- Peter Gribble: Pacifism, Philosophy, History, And Intuition Inspired His Fantasy Series
What happens when a completed trilogy inspires a major plot twist that changes everything—and suddenly three books become six? In this episode, GiGi Meier welcomes back award-winning fantasy author Peter Gribble for a celebratory and deeply fascinating conversation about the evolution of his City of Magicians saga.
Since their first interview, Peter has completed his award-winning trilogy—which took home the BookFest Gold Medal—and dropped a twist at the end of book three that has expanded the story into a six-book series. He's currently writing book four and shares what's next for this richly imagined world.
Peter takes us deep into his creative process, revealing how his lifelong love of history, astrology, mythology, and philosophy shaped every corner of his fantasy world. He also opens up about his fascination with languages—inspired by a childhood split between Canada and France—which led him to create an original language complete with its own symbols, as well as a personal shorthand for capturing story ideas. And if that weren't enough, he also designed the legal system, court structure, and governing order that bring authenticity and depth to his fictional world.
From writing the ending before the beginning to spending twenty-two years bringing his vision to life, Peter's journey is a testament to patience, curiosity, and the joy of lifelong learning.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation about world-building, persistence, and the magic of letting your story grow beyond what you first imagined.
Find Peter here:
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Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/petergribble3/
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58m - Jul 30, 2026 - M.T. Riverbooke: Edgar Allan Poe Meets Harry Potter Fantasy Writer
What does it take to build an entire fantasy world while working full-time, raising four children, and navigating the challenges of ADHD? In this episode, GiGi Meier sits down with dark fantasy author M.T. Riverbooke for an honest, vulnerable, and inspiring conversation about creativity, persistence, and the winding path to publication.
M.T. shares the story behind his upcoming dark fantasy novel, Bloodbound, the first book in his Shadow Trial Saga, and how a lifelong love of world-building—inspired by Edgar Allan Poe and Harry Potter—led him to create morally gray characters and immersive fantasy worlds. He opens up about years of experimenting across genres, his journey back to writing after high school, and how he finally discovered his unique voice.
But this conversation goes deeper than craft. M.T. speaks candidly about living with ADHD—the hyperfocus, the self-doubt, the burnout—and how it both fuels and complicates his creative process. He also discusses the realities of balancing family life with writing, the challenges of marketing and social media, and the dream of one day becoming a full-time author.
Whether you're a fantasy writer, a working parent with creative ambitions, or someone navigating neurodivergence, this episode is a powerful reminder that your path doesn't have to be straight to be meaningful.
Tune in for a raw, heartfelt conversation about world-building, resilience, and chasing big dreams in the middle of a full life.
Find M.T. Riverbrooke here:
Website:
https://books.by/silent-rebel-publications
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/mt_riverbooke/
How to find GiGi:
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1h 7m - Jul 16, 2026 - Amy Lorowitz: Like Dirty Dancing Summer Camp but For Parents
What happens when a simple goal to "write a book" turns into a thirteen-year journey of perseverance, mentorship, and accidentally discovering you're writing romance? In this episode, GiGi Meier sits down with debut novelist Amy Lorowitz for an honest and inspiring conversation about the unexpected path to publication.
Amy shares the story behind her debut novel, Summer Husband—a romance set against the nostalgic backdrop of a sleepaway camp that's really about so much more: confidence, friendship, motherhood, and second chances. She opens up about spending years in a writer's workshop, learning to handle critique, cutting nearly 100,000 words from her manuscript, and the moment she realized she had written a romance novel without even intending to.
But the conversation goes beyond the craft. Amy also reflects on the unforgettable "pinch me" moments of her publishing journey—from meeting her childhood hero Judy Blume (and sending her the finished novel!) to finding the perfect publishing home with She Writes Press and finally seeing her debut on bookstore shelves.
Whether you're a romance reader, an aspiring writer, or anyone who's ever wondered if it's too late to chase a creative dream, this episode will remind you that perseverance, trust, and a little bit of accidental magic can take you further than you ever imagined.
Find Amy here:
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https://www.instagram.com/amylorowitz.author/
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YouTube:
59m - Jul 2, 2026 - Body Horror, Ancestral Bones & the Stories That Haunt Us – A Conversation with Candice Lola
What happens when horror becomes a mirror for identity, grief, and healing? In this episode, GiGi Meier sits down with horror author Candice Lola for a deeply fascinating conversation about body horror, folklore, and the stories that refuse to let us go.
Candice opens up about how she unexpectedly found herself drawn to horror—not as mere shock value, but as a powerful metaphor for growing up, confronting difficult truths, and reclaiming parts of ourselves we've been taught to hide. She explains why body horror resonates so deeply with her, how themes of ancestral veneration and social commentary weave through her work, and why emotional honesty is the scariest—and most important—thing a writer can offer.
Together, they explore Candice's debut collection, Women of Glass and Other Parables, her publishing experiences with major outlets like NBC's Today and the Huffington Post, and the powerful message behind her TED Talk on Afrodivinity and identity.
If you've ever wondered how horror can challenge, comfort, and connect us all at once, this episode is for you.
Find Candice here:
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Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/candice_lola/
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1h 6m - Jun 28, 2026 - Debbie Bishop: 30 years in entertainment working for Warner Brothers, Paramount, Universal studios
What happens when nearly 30 years of entertainment industry experience collides with fantasy storytelling and cutting-edge AI? You get the kind of inspiring, forward-thinking conversation that Debbie Bishop brings to the table.
In this episode, GiGi Meier sits down with award-winning fantasy author and entertainment executive Debbie Bishop for a wide-ranging conversation about creativity, risk-taking, and building story worlds across film, comics, publishing, and technology. Debbie shares how her creative journey began with a screenplay that eventually became her Black Tide comic series with Image Comics, and how that foundation evolved into her newest release, PILLYWIGGIN Awakening—which officially releases tomorrow!
They also dive into Debbie's work with Angelgate Entertainment, her passion for empowering creators, and her groundbreaking AI & Human Roundtable podcast, where she hosts conversations with ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Grok, and Meta about creativity, technology, and the future of storytelling. Debbie offers practical insights into how she actually uses AI tools like MidJourney in her creative workflow, as well as the AI-powered editing tools she's building to help creators streamline their content production.
More than anything, this conversation is about believing in your ideas, taking creative risks, and building the stories only you can tell—no gatekeepers required.
Find Debbie here:
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Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/debbiebishop_
How to find GiGi:
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YouTube:
1h 1m - Jun 25, 2026 - From Batman to Godzilla & Romeo & Juliet – A Cross-Media Storytelling Masterclass with Adam Tierney
What happens when you mix Romeo and Juliet with Godzilla? You get the kind of creative, genre-bending storytelling that comic book writer, graphic novelist, and video game narrative director Adam Tierney has built his career on.
In this episode, GiGi Meier sits down with Adam for a fascinating conversation about writing across comics, graphic novels, video games, television, and even children's books. Adam shares how a lifelong love of comics led him to write for some of the biggest franchises in the world—including X-Men, Justice League, Batman, Transformers, Silent Hill, Aliens, and Teen Titans Go—and how each medium demands a completely different approach to character, dialogue, and story.
Adam also dives deep into his upcoming YA horror graphic novel, 13 Demons Dead, discussing its premise, character arcs, and future sequels, as well as his creative partnership with illustrator Saspy. He reflects on why he loves writing coming-of-age stories, how he balances literary mashups like Hamlet with monster mayhem, and what it's like writing dialogue for voice actors in interactive storytelling.
Whether you're a comic book writer, video game narrative designer, or simply a fan of great stories told across multiple worlds, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and a whole lot of fun.
Find Adam here:
Website:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/adamwritestuff/
How to find GiGi:
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Free Bonus and Deleted Scenes:
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YouTube:
1h 6m - Jun 4, 2026 - From a Six-Week Writing Class to Banned Books & Baseball Legends – A Conversation with Kelly Bennett
What happens when a six-week community college writing course ignites a multi-award-winning career in children's literature? In this episode, GiGi Meier sits down with acclaimed children's author Kelly Bennett for a warm, insightful conversation about the unexpected paths that lead to a life in storytelling.
Kelly opens up about her journey—from articles to picture books, from chapter books to nonfiction, and eventually back to school for her MFA. She shares the curiosity and persistence that shaped her success, the creative process behind her beloved picture books, and what it's really like to work with illustrators and navigate traditional publishing.
But the conversation goes deeper. Kelly also discusses the shocking reality of book banning, sharing the personal stories behind why Vampire Baby was banned and why Not Norman: A Goldfish Story was challenged. She also talks about writing nonfiction baseball books on Babe Ruth and Yankee Stadium, and why parents shouldn't solve the problems in picture books.
Whether you're a children's author, a parent, or simply someone who loves stories, this episode is packed with wisdom, heart, and encouragement.
Find Kelly here:
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Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/kellybennettbooks/
How to find GiGi:
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YouTube:
1h 6m - May 21, 2026 - The Long Road to Success & The Dark History of Superheroes – with William Bernhardt
What does it take to push through nearly a decade of rejection letters and become a million-selling author? Award-winning legal thriller writer William Bernhardt joins us to share his incredible journey—from Primary Justice to his 19-book Ben Kincaid series—and why writers should never be afraid to evolve.
We also dive into his riveting new book, The Superman Wars, uncovering the heartbreaking true story of Jerry Siegel, the creator of Superman who lost the rights to his own iconic character. Plus, Bill teases his upcoming The Batman Wars, the shocking history behind Batman’s creator, and the messy reality of intellectual property in entertainment.
Along the way, we talk about WriterCon, his podcast of nearly 300 episodes, and why persistence, creativity, and protecting your work matter now more than ever.
Find William here:
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Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/wbernhardtbooks/
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YouTube:
1h 1m - May 15, 2026 - Beyond the Dystopia: Exploring Freedom and Humanity with D.A. Murray
GiGi Meier sits down with acclaimed sci-fi dystopian author, D.A. Murray, to dissect her thought-provoking novel Dominion: Ascension and its powerful exploration of human freedom. This isn’t just a story about a futuristic world; it's a deep dive into the enduring questions of power, control, and what truly defines humanity. We discuss how Dominion examines the intersection of technology, authority, and individual choice – urging us to consider whether true freedom lies in conforming to societal structures or forging our own paths.
Beyond the book itself, we uncover D.A.’s innovative approach to building a community through her Writers in Tech series, her vibrant online presence on Instagram and TikTok, and her genuine curiosity about readers’ choices. Plus, she shares insights into her unconventional career journey – from global travel to entrepreneurship – and reveals what this powerful novel taught her about herself.
Find D.A. here:
Website:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/damurrayofficial/
How to find GiGi:
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Free Bonus and Deleted Scenes:
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Substack:
https://gigimeier.substack.com
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YouTube:
1h 3m - Mar 6, 2026 - Medical Doctor Turned Romance Author: An Interview with D.W. Brooks
GiGi Meier welcomes bestselling romance and romantic suspense author D.W. Brooks for a deeply inspiring conversation about resilience, reinvention, and the power of storytelling. D.W. shares how her writing began in childhood – creating one-chapter mysteries with her cousin on dot matrix paper – revealing a creative spark that never faded. We delve into her extraordinary journey: from medical school and an MBA to working as an ophthalmologist and medical consultant, then bravely publishing her debut novel after facing personal challenges including a kidney transplant and caring for her father.
This conversation is raw, honest, and ultimately triumphant. Plus, we get an exclusive sneak peek at her upcoming release, The Match Game, the newest book in her Meet Your Match series! D.W.’s story is a testament to the courage it takes to pursue your dreams – no matter what life throws your way.
Find D. W. Brooks here:
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Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/authordwbrooks/
How to find GiGi:
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YouTube:
1h 3m - Feb 25, 2026 - From Small-Town Roots to Global Adventures: A Conversation with Annie Dike
GiGi Meier welcomes bestselling author Annie Dike for a deeply personal and inspiring conversation about reinvention, storytelling, and the courage to begin again. Dike’s debut novel, Clovis, is rooted in her childhood growing up in New Mexico – a gritty coming-of-age story that blossomed from real memories and vivid recollections. We delve into the emotional core of the book, including the beautiful dedication to her mother who passed away during its creation, and get an exclusive reveal of her upcoming sequel, Austin.
But Annie’s journey doesn't stop there! She shares her incredible transformation – from lawyer to sailor, blogger to nonfiction author – revealing how she embraced curiosity and built a wildly successful career. Plus, we discuss her twelve years at sea, the magic of writing a series, and the surprising path that led her to international travel. Annie’s story is a powerful reminder that it's never too late to reinvent yourself.
Find Annie here:
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Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/anniedikeauthor/
How to find GiGi:
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YouTube:
1h 5m - Feb 12, 2026 - Social Fiction & a Writing Whirlwind: An Interview with Patricia Leavy
GiGi Meier sits down with award-winning author Patricia Leavy – a sociologist who revolutionized fiction with her term “social fiction” – for a powerful and expansive conversation. Leavy dismantles the notion of “beach reads,” arguing that depth, healing, and truth can absolutely thrive within contemporary stories. We delve into how her research background fuels her storytelling, why she publishes both fiction and nonfiction under one name, and get an exclusive look at her upcoming romance, Twinkle of Doubt.
Plus, Leavy shares her astonishing writing rhythm (including 4-week drafts!), the realities of publishing contracts and author marketing, and offers a roadmap for building a fulfilling creative life through her latest book, The Artist Academic. We also discuss arts-based research, her global teaching work, and whether her novels are mirrors or blueprints for our world.
Find Patricia here:
Website:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/patricialeavy/
How to find GiGi:
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Free Bonus and Deleted Scenes:
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Substack:
https://gigimeier.substack.com
The Cougar Den Facebook Reader Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/authorgigimeier
YouTube:
1h 9m - Feb 5, 2026 - China, Punk Rock, and Psychosis: An Interview with Eric Magun
Join GiGi Meier on Literary Lines as we delve into the captivating world of award-winning author Eric Magun and his groundbreaking psychological thriller, Thank God for the Sinners. Magun reveals how a staggering thirty years spent living and working in China – a period he describes as “real-life madness” – directly fueled the creation of Rick Price, a protagonist grappling with a fractured psyche and a double life.
We unpack the novel’s dark inspiration, explore Magun's unique perspective on justice and societal breakdown ("What if something bad happened in a country with no justice?"), and get an exclusive sneak peek at his upcoming sequel, Thank God for the Drugs, set in America with a familiar flashback structure and punk rock soundtrack. Plus, we discuss writing from the mind of a tormented sociopath, finding catharsis through darkness, and the surprising influence of Magun’s thirty years immersed in Asian culture.
Find Eric here:
Website:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ericmagun/
How to find GiGi:
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Free Bonus and Deleted Scenes:
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Substack:
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https://www.facebook.com/groups/authorgigimeier
YouTube:
1h 1m - Nov 6, 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:
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Free Bonus and Deleted Scenes:
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YouTube:
1h 6m - Oct 30, 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:
Free Bonus and Deleted Scenes:
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https://gigimeier.substack.com
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YouTube:
1h 3m - Oct 16, 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:
Free Bonus and Deleted Scenes:
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https://gigimeier.substack.com
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https://www.facebook.com/groups/authorgigimeier
YouTube:
58m - Oct 9, 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:
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YouTube:
1h 0m - Sep 25, 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:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/rebeccabyronbooks/
How to find GiGi:
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Free Bonus and Deleted Scenes:
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YouTube:
1h 8m - Sep 18, 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:
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YouTube:
1h 5m - Sep 4, 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.
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1h 9m - Aug 28, 2025
