing secrets to light and how her subsequent memoir, Love Sick, navigated the delicate balance of writing about sex addiction in recovery—without glamorizing the past. She shares the profound impact her work has had, giving countless women the language to understand their own pain. This episode is a lesson in turning trauma into art. Sue delves into her writing process, the reality of a decade-long journey to publication, and the craft of the flash essay. She also touches on her later, lighter works, proving that not every piece must dwell in darkness. For writers, survivors, and anyone who believes in the redemptive power of story, this conversation is an essential listen.   Find Sue here: Website: https://www.suewilliamsilverman.com/   How to find GiGi: Website: https://www.gigimeier.com/ Free Bonus and Deleted Scenes: https://www.gigimeier.com/freebies Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorgigimeier Substack: https://gigimeier.substack.com The Cougar Den Facebook Reader Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/authorgigimeier YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gigimeier

    1 hr
  5. Rebecca Byron on Vampire Romance, Scottish Lore, and a Stellar Debut

    09/18/2025

    Rebecca Byron on Vampire Romance, Scottish Lore, and a Stellar Debut

    In this enchanting episode of Literary Lines, host GiGi Meier chats with debut author Rebecca Byron, whose lifelong love of vampire lore and a fateful trip to Scotland collided to create her spellbinding novel, A Memory Not Mine. Rebecca shares how the stars aligned for her to write the book in a whirlwind four months, and why the misty, historic landscapes of Scotland became the perfect backdrop for a timeless paranormal romance. We dive into the crucial difference between paranormal and vampire romance, the invaluable (and tough!) feedback from a Reedsy developmental editor, and the Outlander-inspired research rabbit holes that enriched her world. Rebecca also gives an exciting sneak peek at Book Two of her trilogy, already in the works for a 2026 release, detailing its dual timeline and her unique "25k chunk" writing process. Get the inside scoop on her upcoming BookBub deal, her strategy of going wide with print books while using Kindle Unlimited for ebooks, and how she’s weaving authentic Celtic traditions and witchcraft into the next installment. For any aspiring author or paranormal romance fan, this conversation is filled with practical advice, inspiration, and a clear love for the genre. Tune in to learn where you can find Rebecca online, details for her November signing, and why her debut is the perfect read to sink your teeth into this season.   Find Rebecca here: Website: https://rebeccabyron.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebeccabyronbooks/   How to find GiGi: Website: https://www.gigimeier.com/ Free Bonus and Deleted Scenes: https://www.gigimeier.com/freebies Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorgigimeier Substack: https://gigimeier.substack.com The Cougar Den Facebook Reader Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/authorgigimeier YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gigimeier

    1h 8m
  6. From Headlines to Dystopia: Michelle Park Lazette on Journalism, Caregiving & Crafting The Descended

    09/04/2025

    From Headlines to Dystopia: Michelle Park Lazette on Journalism, Caregiving & Crafting The Descended

    In this compelling episode of Literary Lines, host GiGi Meier sits down with debut author Michelle Park Lazette to discuss her gripping dystopian novel, The Descended—a must-add to your TBR list! Michelle opens up about her unique journey from journalist and social media strategist to novelist, revealing how the "domino effect" of life events during COVID-19 ignited her creative spark and led her to craft a world where survival and humanity collide. Michelle shares the challenges of writing after long days and navigating caregiver guilt, while leveraging feedback from alpha and beta readers to refine her work. She delves into the transition from journalism’s fact-based reporting to novel writing’s emotional depth, and how she learned to explore her characters’ interior lives. Listeners will also get an exclusive sneak peek at her next project—a sci-fi romance set in Cleveland, Ohio, titled 34 Overbrook, slated for a potential 2026 release. From book signings and ads to engaging with book clubs, Michelle offers practical advice for fellow debut authors. Tune in to discover where to find The Descended online and why Michelle’s storytelling journey is just beginning.   Find Michelle here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellelazette/   How to find GiGi: Website: https://www.gigimeier.com/ Free Bonus and Deleted Scenes: https://www.gigimeier.com/freebies Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorgigimeier Substack: https://gigimeier.substack.com The Cougar Den Facebook Reader Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/authorgigimeier YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gigimeier

    1h 5m
  7. Badge & Pen: Alphonso Williams Jr. on Homicides, Healing, and Writing What You Know

    08/28/2025

    Badge & Pen: Alphonso Williams Jr. on Homicides, Healing, and Writing What You Know

    In this deeply human episode of Literary Lines, host GiGi Meier sits down with retired law enforcement veteran and crime fiction author Alphonso Williams Jr.—a man who’s lived the stories he writes. With 27 years on the force (plus three in the military), Alphonso worked nearly 500 homicide cases, rose to Assistant Special Agent in Charge of Florida’s Orlando FDLE region, and endured the devastating murder of his own sister—a tragedy that steeled his resolve to become a detective and give voice to the voiceless. Alphonso opens up about how grief, psychology, and an unshakable sense of justice fuel his Chosen by Fate trilogy, blending authentic procedural detail with raw emotional truth. He shares his leadership philosophy rooted in empathy, breaks down Florida’s “Life Means Life” sentencing laws, and hints at upcoming nonfiction projects diving into serial killers and investigations. From the bond of the brotherhood in blue to his vision of retiring in Montego Bay, this conversation is a powerful reminder that behind every badge is a heart—and behind every great crime novel is a author who’s walked the walk.   Find Alphonso here: Website: https://alphonsowilliams.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alphonsowilliamsofficial   How to find GiGi: Website: https://www.gigimeier.com/ Free Bonus and Deleted Scenes: https://www.gigimeier.com/freebies Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorgigimeier Substack: https://gigimeier.substack.com The Cougar Den Facebook Reader Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/authorgigimeier YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gigimeier

    1h 9m

  8. 08/21/2025

    From Librarian to Bestseller: Patti Diener on Reinvention, Wildfires & Writing Your Second Act

    In this inspiring episode of Literary Lines, host GiGi Meier sits down with women’s fiction author Patti Diener, whose journey from school librarian to full-time novelist is as compelling as the stories she writes. Bursting with infectious energy, Patti shares how the COVID-19 pandemic became a catalyst for reinvention—prompting her to leave her career in education, launch a podcast on second acts (Beautiful Second Act), and publish her debut novel amid the chaos of the California wildfires. Patti opens up about the emotional resonance of her newest release, Wildflower, and why its themes of resilience and growth deeply moved her two daughters. She delves into the practicalities of building an author career: assembling a dedicated team of editors and designers, navigating audiobook production (out September 30!), and fostering genuine connections with readers through bookstores and social media. From the importance of developing thick skin in writing groups to her creative strategies for bookstore partnerships and signings, Patti’s story is a testament to the power of dreaming boldly—no matter your age or stage of life. Tune in for a conversation filled with heart, hustle, and the kind of wisdom that only comes from living your truth.   Find Patti here: Website: https://www.pattidienerwrites.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pattidiener/   How to find GiGi: Website: https://www.gigimeier.com/ Free Bonus and Deleted Scenes: https://www.gigimeier.com/freebies Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorgigimeier Substack: https://gigimeier.substack.com The Cougar Den Facebook Reader Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/authorgigimeier YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gigimeier

    1h 1m
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Dive into the world of independent books with 'Literary Lines,' a captivating podcast hosted by GiGi Meier. Every week GiGi chats live with upcoming authors, publishers, promoters, and social media stars who are passionate about books and want to share that passion. From romance to mystery to fantasy, explore the diverse genres that these talented individuals bring to life. Discover the realities and joys of pursuing a career in writing, as they delve into the creative process, challenges, successes, and everything in between.

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