Most authors only share their finished books, but in this episode, two aspiring writers pull back the curtain on the chaotic, exhilarating journey of writing and publishing. If you’ve ever wondered what really goes on behind the scenes—querying agents, building worlds, dreaming up cover art—you’ll get an inside look from two fantastic voices in the indie and traditional publishing space.
McCayleigh discusses her developing fantasy series, including the surprising order she published her books in and how she’s crafting a villain origin story that fans of dark fantasy will devour. She shares the intricate lore behind her fairy-inspired world, her process for upping the stakes, and the fun of designing an adorable creature named Pipkin. Plus, learn how she’s navigating the tricky waters of agent queries—what worked, what didn’t—and her plans for self-publishing if traditional routes don’t pan out.
Meanwhile, Haley peeks into her romantic comedy set amidst the bustling New York publishing scene, inspired by her own adventures attending book events and her love for all things bookish. She shares her evolution from initially querying in a carefree mood to securing her agent after a rollercoaster of missteps during the busiest travel week of the year. She reveals how her story’s title shifted, all the trope-filled fun inside her rivals-to-lovers plot, and her excitement for the upcoming cover reveal.
Whether you’re a writer struggling through the query process, a reader obsessed with behind-the-scenes details, or someone dreaming of publishing your own book someday, this episode is packed with honest insights, strategic tips, and plenty of laughs. We break down the emotional highs and lows, the importance of trusting your agent, and how the journey itself could be your greatest story yet.
Perfect for aspiring authors, book lovers curious about the process, or anyone who loves a good story about stories, this episode reveals that even the most chaotic writing journeys can lead to incredible outcomes—if you keep going. Tune in and get inspired to take your own leap into the world of publishing.
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At Two Chicks and a Plot Twist, we believe stories are for everyone. While we may feature books by authors with varying views, our platform is rooted in respect, curiosity, and the joy of reading. Thanks for being here. Let’s keep it cozy, curious, and kind. 💛
34 mins