The Fresh Fiction Podcast

Re-Raking the Rake: Cathy Maxwell on Love, Laughter & A TOUCH OF STEELE

In this lively and heartfelt episode, bestselling author Cathy Maxwell joins us to talk about her latest Regency romance, A TOUCH OF STEELE, and the bold heroines of her Gambler’s Daughters series. We dive deep into her inspiring career—from radio broadcaster to Navy officer to beloved author—and the life decisions that shaped her storytelling.

Expect laughs, truth bombs, and lots of romance talk. Cathy shares the story of how romance novels helped her through postpartum depression, why community is essential for writers, and the surprising reason Mr. Steele got his own book (hint: readers demanded it!). Plus, she reveals her go-to road trip snack, favorite bookish reads, and a secret project she’s very excited about. This is one bookish chat you don’t want to miss!

Marie Bostwick on Book Clubs, Feminism, and Finding Your Voice

Author Marie Bostwick joins us to chat about The Book Club for Troublesome Women, the power of book clubs, and how one conversation with her mom led to a novel about courage, friendship, and second-wave feminism. Plus, quilting, Hallmark movies, and her pup Showgirl make an appearance!

Author Terry Reed on Writing, Dogs, and Creating Suspenseful Romance

Bestselling author Terri Reed joins us to talk about Standing Watch, her latest romantic suspense in the Dakota K-9 Unit continuity series. We dive into how her real-life agility training with her Australian Shepherd shapes the way she writes dog characters, how writing in a 12-author series works, and the behind-the-scenes research on Mount Rushmore. Plus, Terri shares what it’s like to have a Hallmark movie based on one of her books and gives us a peek at what’s coming next—including a Doberman and a German Shorthaired Pointer in her 2026 release!

Behind the Counter and Between the Pages with Jessica Anya Blau

In this episode of the Fresh Fiction Video Book Club, we’re joined by bestselling author Jessica Anya Blau to chat all about her charming and cheeky new novel SHOPGIRLS. Inspired by her real-life days working the sales floor at I. Magnin, Jessica shares the wild truth behind the dressing rooms, the legendary salesladies, and the unexpected heart at the center of retail life. We talk favorite cosmetics counter memories, writing with humor and depth, and even the Vaseline-on-shoes trick. Plus, we dive into her experience adapting books into screenplays and meeting her personal icon—Judy Blume! Grab your coffee (or your night cream), this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Exploring Historical and Fantasy Romance with Mary Jo Putney

Join Samantha Tennant as she chats with the renowned romance author Mary Jo Putney in this engaging episode of Fresh Fiction Book Club. Discover Mary Jo's extensive writing journey, which began in 1987 and includes numerous bestsellers and award-winning novels. They discuss the challenge writers face in finding time to read, the inspiration behind Mary Jo's new series, and the blend of historical and fantastical elements in her stories. Dive into her creative process, the complexities of her characters, and her love for storytelling. Learn about her transition to writing novellas and her adventures in both contemporary and historical romance. Plus, get a sneak peek into Mary Jo’s personal interests, including her collection of stuffed animals and her love for travel. Don't miss out on this delightful conversation with one of the grand dames of the romance world.

 

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:58 Challenges of Being a Writer and Reader

02:52 Fantasy Elements in Romance Novels

05:13 Historical and Fantasy Writing Journey

07:22 Writing Process and Character Development

09:05 Impact of Stories on Readers

10:30 Trends in Romance and Historical Fiction

15:24 Novellas and Short Stories

21:17 Fresh Fiction Facts: Fun Q&A

31:18 Current Projects and Closing Remarks

Exploring Norse Mythology and Romance with Asa Maria Bradley

Join Samantha Tennant for an engaging episode of Fresh Fiction Video Book Club featuring special guest Asa Maria Bradley. Dive into the world of Viking romance, as Asa shares her journey from writing women's fiction to becoming a celebrated romance author, including nominations for the RWA's Rita Award and winning the Holt Medallion. Discover the creative process behind her immersive worlds filled with Vikings, shifters, and rich Norse mythology. Learn about her inspiration, character development, and upcoming projects set to enthrall readers. Plus, enjoy a fun segment with personal insights from Asa. Don't miss this insightful and entertaining conversation!

 

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:04 Asa Maria Bradley's Writing Journey

01:49 Discovering Romance Writing

04:24 Viking Romance and Norse Mythology

08:36 World Building and Character Development

13:56 Characters and Their Stories

19:36 Fresh Fiction Facts

19:45 Swedish Influences and Childhood Favorites

21:37 Fresh Fiction Facts: Quickfire Questions

28:04 Favorite Books and Authors

30:59 Current and Upcoming Projects

34:10 Where to Follow and Final Thoughts

Asa Maria Bradley: https://freshfiction.com/author.php?id=38481

Norse Warriors Protection: https://freshfiction.com/series.php?id=8178

Eloisa James Discusses Writing, Italy, and the Magic of Romance

In this episode of Fresh Fiction's video book club, Samantha Tennant welcomes guest Eloisa James, a renowned author and Shakespeare professor. Eloisa shares insights about her recent summer in Italy, the inspiration behind her writing, and the process of blending her academic career with her passion for romance novels. She discusses the importance of setting and atmosphere in her work, the impact of family collaboration on her stories, particularly with her daughter’s input, and the challenges of evolving her writing style to meet contemporary sensibilities. Eloisa also answers rapid-fire questions about her personal preferences and sheds light on her upcoming works and favorite literary influences.

 

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:19 Summer in Italy: A Rejuvenating Experience

01:18 Writing Process: Italy vs. New York

02:40 Balancing Teaching and Writing

05:16 Influence of Shakespeare on Romance Writing

07:36 Collaborating with Family on Writing

11:29 Adapting to Changing Reader Expectations

14:16 Maintaining the Essence of Romance

17:15 Escapism in Literature

18:33 Personal Stories of Comfort

19:18 Favorite Tropes in Romance

20:53 Fresh Fiction Facts: Rapid Fire Questions

21:06 Time Travel Preferences

21:53 Paranormal Genres and Favorites

22:40 Nostalgia and Disappointments

24:47 Field Trip Memories

25:43 TV Shows and Rewatching

28:15 Reading Habits and Recommendations

29:40 Connecting with Readers

31:06 Conclusion and Farewell

Eloisa James: https://freshfiction.com/author.php?id=4755

Unraveling Mysteries with Lisa Regan: Inside the Josie Quinn Series

In this episode of the Fresh Fiction Podcast, Samantha Tennant sits down with bestselling thriller author Lisa Regan, creator of the beloved Josie Quinn series. Discover how Lisa’s diverse background and lifelong passion for storytelling shaped her writing career, and get a behind-the-scenes look at her creative process, from plotting twists to developing unforgettable characters. Plus, enjoy a round of rapid-fire questions that reveal Lisa’s favorite distractions, must-have luxuries, and more. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to her books, this conversation is packed with inspiration, laughter, and plenty of bookish fun!

From Romance Novel Critic to Cowboy Loving Author: Leah Vale

Join us for a delightful conversation with the fabulous Leah Vale. Leah shares her journey from a romance novel critic to a successful author of 19 books, with a special focus on her love for cowboys and ranch life. Learn how her unique voice shaped her writing career, and get a sneak peek into her recent work, including a book being adapted into a film. Leah also discusses her future projects, her inspirations, and even her adventures with pets and camping. Don't miss this entertaining and insightful interview, complete with insider tips and engaging anecdotes.

 

Want even more bookish fun? Sign up at FreshFiction.com for daily fresh picks, exclusive contests, and can’t-miss author events — all delivered straight to your inbox. It’s free, it’s fun, and it’s full of fabulous reads!

Sign up today: http://eepurl.com/Q-u19

 

 

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:32 Leah's Journey to Becoming a Writer

03:07 Love for Cowboys and Horses

05:32 Research and Inspiration for Cowboy Stories

07:33 Exciting News: Book Adaptation into Film

11:22 The Cowboy Undoing: A Unique Romance

14:30 Rapid Fire Questions and Fun Facts

19:44 Upcoming Projects and Staying Connected

21:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Leah Vale: https://freshfiction.com/author.php?id=7491

THE COWBOY’S UNDOING: https://freshfiction.com/book.php?id=136686

Regency Romance, Fake Courtships & Real Chemistry with Jade Lee

“Writing steamy scenes is easy—it’s getting my characters to talk afterward that’s the hard part.”

In this episode of the Fresh Fiction Podcast, Samantha Tennant sits down with fan-favorite romance author Jade Lee—also known as Kathy Lyons—to talk all things love, laughter, and literary scandal! We’re diving into THE DUKE’S GUIDE TO FAKE COURTSHIP, a Regency romance that’s full of witty banter, unexpected twists, and a deliciously slow-burn love story you won’t want to miss.

Jade shares how she brings humor and heart to historical fiction, her favorite tropes to write, and the secret behind creating irresistible chemistry between characters. Whether you're a longtime fan or just discovering her books, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and bookish joy.

 Tune in, subscribe, and don’t forget to tell your fellow romance readers!
 Find more great reads at FreshFiction.com