New York Times bestselling author Julia London joins the Fresh Fiction Podcast to discuss her holiday romance WHILE IT WAS SNOWING. We talk about writing love stories later in life, holiday traditions, second chances, and why this book — written after the pandemic — became one of her most personal novels yet. ✨ Topics include: • Writing romance with characters in their 50s • Holiday rom-com essentials • The sandwich generation & second puberty • What’s next for Julia London 🎧 Listen now and subscribe for more author interviews! Julia London: https://freshfiction.com/author.php?id=4971 https://www.julialondon.com/newsletters/?p=subscribe Subscribe to Fresh Fiction News: https://freshfiction.com/newsletters

In this festive holiday episode of the Fresh Fiction Podcast, Samantha sits down with bestselling author Andrew Grey to talk about his moving, dog-centered Christmas romances — including THE GIFT OF THE MALTIPOO — and the joy and emotional depth behind writing stories that celebrate love in all its forms. Andrew shares: • how he writes prologues from a dog’s perspective • the emotional heart of the Rescue Me universe • why gay romance has evolved beyond coming-out stories • the deep support he’s found in the romance community • the real-life love story that fuels every book • his favorite holiday traditions (including his legendary 600-bird Christmas tree!) This warm, funny, and heartfelt episode is the perfect companion for the season — whether you’re baking cookies, wrapping gifts, or cuddling up with your favorite holiday read.

In this special holiday episode of the Fresh Fiction Video Book Club, host Samantha Tennant sits down with cozy mystery author Lucy Connelly—the pen name of longtime reader favorite Candace Havens. They dive into Death at a Scottish Christmas, the third book in the Scottish Isle Mystery series, exploring the rich blend of Scottish traditions, cozy vibes, humor, and murder that make the book such a treat. Lucy talks about writing Christmas stories in the Texas heat, watching nonstop holiday baking competitions as “research,” and how her son helps uncover the historical and cultural details she builds into each mystery. She shares the surprising business reason behind her pen name, how she juggles writing for three different publishers, and the joy of seeing her Ainsley McGregor novels adapted for television. Plus—holiday preferences, fruitcake opinions, favorite ornaments, crowd avoidance strategies, murder plotting secrets, and a cameo from Mr. Poe. Perfect for fans of cozy mysteries, holiday reads, Scottish settings, author interviews, or anyone who loves hearing how writers bring their worlds to life.

In this festive episode, host Samantha Tennant welcomes bestselling author Kandy Shepherd for a cozy, heartfelt conversation filled with writing insights, holiday traditions, and plenty of behind-the-scenes stories. Kandy talks about her early writing days in magazines like Cosmopolitan and Family Circle, how those years shaped her approach to character and relationships, and why she loves writing “second chance” romances that feel real, emotional, and full of hope. Together, Sam and Kandy explore: • Writing an older heroine in Second Chance Under the Mistletoe • The joy (and chaos!) of pets during deadline season • Why setting is a character all its own • Collaborating with another author on a connected duet • Holiday traditions in Australia vs the U.S. • What Kandy is writing next It’s warm, insightful, and the perfect listen for readers who love romance, Christmas stories, and hearing the real voices behind the books they adore. Learn more about Kandy: https://freshfiction.com/author.php?id=21526

In this episode of the Fresh Fiction Podcast, host Samantha sits down with USA Today bestselling author Xio Axelrod for a deep, funny, and music-filled conversation. Xio shares how growing up in the music industry shaped her lyrical writing voice and how a 200,000-word fanfic turned into her first romance. She talks about crafting The Lilies, her rock-and-roll fairytale series about an all-girl band navigating music, identity, and found family. We dig into: • how songwriting influences her prose • the challenge of writing long-form stories as a “pantser” • juggling hybrid publishing deadlines • the explosion of female alt-rock acts inspiring her playlists • the comfort of rereadable books and repeat-listening audiobooks • her love of Ann Rice, Funko Pops, and obscure movies • why self-discovery doesn’t stop in your twenties A warm, engaging episode perfect for romance readers, music lovers, and anyone who enjoys behind-the-scenes creative conversations.

We’re ringing in the holidays with bestselling romantic suspense author Terri Reed, chatting about her new release, TEXAS CHRISTMAS COVER-UP. Host Sara Reyes of Fresh Fiction talks with Terri about writing Christmas stories filled with danger and heart, her South Padre Island setting, and why every good mystery needs a touch of cozy cheer. You’ll also hear about her favorite Christmas traditions (hint: almond eggnog!), the real-life turtle sanctuary that inspired her book, and how she celebrates every new release—with a little bubbly. 📚 Mentioned in this episode: • TEXAS CHRISTMAS COVER-UP (Love Inspired Suspense) • Terri’s next book: PURSUIT ON THE RUN (April 2025) • Love Inspired Authors & Readers Facebook Group 💻 Connect with Terri: https://terrireed.com 🎧 Join the Fresh Fiction Video Book Club: https://freshfiction.com/ #TerriReed #FreshFictionPodcast #HolidayBooks #RomanticSuspense

In this delightful and deeply personal episode, Darynda Jones opens up about her cancer recovery, the joy of writing strong, funny heroines over 40, and how her wild imagination never takes a day off. Host Sara Reyes and Darynda swap stories, giggle through favorite book moments, and explore what’s next for her readers. Expect humor, heart, and maybe a few confessions about caffeine and raccoons named Randy.

In this lively episode of the Fresh Fiction Podcast, Samantha Tennant sits down with author Kati Wilde, whose books span from scorching motorcycle club romances to lush, magical fantasy worlds. Kati opens up about her start in fanfiction, the creative freedom of self-publishing, and how she balances multiple genres while keeping readers hooked. You’ll hear the hilarious story behind her Hellfire Riders comic, her thoughts on classic romances like WARRIOR’S WOMAN and PRIDE AND PREJUDICE, and why her books often feel like “fantasy road trips.” Plus, we talk about her latest holiday romance, ONLY ONE BED, a snowed-in enemies-to-lovers story that’s pure fun. 🎧 Listen in for laughter, inspiration, and plenty of swoon-worthy moments. 📚 Learn more at FreshFiction.com and KatiWilde.com. ✨ Don’t miss a single episode or event! Join our reader community and get updates straight to your inbox — sign up for the Fresh Fiction mailing list at FreshFiction.com/newsletters.php.

We welcome Toni Anderson to talk about her newest book, COLD TRUTH, part of her bestselling Most Wanted series. In this lively and insightful conversation, Toni reveals how her career in science shaped her meticulous approach to writing, why she’s fascinated by FBI investigations, and how she keeps readers hooked with realistic details and romantic tension. They also chat about Toni’s world-spanning research trips, her process for managing interconnected series, and the importance of crafting heroines with intelligence and grit. Fans of romantic suspense will love this peek into how Toni balances passion, peril, and precision in every story.

How do you go from filming short comedy skits about a “villain’s assistant” to writing a bestselling romantic fantasy series with a frog mascot, fan merch, and readers around the world? In this episode, Fresh Fiction’s Samantha Tennant sits down with author Hannah Nicole Maehrer—the creative mind behind Assistant to the Villain, Apprentice to the Villain, and Accomplice to the Villain—to chat about: • Turning BookTok creativity into a publishing phenomenon • Found family, quick banter, and her Syrian family roots • Writing with ADHD and thriving amid chaos • The behind-the-scenes story of the Kingsley plush frog • What’s next in the villainverse (and why readers might be mad about it 👀) Grab your headphones and get ready to laugh your way through a charming, relatable, and inspiring conversation about creativity, community, and unapologetic joy in storytelling.

In this episode, Samantha sits down with David McCloskey, author of DAMASCUS STATION, MOSCOW X, THE SEVENTH FLOOR, and now The Persian. McCloskey opens up about his writing process—how a terrible first draft turns into a masterclass spy novel—and the challenge of creating authentic tradecraft without giving away secrets. They talk redemption, moral gray zones, and why he thinks all of us might be “double agents” in our own lives. You’ll also hear how his wife plays the role of first reader, how real spy stories sneak into his fiction, and what might be next for his Hollywood deals.

In this episode of the Fresh Fiction Podcast, host Samantha Tennant sits down with international bestselling author Samantha Downing to discuss her new novel, TOO OLD FOR THIS. What started as a writing experiment turned into an unforgettable character: Lottie, a retired serial killer dealing with aging, mobility issues, and modern technology—all while trouble keeps knocking at her door. They talk about how humor balances the darkness, why readers connect with even the most unlikely protagonists, and the challenges of writing thrillers in an age of cell phones and constant surveillance. Plus, Samantha shares stories from her first Bouchercon experience, the importance of community for writers, and what she’s working on next. If you love thrillers with sharp character work, escalating suspense, and plenty of wit, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

In this episode of the Fresh Fiction Podcast, we welcome the legendary Charlaine Harris — #1 New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Sookie Stackhouse/True Blood series, the Aurora Teagarden Mysteries, Midnight, Texas, and the Gunnie Rose novels. With more than 39 million copies sold worldwide, Harris shares her insights on writing across genres, building immersive worlds, and keeping readers hooked for over four decades. You’ll hear about: • Behind-the-scenes stories from fan conventions like Dragon Con. • Her funniest and most surprising fan encounters. • What it’s like to see her books adapted for TV and film. • How she approaches writing without outlines. • Closing out the Gunnie Rose series with THE LAST WIZARDS’ BALL. • A sneak peek into her next project, featuring twins, adventure, and a touch of time-bending mystery. Whether you’re a fan of paranormal romance, cozy mysteries, or urban fantasy, this episode is filled with wisdom, humor, and inspiration from one of the most enduring voices in commercial fiction.

00:00 – Meet Heatherly Bell Her start in 2010 and first publication in 2014. 02:00 – From Indie to Harlequin How she transitioned from self-publishing to one of the biggest romance publishers. 05:00 – Pantsing vs. Plotting Why Heatherly actually enjoys writing synopses first. 08:00 – Writing Long Series How she manages the Charming Texas world, Harlequin’s Montana Mavericks and Fortunes of Texas. 10:00 – Holiday Traditions & Small-Town Charm Creating memorable events like Christmas light competitions and boat parades. 16:00 – What’s Next Upcoming releases: OVERBOARD FOR THE HOLIDAYS, WEDDED TO A FORTUNE, and A BOOKISH STORY. 21:00 – Fresh Fiction Facts (Rapid Fire Q&A) Her writing fuel, dream elevator companions (Chris Hemsworth, anyone?), and shoe obsession. 📚 Books Mentioned: • THE EX NEXT DOOR (Charming Texas #8, July 2025) https://freshfiction.com/book.php?id=141233 • OVERBOARD FOR THE HOLIDAYS (Charming Texas #9) https://freshfiction.com/book.php?id=142686 • WEDDED TO A FORTUNE (Fortunes of Texas, June 2026) • A BOOKISH STORY (RomCom, March 2026) 🔗 Connect with Heatherly Bell • Newsletter: Sign up on her website https://freshfiction.com/author.php?id=37569 • Instagram & Facebook: @HeatherlyBell • Pinterest: Dream casting boards for her characters 👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell so you never miss an interview with your favorite romance authors!

In this episode of the Fresh Fiction Podcast, we sit down with K.A. Linde, New York Times, USA Today, and Sunday Times bestselling author of both contemporary romance and sweeping fantasy. Linde opens up about her decade-long career—from early indie publishing days during the Fifty Shades boom to finally breaking through onto the New York Times list with The Wren in the Holly Library. We dive into the world-building and mythological research behind her Oak and Holly Cycle, how her background in political science influences her plots, and the surprising Easter eggs that connect her vampire Blood Type series to her current romantasy universe. She also shares candid insights into editing struggles (40 rounds in one year!), juggling multiple releases, re-releasing her extensive backlist, and balancing motherhood with a booming career. Plus, we touch on her love of Taylor Swift, her most dog-eared research books, and why she’d rather step into Bridgerton than any high-stakes fantasy world. Whether you’re a longtime fan of her Wright contemporary series, intrigued by her fantasy romances, or new to her work, this conversation is packed with inspiration, behind-the-scenes details, and a glimpse of what’s next—like House of Dragons hitting shelves soon. 👉 Subscribe to the Fresh Fiction Podcast for more author interviews, book club chats, and insider looks at the stories we can’t stop reading.

Bestselling author Jennifer Ryan joins the Fresh Fiction Podcast to talk about her emotional duet See Me, Love Me. Once tucked away in a drawer, this story returned bigger, bolder, and more dramatic than ever—complete with family secrets, stalkers, stepbrother romance, and fireworks in Texas. In this interview, Jennifer shares: ✨ Why she dusted off a long-hidden manuscript ✨ How a single book became a two-part duet ✨ The challenges of writing darker romance themes ✨ Why she set the story in Texas ✨ What’s next in her Dark Horse Dive Bar series If you love high-stakes romance, family drama, and happily-ever-afters hard won, this conversation is for you! 🔗 Connect with Jennifer Ryan: https://jennifer-ryan.com 📚 Read See Me, Love Me on Kindle Unlimited

Join Samantha Tennant as she hosts Jayci Lee, a renowned author of poignant and humorous rom-coms. In this episode of the Fresh Fiction Video Book Club, they discuss Jayci’s newest release, ’GIVE ME A REASON,’ a modern retelling of Jane Austen’s ’PERSUASION’. Jayci shares her creative process, inspirations from Jane Austen, and her transition from rom-coms to romantic books infused with Korean culture and mythology. Learn about her journey, writing techniques, and what to expect from her upcoming releases in this insightful and entertaining interview. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:41 Discussing ’GIVE ME A REASON’ 02:38 Writing Process and Inspirations 05:42 Shifting Between Writing Styles 11:10 Exploring the Romantic Genre 15:02 Marketing and Reception 18:52 Achievements and Surprises 20:11 Unexpected Successes and Challenges 23:59 Rapid Fire Questions 25:43 Favorite Wines and Celebrations 29:00 Pride and Prejudice Adaptations 30:42 Upcoming Projects and Social Media 33:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Join host Samantha Tennant as she interviews bestselling author Julie Miller in this engaging episode of the Fresh Fiction Video Book Club. Julie, known for her extensive backlist of romantic suspense novels including Harlequin’s CRIME SCENE K-9, shares insights into her writing process, her love for mysteries and romantic suspense, and the inspiration behind her military and canine characters. Dive into discussions on different genres, the creation of compelling characters, and the exciting world of K-9 Ranch. Plus, enjoy fun rapid-fire questions and behind-the-scenes stories in this entertaining and informative interview. 00:00 Welcome to Fresh Fiction Video Book Club 00:05 Meet Julie Miller: A Prolific Author 01:31 Julie’s Writing Journey and Inspirations 02:11 The Appeal of Romantic Suspense 04:25 Dogs in Julie’s Books 08:05 Writing Process and Character Development 11:54 Balancing Multiple Writing Elements 16:16 Paranormal vs. Romantic Suspense 18:34 Collaborating with a Fellow Writer 19:44 Brainstorming and Research Methods 20:22 Using Real-Life Models for Writing 21:33 Engaging with Professionals for Authenticity 23:04 Rapid Fire Questions: Fresh Fiction Facts 27:35 Favorite Movies and Rewriting Endings 30:57 Beloved Books and Reading Habits 33:36 Doctor Who Fandom 35:47 Conclusion and Where to Find More

00:00 Introduction and Author Welcome 00:48 Early Writing Inspirations 02:43 Genre Evolution and Writing Style 04:41 Character Voices and Writing Process 09:53 Easter Eggs and Sci-Fi References 19:52 Collaborations and Partnerships 23:54 Fun Facts and Personal Insights 32:34 Upcoming Projects and Closing Remarks

On this episode of the Fresh Fiction Podcast, we’re joined by bestselling author Kendra Elliot to chat about her latest suspense novel, HER FIRST MISTAKE—the launch of a brand-new series featuring a fan-favorite character from her Columbia River books. We go behind the scenes of her writing process, discuss world-building across interconnected series, and get the scoop on her longtime creative partnership with Melinda Leigh. Plus: readers vs. plotters, writing thrillers without a plan, and why sometimes you just have to blow something up.