Shows
Your Next DraftHow Great First Lines Make Readers Pay Attention (with Abigail K. Perry)It is a truth universally acknowledged that a fiction writer in possession of a brilliant story must craft a captivating opening line.No pressure, right?Your opening line is your story’s first impression. Agents, editors, and even readers decide fast whether they want to keep reading or drop the book altogether. And yes, they can make that judgment in as little as the very first sentence.So your opening line is doing some heavy, heavy lifting.But what, exactly, do great first lines do?What sets an unputdownable fi...2025-07-2248 min
StompcastPt 3: Why Building Your Wealth Isn’t Selfish - It’s Smart | Abigail FosterIn part three, Abigail Foster unpacks the different types of ISAs, why wanting to build your wealth isn’t greedy and reveals why your investment portfolio shouldn’t look identical to anyone else’s…Plus, Abigail and Dr Alex George discuss how to find a bank that works for you and why you should proceed with caution when investing into cryptocurrency.Follow @abigailrosefoster and buy her book ‘The Money Manual: Everything You Actually Need to Know About Personal Finance’ through our affiliate bookshop - you’ll help fund Stompcast by earning a small commission for...2025-07-1628 min
StompcastPt 2: Why We Can’t ‘Just Print More Money’ | Abigail FosterIn part two, Abigail Foster discusses why we have different currencies worldwide, answers the age-old question ‘why can’t we just print more money?’ and outlines the key differences between money and finance.Plus, Abigail and Dr Alex George dive deep into inflation rates and interest rises and reveal why buying a house isn’t the only route to financial success…Follow @abigailrosefoster and buy her book ‘The Money Manual: Everything You Actually Need to Know About Personal Finance’ through our affiliate bookshop - you’ll help fund Stompcast by earning a small commission for e...2025-07-1529 min
StompcastPt 1: The Biggest Mistake You’re Making with Your Personal Finances | Abigail FosterAbigail Foster is a financial expert, chartered accountant and advocate for making finance accessible to everyone. She released her debut book ‘The Money Manual: Everything You Actually Need to Know About Personal Finance’ in May 2025.Money can have such a negative impact on our mental health, and learning to understand our personal finances can help to loosen its grip on our wellbeing. In part one, Abigail joins Dr Alex George to unpack the three key things you need to understand in order to make sense of your finances, what different tax codes mean (and ho...2025-07-1426 minYour Next DraftHow Great First Chapters Make Readers Care (with Abigail K. Perry)Your first chapter has a monumental task: to make potential readers care about your book right away and hook them to keep reading.Every sentence is a chance to earn your reader’s attention—or lose their fragile, baby-fresh interest before your story even begins.And that’s assuming that your book makes it to the bookstore shelves. If you’re traditionally publishing, the first chapter’s burdened with even more responsibility. It’s your first impression with agents and editors, who will judge whether to consider the full manuscript based on the first five or ten pages...2025-06-101h 14
Lit MatchLisa Montanaro ON: How to Use Real-Life Experiences to Inspire Memorable Fiction, Writing in Multi-POV and Dual Timelines, and Crafting Secrets in StorytellingIf you have real-life experiences that have shaped you, but you want to write a fiction—not nonfiction—story, then don't miss this episode.
In this conversation, I talk to the mesmerizing author and public speaker, Lisa Montanaro, about her heartfelt debut, EVERYTHING WE THOUGHT WAS TRUE. This is a jam-packed conversation, filled with invaluable insights on writing and publishing fiction, like:
How Lisa transitioned from being a published nonfiction author to a fiction author
Finding the balance of writing fiction inspired by real-life events—i.e. how she used her real-life experiences to inspire her debut and also h...2025-02-271h 07Lit MatchFirst Chapter Deep Dive: Outlander by Diana Gabaldon (with Savannah Gilbo)
Do you love historical romance? Do you want to learn what makes a first chapter capture a reader's (and literary agent's!) attention?
Then you need today's episode.
In today's episode, book coach and developmental editor Savannah Gilbo returns for a deep dive into the uber-popular, time-traveling romance, OUTLANDER by Diana Gabaldon. This conversation is jam-packed with insightful tips on how to pull readers into your story with world-building, set ups, and memorable, interesting characters without slowing the pace.
Some other topics Savannah and I explore include:
How to write an intriguin...2025-02-141h 00Lit MatchDiagon Alley Deep Dive: Scene Analysis of Chapter 5 in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's StoneIf you're unsure how to write or analyze well-structured scenes in your novel, you need today's episode.
Today, book coach and developmental editor Savannah Gilbo returns for a deep dive and scene analysis...only this time, it's extra special because it not only features a chapter from one of our favorite books, it is also the book Savannah analyzes in her Writer's Guide: The Writer's Study Guide: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (Story Grid Publishing).
When writers reach out to Savannah about this writer's guide, they often as her, "How many scenes are in the Diago...2025-01-2150 minLit MatchZoe Norvell ON: Everything You Need to Know About Book Covers (and How to Find the Perfect Designer for Your Story)If you've written a book and are in need a book cover, this is a super important episode for you to hear.
In this conversation, I talk to the brilliant book cover designer, Zoe Novell, who is also the founder of the one-of-kind book designer directory, available on her website, I Need a Book Cover. In this special conversation, Zoe and I cover a range of invaluable and interesting information about book covers, including hot topics like what makes a book cover stand out, book cover trends based on their genre, key factors to consider when choosing i...2024-11-191h 00Lit MatchHarry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone: A Complete Breakdown of the Main Plot LineIf you're planning your novel or have a finished draft and don't know where to begin with revisions, you need to hear this episode.
This is a special two-part discussion with the brilliant book coach, developmental editor, and author Savannah Gilbo as she breaks down the main plot line—or the big picture—in J.K. Rowling's debut and phenomenon, HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER'S STONE (HPSS).
In today's high-level discussion, Savannah and I chat about some foundational knowledge that can greatly benefit you when outlining, writing, and revising your book, such as understanding your content g...2024-11-0557 min
Maiden Mother Matriarch with Louise PerryCatholic Feminism - Dr Abigail Favale | Maiden Mother MatriarchThis is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.louiseperry.co.ukI'll be re-releasing six episodes from the early days of the podcast over the course of my maternity leave. This month, my archived interview is with Dr Abigail Favale, a writer and professor in the McGrath Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame. She has an academic background in feminist literary criticism, and now writes and teaches…2024-10-3057 min
Story Magic78 - How to start querying with Abigail K. PerryToday, Emily & Rachel talk about the querying process with guest Abigail K. Perry!What you’ll learn from this episode:Exactly what a query letter is and how to structure it for your best chance at snagging an agent's attentionHow to know when you're ready to query and where to get started when you make that choiceWhy people keeping saying 'querying is hard than ever right now', and whether or not it's truePitfalls authors make in querying and how to avoid themConnect with Abby: https://www.abigailkperry.com/Resources Mentioned: Story Gri...2024-10-1059 minLit MatchKaryn Fischer ON: Writing a Memorable Narrative Voice for Middle Grade and Young Adult FictionAbigail sits down with Karyn Fischer, a book coach and past literary agent of Bookstop Literary Agency, to discuss narrative voice and how to differentiate a character’s voice in middle grade and young adult novels.
If you’re writing a middle grade or young adult novel—or you get consistent feedback that something is just “off” with your voice—this episode is for you.
Karyn shares specific (and practical) tips that can help you improve your narrative voice, and she even takes a deep-dive into two examples that emphasize when a voice really works, and why it nee...2024-09-2447 minLit MatchBONUS Part 2: How Rowling Created A Cast of Compelling Characters (An Interview With Savannah Gilbo & Abigail K. Perry)Join Savannah Gilbo and Abigail for the second part of an inside interview with Tim Grahl, CEO of Story Grid, on our latest book, a masterwork analysis guide to Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (now available for purchase!).
In this interview, we discuss how Rowling created an unforgettable cast of quirky and relatable characters in the Harry Potter series. You’ll learn insights and tips like:
How to think about the number of characters you include in your story (and what we can learn from the characters Rowling highlighted in book one).
How to write a d...2024-07-3034 minLit MatchBONUS Part 1: What Made Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone A Best SellerWhat made Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone a worldwide bestseller? Why does this story still resonate with readers almost thirty years later?
And why did Savannah Gilbo and I agree to spend so much time dissecting every single scene and page to find out how and why it works?!
Tune into this episode to hear Savannah Gilbo and I talk to Tim Grahl (the CEO of Story Grid) about what it was like to study Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone—why we chose this book, what we learned from our analysis, and so m...2024-07-2626 min
Fiction Writing Made Easy | Top Creative Writing Podcast for Fiction Writers & Writing TipsBonus: How To Write Scenes Like Rowling (An Interview With Savannah Gilbo & Abigail K. Perry)J.K. Rowling is the master of layering things within her scenes. She’s also fantastic at raising the stakes from scene to scene, too. But how does she do itTune into this episode to hear Abigail K. Perry and I talk to Tim Grahl (the CEO of Story Grid) about what it was like to study Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone—what we learned from J.K. Rowling about writing scenes and so much more.⭐ Rate + Review + Follow on Apple Podcasts"I love t...2024-07-2527 minFiction Writing Made Easy | Top Creative Writing Podcast for Fiction Writers & Writing Tips#151. How Rowling Built A World Ripe For Life Or Death Conflicts (An Interview With Savannah Gilbo & Abigail K. Perry)Ever wonder how Rowling created such a fantastic, three-dimensional story world for her Harry Potter series?That’s exactly what you’ll hear in this week’s brand-new podcast episode! Join me, Abigail K. Perry, and Tim Grahl, as we discuss the world-building in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone—and what we learned from our analysis of this mega best seller.You’ll hear us talk about things like:[02:38] How Rowling built a fantastic story world ripe for life and death conflicts (but in a way that’s...2024-07-2320 minFiction Writing Made Easy | Top Creative Writing Podcast for Fiction Writers & Writing Tips#150. How Rowling Created A Cast of Compelling Characters (An Interview With Savannah Gilbo & Abigail K. Perry)Ever wonder how Rowling created such a wonderful cast of quirky and relatable characters in the Harry Potter series? If so, tune into this episode to hear Abigail K. Perry, Tim Grahl, and me talk about the characters in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. You’ll hear us talk about things like:[02:32] How to think about the number of characters you include in your story (and what we can learn from the characters Rowling highlighted in book one)[09:17] How to write a dynamic cast of characters that can help y...2024-07-1633 minFiction Writing Made Easy | Top Creative Writing Podcast for Fiction Writers & Writing TipsBonus: What Made Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone A Best Seller? (An Interview With Savannah Gilbo & Abigail K. Perry)What made Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone a worldwide bestseller? Why does this story still resonate with readers almost thirty years later?And why did Abigail and I agree to spend so much time dissecting every single scene and page to find out how and why it works?!Tune into this episode to hear Abigail K. Perry and I talk to Tim Grahl (the CEO of Story Grid) about what it was like to study Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone—why we chose this book, what...2024-07-1126 minLit MatchFirst Chapters: Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins (with Savannah Gilbo)The third (and final!) analysis in a 3-part episode series!
Abigail and Savannah return for their final first chapter analysis in The Hunger Games series, this time analyzing the first chapter (and scene) of MOCKINGJAY by Suzanne Collins. Learn why they think this first chapter makes a splash, and how it emotionally pulls fans into the final chapter of a high stakes trilogy.
Some key elements they explore include:
How can you spell out a crisis without stiffening the stakes?
How does this first chapter set up expectations for the whole story?
How do you write a...2024-05-2156 minLit MatchFirst Chapters: Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins (with Savannah Gilbo)The second analysis in a 3-part episode series!
Abigail and Savannah are back to analyze the first chapter of CATCHING FIRE by Suzanne Collins, the sequel in The Hunger Games phenomenon, and the second analysis in The Hunger Games first chapter deep dive episodes. Come listen to why Abigail and Savannah think this first chapter hooks, and why it sets the stage for arguably their favorite book in the series.
Some key elements they explore include:
How does the first chapter set up expectations for the whole book?
How can you break down scenes in the...2024-05-071h 01Lit MatchFirst Chapters: The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins (with Savannah Gilbo)The first analysis in what will be a 3-part episode series!
Abigail and Savannah analyze the first chapter of the YA dystopian phenomenon, THE HUNGER GAMES by Suzanne Collins. This is one of Abigail's and Savannah's favorite series....ever...and their passion for this story shines in their discussion about what (1) sets up big picture expectations for the main plot, and (2) what makes the opening pages a great first chapter.
Tune in now to hear Abigail and Savannah's analysis, and don't forget to share your thoughts a you listen! Some key elements they take deep dives...2024-04-021h 07Lit MatchJen Craven ON: Her Shift from Self-Publishing to Traditional PublishingAbigail sits down with domestic suspense author, Jen Craven—her first *returning!* guest. In Jen's previous episode, Abigail and Jen discussed her writing career as a self-published author. In this episode, Jen talks about her latest books and what it's been like to shift from self-publishing to traditional publishing. Some of the big discussion topics Abigail and Jen explore include:
Why Jen decided to switch from self-publishing to traditional publishing
What she likes about traditional publishing and what she needed to let go of
What it's like to work with multiple editors at Bookouture
How to structure a domestic t...2024-03-261h 03
Maiden Mother Matriarch with Louise PerryThe Mental Health Industrial Complex - Abigail Shrier | Maiden Mother Matriarch 61This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.louiseperry.co.ukMy guest today is the journalist Abigail Shrier, author of the bestselling 'Irreversible Damage', and now a new book – 'Bad Therapy: Why the Kids Aren't Growing Up.' We spoke about the harmful side effects of therapy, particularly for children, whether the rise of therapy culture is a product of family disintegration, and why girls from liberal families have been worst affected by the rise in teenage mental illness. In the extended part of the episode, we also sp...2024-03-1747 minLit MatchFirst Chapters: Remarkably Bright Creatures (with Savannah Gilbo)Abigail and Savannah analyze the first chapter of the bestselling and award-winning novel REMARKABLY BRIGHt CREATURES by Shelby Van Pelt. This was one of Abigail's favorite reads in 2023, and there are great reasons it received (and continues to receive) such hype!
Together, Abigail and Savannah discuss why these opening pages hook readers and set up big picture expectations for the story. Some key elements they take deep dives on include:
7 Key questions to analyze that set up big picture expectations
Voice and "attitude" in POV and narratives
Character development and relationships
Small details that work as great se...2024-02-2755 minLit MatchKate McKean ON: Demystifying Book Publishing ContractsTake out your notepads!
Abigail sits down with literary agent Kate McKean for a very special conversation about book publishing contracts. This is a topic that intimidated Abigail early in her career—as it does many writers who are interested in traditional publishing. It's also extremely important for writers to understand what makes a good deal, and who better to learn from than an expert agent with over 17 years experience.
Kate has worked as a literary agent at Howard Morhaim Literary Agency since 2006, where she's built a diverse client list from New York Times best sellin...2024-02-061h 17Fiction Writing Made Easy | Top Creative Writing Podcast for Fiction Writers & Writing Tips#127: First Chapter Analysis: The Five People You Meet In Heaven by Mitch Albom“It might seem strange to start a story with an ending, but all endings are also beginnings. We just don't know it at the time.” - Abigail K. PerryIn this episode, we’re talking about The Five People You Meet In Heaven by Mitch Albom to see how and why it works. Join Abigail K. Perry and me as we break down this first chapter to see how it hooks our interest and pulls us into the story. Read the blog post here!Here's a preview of wha...2024-01-301h 00
Rock Your Purpose Podcast#179: Returning Home to Our Bodies with Abigail Rose Clarke In this episode of the Rock Your Purpose Podcast, host Emily welcomes Abigail Rose Clark to discuss her transformative book, Returning Home to Our Bodies. Abigail delves into her journey into somatic work, weaving together yoga, somatics, and the importance of embodiment. The conversation touches on reclaiming vitality, dismantling systemic oppression, and connecting deeply with our bodies. About our guest: Abigail Rose Clarke is a somatic facilitator who currently lives in Western Massachusetts. Using somatics and mindfulness, Clarke teaches people to use the inherent wisdom of their bodies to...2024-01-1029 minLit MatchFirst Chapters: Fourth Wing (with Savannah Gilbo)Abigail is back with book coach and editor Savannah Gilbo!
Today, Abigail and Savannah analyze the first chapter of the bestselling fantasy novel FOURTH WING by Rebecca Yarros. Together, they discuss why these opening pages hook readers and set up big picture expectations for the story. Some key elements they take deep dives on include:
How to raise the stakes (and why they're so important)
Structuring multiple scenes in a single chapter
Romantasy as a genre and New Adult as a category
Character development and relationships
Plus, more!
Come study this popular fantasy novel with S...2023-12-191h 11Lit MatchMegan Tady ON: Resiliency and How She Turned Rejections into a Published DebutAbigail sits down with Megan Tady (Super Bloom, May 2023) to discuss her debut and path to publishing. Humble and resilient, Megan shares her experience and knowledge about a wide range of writing tips from the importance of accountability partners and writing strategies to game-changing mindset tips and what to expect as a published author. Some of Abigail's favorite takeaways include:
How Megan became a story of resiliency
Ways to turn fear and a scarcity mindset into confidence
Why querying is a humbling experience and how to crack a query letter
The publishing gauntlet and what to expect after you publish
Zibb...2023-12-0556 minLit MatchMeghan Stevenson ON: Her Literary Agent Matchmaking Strategy, the Pitfalls of Traditional Publishing, and Publishing Myths that Need to be BustedAbigail sits down with Meghan Stevenson (Meghan Stevenson Books) to talk about all things traditional publishing. After an editing career at a traditional publisher, Meghan left her job and started Meghan Stevenson Books (2012). Meghan and her team have helped their clients earn over $5,000,000 in advances from top publishers. In total, their books have sold millions of copies and helped thousands of people.
Packed with experience and knowledge, Abigail discusses big topics with Meghan that can help a multitude of writers interested in traditional publishing, especially nonfiction writers. Some of these include:
3 “P” factors Meghan considers when looking at a lit...2023-11-281h 03Lit MatchFirst Chapters: The Magicians (with Savannah Gilbo) Abigail sits down with certified editor and book coach Savannah Gilbo to discuss and analyze the first chapter of Lev Grossman's THE MAGICIANS (and it's a doozy of a first chapter!).
Both fantasy lovers, Savannah and Abigail come to this first chapter with a unique approach: Savannah is a super fan of this book and Abigail has only read it once—and several years ago. With these different perspectives, Savannah and Abigail compare their notes to see how this impacts their first chapter analysis and how the opening pages sets up big picture expectations and structures scenes. To do this...2023-11-091h 23
Beyoutiful LegacyI’ll Be There For YouIn loving memory of Matthew Perry, all those that lost their lives in the Lewiston Maine shootings, and any other losses that occurred this past week. We will remember you and hope you knew how much your lives mattered.2023-10-3022 min
Maiden Mother Matriarch with Louise PerryThe Feminism of Mary Wollstonecraft - Erika Bachiochi | Maiden Mother Matriarch 28This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.louiseperry.co.ukErika Bachiochi is an American legal scholar and fellow of the Ethics and Public Policy Center. She currently serves as the director of The Wollstonecraft Project at the Abigail Adams Institute, where she is a senior fellow. On the podcast, Erika talks about her latest book The Rights of Women which looks at Mary Wollstonecraft and her legacy on many th…2023-08-131h 00Lit MatchFirst Chapters: A Discovery of Witches (with Savannah Gilbo)Abigail is back with book coach and editor Savannah Gilbo!
Today, Abigail and Savannah sit down to analyze the first chapter of the bestselling fantasy novel A DISCOVERY OF WITCHES by Deborah Harkness. Together, they discuss why these opening pages hook readers—and model other outstanding elements of fiction, some including:
A micro-analysis of a well-structured scene (while planting set ups that pay off later in the book)
How this chapter sets up expectations for the main stakes in the novel, the genre of the story, and other important details that impact the characters and plot
A d...2023-07-1357 min
The Faithful Fatherhood Podcast40. Inexpensive Ideas for Spending Quality Time with your KidsAs Frank Sinatra famously sang, the best things in life are free. Certainly spending quality time with our kids counts as one of the best things in life. And while not everything we do with them is free, there are plenty of low-cost ways to have a blast with our kids and build memories that will last a lifetime. In this episode Brett and Perry share some of their favorite things to do with their kids that don't break the bank. Listen for one that resonates with you and give it a go this summer!
Resources2023-07-0446 minLit MatchFirst Chapters: Untamed (with Suzette Mullen)Abigail sits down with book coach and memoir writer Suzette Mullen to analyze the prologue and first chapter of Glennon Doyle's bestselling and groundbreaking memoir, UNTAMED. Together, they discuss the differences between memoir and fiction writing—and also why writers can benefit greatly from reading and analyzing both genres.
In addition to their analysis (using the 7 Key First Chapter Questions from Paula Munier's book THE WRITER'S GUIDE TO BEGINNINGS and the 5 Commandments of Storytelling from Story Grid/Robert McKee), Suzette shares various insights on how to structure memoirs and the vulnerability and courage it takes to write a memo...2023-06-271h 14
Maiden Mother Matriarch with Louise PerryCatholic Feminism - Dr Abigail Favale | Maiden Mother Matriarch 21This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.louiseperry.co.ukDr Abigail Favale is a writer and professor in the McGrath Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame. She has an academic background in feminist literary criticism, and now writes and teaches on topics related to women and gender from a Catholic perspective. Abigail most recently authored The Genesis of Gender: A Christian Theory. On the…2023-06-251h 02
Sarah's Bookshelves LiveEp. 143: Behind the Scenes of Book Coaching with Abigail K. Perry (of Lit Match Podcast) + Book RecommendationsIn today’s episode of Sarah’s Bookshelves Live, we dive into the fascinating world of book coaching with Abigail K. Perry (@abigailkperry)! We chat about the role of book coaches, the perks of working with them, and uncover some valuable insights for aspiring authors and book lovers. Plus, Abigail shares her book recommendations! This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights What a book coach is and their role in the writing / publishing process. Industry gaps in publishing that...2023-06-1456 minLit MatchAriele Fredman ON: The Difference Between a Book Publicist and a Literary Agent, Her Mission to Expand Commercial Fiction, and How to Understand Where a Book Fits in the MarketAbigail sits down with Ariele Fredman, a book publicist turned literary agent at United Talent Agency (UTA). Ariele is actively seeking commercial fiction in: General fiction, Mystery, Romance, Suspense/thriller, Feel-Good Fiction, Women's Fiction, and YA.
Ariele joined UTA after working 12 years at Atria Books, where she worked across genres and launched bestselling campaigns from Colleen Hoover and Fredrik Backman to Zakiya Dalila Harris and Lisa Jewell (among others!). She has an exceptional knack at understanding people and instilling confidence in authors, and she is actively growing her MSWL!
In addition to learning about Ariele's shift from...2023-06-131h 00Lit MatchFirst Chapters: Legendborn (with Savannah Gilbo)A special episode that shares a piece of Abigail and Savannah's May Book Notes meeting!
In this episode, Abigail and book coach companion Savannah Gilbo share a piece of their May virtual book club meeting; they take a deep dive into the first chapter (and prologue) of Tracy Deonn's YA fantasy bestseller LEGENDBORN. Here's a preview of what they discuss:
First chapter summary
How they split the chapter into two scenes (and why these scenes follow the 5 Commandments of Storytelling from Story Grid/Robert McKee)
Legendborn's prologue (and prologues in general)
Final thoughts and episode recap
L...2023-05-3023 minLit MatchFirst Chapters: The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe (with Sara Gentry)In this episode, Abigail takes a first chapter deep dive with kidlit book coach and author, Sara Gentry. Together, they discuss the first chapter of C.S. Lewis’s beloved masterwork, THE LION, THE WITCH, AND THE WARDROBE (book two in The Chronicles of Narnia series).
In addition to their analysis of how the first chapter (and part of chapter two) sets up big picture expectations and creates a well-structured scene, Sara explains why burgeoning MG fantasy writers can use this book as a masterwork example—but not as a model for MG fantasy stories published in toda...2023-05-2356 minLit MatchFirst Chapters: The House Across the Lake (with Samantha Skal)In this episode, Abigail takes a first chapter deep dive with Mystery, Thriller, and Suspense book coach expert and author, Samantha Skal. Together, they discuss the first chapter of Riley Sager's THE HOUSE ACROSS THE LAKE and why its prologue and first chapter hook readers and set up big picture expectations. Plus, Abigail picks Samatha's brain about several elements that make MTS novels special, like how Riley Sager masters misdirection with this bestseller, how to write exceptional plot twists, the difference between mysteries, thrillers, and suspense books—and more!
Even if you don't write MTS, you'll benefit from...2023-05-161h 19Lit MatchMikki Brammer ON: The Collected Regrets of Clover and Her Writing, Querying, and Publishing ExperienceAbigail sits down with author Mikki Brammer to discuss her (amazing!) contemporary fiction/upmarket debut, THE COLLECTED REGRETS OF CLOVER. This story features a socially stunted death doula whose obsession with documenting her clients’ final words sends her on the adventure of her life. This is one of Abigail's favorite reads in 2023—and releases May 9th, 2023!
Together, Mikki and Abigail explore Mikki's inspiration for the novel, what it's about, and the many lessons she learned as a burgeoning writer-turned-published author.
In addition to an insightful discussion about her book, Mikki sheds light on her querying and publi...2023-05-021h 07
InsidHerDaddy IssuesAre you facing difficulties due to unresolved issues with your father, which are affecting your mental well-being and self-confidence?
Join Abigail and her friend Cheyenne Higgs for an insightful discussion on the topic of "daddy issues," a complex and often misunderstood subject that impacts mental health and self-esteem. In this discussion, there will be a deep exploration of this topic, along with practical tips on how to overcome these issues and move forward toward healing.
By sharing their own stories and utilizing their professional knowledge, they present actionable advice to aid you in navigating this c...2023-04-181h 07Lit MatchVictoria Marini ON: Atmospheric Writing, Balancing External Events and Interiority, and the Dos and Don'ts of TropesAbigail sits down with Victoria Marini, a literary agent at Irene Goodman Literary Agency (IGLA). Victoria is actively seeking page-turning fiction for all audiences from middle grade through adult, and is expanding her Upmarket Book Club lists. She enjoys novels with high-concepts and distinctive voices in a variety of genres including: fabulism and fantasy, psychological and domestic suspense, thriller, procedurals, historical (particularly lesser known cultures, peoples, and histories), mystery, literary speculative, magical realism, and horror.
An agent of many genres, Victoria offers a wealth of great advice on various fiction elements. Listen to this episode for great insights...2023-04-1156 min
Whatsjust presents Critical ConversationsWhat Happened to You? with Dr. Bruce PerrySend us a textToday's episode features New York Times best-selling author, neuroscientist, and developmental psychiatrist, Dr. Bruce Perry. In this episode we discuss:why we need to start asking "What happened to you?" rather than "What's wrong with you?how relationships and connection can counterbalance the negative health impacts of traumahow our brains interpret stress and influence our abilities to copeIf you have any questions or comments that you would like addressed in the YouTube series Office Hours with Abbie and Juwan please email ccofficehours@gmail.com2023-04-0956 minLit MatchJen Craven ON: Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing and How to Decide What's Best For Your Book and CareerAbigail sits down with indie author Jen Craven (BEST YEARS OF YOUR LIFE) to discuss why she decided to self-publish her book—even though she was getting requests on her manuscript while querying it.
Jen makes it very clear that she has nothing against traditional publishing, and that for many authors, this is the best publishing path. (She remains open to publishing differently in the future, but not because she disliked indie). Jen also shares why she decided that her first contemporary book (women's fiction) would do better as an indie book—and then, with explicit details, educate...2023-03-281h 12Lit MatchFirst Chapters: Atomic Habits (with Barbara Boyd)Abigail is joined by nonfiction book coach expert, Barbara Boyd, to analyze James Clear's nonfiction book (a personal growth book) phenomenon, ATOMIC HABITS. What makes this deep dive particularly interesting is that Barbara and Abigail decide to analyze not the first chapter, but the introduction—something Barbara explains is crucial for a nonfiction book and book proposal that hooks a literary agent (and target readers).
They use the 7 Key First Chapter Questions that set up big picture expectations to analyze the introduction. Then, instead of the traditional scene analysis breakdown Abigail uses to analyze the first chapters of fic...2023-03-161h 13Lit MatchFirst Chapters: The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue (with Savannah Gilbo)A special episode that shares a part of Abigail and Savannah's latest Book Notes conversation!
In this episode, Abigail and book coach companion Savannah Gilbo share a piece of their latest Book Notes Book Club meeting. Abigail and Savannah started Book Notes, their virtual book club, to teach fiction writers how to read like a writer by (a) reading and analyzing a bestselling book and (b) engaging in a craft-based discussion that spotlights specific elements in fiction that likely made it a popular read.
Here, Abigail and Savannah discuss the first chapter of what they argue i...2023-03-0839 minLit MatchHoward Yoon ON: The Core Components of a Book Proposal, Reveals and Results of the DOJ-PRH Antitrust Trial, and How Publishing Merges Art and CommerceAbigail sits down with Howard Yoon, a literary agent and principal of the Ross Yoon Agency. Howard specializes in narrative nonfiction, history, memoir, science, current events, politics, and popular culture.
In this conversation, Howard shares his wealth of expertise in publishing as a nonfiction literary agent and what makes a great nonfiction book. He enlightens Abigail about various topics from important business insights on news like the Penguin Random House trial to craft-focused conversations like what determines an idea that works better as a podcast or blog vs. a nonfiction book.
And that’s only the...2023-02-2359 minLit MatchDani Abernathy ON: The Enneagram Personality Test and Why it Might Be a Writer's Next Favorite ToolAbigail sits down with book coach and fantasy writer, Dani Abernathy, to discuss a unique tool that Dani uses with her clients: the Enneagram Personality Test.
Many writers love personality tests (Abigail included), but in this episode, Dani shares how to use the Enneagram test effectively—and with this knowledge, it won’t become a resource that sends writers down a research rabbit hole.
How does this work? Dani explains how, by deeply understanding the Enneagram test, writers can develop a more diverse cast of personalities in their books. Additionally, writers who better understand their pers...2023-02-1558 minLit MatchMaria Vicente ON: WTF is a Literary Agent, How She Supports Her Clients, and First Chapters that HookAbigail sits down for an insightful conversation about agenting and craft with Senior Literary Agent, Maria Vicente, of P.S. Literary Agency.
While Maria has a love for and strong list of children’s books and graphic novels, she’s also looking to expand her list with adult fiction and nonfiction. Learn about Maria’s MSWL and her agenting style, along with other solid pieces of writing and business advice, in this episode.
Some key takeaways from this conversation include:
How Maria got into agenting and some of her favorite responsibilities (like meticulously reviewing contract...2023-02-0855 minLit MatchGail (Gigla) Hayes ON: How Words and Music Inspire Change (a Tribute to Her Joy and Life)This week's episode deviates from the normal Lit Match episode structure in order to honor the life of Abigail's aunt, Gail Hayes, who was a talented writer, devoted mother and wife, and active fundraiser—some of her many roles in life. Gail (who Abigail called Gigla or Gig) passed away on January 24, 2023 from Glioblastoma (brain tumor) after courageously fighting this disease for 21-months.
In this episode, Abigail pulls her interview with Gail from her first podcast, Story Effect. She interviews Gail about four dominant story-influences on her life, which include THE CRICKET IN TIMES SQUARE, her favorite book, and th...2023-02-0348 minLit MatchFirst Chapters: Ugly Love by Colleen Hoover (with Savannah Gilbo)This week, book coach and developmental editor Savannah Gilbo joins Abigail for a first chapter deep dive analysis of a Colleen Hoover mega-hit, UGLY LOVE. This is also a particularly special episode because it pulls a small clip from the first meeting of Savannah and Abigail's virtual book club, Book Notes.
In this episode, you'll learn how the first chapter of UGLY LOVE gives readers insight into what the Big Picture is all about, and how it works as a well-structured scene that hooks readers. Some key details you'll hear include:
What is this story really about...2023-01-2559 minLit MatchFirst Chapters: Lessons in Chemistry (with Sarah Dickinson)Today, Abigail brings on a guest who is an avid reader and professional book reviewer—and popular podcast host!—Sarah Dickinson. Together, they take a first chapter deep dive analysis of one of 2022’s most popular books (what NYT called the Best Book of the Year!), and one of their favorite reads in 2022: LESSONS IN CHEMISTRY by Bonnie Garmus.
This episode is particularly fun since Sarah, as a reader, shares her analysis based on her reaction as a reader, paired with Abigail's editorial viewpoint.
Come listen to their analysis as they breakdown big first and second ch...2023-01-101h 14
Lit MatchAndrea DeWerd ON: The Writing Community's Mass Departure from Twitter and Book Marketing Strategies that Work for AuthorsAbigail sits down with book marketing expert (with 13 years Big 5 publishing experience), Andrea DeWerd, to discuss the writing community's mass departure from Twitter.
In this conversation, Andrea explains what's really happening on Twitter, why eight percent of the writing and publishing community have left this platform, and what this means for writers who want to find information about the publishing business, discover agents (among other professionals in the book industry), and sell books.
Andrea also shares insights from her book marketing expertise with specific tools and strategies authors can use to market their books—and make a spl...2023-01-0359 minLit MatchFirst Chapters: The Wedding Date by Jasmine Guillory (with Book Coach Rona Gofstein)Come join Abigail and certified book coach, Rona Gofstein, as they analyze the first chapter of bestselling author Jasmine Guillory’s USA Today bestselling novel, THE WEDDING DATE.
Abigail and Rona explore many of the important elements of contemporary romance, as well as what makes this first chapter so engaging. Read the first chapter, listen to this conversation, and join Abigail and Rona as they share their craft knowledge and observations.
In today’s episode, you’ll learn:
How the first chapter of TWD sets up expectations for the big picture, using the 7 Key First Cha...2022-12-221h 07