Open Book Jessica Sorentino

In this chapter of Open Book, I’m joined by my mom, Maria, to discuss our favorite books and reading habits. 
Maria shares her love for historical fiction, especially period dramas and World War narratives, and provides insights into how she selects her books, often influenced by covers and word of mouth. The discussion also touches on the accuracy and immersive qualities of historical fiction, the differences between books and their adaptations, and the importance of connecting with authors on social media. 
Maria offers recommendations for encouraging readers to discover new authors, suggests bundling bestsellers with debut authors at a discount, and highlights the value of building personal brands for authors. The episode wraps up with Maria reflecting on the books that made her a reader and her practice of getting immersed in book series.
Connect with Jessica
Website: https://www.jessicasorentino.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicasorentino
Substack: https://jessicasorentino.substack.com

In this chapter of Open Book, I’m joined by New York Times bestselling author Fiona Davis. Known for her historical fiction novels set in iconic New York City buildings, Fiona delves into her latest book, 'The Spectacular,' set at Radio City Music Hall in the 1950s. We discuss the research and inspiration behind her stories, including interviews with former Rockettes, the significance of historical landmarks, and the challenges of blending fact with fiction. Fiona shares insights from her journalism background and offers advice to aspiring historical fiction writers. Our episode also touches on memorable reader interactions and Fiona's recent audiobook novella, 'The Gimlet Flip,' co-written with Greg Wands.
Connect with Fiona 
Website: https://www.fionadavisbooks.com/  
Instagram: www.instagram.com/fionadavisauthor
Book: The Spectacular
Connect with Jessica
Website: https://www.jessicasorentino.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicasorentino
Substack: https://jessicasorentino.substack.com

In this chapter of Open Book, I’m joined by Bill Williams, a lawyer and author, about his unique approach to balancing his law career with his passion for writing. Bill shares his daily routine, including how ideas come to him during walks with his new puppy and how he utilizes emails and voice notes to capture these thoughts. 
He discusses the importance of listening in both his law practice and writing, highlighting how real-life courtroom experiences influence the authenticity of his legal thrillers. Bill recounts his journey to becoming an author, emphasizing the pivotal role of community, luck, and perseverance in getting published. The conversation also explores Bill's writing process, the impact of reading on crafting stories, and his use of emotional engagement to connect with readers and juries alike. 
Connect with Bill 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-myers-jr-esq-a517691/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/williamlmyersjr/
Book: Remi Bone
Connect with Jessica
Website: https://www.jessicasorentino.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicasorentino
Substack: https://jessicasorentino.substack.com

In this chapter of Open Book, I’m joined by Rachel L. Ertassi, a first-time author from Sacramento, who discusses her debut novel that explores the impact of a new serial murderer on the city of Sacramento from multiple perspectives. 
One of the characters, living with Type 1 Diabetes, is inspired by Rachel’s own experiences as she has been living with it for 20 years and is passionate about raising awareness. Rachel shares the complexities and benefits of writing from multiple perspectives, her approach to incorporating aspects of her life into her storytelling, such as her struggles with T1D, working in the beer industry, and personal views on therapy. 
She also reflects on the self-publishing process through Archway, a division of Simon & Schuster, and the support from the Sacramento community. Rachel encourages authors to embrace vulnerability and authenticity in their writing and shares her aspiration to be recognized alongside renowned authors like Stephen King.
Connect with Rachel 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rlertassiauthor
JDRF: https://www.jdrf.org
Book: City of Trees City of Shadows
Connect with Jessica
Website: https://www.jessicasorentino.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicasorentino
Substack: https://jessicasorentino.substack.com

In this chapter of Open Book, I’m joined by Linda Secondari, the principal and creative director of Studiolo Secondari, a New York-based design firm specializing in book development and digital communications. 
With over 25 years of experience, including a significant tenure as the creative director at Oxford University Press, Linda shares insights into her journey from managing an international design team to founding her own studio. 
Discussing the evolution of publishing, Linda emphasizes the need for authors to work closely with design and development specialists to navigate the challenges of modern publishing. Highlighting the importance of understanding the target audience and the competitive landscape, Linda offers valuable advice on book development, from initial concept to marketing.
The episode also gets into the technical aspects of design thinking, cover and text design, and the strategic approach to positioning a book in its market. Linda's expertise presents a comprehensive overview of the essential elements in creating a successful publication, encouraging authors to think critically about their goals and the needs of their readers.
Connect with Linda 
Website: https://www.studiolosecondari.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/studiolosecondari
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindasecondari/
Connect with Jessica
Website: https://www.jessicasorentino.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicasorentino
Substack: https://jessicasorentino.substack.com

In this chapter of Open Book, I’m joined by Jim Williams, who discusses his book 'Getting Thru: The Worst Possible Thing', inspired by his son Kyle's battle with neuroblastoma. 
Jim shares the devastating journey of his son’s diagnosis, subsequent fight with cancer, and the profound lessons of strength, resilience, and hope learned through Kyle's journey. The discussion also covers Jim's efforts to support pediatric cancer research through 'Cookies for Kids' Cancer' and the foundational principles of the B.E.R.G.S. mindset—Belief, Empathy, Resilience, Gratitude, and Service—that helped him navigate the grieving process. 
This episode is a heartfelt exploration of coping with loss, the impact of one child's fight against cancer on his family, and the legacy that Kyle leaves behind.
Connect with Jim 
Website: www.thegettingthru.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegettingthru
Book: Getting Thru: The Worst Possible Thing
Connect with Jessica
Website: https://www.jessicasorentino.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicasorentino
Substack: https://jessicasorentino.substack.com