The Fresh Fiction Podcast

Exploring Romantic Suspense with Julie Miller

Protective Marines, smart heroines, high-stakes suspense... and dogs with one eye? Yeah, you heard that right. Today on the Fresh Fiction Podcast, bestselling author Julie Miller joins us to talk about Crime Scene K-9, writing on instinct, and the strange things authors Google for research. Oh—and what really happens when she asks her husband to stand still so she can test a fictional stabbing. Stick around—this one’s full of laughs, inspiration, and a whole lot of heart.

Exploring the Multiverse with Ann Aguirre

On this episode of the Fresh Fiction Podcast, host Samantha Tennant sits down with genre-hopping author Ann Aguirre to talk about her latest sci-fi romantic comedy, I THINK I’M IN LOVE WITH AN ALIEN. From writing steampunk and thrillers to crafting cozy witchy rom-coms, Ann takes us behind the scenes of her creative evolution—and why her books are a safe haven for readers.

We dive into fandoms, favorite alien tropes, how she hides Easter eggs for sharp-eyed readers, and what it was like collaborating with the late Rachel Caine. Plus: con culture, neurodiverse representation, and her next big magical project.

Kendra Elliot: Inside HER FIRST MISTAKE and Beyond!

On this episode of the Fresh Fiction Podcast, we’re joined by bestselling author Kendra Elliot to chat about her latest suspense novel, HER FIRST MISTAKE—the launch of a brand-new series featuring a fan-favorite character from her Columbia River books. We go behind the scenes of her writing process, discuss world-building across interconnected series, and get the scoop on her longtime creative partnership with Melinda Leigh. Plus: readers vs. plotters, writing thrillers without a plan, and why sometimes you just have to blow something up.

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