Shows
My Imaginary Friends with L. PenelopeWriting My Novel's First Draft as a ScriptMentioned:
ProWriting Aid
Novel November
My brother's short film
Writer Duet
Ines Johnson
Ink & Magic podcast
How to Write a Movie in 21 Days by Viki King
The My Imaginary Friends podcast is a behind the scenes look at the journey of a working author navigating traditional and self-publishing. Join fantasy and paranormal romance author L. Penelope as she shares insights on the writing life, creativity, inspiration, and this week's best thing.
Subscribe and view show notes at: https://lpenelope.com/podcast | Get the Footnotes newsletter & become an Imaginary Best Friend: https://myimaginaryfriends.net
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2025-11-1127 min
Ink and MagicEp 48: Atonement Sky by Nalini SinghIn this episode, we're reading Nalini Singh’s very latest release, Atonement Sky! BEWARE: SPOILERS AHEAD!
Both Ines and Leslye agree this is a solid and satisfying addition to the Psy-Changeling series—even if we're still longing for a return trip to Black Sea and the aquatic shifters.
We discuss how this installment continues to explore one of the series’ central questions, first posed in book one: how will this world heal from and ultimately fix the broken Silence protocol?
Tune in as we unpack the romance, the stakes, and where this story might...
2025-08-1559 minInk and MagicEp 47: Primal Mirror by Nalini SinghIn this episode, we have finally caught up with the rest of the world as we read Primal Mirror. The story revolves around the ticking time clock of the PsyNet’s imminent collapse, while woven with the building of a new changeling pack, and the fall of a prominent Psy dynasty. The end is near for the Psy-Changeling world, and Ines and Leslye’s binge read of the series.
Sign up for author Nalini Singh’s newsletter to receive fan service here: https://nalinisingh.com/
Want the official Psy-Changeling Reading Order? Click here: https...
2025-02-1456 minInk and MagicEp 46: What's Next for Ink & Magic?In this week’s episode, we’re almost caught up on all things Psy-Changeling. Listen in to find out what will happen next in the podcast as we get ready for an array of magical new episodes. But first, we’re going to take a short spring break—perfect for recharging and planning even more exciting content for you! Watch this space to know what’s coming next on Ink & Magic.
Sign up for author Nalini Singh’s newsletter to receive fan service here: https://nalinisingh.com/
Want the official Psy-Changeling Reading Order? Click here: h...
2025-02-0712 minInk and MagicEp 45: Resonance Surge by Nalini SinghAlthough coming into the story confused because of the blurb, Ines and Leslye dissect this dual love story, of sorts in Resonance Surge. The main love story revolves around a Changeling bear with foresight and a wounded Psy with a past filled with childhood trauma. Woven with real life stories of Psy siblings before silence, as well as tales from the present day consequences of Silence falling, this addition to Nalini Singh’s Psy-Changeling series packs an emotional punch.
Sign up for author Nalini Singh’s newsletter to receive fan service here: https://nalinisingh.com/
2025-01-3142 minInk and MagicEp 44: Favorite Books of 2024In this episode, Ines and Leslye reveal their favorite books of 2024 plus a few honorable mentions. Gird your wallet as they unapologetically aim for your TBR’s expansion.
Sign up for author Nalini Singh’s newsletter to receive fan service here: https://nalinisingh.com/
Want the official Psy-Changeling Reading Order? Click here: https://nalinisingh.com/books/psychangeling-series/
THINGS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
Ines’ Favorites
Marrying Winterbourne by Lisa Kleypas https://amzn.to/4h3CI7A
Fangirl Down by Tessa Bailey https://amzn.to/4ga8f6O
2025-01-241h 12Ink and MagicEp 43: Storm Echo by Nalini SinghIn this episode, we explore Nalini Singh's Storm Echo, in which we visit both the amnesia and second chance at love tropes. The story centers on Lei, a Changeling healer with little memory of her past, and Ivan Mercant, a man whose own turbulent past haunts him. As their paths cross, they not only navigate the complexities of their emerging feelings but also piece together the scattered fragments of Lei’s memory—and a past that once included Ivan.
Sign up for author Nalini Singh’s newsletter to receive fan service here: https://nalinisingh.com/
Want t...
2025-01-1744 minInk and MagicEp. 42: Revising Your NovelJoin us on this week’s podcast as we dive into the process of revising your manuscript, from the rough beginnings of the "dirty draft" to the final, polished version. We've got the expert tips and practical advice to help you tackle each stage with confidence. Tune in to learn how to transform your writing with each pass through your manuscript, ensuring that what you eventually submit or publish is the best possible version of your work.
Sign up for author Nalini Singh’s newsletter to receive fan service here: https://nalinisingh.com/
Want the offic...
2025-01-1034 minInk and MagicEp 41: Last Guard by Nalini SinghIn Last Guard, we meet a hero with a mobility disability and a heroine grappling with mental health challenges. Together, they navigate a world filled with obstacles, both external and internal, finding strength and love in each other's company.
In the episode, we'll explore how Nalini Singh skillfully portrays complex characters breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes within the framework of a deeply moving romantic narrative.
Sign up for author Nalini Singh’s newsletter to receive fan service here: https://nalinisingh.com/
Want the official Psy-Changeling Reading Order? Click here: https://nali...
2025-01-0335 minInk and MagicEp 40: Goal SettingGet ready to tackle your goals for 2025 in this week's episode of our podcast. We’ll help you start the year off smart—that's Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. We also talk about how to effectively use both paper and digital planners to keep you on track. Join us as we provide tips, tricks, and insights to help you organize your writing life, maximize productivity, and turn those big dreams into achievable realities.
Sign up for author Nalini Singh’s newsletter to receive fan service here: https://nalinisingh.com/
Want the official Psy-Chan...
2024-12-2738 minInk and MagicEp 39: Alpha Night by Nalini SinghJoin us on this week's episode as we break down Alpha Night, where a female alpha wolf and a Psy male with a ticking time bomb in his head get insta-mated in the first chapter!
Gird your loins, listeners, in this wild ride as of an unconventional pairing, the challenges of navigating differing societies, and the power dynamics involved with skin-privileges. The stakes are high and the passion fiery in a story that combines psychic intrigue with raw, animal magnetism!
Sign up for author Nalini Singh’s newsletter to receive fan service here: http...
2024-12-2041 minInk and MagicEp 38: MastermindsIn this week's episode hosts Leslye and Ines are joined by their mastermind partner, Cerece Renee Murphy. Not only will they discuss the invaluable benefits of participating in a mastermind group, but they will also give listeners a behind-the-scenes look at how they run their own. Listen in to learn how a mastermind can elevate your skills, broaden your perspective, and significantly level up your projects.
Sign up for author Nalini Singh’s newsletter to receive fan service here: https://nalinisingh.com/
Want the official Psy-Changeling Reading Order? Click here: https://nalinisingh.com/books/psychangeling-series/
...
2024-12-131h 03Ink and MagicEp 37: Wolf Rain by Nalini SinghSingh's foray into thrillers is on display in this gripping entry into the Psy Changeling world.
In Wolf Rain we meet a hero who sees himself as a rogue wolf destined to be alone and a Psy woman convinced she's a monster beyond redemption. Together, they discover that their beliefs about themselves are profoundly mistaken.
Suspense blends with heart-wrenching romance as Singh proves once again that she is a powerhouse in the genre with a thrilling romance about finding each love, finding yourself, and touching the hearts of all readers.
Sign up...
2024-12-0643 minInk and MagicEp 36: Worldbuilding for RomanceThis week you get a masterclass in worldbuilding in a romance novel from expert Leslye while Ines listens in.
We explore how setting is not just the backdrop against which a story unfolds, but a dynamic element that enriches the narrative through its integration of culture, language, and politics.
The discussion reveals how these broader world elements can be strategically used to increase conflicts and strengthen emotions, making the romance more intense and the stakes higher.
Tune in to discover practical tips and insightful strategies on crafting a vivid, immersive world that enhances...
2024-12-0244 minInk and MagicEp 35: Ocean Light by Nalini SinghA security specialist with a life-threatening brain chip. A changeling chef with her own guarded secrets. Bowen and Kaia’s love story starts off as a slow burn in “Ocean Light,” but things heat up and combust before the tale is over. This book not only explores the romance and challenges between Bowen and Kaia but also serves as an intense lesson for authors on how to continuously raise the stakes throughout a novel. It is a masterclass on how to maintain suspense and tension all the way to the last page.
Sign up for author Nalini Singh’s...
2024-11-2249 minInk and MagicEp 34: Second Act SolutionsIn this episode, we tackle the "messy middle" of the second act. One of the solutions we offer involves a series of Try Fail cycles, where the protagonist encounters a carefully designed obstacle course that tests their resolve and pushes the plot forward. Ines emphasizes the importance of a structured approach to these cycles, suggesting that each cycle should include a plan, an obstacle, a setback, a scene of growth, and a regrouping phase to maintain narrative momentum and character development. While Leslye insists the best way to get out of the middle is with the "Yes, But" or "...
2024-11-1539 minInk and MagicEp 33: Silver Silence by Nalini SinghWe’re back!!!! Season 2 of the podcast is live and in full effect. We’re jumping into the second season of the Psy-Changeling world with Nalini Singh's "Silver Silence," book one of the Psy-Changeling Trinity series.
We meet bear changeling Alpha, Valentin Nikolaev, whose life is a whirlwind of loyalty, affection, and disorder—everything that Silver Mercant, a Psy woman of control and precision, believes she doesn't need.
Silver, the cool, collected director of a global emergency response network, finds her life turned upside down not just by an assassination attempt, but by her unexpected plunge i...
2024-11-0852 minInk and MagicEp 32: Found Family with Melanie HarlowJoin us as we chat with Melanie Harlow about crafting found family in small town romances. Find out how this plot device isn’t just about banding a bunch of brothers together, it’s all about the worldbuilding of characters in a tight-knit unit that makes readers want to return again and again!
To check out Melanie’s books, go to: https://www.melanieharlow.com/
JOIN US AT THE INK & MAGIC WRITING RETREAT!
If you are an aspiring or experienced author, please consider coming to hang out with us! November 1-3, 2024 outside...
2024-06-2853 minInk and MagicEp 31: Allegiance of Honor by Nalini SinghIn today's episode, we celebrate the grand finale of season one of the Psy-Changeling world with "Allegiance of Honor." This novel is a heartfelt nod to fans, masterfully weaving together the lives of beloved characters from previous books, tying up loose ends, and paving the way for exciting new adventures in season two.
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT
We would love to announce the Ink & Magic Writing Retreat! If you are an aspiring or experienced author, please consider coming to hang out with us! https://inkandmagicretreat.com/
Sign up for aut...
2024-06-2135 minInk and MagicEp 30: Reader Love & Marketing with Jessica CageForget Beetlejuice! Jessica Cage will show readers how to summon a hot demon boyfriend, gain traction on social media, and build a tribe of loyal fans. With advice like decide your boundaries, batch your content, and be yourself, this episode is a treasure trove of killing it on social media and at live events.
Check out Jessica’s bestselling book How I Accidentally Summoned a Demon Boyfriend - https://amzn.to/4aZh8xs.
Sign up for author Nalini Singh’s newsletter to receive fan service here: https://nalinisingh.com/
Want the official P...
2024-06-1457 minInk and MagicEp 29: Shards of Hope by Nalini SinghIn today’s episode, we watch the push and pull as two emotionless Arrows fall hopelessly in love! In Shards of Hope, as Aden and Zaira find themselves inexplicably drawn to each other, they begin to navigate the unfamiliar waters of emotional attachment and romantic love, challenging everything they have been taught to believe about strength and vulnerability.
Nalini Singh masterfully depicts the journey of two hardened warriors learning to embrace their feelings, revealing the redemptive power of love and the struggle for a new identity in a world that no longer demands conformity.
BOOKS MENT...
2024-05-3152 minInk and MagicEp 28: Fantasy Romcoms with Kimberly LemmingGet ready to bust a gut because this week we have on Fantasy RomCom author Kimberly Lemming. We’ll chat about her hit series, the Mead Mishaps. Kim will tell us about her inspiration for the series, how she makes sure it’s funny, and recap her interactions with a Savannah ghost!
BOOKS MENTIONED
That Time I Got Drunk and Saved a Demon - https://amzn.to/44T9S4y
That Time I Got Drunk and Yeeted a Love Potion at a Werewolf - https://amzn.to/3yz83Op
That...
2024-05-2436 minInk and MagicEp 27: Shield of Winter by Nalini SinghThis week means war as we march into Nalini Singh’s Shield of Winter to encounter a world on the brink of transformation. Vasic, a lethal Arrow with the weight of a dark past, and Ivy, a Psy with the rare and misunderstood gift of empathy are tasked with stabilizing a faltering psychic network that threatens to plunge the world into chaos. As they fight to prevent a catastrophic collapse, their own scars begin to heal, knitting together in a tale of survival and rebirth.
Sign up for author Nalini Singh’s newsletter to receive fan se...
2024-05-1745 minInk and MagicEp 26: EndingsThis week Ines and Leslye tackle how to bring stories to a close with a deep dive on story endings. We dive into character arcs, open doors (and windows!), and resolutions.
BOOKS MENTIONED
Write Your Novel from the Middle by James Scott Bell: https://amzn.to/4a6NaqQ
Emotion Thesaurus by Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi: https://amzn.to/44v2TPn
One Stop for Writers: https://onestopforwriters.com/emotions
The Monsters We Defy by Leslye Penelope: https://amzn.to/4btzGXe
Save the Cat by Blake Snyder: https://am...
2024-05-1045 minInk and MagicEp 25: Wild Invitation by Nalini SinghGet ready for a festive episode with Wild Invitation, a collection of four enchanting novellas from the Psy-Changeling series. With a touch of Christmas spirit, these shorts offer glimpses into the daily lives and celebrations of the DarkRiver and SnowDancer packs.
Each novella not only catches up with beloved characters but also weaves in the joyous moments that define the holiday season for these powerful shapeshifter communities.
Sign up for author Nalini Singh’s newsletter to receive fan service here: https://nalinisingh.com/
Want the official Psy-Changeling Reading Order? Click here: https...
2024-05-0348 minInk and MagicEp 24: Fandom with Angel LawsonWe chat with bestselling author Angel Lawson about "traumance," a subgenre where a broken hero finds healing through the transformative power of a romantic relationship. Beyond the pages of traumance, we also venture into the realms of fanfiction and fandom, where passionate communities breathe new life into beloved characters and settings. And finally, Angel walks us through her success in co-authoring in the literary world, shedding light on the unique challenges and rewards that come from sharing the creative process.
Want to delve into Angel’s stories? Start with the Royals of Forsyth: https://amzn.to/4aBYoV6
...
2024-04-261h 08Ink and MagicEp 23: Heart of Obsidian by Nalini SinghHeart of Obsidian peels back the layers of a seemingly impenetrable character to reveal the heart beneath the obsidian exterior of Counselor Kaleb Krycheck. Singh masterfully crafts a tale of redemption, power, and unwavering devotion set against the backdrop of a world teetering on the brink of monumental change.
In this episode, we discuss how Heart of Obsidian shifts the paradigm of heroism, presenting a story where love, in its most obsessive form, becomes a catalyst for transformation and redemption.
BOOKS MENTIONED:
What I Did For a Duke by Julianne Long: ht...
2024-04-191h 06Ink and MagicEp 22: Dark Romance with Skye WarrenYou will get taken on a journey, possibly against your will, in this discussion of dark romance with bestselling author Skye Warren. It’s more than just the non-consent and power dynamics that make readers of the genre rabid. Learn why Skye insists dark romance is feminist literature, and see if you agree!
Skye recommends if you want to try out a dark romance, start with her book The Pawn which you can find on her website at skyewarren.com
BOOKS MENTIONED:
Dark Angel by Mary Balough: https://amzn.to/4azRwaB
2024-04-121h 10Ink and MagicEp 21: Tangle of Need by Nalini SinghIn this episode, we dive into Tangle of Need, which focuses on Adria, a strong-willed Snow Dancer wolf going through a bad break up of her chosen life partner, and Riaz, a lone wolf battling the torment of a lost fated mate bond. As they grapple with their unexpected and intense connection, the story explores themes of love's resilience, the struggle for identity within the confines of pack law, and the pursuit of happiness amidst personal turmoil.
MEDIA MENTIONED
Poker Face is streaming on Peacock.
Columbo is Poker Face’s predecessor which is al...
2024-04-0558 minInk and MagicEp 20: Romcom Deceptions & RevelationsToday, we discuss the crux of romantic comedies: the deception and the revelation.
Ines postulates that there are four types of Romantic Comedy Deceptions: the Merry War, Identity Deception, Bet or Wager Deception, and the Magic Potion Deception. Each of these deceptions creates obstacles for the characters to overcome on their journey to finding true love.
The eventual revelation and resolution of these deceptions not only provide satisfying conclusions, but also highlight themes of authenticity, vulnerability, and the transformative power of love. And the humor comes as the characters continually try to conceal the deception. ...
2024-03-291h 12
Ines Johnson is Having a BreakdownEpisode 44 Magic Potion DeceptionOne of the four types of deceptions in a romantic comedy is the Magic Potion Deception. Magic potion deceptions in romantic comedies like "Splash," "Mannequin," and "Penelope" offer love and acceptance through the lens of magical realism. Be it a mermaid, a mannequin or a cursed woman, each film cleverly uses the magic potion deception to challenge characters to look beyond the surface, leading to comedic escapades and touching revelations that celebrate the transformative power of love and the importance of embracing one's true essence.
2024-03-2620 minInes Johnson is Having a BreakdownEpisode 44 Magic Potion DeceptionOne of the four types of deceptions in a romantic comedy is the Magic Potion Deception. Magic potion deceptions in romantic comedies like "Splash," "Mannequin," and "Penelope" offer love and acceptance through the lens of magical realism. Be it a mermaid, a mannequin or a cursed woman, each film cleverly uses the magic potion deception to challenge characters to look beyond the surface, leading to comedic escapades and touching revelations that celebrate the transformative power of love and the importance of embracing one's true essence.
2024-03-2620 minInk and MagicEp 19: Kiss of Snow by Nalini SinghWe finally take a bite out of Kiss of Snow, where the fierce and resilient Sienna Lauren, a young Psy defector, and the powerful alpha wolf, Hawke, are caught in a tumultuous dance of forbidden desire. Their undeniable attraction threatens to ignite the world, but first they’ll be tested by the coldest of wars and the fiercest of passions.
Join us as we explore the intricate dynamics of inner and outer power, past loyalties and future desires, and the transformative power of pack bonds.
Sign up for author Nalini Singh’s newsletter to rec...
2024-03-221h 07Ink and MagicEp 18: Villains, Antagonists & Anti-heroes with Sacha BlackWe sit down with Sacha Black, author of 13 Steps to Evil and explore the art of crafting multifaceted villains and the process of transforming them into heroes. Sacha shares her expert tips and strategies to create the perfect foil to your protagonist, as well as the choices necessary to turn a villain into a hero.
Join us as we uncover the secrets to bringing your literary adversaries to life in a way that captivates and resonates with readers.
MENTIONED:
13 Steps to Evil by Sacha Black: https://amzn.to/49tqKjS
...
2024-03-1550 minInk and MagicEp 17: Play of Passion by Nalini SinghReady to play? We’re back in the SnowDancer wolf pack with Play of Passion. The dominance challenge is on when the budding romance between Indigo Riviere, a high-ranking and fiercely independent wolf lieutenant, and Andrew Kincaid, a charismatic and playful tracker, challenges pack dynamics and their own deeply ingrained beliefs about hierarchy and strength.
Grab your copy of Play of Passion here: https://amzn.to/3Hrh113
Sign up for author Nalini Singh’s newsletter to receive fan service here: https://nalinisingh.com/
Want the official Psy-Changeling Reading Order? Click here: https...
2024-03-0850 minInk and MagicEp 16: Plotting with the Plot Fairy Becca MysoorLeslye and Ines talk about unconventional plotting, 150 word blurbs, and television versus novel structure across all genres with the Fairy Plot Mother. In this magical conversation, you’ll see how Becca Mysoor earned her storytelling wand by helping to craft some of today’s best selling stories!
Need some Plot Fairy dust sprinkled on your manuscript or want to go on a writing retreat with Becca? Check out her offerings here: https://www.fairyplotmother.me/services
Theodora Taylor’s Universal Fantasy: https://amzn.to/3Ht9L4U
Jennifer Lynn Barnes’ ta...
2024-03-0153 minInk and MagicEp 15: Bonds of Justice by Nalini SinghBonds of Justice, book 8 in Psy-Changeling, introduces us to a dedicated New York police detective with a natural shield against psychic powers and a Justice-Psy with the rare ability to retrieve memories.
Singh skillfully weaves a narrative that is as much about solving a crime as it is about exploring the depths of human emotion and connection.
Join us as we unpack the layers of this multifaceted story, examining how love and duty intersect in a world where justice and passion form an unbreakable bond.
Grab your copy of Bonds of Justice here...
2024-02-2356 minInk and MagicEp 14: Endings & Cliffhangers with Sarra CannonIn this week’s episode, Leslye and Ines have a chat with bestselling author Sarra Cannon, who is famous for her twists and turns between chapters and at the ends of her paranormal books. Explore the craft of endings through music composition, TV breaks, and cliffhangers.
Wanna experience Sarra’s world for yourself? Try out her Shadow Demons Saga: https://amzn.to/49oChkN
Need help organizing your life? Check out Sarra’s ninety day planning method in the HB90 Course: http://lpen.co/hb90
Check out serialized stories on REAM: https://reamstories.com/
2024-02-1652 minInk and MagicEp: 13 Blaze of Memory by Nalini SinghIn Blaze of Memory, we leave the Changeling world for the cities of the humans where a Psy has been dumped on the Shine Foundation's doorstep. Dev Santos has to uncover who Katya is but with her memory loss she might not only be a danger to herself, she might be a danger to everything he’s built... including his heart.
Grab your copy of Blaze of Memory here: https://amzn.to/3RwMynb
Sign up for author Nalini Singh’s newsletter to receive fan service here: https://nalinisingh.com/
Want the offic...
2024-02-0950 minInk and MagicEp 12: Butter & Big Misunderstandings with Theodora TaylorIn this week’s episode we talk with fellow craft enthusiast and master story baker Theodora Taylor. Her book 7 FIGURE FICTION: How to Use Universal Fantasy to SELL Your Books to ANYONE took the author world by fire as she taught us all how to baste our stories in butter to make them universally fantastic.
Theodora discusses how to steep your stories in Universal Fantasies TM which keep readers hungry for more, as well as how to effectively use a Big Misunderstanding in your romance for maximum comprehension!
Grab 7 Figure Fiction by T Tayl...
2024-02-021h 07Ink and MagicEp 11: Branded by Fire by Nalini SinghThis week it’s dominant versus dominant as we delve into the intense relationship between Mercy, a high-ranking leopard changeling, and Riley, a wolf changeling with an equally strong personality. Their romance is marked by a fierce, passionate dynamic that challenges both characters' deeply held beliefs and pack loyalties.
Grab your copy of Branded by Fire here: https://amzn.to/3RwMynb
Sign up for author Nalini Singh’s newsletter to receive fan service here: https://nalinisingh.com/
Want the official Psy-Changeling Reading Order? Click here: https://nalinisingh.com/books/psychangeling-series/
2024-01-2656 minInk and MagicEp 10: Marriage of ConvenienceThis week, we breakdown Ines’s favorite trope to write: the Marriage of Convenience story (MoC), where characters marry for reasons other than love, such as financial gain or social necessity.
Forget something borrowed or blue, Ines presents her Seven Must-haves to Successfully Pull Off a MoC as she and Leslye explore this compelling romantic trope, its enduring appeal, and its reflection of changing societal views on relationships.
More info on The Twelve Stages of Intimacy- https://www.noblechoices.org/12-stages-of-intimacy/
BOOKS MENTIONED:
The Wall of Winnipeg and Me https://amzn.to...
2024-01-1951 minInk and MagicEp 9: Hostage to Pleasure by Nalini SinghThough the cover to Hostage to Pleasure will mislead you about M-Psy Ashaya Aleine, leopard changeling Dorian Christensen is ready to set her straight. Their paths intertwine in a story of forbidden attraction and political intrigue against the backdrop of a society where emotions are suppressed, and shifting abilities are latent.
Ready to get lost in this gripping tale of love, rebellion, and the transformative power of emotional vulnerability?
Grab your copy of Hostage to Pleasure here: https://amzn.to/47M2BUy
Sign up for author Nalini Singh’s newsletter to receive fan ser...
2024-01-121h 14Ink and MagicEp 8: Novel Openings: How We Get HookedIn this episode, Leslye and Ines break down the necessary elements of First Scenes and First Lines. Want to see how we cracked the code to awesome beginnings? Curl up and listen close!
Grab K.M. Weiland’s Structuring Your Novel for tips on crafting your first scenes here: https://amzn.to/3RXzad9
We love the movies too, but have you ever read Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice? Check it out: https://amzn.to/3TDRiKp
Check out Leslye’s voice with her masterful novels
Monsters We Defy b...
2024-01-0544 minInk and MagicEp 7: Mine to Possess by Nalini SinghOur discussion of Mine to Possess includes all the trigger warnings! This novel takes us on a journey through the turbulent reunion and uncovering of long-buried secrets of Clay, a leopard changeling with a troubled past, and Tally, a human with deep emotional scars and a mysterious connection to the Psy.
Grab your copy of Mine to Possess here: https://amzn.to/40SBchm
Sign up for author Nalini Singh’s newsletter to receive fan service here: https://nalinisingh.com/
Want the official Psy-Changeling Reading Order? Click here: https://nalinisingh.com/books/psyc...
2023-12-2955 minInk and MagicEp 6: Girl on Her Own HorseIn this episode, we’re exploring an exciting trend of narratives featuring strong heroines who rescue themselves, and the supportive heroes who love them for it.
Gone are the days of damsels in distress waiting for a hero; today's romance stories are about empowered women charting their own destinies, creating community, and finding partners who respect and admire their strength.
Want to read Ines’ single mother Cinderella story? Grab Pumpkin: a Cindermama story here: https://amzn.to/3RoCFc4
Our favorite Cinderella retellings and books/movies that follow this theme are:...
2023-12-2241 minInk and MagicEp 5: Caressed by Ice by Nalini SinghAs we break down Caressed by Ice, we delve into a story where the cold world of the Psy meets the fiery realm of the Changelings. We also explore the complex dynamics between the emotionally suppressed Psy and the sensually alive Changelings, focusing on the intriguing bond between Brenna, a wolf changeling recovering from a traumatic ordeal, and Judd, a Psy assassin trained to feel nothing.
Grab your copy of Caressed by Ice here: https://amzn.to/47Pnv5b
Sign up for author Nalini Singh’s newsletter to receive fan service here: https://nalin...
2023-12-1556 minInk and MagicEp 4: Enemies to LoversToday's topic is one that sets our hearts racing and pages turning: the Enemies to Lovers trope. We dissect some of the most iconic enemies to lovers stories in literature and on screen and dive deep into the intoxicating dance of characters who start off at odds, only to find their hearts entwined as the story unfolds and explore why this trope captures our imaginations and keeps us hooked, from the fiery initial clashes to the eventual tender admissions of love.
Grab Leslye’s current favorite The Hating Game, the book https://amzn.to/3N9sUwa...
2023-12-0835 minInk and MagicEp 3: Visions of Heat by Nalini SinghJoin us as we discuss how Singh expertly crafts a narrative that's not just a tale of forbidden love, but also a compelling commentary on freedom, identity, and the nature of emotion. From the nuanced development of characters to the richly detailed setting, Visions of Heat offers a masterclass in building a captivating paranormal world.
Grab your copy of Visions of Heat here: https://amzn.to/40YhDVc
Sign up for author Nalini Singh’s newsletter to receive fan service here: https://nalinisingh.com/
Want the official Psy-Changeling Reading Order? Click here: https://nalinisingh.com...
2023-12-0158 minInk and MagicEp 2: The Darcy ArcIn our second episode, we take a hard look at the quintessential romance hero: Fitzwilliam Darcy and how his character has crafted so many that came after him in what Ines (not Leslye!) likes to call the Darcy Arc.
Ines postulates that the Darcy Arc can be found in the evolution of characters like Edward Cullen from Twilight and Christian Grey from Fifty Shades of Grey. These characters begin as misunderstood and emotionally distant figures who eventually reveal a deeper capacity for love and kindness.
This transformation, triggered by their relationships with strong-willed heroines, sees t...
2023-11-2436 minInk and MagicEp 1: Slave to Sensation by Nalini SinghIt's the kick-off episode of the Ink and Magic podcast!! We're starting with a dream of a book Slave to Sensation which, coincidentally, also includes some steamy sex dreams!
In our first foray into the Psy-Changeing world, where emotions are forbidden and the wildest of passions take center stage, we meet the pivotal characters of Sascha Duncan, a Psy struggling with her feelings, and Lucas Hunter, an Alpha leopard determined to find a serial killer in his territory.
We discuss worldbuilding, plotting vs. pantsing vs. structure, and biting kink!
Grab your cop...
2023-11-1755 minInk and MagicIntroductionMeet your hosts Ines Johnson and L. Penelope and learn what the Ink & Magic podcast is all about and why you should tune in.
Find us at https://inkandmagic.net/
Credits:
"Moonlight Hall" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com). Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License.
2023-10-2905 min
My Imaginary Friends with L. PenelopeCreativity is Connecting the DotsChapter Titles | Character Descriptions | Surprising yet inevitable revelations
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/BZkHDIsCzk0
Imaginary Worldbuilding: Creating Fictional Worlds for Writers https://myimaginaryfriends.net/iw
Mentioned:
Fated Mates podcast
Beastly Kingdom preorder
Preorder campaign
ARC request
Fairy Plot Mother Becca Mysoor
Center for Black Literature - 2023 National Black Writers Conference Biennial Symposium - March 31 - April 1, 2023
Pro Writing Aid
One Stop For Writers Weather Thesaurus
ChatGPT
Sudowrite
My interview on The Indy Author podcast with Matty Dalrymple
My interview on Between the Reads with Audra Russell
My interview on Carly Stevens...
2023-03-2728 min
My Imaginary Friends with L. PenelopeWorldbuilding on the Go10 Things I Learned from Junot Diaz:
1. “Unless it’s breaking you, why would anyone else care?”
2. Give readers a chance to interact with the work - don’t chew it up and put it in their mouths. Let them come to different conclusions. Give them choices to let them decide what to think.
3. Writers cannot be "in cahoots" with the story - safeguard a space for the reader in the story. The story shouldn’t be dictated by the author.
4. Memory is contained and not dangerous. Memory work disrupts the immersion of the stor...
2022-08-2925 min
A self-published author's diaryEp. 44 - Five things I've learned about self-publishing in 2021 and one thing I learned about writing.Today, I talk about five things I've learned about self-publishing in 2021 (such as the importance of my newsletter and how sending emails more often does help me, Netgalley and more...) and one thing I learned about writing.
Mentioned in this episode:
Tammy Labrecque: https://newsletterninja.net/
Nick Stephenson (https://www.blog.yourfirst10kreaders.com/)
L. Penelope: https://lpenelope.com/podcast/
Katy Upperman: https://www.katyupperman.com
Ines Johnson: https://ineswrites.com/
Mona Shroff: http://monadshroff.com/
Megan Carter: https://megancarter.net
And as always:
Ask me a question (per email: authorelodienowodazkij AT gmail.com or...
2021-12-2419 min
My Imaginary Friends with L. PenelopePublication SchedulesHave questions for me? Email me at podcast@lpenelope.com for a future Q&A show!
– Draft2Digital – https://www.draft2digital.com/
– ClickUp project management – https://clickup.com/
– SmartSheet – https://www.smartsheet.com/
– REQUIEM on Netgalley (https://www.netgalley.com/catalog/book/211122) and Edelweiss (https://www.abovethetreeline.com)
– Sarra Cannon’s HB 90 Method – https://heartbreathings.teachable.com/p/hb90-bootcamp
– Kanban boards – https://www.projectmanager.com/kanban
– Chrome Extension – Author Sanity Saver for Goodreads – shows only 4 or 5 star reviews!!!
– Ines Johnson Bookbub post! – https://insights.bookbub...
2021-04-1223 min
My Imaginary Friends with L. PenelopeFinding your Zest and Gusto!THIS WEEK’S BEST THING: My writer mastermind group and my homegirls Ines Johnson and Cerece Rennie Murphy.
My Facebook group and readalong – https://www.facebook.com/groups/lpenelope/
* Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor – https://amzn.to/2zjcfQk
* Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert – https://amzn.to/2LaZ0a5
* Zen and the Art of Writing by Ray Bradbury – https://amzn.to/2HnTKys
* Turning Pro by Steven Pressfield – https://amzn.to/32500mC
* The Writer’s Well podcast – http://thewriterswell.org
* Octavia Butler journal – https://blavity.com/octavia-butler/
2019-08-2628 min
SORMAG's Writer's Cafe - The Life Of A WriterWriter Besties - Do you have a writer best friend? - Season 2 Episode 6Having a friend in this business can help you on your writing journey.Our guests share their writing friendship.Guests: Nigeria Lockley, Unoma Nwankwor, Parker J Cole , Allyson Carter, Ines Johnson and L Penelope Nigeria Lockleyhttps://nigerialockley.com/Unoma Nwankworhttps://unomanwankwor.com/Parker J Cole www.parkerjcole.com/Allyson Carter http://www.allyson-carter.com/Ines Johnson https://ineswrites.com/L Penelopelpenelope.com/
2016-07-1433 min