Shows
HeartracersFinal episode of Season 1: look back, laughter, and what's nextOn this special SILVER ANNIVERSARY 25th episode, Sierra and Claire talk about their season, take listener questions, and talk a little about their process bookselling (Claire, obvs), and writing and publishing (Sierra, obvs). We'll be back in the fall and we can't thank you enough for listening, enjoying, and supporting us. Please leave a review if you can, feel free to send in questions to info@heartracerspodcast.com, and give us a rating on whatever podcast platform you use. Thank you!!! 2025-06-241h 03
HeartracersAuthor Dianne Freeman and writing a seriesOur last author guest of season 1! Dianne Freeman has written an 8.5 book series and has a lot of insights about writing a series, Plus:Haunted hotels on Route 66How Claire sells a series in her storeSierra points out that Claire has not yet, yet again, read ACOTAR.Dianne Freeman is a life-long book lover who left the world of corporate finance to pursue her passion for writing. After co-authoring the non-fiction book, Haunted Highway, The Spirits of Route 66, she realized her true love was fiction, historical mystery in particular. She also realized she didn’t like winter ve...2025-06-171h 13
HeartracersAuthor Meredith Schorr and the origins of romcoms and romanceWe spoke to author Meredith Schorr about the origins of chicklit, romcoms, WF, and contemporary romance. We also talked about marketing for authors from Sierra’s perspective and from Claire’s, how to navigate events for the socially awkward, and social media for authors.Meredith's latest book, Roommating, is published today June 10, 2025 (happy book birthday!). A born and bred New Yorker and lifelong daydreamer, Meredith fueled her passion for writing everything from restaurant reviews, original birthday cards, and even work-related emails into a career penning romantic comedies. When she’s not writing books filled with grand gestures and ha...2025-06-101h 12
HeartracersAuthor Mara Williams and perseverence in writing We get into the recent TikTok book deal for the Australian guy, hot Sacramento summers and how that affects business, and kid literacy. As usual, Claire gives her bookseller view and Sierra views her author view on those issues.Then we welcomed author Mara Williams, whose debut novel The Truth is in the Detours pubs in August 2025, and the surprising little secret about your work that editors may looking for.Mara Williams drafted her first novel in third grade on a spiral notebook—a love story about a golden retriever and the stray dog who ad...2025-06-031h 11
HeartracersAuthor Lauren Parvizi and complicated family storiesLauren Parvizi is the author of Trust Me on This and La Vie, According to Rose, winner of the 2024 Women’s Fiction Writers Association STAR Award in the Debut category. She worked for more than a decade as a digital editor and content writer, and earned an MFA from San Francisco State University. She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and sons. Books discussed in this episode:La Vie, According to Rose by Lauren ParviziTrust Me on This by Lauren ParviziAn Island Strange and Wild by Lisa AmowitzLula Deans Little Library of Ba...2025-05-271h 13
HeartracersBookish merch vendor My Secret Copy!We talked to Liz of My Secret Copy, who creates incredible, reader-centric book merch! We discuss what her inspiration was for starting the shop, challenges as a small business, and much more -- including TONS of book recs!Shop stickers, bags, pins, bookmarks and more at https://mysecretcopy.com/Books mentioned on this episode:The Wife Between Us by Greer HendricksThe Kind Worth Killing by Peter Swanson The Dagger and the Flame by Catherine DoyleLost and Lassoed by Lyla sageSay You’ll Remember Me by Abby JiminezGreat Big Beautiful Life by EmHenPS I Hate Yo...2025-05-201h 03
HeartracersAuthor Maggie North and smart, character-rich romancesAuthor Maggie North joins us to talk about romances, second chance stories, Canadian wilderness, autism rep, and Sierra gushing over her. Maggie writes deeply emotional, strangely hilarious novels about introverts at the end of their @#$% ropes, STEM, Canada, and other overlooked, underrated things you'd love to discover. She lives in Ottawa, Canada, with her spouse, The Kid, and a rotating cast of hypoallergenic aquarium friends. Books mentioned in this episode:Rules for Second Chances by Maggie NorthThe Ripple Effect by Maggie NorthThe Favorites by Layne FargoReady or Not by Cara BastoneYou, Again by Kate...2025-05-131h 23
HeartracersAuthor Terah Shelton Harris, libraries, and imposter syndromeWe talked about the reach of libraries their programs, imposter syndrome and how it never goes away and, themes in books. Listen to the end for bookshelf hacks!Terah is an author and former librarian, who now writes upmarket fiction with bittersweet endings. She is the author of One Summer in Savannah and Long After We Are Gone. Her books have been chosen as a Target Book Club pick, LibraryReads pick, Kobo Best Book, Together We Read pick, Publisher’s Marketplace Buzz Book, and a Goodreads Choice Awards nominee for Best Debut. Terah was also named Target’s fi...2025-05-061h 01
HeartracersAuthor Jordan Morris and zombie apocalypses Jordan Morris is the author of graphic novel Youth Group, and a comedy writer with experience working in TV, features, comics, podcasts, digital comedy and video games. He's written for shows on Max, Disney Plus, Comedy Central, Cartoon Network and YouTube Originals. He also created and co-wrote the 2x Eisner nominated graphic novel Bubble. He has also written stories for Marvel, IDW’s Godzilla and Archie: Chilling Adventures.He co-hosts Jordan, Jesse, Go!, a podcast with Jesse Thorn (NPR) and Free With Ads, a movie recap show with comedians Emily Fleming & Matt Leib. Books discussed on...2025-04-291h 08
HeartracersChildren's book author Bea Birdsong and how to write picture booksWe talked to children’s book author Bea Birdsong about what it takes to get traditionally published and how to pivot in a writing career.Bea Birdsong is the author of I Will Be Fierce!, Sam’s First Word, How to Spot a Best Friend, Boop!, Goat Is the G.O.A.T., How to Grow a Family Tree (2025), That Is Not a Dog! (2026), You Did It! (2026), Me Too! (2027), and other forthcoming books for children.Bea is also a former teacher who believes in the awesome power of books to educate, entertain, and empower. She is r...2025-04-221h 16
HeartracersAuthor Xio Axelrod, book buying trends for 2025, and spredges!We talked 2025 book buying trends that Claire learned at ABA (American Booksellers Association). And we welcomed USA Today Bestselling author Xio Axelrod, who writes contemporary fiction and romance. Her award-winning novels have earned both critical acclaim and a passionate readership. Her Lillys series, including The Girl with Stars in Her Eyes and Girls with Bad Reputations, explores themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. Xio actively connects with her readers through social media, fostering a dedicated and supportive community. Xio is a recording artist, a native of Philadelphia, and lives in complete denial of the last five minutes of Buffy...2025-04-151h 27
HeartracersAuthor Jasmine Guillory talks writing process and contemporary romanceIn this episode, we welcomed New York Times bestselling author Jasmine Guillory to talk about donuts, farmers markets, and origins of contemporary romance. Jasmine is the author of six romance novels including The Wedding Date, The Proposal, and While We Were Dating. Her work has appeared in O, The Oprah Magazine, Cosmopolitan, Bon Appetit, and Time. Her newest novel, Flirting Lessons, is out today (April 8, 2025)! She lives in Oakland, California. Books discussed in this episode:Flirting Lessons by Jasmine GuilloryBy the Book by Jasmine GuilloryAlong Came Amor by Alexis DariaFirst Time Caller by BK...2025-04-081h 02
HeartracersThe secrets of a good storyClaire and Sierra talk about what makes a good story, and whether a good story meets the hype. We talked about proven elements of a great story.We also discuss the bookstore's space challenges as it relates to selling, and what happens at book industry events.We discussed these books:Water Moon (again) by Samantha Sotto YambaoBefore the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu KawaguchiHarlem Rhapsody by Victoria Christopher MurrayBuy the books!2025-04-0153 min
HeartracersAuthor Holly James on covers, pen names, and genre mashupsWe talked to Holly James, aka Holly Michele, about how authors feel about our covers, genre mashups, and using pen names. Books discussed in this episode:Nothing But the Truth by Holly JamesThe Deja Glitch by Holly JamesName Your Price by Holly JamesThe Big Fix by Holly JamesLast Night Was Fun by Holly MicheleAlso:All I Want Is You by Fallon BallardSwiped by LM ChiltonYou Can Trust Me by Wendy Heard2025-03-2556 min
HeartracersEditor Erin McClary and the one thing writers need to know about editingWe spoke to freelance editor Erin McClary, who is Sierra's former editor at Sourcebooks, about traditional publishing's acquisition process, what editing really means, and some secrets every writer should know about editing, whether self-publishing or seeking traditional publication.Find Erin at erinmcclary.comBooks discussed in this episode:A Very Typical Family by Sierra GodfreyThe Second Chance Hotel by Sierra GodfreyA little something different by Sandy HallThe Quiet Tenant by Clémence Michallon Thrill Me by Benjamin Percy1000 Words by Jami AttenbergFrom a Certain Point of View: Empire Strikes BackBlades of Furry by Emily A...2025-03-181h 08
HeartracersAuthor Mike Chen, scifi, and the secrets behind covers and titlesWe talked to NYT bestselling author Mike Chen about his books, publishing, hockey romance, and cool band memorabilia. Plus, do authors get a say in their covers and titles in traditional publishing?Books discussed in this episode:Here and Now and Then by Mike ChenA Beginning at the End by Mike ChenWe Could be Heroes by Mike ChenLight Years From Home by Mike ChenVampire Weekend by Mike ChenQuantum Love Story by Mike ChenStar Wars: Brotherhood by Mike ChenFrom a Certain Point of View: Empire Strikes Back featuring Mike ChenStar Trek Deep Space 9: The Dog of WarGood...2025-03-111h 09
HeartracersAuthor Jessica Joyce and the art of finding your voiceJessica Joyce is the author of the USA Today bestselling novels You, With a View and The Ex-Vows. She lives in the Bay Area with her family. On this episode we discuss people pleasing, fan fiction, and finding your voice.Books discussed:The Ex -Vows by Jessica JoyceYou, With A View by Jessica JoyceWhere You Are Planted by Melanie SweeneyThe French Ingredient by Jane BertchBeg, Borrow, or Steal by Sarah AdamsHeartbreak Hotel by Ellen O’CloverFirst-time Caller by B.K. BorisonWater Moon by Samantha Sotto YambaoNightwatching by Tracy SierraListen to Your Sister by Neena Vi...2025-03-041h 00
HeartracersAuthor Tarah DeWitt on leading menWe talked to USA Today bestselling author Tarah DeWitt and her career and what's next!Tarah writes character-driven romances filled with laughter and big feelings. She loves stories centered around perfectly imperfect characters, especially those with just enough trauma to keep them funny, without ever being forcefully cavalier.Books discussed:Funny FeelingsThe Co-OpSavor ItLeft of Forever2025-02-2555 min
HeartracersAuthor Lindsay Hameroff and the evolution of writing romanceAuthor Lindsay Hameroff joins us to talk about her evolution of writing sweet to spicy romance.Lindsay is the author of Till There was You and Never Planned on You!Books discussed in this episode:Till There was You by Lindsay HameroffNever Planned on YouYou With a View by Jessica JoyceYou Deserve Each Other by Sarah HogleThe Notebook by Nicolas Sparks The September House by Carissa OrlandoListen for the Lie by Amy TinteraName Your Price Holly JamesThe Paradise Problem by Christina LaurenThe magic of lemon drop pie by Rachel Linden2025-02-1832 min
HeartracersAll about bookclubsWe talk about bookclubs in indie bookstores-- both starting one or joining one-- and are joined by Wild Sisters Books' romance bookclub manager, Gracie to talk about the interesting insights gained from the bookclub.Books discussed in this episode:A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor TowlesForget Me Not by Julie SotoNot Another Love Song by Julie Soto Make the Season Bright by Ashley Herring BlakeThe Kamogawa Food Detectives by Hisashi KashiwaiLike Water for Chocolate by Laura Esquivel2025-02-1148 min
HeartracersAuthor Liz Parker and magical realismWe talk all things magical realism and Tarot with author Liz Parker!Liz Parker is the author of HONEYSUCKLE HOUSE and IN THE SHADOW GARDEN and co-author of THE OTHER MARCH SISTERS. An herbalist and a witch, Liz loves gardening, a good cup of tea and the kind of story that sinks it hooks into you and refuses to let go.Find Liz at https://www.lizparkerwrites.com/Books discussed in this episode:In The Shadow Garden by Liz ParkerThe Other March SistersThe Gentle TarotThe Wild Unknown Tarot2025-02-0440 min
HeartracersAuthor Lily Chu and fandomsWe talk with author Lily Chu about fandoms and writing.Lily Chu loves ordering the second-cheapest wine, wearing perfume all the time, and staying up far too late with a good book.Four of her books have been released in audio as Audible Originals, performed by Phillipa Soo (The Stand-In, The Comeback, The Takedown, and Drop Dead) and John Cho (Drop Dead). Lily’s best-selling stories are critically acclaimed and have spent multiple weeks at number one in Audible Top Plus Listens, and have been named in Best of the Year lists. Find he...2025-01-2855 min
HeartracersAuthor Ellie Alexander and the cozy mysteryCozy mystery author Ellie Alexander joins us to talk about writing mystery, setting them in small towns, what's next for her, and how books give you strength and opportunity.Ellie Alexander is a voracious storyteller and a lover of words and all things bookish. Ellie believes that stories have the power to transport and transform us. With over thirty novels published and counting, her goal is to tell stories that provide points of connection, escape, and understanding.Ellie loves inhabiting someone else’s skin through the pages of a book and is passionate about helping wr...2025-01-2127 min
HeartracersAuthor Julie Soto talks fanfic, querying, and more!Julie Soto is a USA Today bestselling author, playwright, and actress originally from Sacramento, CA. Her books include:Not Another Love Song (romance)Forget Me Not (romance)Thrashers (YA)Rose in Chains (Fantasy)Find her at https://www.juliesotowrites.com/ https://www.instagram.com/juliesotowriteshttps://www.tiktok.com/@juliesotowrites2025-01-141h 05
HeartracersA book store owner and an author walk into a podcast...Our inaugural episode! Claire and Sierra talk about who they are (a bookstore owner and an author), what they love to read, and how to read books when you have a busy day job and a family. A LOT of laughing and banter.Books mentioned:A Very Typical Family by Sierra GodfreyThe Second Chance Hotel by Sierra GodfreyDone and Dusted by Lyla SageThe Ex Vows by Jessica Joyce2025-01-0757 min
HeartracersTrailer! Launching Jan 7, 2025!A short introduction to our podcast, Heartracers, a podcast about reading, writing, publishing, and selling books-- from a published author and a bookstore owner!2024-12-3101 min