The Scene That Stopped Her Cold: How Kristen Illarmo Writes Duologies That Burn Bright and Fast
What happens when a character takes the reins, and you’re brave enough to follow? In this episode, YA sci-fi and fantasy author Kristen Illarmo reveals how a poetry-loving kid from South Carolina became a New Orleans novelist crafting propulsive two-book series with heart, heat, and high stakes.
Kristen opens up about the scene that stalled her for years, and how she finally broke through. We talk about:
Writing Process & Story Craft
Building Worlds & Characters
Creative Confidence & Craft Fears
Indie Author Life
Plus: What she’s reading now (hi, Marie Lu!), why she chooses duologies over trilogies, and how a sky-high TBR pile can feel like a promise instead of pressure.
The best way to reach Kristen is via her website.
If you're a writer, reader, or process nerd, this one’s packed with insight and inspiration. Hit play, then tell us: what’s the hardest scene you ever had to write?
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Links to Stephen's incredible novels:
