Authors Talking Bookish

Donna Norman-Carbone and Hope Gibbs
  • 4.9 (7)
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At Authors Talking Bookish, our mission is to dedicate ourselves to inspiring writers and readers by providing the-road-to-publishing insights from two debut novelists who learned the hard way and discussing our love of books from the writer’s perspective.

  1. Genre Is Not a Box: Using Story Categories as Creative Tools

    3D AGO

    Genre Is Not a Box: Using Story Categories as Creative Tools

    This episode explores genre not just as a marketing label, but as a powerful storytelling framework that shapes reader expectations, craft choices, and publishing opportunities. We’ll begin by defining what genre really means, then break down how different genres function, what readers of each genre expect, and how those expectations influence plot, pacing, character, and tone. By the end of the episode, you will have a clearer understanding of how to position your stories, communicate your genre, and use it as a creative tool instead of a restriction. SHOW NOTES: Why Genre Matters More than you Think Understanding Genre as a Framework Positioning Your Story in the Marketplace Communicating Genre to Agents and Readers Genre as a Creative Tool Common Pitfalls SOURCES & LINKS: “How Important is Genre When Pitching and Promoting a Book?” Sangeeta Mehta, Jane Friedman, FEB 2025 “Understanding Genre: How to Writer Better Stories,” Savannah Gilbo, 2026 “In Defense of Labels: On Genre as a Literary Conversation," Lit Hub, Lincoln Michel, 2021 DO NOW (with samples): Identify your primary genre. Study 5 successful books w/in that genre. Fill out the FREE DOWNLOAD to help get you started writing a genre positioning statement. Next, write a pitch using genre-specific language: [Genre] + Protagonist + Goal + Obstacle + Stakes EX: Romance A contemporary romance about a burned-out wedding planner who’s forced to work with the cynical journalist who once broke her heart—only to discover that saving her career might mean risking it all for love again. EX: Thriller A domestic thriller about a woman who begins to suspect her perfect husband is connected to a string of disappearances—and must uncover the truth before she becomes the next victim. Full Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode. Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.com Hope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/ Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.com If you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

    30 min
  2. The “Write” Path: Conquering Writer’s Burnout and Block

    FEB 24

    The “Write” Path: Conquering Writer’s Burnout and Block

    In this episode, we dive deep into the differences between Writer's Block and Writer's Burnout. Discover how burnout manifests through symptoms like fatigue and a waning passion for writing. We’ll share effective recovery strategies that are not only practical but also inspiring. Learn the importance of taking refreshing breaks, establishing a consistent writing routine, and exploring new environments to spark creativity. We'll also discuss how engaging with various creative works and building connections with fellow writers can reignite your passion. Plus, find out which foods can boost your mood and help you on your writing journey SHOW NOTES: Understanding Writer's Burnout vs. Writer’s Block Signs to Look For How to Get Inspired Again (10 methods) RECAP SOURCES & LINKS: “Writers, We Need to Talk About Creative Burnout,” Medium, Erin Fulmer, OCT 2022 “Writer’s Burnout: Will you let yourself smolder until you become a cinder?” CreativeIndie, Laura Hartman “8 Foods to Beat Writer’s Block,” The Writer, APR 2024 “How to Blast through Writer’s Burnout…or Block…or Not,” Lit News Magazine, Betsy Robinson, DEC 2022 DO NOW: If you are looking for a creative boost in your writing, use some of these ideas we’ve discussed. Or come up with a list of your own, tailored to your needs. Also, perhaps take an inventory of your writing habits. Look to see if any of these signs are creeping into your work and think of ways on how you can avoid them. Full Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode. Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.com Hope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/ Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.com If you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

    28 min
  3. An Interview with author Linda Rosen

    FEB 10

    An Interview with author Linda Rosen

    Linda Rosen is the author of four historical fiction novels, The Disharmony of Silence, Sisters of the Vine, The Emerald Necklace, and her newest release, Abandoning the Script, available March 6th. Linda’s novels are set in the “not-too-distant past” and examine how women reinvent themselves despite obstacles thrown their way – and they always feature a piece of jewelry! She is a member of the Women Fiction Writers Association and co-founder of the South Florida chapter of the Women’s National Book Association where she holds the position of VP of Programming. In addition, Linda is on the board of Trails of Delray, her local chapter of the Brandeis National Committee, an administrator of the 5K+ member Facebook Group Bookish Road Trip and editor of their newsletter, Wanderlust. Fitness professional turned novelist Linda Rosen, after living most of her life in New Jersey (and only a short trip into NYC) now lives with her husband in sunny Florida happily wearing sandals all year long. When she’s not writing, you’ll find Linda on the Pickleball court, in the pool, or reading with her feet in the sand. SHOW NOTES: Abandoning the Script Back Catalogue Writer Life Rapid Fire Questions SOURCES & LINKS Website: https://www.linda-rosen.com/ Abandoning the Script is available for pre-order, the paperback, discounted at 15% off until March 5th. And a first chapter sample of all of Linda’s books including Abandoning the Script, as well its trailer, are available on her website. Full Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode. Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.com Hope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/ Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.com If you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

    30 min
  4. Marketing Scams Every Author Should Know

    JAN 27

    Marketing Scams Every Author Should Know

    Every author wants their book to reach readers—but in the world of publishing, that dream can make writers vulnerable to marketing scams. In this episode, we pull back the curtain on the shady side of book promotion and show you how to spot red flags before they cost you time, money, and trust. SHOW NOTES: How to spot a scam Questions to ask How to vet a scam Rules of thumb Samples SOURCES & LINKS: ScamVoid: Checks fake websites Writer Beware: Blog that identifies scams and provides advice ALLi Watchdog: Alliance of Independent Authors, protects from predatory practices and misinformation Writers Weekly: Online magazine with a host of articles (including those aimed at protecting indie authors from being scammed Author’s Guild: Author organization that offers online forums and legal services DO NOW: Peruse the links we attached to know where you can turn if you suspect being scammed. Next Episode: Full Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode. Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.com Hope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/ Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.com If you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

    27 min
  5. Publishing Industry Predictions

    JAN 13

    Publishing Industry Predictions

    In this episode, we highlight the top publishing trends for 2025 and 2026. We discuss the rise of new romance subgenres, the impact of artificial intelligence on editing and marketing, and the nostalgic comeback of 90s and early 2000s-inspired fiction. We also explore the evolution of audiobooks into immersive experiences, the bookstore renaissance with a surge in new openings, and the growing trend of “readaways,” where readers merge travel with literature SHOW NOTES: The Enduring Allure of Romance The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Publishing Nostalgia as Cultural Capital The Evolution of Audiobooks Bookstore Renaissance Transforming the Reading Experience SOURCES & LINKS: Lumina Datamatics. (2026). Top 10 Publishing Trends to Watch Out For in 2026. Retrieved from Lumina Datamatics Booksshelf. (2026). What’s Going to Be Hot in 2026: Predictions for Fiction. Retrieved from Booksshelf New York Times. (2025). Book Sales Trends 2025. Retrieved from NY Times VRBO. (2026). Readaways: Trends in Literary Travel. Retrieved from VRBO “2026 Author Trends You need to Know,” Written Word Media (2026) Next Episode: Marketing Scams Every Author Should Know Full Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode. Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.com Hope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/ Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.com If you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

    25 min
  6. An Interview with Bestselling Author Barbara Conrey

    12/09/2025

    An Interview with Bestselling Author Barbara Conrey

    SUMMARY: In this episode, bestselling author Barbara Conrey discusses her inspiring journey to publication, her creative process, and the themes behind her emotionally powerful novels, including A Fine Layer of Dust. The conversation also features fun rapid-fire questions, offering a personal glimpse into her life and passions. Barbara Conrey is the USA Today Bestselling author of Nowhere Near Goodbye, her debut novel published on August 4, 2020, by Red Adept Publishing. Her sophomore novel, My Secret to Keep, was released on August 23, 2022 and her third, A Fine Layer of Dust, debuted in October 2025. An active member of the Women’s Fiction Writers Association, Women’s National Book Association, and the Author Talk Network, Barbara also moderates the online book club for the Facebook Group Bookish Road Trip. SHOW NOTES: Bio A Fine Layer of Dust Journey to Publication Work as a Book Club Host for Bookish Road Trip Involvement with Women’s Fiction Writers Association Bonus Rapid-Fire Questions Links: https://www.barbaraconreyauthor.com/ https://www.facebook.com/barbara.conrey Next Episode: We are taking off a month for the holidays and will see you mid-January Follow us on Instagram or subscribe to our website for an exact date. Happy Holidays, everyone! Full Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode. Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.com Hope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/ Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.com If you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

    33 min
  7. Tension & Conflict: The Writer’s Secret Weapons

    11/25/2025

    Tension & Conflict: The Writer’s Secret Weapons

    Every novel needs fuel to keep it moving forward, and that fuel is conflict and tension. In this episode, we break down the difference between scene-level tension and story-level conflict—and show how they work together to keep readers hooked. From internal struggles to epic battles, we’ll explore techniques that create momentum and make your story impossible to put down. With practical tips and real-world examples, this episode is a must-listen for any writer looking to craft gripping fiction. SHOW NOTES: What Is Tension? Conflict? How Tension and Conflict Work Together Writing Tips Examples SOURCES & LINKS: The Conflict Thesaurus & The Emotion Thesaurus, Angela Ackerman & Becca Puglisi “Courting Conflict: The Agent of Change,” Wired for Story, Lisa Cron “Dude with a Problem: Surviving the Ultimate Test,” Save the Cat Writes a Novel, Jessica Brody *analysis of conflict w/in Stephen King’s Misery G.M.C.: Goal, Motivation, and Conflict, Debra Dixon The Compass of Character, David Corbett DO NOW: Look at your current project—is each scene tense? Is the conflict clear and escalating? Check out our FREE Download to see a sample of HOW to use the Thesaurus Series to Create Tension at the scene level and Conflict at the plot level. Next Episode: An Interview with USA Today Bestselling author Barbara Conrey Full Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode. Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.com Hope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/ Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.com If you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

    26 min
  8. Pitch Perfect: How to Sell Your Story in Minutes

    11/11/2025

    Pitch Perfect: How to Sell Your Story in Minutes

    Ready to pitch your book? Pitch events can be nerve-wracking, but they’re also one of the best opportunities for writers to connect with literary agents. In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about the 10-minute pitch: what it is, how to prepare, and how to make the most of those precious few minutes. You’ll learn how to research agents before you pitch, craft a clear and compelling hook, and present yourself with confidence. We’ll also cover common mistakes to avoid, tips for turning your pitch into a conversation, and how to use feedback—even a rejection—to your advantage. Whether you’re attending your first conference or polishing your pitch for a big event, this episode will help you walk in prepared, stay calm, and maximize your chances of making the right connection with an agent. SHOW NOTES: What is a 10-Minute Pitch Event? Our Experience How to Prepare Using the pitch to your advantage Take-aways SOURCES & LINKS Related ATB Podcasts Episodes: “Query Basics: How to Attract the Attention of the RIGHT Agents and Publishers,” Ep 19 “Writing the Dreaded Book Jacket Summary and Pitch,” Ep 42 Hooked from Page One: Nailing Your Novel’s Beginning, Episode 57 “Pitch it To Me!” Save the Cat Writes a Novel, Jessica Brody Before and After the Book Deal, Courtney Maum DO NOW: Script your pitch. Practice saying the words. Edit out what seems unnatural to say. Once your script is polished, practice saying it in front of a mirror until you’ve memorized it. Next, practice in front of people: family members, friends, bookish community. Next Episode: Tension & Conflict: The Writer’s Secret Weapons Full Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode. Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.com Hope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/ Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.com If you found value in this content, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE. Thank you

    27 min
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4.9
out of 5
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About

At Authors Talking Bookish, our mission is to dedicate ourselves to inspiring writers and readers by providing the-road-to-publishing insights from two debut novelists who learned the hard way and discussing our love of books from the writer’s perspective.

Information

  • Creator
    Donna Norman-Carbone and Hope Gibbs
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    66
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Donna Norman-Carbone and Hope Gibbs 2023
  • Show Website
    Authors Talking Bookish