Shows
Ink 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 12
The Six Figure Author Experiment PodcastEpisode 30 - Navigating the Page-Turner Playbook with Ines JohnsonSummary: In this episode of The Six Figure Author Experiment, hosts Monica and Russell welcome co-host Lee Savino and guest Ines Johnson, a prolific romance author and Kickstarter powerhouse. Ines dives deep into the art of crafting page-turner pacing, drawing from her background in screenwriting and television. She shares insights into the structural techniques that keep readers hooked, such as adapting episodic storytelling methods to novels and mastering subplot integration.Key highlights include:* Kickstarter Success: Ines shares how Russell inspired her to relaunch a Kickstarter campaign, leading to a staggering $24,000 in just two days.2025-01-2050 minInk 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 min
Way-Word Writers PodcastEPISODE 33: Breaking Down the Elements In Story with Best Selling Author Ines JohnsonSend us a textIn this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer introduce Ines Johnson, an indie author specializing in reimagining fairy tales and folklore. The discussion explores Ines’s journey from screenwriting to self-publishing, and her success in contemporary and paranormal romance genres. Ines shares valuable insights on structuring stories, the importance of understanding genre-specific tropes, and creating binge-worthy content. She also emphasizes the significance of market research and interaction with readers to stay ahead in the indie publishing world. The episode is filled with practical ti...2024-08-1436 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 min
The Author Wheel PodcastBalancing Art & Commerce with Ines JohnsonFrom a family band to scriptwriting to romance novels and teaching...Ines Johnson joins us on the show this week to talk about understanding the market and finding your place in the trends. She's a master at finding patterns and applies that skill to the art of storytelling while meeting reader needs. Lucky for us, she's also a teacher at heart. This episode is a masterclass for writers at every stage. Lover of fairytales, folklore, and mythology, Ines Johnson spends her days reimagining the stories of old in a modern world. She writes...2024-04-2754 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 06
Ink in Your Veins432 | Getting Unstuck with Ines JohnsonAnother special bonus episode, this time with the amazing and SUPER inspiring Ines Johnson! Lover of fairytales, folklore, and mythology, Ines Johnson spends her days reimagining the stories of old in a modern world. She also writes sweet western romances under the pen name Shanae Johnson. Aside from being a writer, professional reader, and teacher, Ines is a very bad Buddhist. She sits in sangha each week, and while others are meditating and getting their zen on, she’s contemplating how to use the teachings to strengthen her plots and character motivations.Ines lives outside Washington, DC w...2024-04-1720 minInk 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 12Ink 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 min
Wish I'd Known Then . . . For Writers🔒 Supporter Chat with Ines Johnson: How to Avoid the Saggy Middle 🦥Subscriber-only episodeHow do you structure your novel so the middle is as page-turning as the beginning and the end? How do you write a strong heroine? What are content buckets and how can they help with your newsletter? We dive into these topics with the wonderful Ines Johnson, who joins us to answer your questions! Ines is an expert at breaking down story structure. She shares insights on: How Try/Fail cycles help you avoid a saggy middleWhat types of obstacles your protagonist can faceWhere to find inspiration for strong heroines and why ch...2024-02-1338 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
Ines Johnson is Having a Breakdown2023 Summer BreakInes Johnson is having a bit of a breakdown... so she's going on summer break!
2023-06-0602 minInes Johnson is Having a Breakdown2023 Summer BreakInes Johnson is having a bit of a breakdown... so she's going on summer break!
2023-06-0602 min
What to Read Next Podcast l Book Recommendation Show#658 Understanding the Craft of Romance Writing with Ines JohnsonDisclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books & you can read our affiliate disclosure here. Ever wondered how a romance author goes from being an avid Harlequin reader to crafting steamy paranormal and contemporary romance novels? Join us in this captivating episode as we chat with Ines Johnson about her journey in the world of romance writing.We delve into Ines; experiences in the publishing industry, from her beginnings as a...2023-05-1916 minInes Johnson is Having a BreakdownEpisode 14: PNR BeatsWant a breakdown of the beats of Paranormal Romance? This episode lists the nine beats I believe are common in all romances that feature werewolves, vampires, fae and other kinds of supernatural beings.
2023-05-0208 minInes Johnson is Having a BreakdownEpisode 14: PNR BeatsWant a breakdown of the beats of Paranormal Romance? This episode lists the nine beats I believe are common in all romances that feature werewolves, vampires, fae and other kinds of supernatural beings.
2023-05-0208 min
The Daring AuthorCh28. Creating page turning books with pacing Ines JohnsonIn chapter twenty-eight, we chat with Ines Johnson about creating page-turning books with pacing. We chat about:Ines writing journey so far and what helped her successWhat pacing in and how it can create page turning booksPacing techniques if you can be a pantser or plotterTips for writing a page-turning booksAbout Ines:Lover of fairytales, folklore, and mythology, Ines Johnson spends her days reimagining the stories of old in a modern world. She writes books where damsels cause the distress, princesses wield swords, and moms save the world.2023-04-2630 minInes Johnson is Having a BreakdownEpisode13 AIDAYou just finished writing thousands and thousands of words in your manuscript and told an emotional love story with kissing. But wait, you're not done. Now you have to write a couple hundred words to sell that story.
2023-04-2506 minInes Johnson is Having a BreakdownEpisode13 AIDAYou just finished writing thousands and thousands of words in your manuscript and told an emotional love story with kissing. But wait, you're not done. Now you have to write a couple hundred words to sell that story.
2023-04-2506 minInes Johnson is Having a BreakdownEpisode 12 AdaptationsFaith is a tricky subject when it comes to taking someone else's work and making it your own. Following Krevolin's rules of originality, seeking without destroying, keeping the key things, while maintaining the character arc can get you through adapting a work as short as a newspaper headline or as long as a 500-plus page novel.
2023-04-1806 minInes Johnson is Having a BreakdownEpisode 12 AdaptationsFaith is a tricky subject when it comes to taking someone else's work and making it your own. Following Krevolin's rules of originality, seeking without destroying, keeping the key things, while maintaining the character arc can get you through adapting a work as short as a newspaper headline or as long as a 500-plus page novel.
2023-04-1806 minInes Johnson is Having a BreakdownEpisode 11 The Obstacle CourseDid you know there's only four types of obstacles that your protagonist can face? They are an Antagonist, Physical Obstruction, Inner/Psychology Problems, or a Mystic Force. Let's break these four down with a trip to Disneyland!
Want to learn more about pacing, try my courses
Page Turner Pacing Course https://ineswrites.com/PTP
Writing Sweet at ineswrites.com/writingsweet
Writing Dirty at ineswrites.com/writingdirty
2023-04-1107 minInes Johnson is Having a BreakdownEpisode 11 The Obstacle CourseDid you know there's only four types of obstacles that your protagonist can face? They are an Antagonist, Physical Obstruction, Inner/Psychology Problems, or a Mystic Force. Let's break these four down with a trip to Disneyland!
Want to learn more about pacing, try my courses
Page Turner Pacing Course https://ineswrites.com/PTP
Writing Sweet at ineswrites.com/writingsweet
Writing Dirty at ineswrites.com/writingdirty
2023-04-1107 minInes Johnson is Having a BreakdownEpisode 10 Twelve Bases of IntimacyThere aren't three bases in the game of love. There are twelve. Find out the twelve levels of intimacy in this episode.
Want to learn more about pacing, try my courses
Page Turner Pacing Course https://ineswrites.com/PTP
Writing Sweet at ineswrites.com/writingswee
2023-04-0410 minInes Johnson is Having a BreakdownEpisode 10 Twelve Bases of IntimacyThere aren't three bases in the game of love. There are twelve. Find out the twelve levels of intimacy in this episode.
Want to learn more about pacing, try my courses
Page Turner Pacing Course https://ineswrites.com/PTP
Writing Sweet at ineswrites.com/writingswee
2023-04-0410 minInes Johnson is Having a BreakdownEpisode 9 Steamy Emotional ArcIn a romance novel, the love scenes should be integral to the plot. Otherwise it's just description that readers will gloss over to get back to the important action. Best beats or pacing points for a love scene are scenes of Growth, Setbacks or Regroups because those are scenes where characters tend to grow, learn, and evolve emotionally.
Want to learn more about pacing, try my courses
Page Turner Pacing Course https://ineswrites.com/PTP
Writing Sweet at ineswrites.com/writingsweet
Writing Dirty at ineswrites.com/writingdirty
2023-03-2812 minInes Johnson is Having a BreakdownEpisode 9 Steamy Emotional ArcIn a romance novel, the love scenes should be integral to the plot. Otherwise it's just description that readers will gloss over to get back to the important action. Best beats or pacing points for a love scene are scenes of Growth, Setbacks or Regroups because those are scenes where characters tend to grow, learn, and evolve emotionally.
Want to learn more about pacing, try my courses
Page Turner Pacing Course https://ineswrites.com/PTP
Writing Sweet at ineswrites.com/writingsweet
Writing Dirty at ineswrites.com/writingdirty
2023-03-2812 minInes Johnson is Having a BreakdownEpisode 8 Romance BeatsIn addition to the twelve pacing points that we talked about previously, each genre of popular fiction has beats that readers are expecting see or hear. If you don't hit these beats in your story its like a record scratch. Wanna know the beats I hear every time I read, write, or listen to a love story?
2023-03-2109 minInes Johnson is Having a BreakdownEpisode 8 Romance BeatsIn addition to the twelve pacing points that we talked about previously, each genre of popular fiction has beats that readers are expecting see or hear. If you don't hit these beats in your story its like a record scratch. Wanna know the beats I hear every time I read, write, or listen to a love story?
2023-03-2109 min
The Coffee CelebrationInes Johnson: I am in awe of this very successful author.Ines Johnson used to write for television, and found her place as an author. She writes in 4 different genres and the books I read, that she wrote were truly amazing. When I spoke to her, I found myself inspired and wanting to read more of her books. You will too!2023-03-2049 minInes Johnson is Having a BreakdownEpisode 7 ButtonsButtons are like punctuation marks. Like a period, exclamation point, or question mark, a button is a punctuation mark at the end of an act in a show or a scene (or chapter) in a book. To use these in writing treat the end of your chapters like commercial breaks and turn that last sentence into a question mark, or send in the ellipses in that last bit of dialogue, or add a dash that forces the reader to turn the page.
2023-03-1409 minInes Johnson is Having a BreakdownEpisode 7 ButtonsButtons are like punctuation marks. Like a period, exclamation point, or question mark, a button is a punctuation mark at the end of an act in a show or a scene (or chapter) in a book. To use these in writing treat the end of your chapters like commercial breaks and turn that last sentence into a question mark, or send in the ellipses in that last bit of dialogue, or add a dash that forces the reader to turn the page.
2023-03-1409 minInes Johnson is Having a BreakdownEpisode 6 Pet the DogThe Pet the Dog moment can be used to remind us of the stakes of your story before the big battle or ordeal your hero must face. But you can also use it for the villain, or the bad boy, to humanize them and add more conflict to your story by giving the reader pause to consider changing, or challenging, their loyalties.
2023-03-0706 minInes Johnson is Having a BreakdownEpisode 6 Pet the DogThe Pet the Dog moment can be used to remind us of the stakes of your story before the big battle or ordeal your hero must face. But you can also use it for the villain, or the bad boy, to humanize them and add more conflict to your story by giving the reader pause to consider changing, or challenging, their loyalties.
2023-03-0706 min
Wish I'd Known Then . . . For WritersHow to Pace Your Novel with Ines JohnsonEpisode 157 / Romance author, screenwriter, and educator Ines Johnson joins us to talk about why pacing is so important when crafting your novel as well as self care, direct sales, and her new podcast, Ines Johnson is Having a Breakdown.💜 🎙 Become a supporter of the podcast! We can’t wait to give you a shoutout in a future episode! https://wishidknownforwriters.com/supportShow notes:How Ines rescheduled her time to include self careHer best business lesson: selling direct How Ines uses Face...2023-03-0758 minInes Johnson is Having a BreakdownEpisode 5 Empathy for the CatThe Save the Cat scene is where we meet the hero and the hero does something to make us identify or empathize with them. I know of three ways to establish empathy and make readers instantly get the feels for characters.You showcase their extraordinary qualities. Or their ordinariness in an extraordinary world. Or you have them save a cat from a tree or a dumpster in a shoot out.
2023-02-2808 minInes Johnson is Having a BreakdownEpisode 5 Empathy for the CatThe Save the Cat scene is where we meet the hero and the hero does something to make us identify or empathize with them. I know of three ways to establish empathy and make readers instantly get the feels for characters.You showcase their extraordinary qualities. Or their ordinariness in an extraordinary world. Or you have them save a cat from a tree or a dumpster in a shoot out.
2023-02-2808 min
Ines Johnson is Having a BreakdownEpisode 4: The NoviceA better way to do an infodump of backstory is to use a Novice. The Novice enters the story when we do. They're also brand new to this world, but they're in the story so they can ask the questions we're dying to know, be shown the process of the way the world works, try to model the behaviors of the customs of the people, and make mistakes and get set straight to ensure we all understand.
2023-02-2107 minInes Johnson is Having a BreakdownEpisode 4: The NoviceA better way to do an infodump of backstory is to use a Novice. The Novice enters the story when we do. They're also brand new to this world, but they're in the story so they can ask the questions we're dying to know, be shown the process of the way the world works, try to model the behaviors of the customs of the people, and make mistakes and get set straight to ensure we all understand.
2023-02-2107 min
Ines Johnson is Having a BreakdownEpisode 3: Story QuestionNext time you're tempted to write a prologue, determine if you might be better served by a teaser to give your readers a Slice of Life of your world, or Set Up your character's Story question that you'll answer by the end of the book.
2023-02-1410 minInes Johnson is Having a BreakdownEpisode 3: Story QuestionNext time you're tempted to write a prologue, determine if you might be better served by a teaser to give your readers a Slice of Life of your world, or Set Up your character's Story question that you'll answer by the end of the book.
2023-02-1410 min
Ines Johnson is Having a BreakdownEpisode 2: Teasers vs ProloguesA teaser has three jobs; it had to be immediate, quick and grab attention. It gets you ready for the meat of the episode. It's like an amuse bouche that leaves you wanting more before you're served the main dish.
2023-02-0606 minInes Johnson is Having a BreakdownEpisode 2: Teasers vs ProloguesA teaser has three jobs; it had to be immediate, quick and grab attention. It gets you ready for the meat of the episode. It's like an amuse bouche that leaves you wanting more before you're served the main dish.
2023-02-0606 min
Ines Johnson is Having a BreakdownEpisode 1 Plotter? Pantser? It’s the Pacing!In the battle of Plotters vs Pantsers, let's take a step back and look at the Pacing of your story.
2023-02-0612 minInes Johnson is Having a BreakdownEpisode 1 Plotter? Pantser? It’s the Pacing!In the battle of Plotters vs Pantsers, let's take a step back and look at the Pacing of your story.
2023-02-0612 min
Author Like a Boss PodcastWhen Inspiration Meets Smart Marketing With Ines JohnsonThe key to being a successful self-published author isn’t just writing stories. You also need to have smart marketing that attracts a loyal audience. In this episode, Ella Barnard chats with romance author Ines Johnson on how she balanced inspiration with an effective advertising and marketing plan to achieve results while writing the stories she loves. Ines caters to two audiences, one as Ines and the other as her pen name, Shanae Johnson. Join in on their chat to learn more about Ines’ strategies for building a backlist, her writing process, and tips for using ads.2022-04-1247 min
Indie Author MagazineIndie Author Magazine Issue 10: Featuring Ines Johnson (Full Issue Audio)Indie Author Magazine: Featuring Ines Johnson
Audiobook Production Basics, NFT Books, Marketing Nonfiction, and Getting Cozy with Mysteries
For self-published authors, the future is now. Without the traditional roadblocks to publishing, it's now possible to take your intellectual property and expand your publishing universe to include not just e-books and paperbacks but also hardbacks, box sets, audiobooks, serialized newsletters, and even NFTs.
Dazzled by the possibilities? Overwhelmed and don’t know where to begin? Don’t worry. This issue is just for you.
★ In this issue of Indie Author Magazine, you’ll learn...2022-01-311h 11
Wish I'd Known Then . . . For WritersInes Johnson on Happiness, the Surprising Benefits of Failing, and Tips to Organize Your Writing LifeEpisode 099 / Romance author Ines Johnson joins us this week. So much goodness in this episode. We cover everything from coupling your financial goals to your happiness, the upside of trying and failing, and tips on organizing metadata as well as your writing schedule. Show notes: How the music of her dad’s funk band helped Ines learn about story Ines mindset shift that involved coupling monetary goals to happiness Examples of how to use storytelling in your marketing Why her approach is to fail faster and its surprising benefits Tips for organizing book metadata How Ines’ appro...2021-12-0752 min
A self-published author's diaryEp. 17 - Feature Friday: Talking with Ines Johnson about her success in self-publishing, how writing screenplays has influenced her writing, pen names going "wide" and advertising.Today, I am very happy to welcome Ines Johnson, who is a self-published author who has published 65 books under 2 pen names. A couple of weeks ago, I read on BookBub an article Ines wrote entitled: How I Make Six Figures as a Self-Published Author: https://insights.bookbub.com/how-make-six-figures-self-published-author/
Ines not only shares her insights about the work behind her self-publishing success (goals and planning and advertising and brand and choosing to be wide and more), we also chat about her writing process that is influenced by her experience writing screenplays, why she's not really on social me...2021-05-281h 03
Women On WordsAuthor Ines Johnson chats with Women On WordsInes's Vampire Lord releases September 1, 2020HE OWNS MY DEBT BUT HE WON'T TAKE MY MONEY. ALL HE WANTS IS ME.Gaius Serrano is a mysterious figure in the world of wine. He’s arrogant. Darkly handsome. And—my instinct warns me—dangerous. He’s the last person I want owning my family’s debt. Since my parents died, I’ve been responsible for my sibling's future and fortunes in the form of our family’s business. I’ll pay any price to get it back. But he doesn’t want my money. He wants to ma...2020-08-2629 min
The Struggle is REELA Conversation with writer Dominique Johnson!Dominique S. Johnson is a Writing Professor, Romance author, and freelance writer. She's a proud HBCU grad and holds an MFA in Writing from Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). She explores all areas of writing including fiction, journalism, and new media writing. Her work is influenced by her experiences, in hopes of bringing attention to topics not discussed enough. She recently completed her debut novel, Flip the Script, and is seeking representation with a literary agent.
Dominique's Instagram: @dominiquesjohnson
Host Instagram: @mahalialatortue
Co-Host Instagram: @erikfranciscomedina
Producer & Audio Engineer: @paksanity2...2020-08-241h 00
Ink in Your VeinsEp. 186: Ines Johnson on Wanting More After Finding SuccessLover of fairytales, folklore, and mythology, Ines Johnson spends her days reimagining the stories of old in a modern world. She writes books where damsels cause the distress, princesses wield swords, and moms save the world. Aside from being a full time author and professional reader, Ines Johnson is a seasoned educator. She's taught college level courses and workshops in screenwriting, story development and plotting, and media history. A lifelong learner (read: academic addict), she holds a Bachelor's in Communications, a Master’s in Instructional Design, and a Doctorate in Educational Technology. She is banned from getting the MFA in...2020-06-1952 min
SPA Girls PodcastSPA Girls Podcast – EP243 – Interview with Ines Johnson (Part Two) : Seven Screenwriting Secrets for Authors
Ines is back to give us great advice for incorporating screenwriting techniques to make our writing stronger and improve read through!
Aside from being a writer and professional reader, Ines Johnson is a seasoned educator. She’s taught screenwriting, story development, and media history for an art college in Washington, DC. A lifelong learner (read: academic addict), she holds a Master’s in Instructional Design, and a Doctorate in Educational Technology.
Here are those 7 Tips:
1. Seasons: try thinking in 3s (3 book series, 6 book series, 9 book series) – long series FTW!
2. Series / SerialA...2020-06-0944 min
SPA Girls PodcastInterview with Ines Johnson (Part Two)Ines is back to give us great advice for incorporating screenwriting techniques to make our writing stronger and improve read through! Aside from being a writer and professional reader, Ines Johnson is a seasoned educator. She's taught screenwriting, story development, and media history for an art college in Washington, DC. A lifelong learner (read: academic addict), she holds a Master’s in Instructional Design, and a Doctorate in Educational Technology. 1. Seasons: try thinking in 3s (3 book series, 6 book series, 9 book series) - long series FTW! 2. Series / Serial A Series - can be re...2020-06-0944 minSPA Girls PodcastSPA Girls Podcast – EP242 – Interview with Ines Johnson (Part One) : Pen Names & Productivity
This is a special two-part series with the awesome Ines Johnson, a highly successful indie author who has an extensive background in television writing, media production and college education.
In this episode, we cover Pen Names and Productivity. Ines has three pen names (that cover different genres) and she is the epitome of an organised, savvy and productive author that has so much to share with us!
Topics we discuss include:
Her fast-draft process and why Ines doesn’t write by wordcount
How she thinks in scenes and seasons per her television writing roots
He...2020-06-0338 min