In this episode of Miles Beyond the Page, host Michelle Miles interviews bestselling author Michelle Pillow, who has written over 100 books across genres, with a focus on sci-fi and paranormal romance.

Michelle Pillow shares exciting news about her seven-book deal with Tor Bramble (Pan Macmillan), which brings new audiobook editions of her beloved backlist series—Tribes of the Vampire and Realm Immortal—along with new hardback and print releases. She also discusses her hands-on role in selecting narrators and bringing these stories to life in a new format.

The conversation dives deep into her approach to writing morally gray anti-heroes, dual POV storytelling, and the emotional core of dark romance. They explore themes of redemption, identity, duty versus desire, and the thread of hope that runs through even the darkest stories. Michelle also shares her research process, how her voice has evolved over time, and the unexpected rise of fan-favorite characters like Uncle Rebert.

🎧 Join Michelle and Michelle for an engaging, behind-the-scenes look at writing, publishing, and the enduring appeal of dark, character-driven romance.

👉 Don’t forget to subscribe for more author interviews and creative conversations on Miles Beyond the Page!

ABOUT MICHELLE PILLOW:

Michelle has had a strange fascination with anything supernatural and sci-fi for as long as she can remember. After discovering historical romance novels, it was only natural that the supernatural and love/romance elements should someday meet in her wonderland of a brain. She’s glad they did for their children have been pouring onto the computer screen ever since.

Michelle loves to travel and try new things, whether it’s a paranormal investigation of an old Vaudeville Theatre or climbing Mayan temples in Belize. She’s addicted to movies and used to drive her mother crazy while quoting random scenes with her brother. She is the very proud mom to the most talented artist. Though it has yet to happen, her dream is to be a zombie in a horror movie. (She came close as a refugee extra on SyFy’s Z Nation, Fall 2016!) Michelle is involved with various film and historical documentary projects with her filmmaker husband.

Come say hello! She loves talking with readers on social media!

WHERE TO FIND HER:

Social Media | Press Kit

WHERE TO FIND HER BOOKS:

Website

A lot of people think worldbuilding is about maps, made-up languages, or giant lore documents.

But when I’m building a long series, worldbuilding isn’t decoration.

It’s infrastructure.

In this From the Author’s Desk episode of Miles Beyond the Page, I’m sharing how I build fictional worlds that can support 10+ books, spinoffs, evolving lore, and major plot twists—without collapsing under the weight of their own complexity.

For me, strong worldbuilding isn’t about creating more details just to have them. It’s about building load-bearing systems that generate conflict, create story pressure, and leave room for future books.

In this episode, I talk about:

• Why I think worldbuilding is really about systems, pressure, and consequences
• The 4-bucket framework I use to future-proof a series
• How I design magic systems with cost, constraint, and escalation
• Why recurring conflicts matter more than endlessly inventing new villains
• The Truth Layers method I use to avoid retconning myself later
• A quick exercise you can use to create a world with real story potential

If you’re writing fantasy, romantasy, science fiction, or any kind of multi-book series, this episode is for you.

Because the real question isn’t just, can I build a cool world?

It’s: Can I build a world strong enough to hold the stories I want to tell for years to come? That’s what I’m digging into in this episode.

💬 I’d love to know: What’s the hardest part of worldbuilding for you?

📚 About Me

I’m Michelle Miles, author of fantasy, romantasy, and fairy-tale retellings filled with quests, curses, kisses, and chaos. On Miles Beyond the Page, I share conversations with authors and behind-the-scenes thoughts on the craft and business of storytelling.

🌐 https://www.MichelleMilesBooks.com

🎧 Subscribe for more episodes on writing, publishing, and storytelling craft.

In this episode of Miles Beyond the Page, host Michelle Miles sits down with Ryan Consell, a writer, educator, and internationally acclaimed theorist on the science of fiction.

Born near Toronto and having lived and worked in Tokyo and Vancouver, Ryan brings a global perspective to his creative work. As a teacher of science and mathematics, stage actor, armorer, and passionate advocate for nerd culture, he blends analytical thinking with storytelling in fascinating ways.

Michelle and Ryan dive into his work exploring the science behind fiction—including his contributions to projects like The Science of Game of Thrones—as well as his appearances at major events like DragonCon and Convergence. They discuss how real-world science can enhance storytelling, how to make complex ideas accessible, and why overthinking fictional physics might just make stories even better.

🎧 Join Michelle and Ryan for a fun, insightful conversation about science, storytelling, and the intersection of imagination and reality.

👉 Don’t forget to subscribe for more author interviews and creative conversations on Miles Beyond the Page!

ABOUT RYAN CONSELL:

Ryan was born and raised near Toronto. He has lived and worked in Tokyo and Vancouver, but currently calls Ontario home.

Aside from writing, he is a teacher of science and mathematics, stage actor, armorer, and nerd culture activist. His work has been featured on io9, Kotaku, Boingboing, MTV Geek, madartlab.com and in Game Developer Magazine.

Ryan is an internationally acclaimed theorist on the science of fiction. He has consulted on such titles as "The Science of Game of Thrones," spoken at events including DragonCon and Convergence, and partnered with the American Chemical Society. He employs his background in materials science and engineering to overthink fictional physics and to make science more accessible to the public.

WHERE TO FIND HIM:

Website | Instagram

WHERE TO FIND HIS BOOKS:

Amazon

In this episode of Miles Beyond the Page, host Michelle Miles sits down with Richard H. Moon, an award-winning writer, producer, and all-around creative whose passions range from science and storytelling to music, history, and beyond.

With a debut novel releasing in November 2025, Richard brings a deep love of speculative fiction, character-driven storytelling, and big thematic questions to his work—alongside a healthy appreciation for cool robots and imaginative worlds. His background in physics, paired with his creative pursuits, gives him a unique lens on crafting stories that are both thoughtful and entertaining.

Michelle and Richard dive into the creative process, the intersection of science and fiction, and the importance of supporting artists who are building something meaningful with their work. From SFF inspiration to the joy of making art, this conversation celebrates curiosity, creativity, and storytelling in all its forms.

🎧 Join Michelle and Richard for a fun, thoughtful conversation about sci-fi, creativity, and the stories that challenge and inspire us.

👉 Don’t forget to subscribe for more author interviews and creative conversations on Miles Beyond the Page!

ABOUT RICHARD MOON:

Richard H Moon is an award-winning writer with a debut novel out in November of 2025, a producer, family man, dog and cat care-provider, curler, archer, hiker, musician, physics tutor, SFF nerd, history aficionado, and kitten fosterer. He has a physics degree, but has never let that get in his way. He’s always ready to geek out about story and character and deep meaning and also cool robots, and he supports every human out there who is making art with their own hands and bodies and minds.

WHERE TO FIND HIM:

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Reddit

WHERE TO FIND HIS BOOKS:

Website | Amazon

In this episode of Miles Beyond the Page, host Michelle Miles sits down with Kyle Shoop, an author whose storytelling spans romance, fantasy, and heartfelt contemporary fiction.

Kyle is the author of eight novels across two distinct series. His romance series features five standalone love stories inspired by the five senses, including titles like The Touch of Love. He has also written a fast-paced fantasy trilogy beginning with Acea and the Animal Kingdom, filled with magic, adventure, and imaginative worldbuilding.

Michelle and Kyle discuss his upcoming ninth novel, Protecting Home, a powerful father-and-son baseball story reminiscent of Field of Dreams. They talk about writing across genres, the inspiration behind emotionally driven storytelling, and balancing a creative life while working as an attorney and releasing music online as Guy Plus Guitar.

🎧 Join Michelle and Kyle for a thoughtful conversation about storytelling, creativity, and the many paths that lead to writing the next great book.

👉 Don’t forget to subscribe for more author interviews and creative conversations on Miles Beyond the Page!

ABOUT KYLE SHOOP:

Kyle Shoop is the author of 8 novels set in two different series. One is a compelling romance series that tells 5 standalone love stories told through the lens of the five senses - which includes books like The Touch of Love. The other is a fast-paced, magic-filled fantasy trilogy that begins with Acea and the Animal Kingdom. They’re all available on Amazon. We're also excited to announce that Kyle's newest and 9th novel will be released this spring. It's entitled Protecting Home, and is a compelling father and son baseball story in the vein of Field of Dreams. When Kyle’s not writing, he’s releasing music online as Guy Plus Guitar. Kyle is also an attorney. His books are available in ebook, print, and audiobook.

WHERE TO FIND HIM:

Instagram | Website

Music | Spotify

WHERE TO FIND HIS BOOKS:

Amazon

Protecting Home releases May 12! Get it here!

What is it about the medieval world that continues to captivate readers?

Castles. Knights. Epic battles. Powerful love stories set against a backdrop of history, danger, and honor.

In this episode of Miles Beyond the Page, I’m joined by bestselling historical romance author Kathryn Le Veque, whose sweeping medieval novels have transported readers into richly detailed worlds of chivalry, court intrigue, and unforgettable romance.

We talk about why the Middle Ages continue to inspire storytellers, how Kathryn builds immersive historical settings, and what makes a truly compelling medieval hero. If you love historical romance—or you’re fascinated by the medieval world—you’ll enjoy this deep dive into the stories and history behind her books.

In this conversation we discuss:

• What first inspired Kathryn to write medieval romance
• The enduring appeal of knights, castles, and courtly intrigue
• How research shapes historical fiction
• What makes a powerful medieval hero and heroine
• Why readers continue to fall in love with stories set in the Middle Ages

If you enjoy conversations about storytelling, history, and the creative process, you’re in the right place.

ABOUT KATHRYN LE VEQUE:

KATHRYN LE VEQUE is a critically acclaimed, USA TODAY Bestselling author (having hit the list over 30 times), an Indie Reader bestseller, a charter Amazon All-Star author, and a #1 bestselling, award-winning, multi-published author in Medieval Historical Romance with over 150 published novels.

Kathryn's novels are known for their strong and complex heroes and heroines, intricate plots, and rich historical backgrounds. Her stories feature knights, warriors, and noblewomen, bringing to life the chivalry, courtly intrigue, and epic battles of the medieval era. She is adept at creating emotionally charged narratives that keep readers engrossed from beginning to end.

Kathryn has received praise for her writing and has won several awards for her work, including three nominations for the Holt Medallion. Her books have topped bestseller lists, and she has gained a loyal fan base that eagerly anticipates each new release. Readers appreciate her ability to transport them to a bygone era, where they can experience the passion, honor, and challenges faced by her characters.

In addition to her historical romances, Le Veque also writes in the Contemporary Romance and Historical Fiction genres, showcasing her versatility as an author. However, it is her medieval romances that have garnered her the most recognition and made her a prominent figure in the historical romance genre.

Kathryn is a talented author who has made a significant impact on the world of historical romance fiction. Through her captivating storytelling and meticulous research, she has brought the medieval period to life, enchanting readers with her tales of love, adventure, and the enduring power of the human spirit.

In addition to her own published works, Kathryn is the President/CEO of Dragonblade Publishing, Amazon's #1 ebook publisher of Historical Romance (K-Lytics reporting July 2020). Dragonblade Publishing has become known for its commitment to quality historical romance fiction and has gained a reputation as a trusted source for engaging and well-researched novels. Through her ownership of the publishing house, Kathryn has continued to contribute to the romance genre by nurturing and supporting other authors who share her passion for historical storytelling.

WHERE TO FIND HER:

Website | Facebook | Instagram

WHERE TO FIND HER BOOKS:

Amazon

In this episode of Miles Beyond the Page, host Michelle Miles welcomes Dianna Gunn, a dark fantasy author and passionate advocate for building supportive writing communities.

Dianna’s fiction includes the Moonshadow Rising duology—Moonshadow’s Guardian and Moonshadow’s Champion—along with anthologies like Killer Debt and Choices: An Anthology of Reproductive Horror. Her upcoming release, Woman of Sorrow and Blood, continues her exploration of dark, thought-provoking speculative fiction.

Beyond her own writing, Dianna is the founder of Weeknight Writers, a social enterprise dedicated to making writing education and community more accessible. Through virtual conferences, online discussions, and countless events, she has helped thousands of writers connect, learn, and grow together in what can often be a solitary creative journey.

🎧 Join Michelle and Dianna for a thoughtful conversation about dark fantasy, publishing, and the power of community in a writer’s life.

👉 Don’t forget to subscribe for more author interviews and creative conversations on Miles Beyond the Page!

ABOUT DIANNA GUNN:

I've has been passionate about words since I first learned to speak, and I've been writing stories almost as long. I had a YA fantasy novella, Keeper of the Dawn, published in 2017 and my first dark fantasy novel, Moonshadow's Guardian, was released in November 2018. I followed this with Moonshadow's Champion in 2024, completing the Moonshadow Rising Duology. I've since released Killer Debt: An Anthology of Murder and Choices: An Anthology of Reproductive Horror. My next book, Woman of Sorrow and Blood, is set to release March 13th.

I've also long been dedicated to sharing the lessons of my writing journey with other fiction writers and building community around what is far too often a solitary hobby/career. In 2018 I founded Weeknight Writers, a social enterprise dedicated to providing accessible community and educational support for fiction writers, with this goal in mind.

Since founding Weeknight Writers I have hosted dozens of virtual conferences, hundreds of Bluesky chats, and countless other events. I love sharing my knowledge of writing, publishing, and marketing, and helping fiction writers find their way to joyful community.

WHERE TO FIND HER:

Website | Writers Block Buster

WHERE TO FIND HER BOOKS:

Universal

Every writer has characters they love.

And then there are the ones who change you.

In this From the Author’s Desk solo episode of Miles Beyond the Page, I dive into the characters who fundamentally reshaped the way I write romance and story structure.

Two couples did that:

Anna & Kincade – a relationship forged under pressure, built on truth, and defined by devotion that costs something.

Calliope & Henry – a romance rooted in myth, identity, redemption, and the power of story itself.

In this episode, I explore the craft lessons these characters taught me, including:

• Why love is a code of behavior—not just a feeling
• How to write a heroine who refuses to be managed
• Why redemption arcs work best when accountability replaces forgiveness on easy mode
• The romance question that now drives every relationship she writes:
• What does it cost this person to love well?

This episode is part craft discussion, part behind-the-scenes look at my storytelling process, and part love letter to the characters who refuse to stay small on the page.

If you’re a writer interested in emotional architecture, character-driven romance, and building relationships that feel powerful and real, this episode is for you.

✨ Because sometimes the characters we create don’t just live in the story—they transform the way we tell it.

💬 Join the conversation:

Which characters changed the way you write—or the way you read stories?

📚 Learn more about Michelle Miles:

Author of fantasy, romantasy, and fairy-tale retellings filled with quests, curses, kisses, and chaos.

Find my website here.

🎧 Subscribe for more episodes of Miles Beyond the Page

Conversations with authors, craft discussions, and behind-the-scenes insights into writing and publishing.