🚀 Timothy Robare: Writing, Worldbuilding, and Embracing the Journey 🚀 Writing Quest’s Links: Support my bookstore: https://bookshop.org/shop/questhavenbooks Storybook: Master Novelist: https://writingquest.gumroad.com/l/StorybookMasterNovelist X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/WritingQuest Scrivener Discount (20% off with code ‘QUEST’): https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html?fpr=writingquest2 Codex Archetypum E-Book: https://gumroad.com/a/398043347/tguwn Episode Summary: In this episode, Timothy Robare shares the inspiring journey behind his Tales of Battle series. From enduring personal challenges to navigating the creative highs and lows of writing and self-publishing, Timothy's story is a testament to perseverance and passion. With a love for crafting dynamic worlds and relatable characters, he dives into the process of turning his ideas into novels and the lessons learned along the way. What’s Inside: From Writing Therapy to Author Career: Timothy explains how writing provided an outlet during his childhood struggles and became a lifelong passion. Crafting Tales of Battle: Inspired by Redwall and a love for elves, Timothy discusses his unique blend of humanoid animals, elves, and humans in his epic fantasy series. Going with the Flow vs. Outlining: While his first series was written fluidly, Timothy reflects on the challenges of retrofitting maps and systems post-draft and shares plans to outline his next series. Publishing Path: After facing setbacks with querying, Timothy shares why he chose self-publishing and the support he received from his editor to take the leap. Advice for Aspiring Authors: Timothy emphasizes the importance of seeking constructive criticism, staying true to your artistic journey, and embracing both the highs and lows of the writing process. Join the Discussion: How do you navigate the ups and downs of writing and publishing? Are you a plotter, pantser, or somewhere in between? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to check out Timothy Robare’s Tales of Battle! Subscribe for more inspiring author interviews and writing tips from Writing Quest! #WritingQuest #TimothyRobare #TalesOfBattle #FantasyWriting #Worldbuilding

🚀 NJ Alexander on Vanity Presses, Rewriting, and Building a Writing Community 🚀 Writing Quest’s Links: Storybook: Master Novelist: https://writingquest.gumroad.com/l/StorybookMasterNovelist X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/WritingQuest Scrivener Discount (20% off with code ‘QUEST’): https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html?fpr=writingquest2 Codex Archetypum E-Book: https://gumroad.com/a/398043347/tguwn Episode Summary: In this episode, Brendan sits down with NJ Alexander, author of Fog Bound, to discuss his journey through self-publishing, the perils of vanity presses, and how rewriting his debut novel gave it new life. From sharing lessons learned about dodging scams to detailing his meticulous writing process, NJ delivers a candid and inspiring look at the trials and triumphs of being an indie author. This conversation is packed with actionable advice, from avoiding common pitfalls in publishing to finding your place in a supportive writing community. What’s Inside: A Tale of Redemption: NJ shares how his early experience with a vanity press led to reclaiming his work and relaunching Fog Bound. Rewriting and Reimagining: Discover how NJ transformed his original draft by adding new depth, improving character agency, and restructuring the story. Avoiding Vanity Presses: Warning signs and why authors should never pay a publisher to release their work. Writing Routine: NJ’s disciplined binge-writing strategy and how he balances creativity with a full-time job. Community Building: The importance of finding critique partners, beta readers, and support within the indie writing space. Looking Ahead: NJ’s plans to finish the Echoes of Ono series and venture into writing something weird, wacky, and wildly creative. Join the Discussion: Have you ever had a negative experience with a vanity press? How do you stay motivated to write? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to grab your copy of Fog Bound! Subscribe for more author interviews and writing tips from Writing Quest! #WritingQuest #NJAlexander #FantasyAuthor #FogBound #SelfPublishing #VanityPress #IndieAuthor

🚀 Interview with Bethany Garcia: Worldbuilding, Self-Publishing, and Creative Freedom 🚀 Bethany Garcia’s Links: Website: www.bshgarcia.com (Get From the Ashes free by subscribing to her newsletter!) Socials: @bshgarcia on all platforms (primarily on Twitter/X and Instagram) Upcoming Release: Of Love and Loss (Released September 28th) 📚 Ebook Pre-order: https://books2read.com/u/b6pwl0 📚 Paperback and Hardback also available! Writing Quest’s Links: Storybook: Master Novelist: https://writingquest.gumroad.com/l/StorybookMasterNovelist X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/WritingQuest Scrivener Discount (20% off with code ‘QUEST’): https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html?fpr=writingquest2 Codex Archetypum E-Book: https://gumroad.com/a/398043347/tguwn Episode Summary: In this episode, Brenden sits down with fantasy author Bethany Garcia, author of Of Thieves and Shadows and Of Love and Loss. Bethany shares her journey from acting to writing, the origins of her Quinaria series, and the challenges of balancing family life with creative pursuits. Bethany dives deep into worldbuilding, character development, and the self-publishing process, offering invaluable advice to aspiring authors. From finding the courage to share your work with beta readers to navigating the complexities of publishing, Bethany’s insights are both practical and inspiring. What’s Inside: The Origins of Quinaria: Bethany recounts how a single scene idea during an acting exercise transformed into her debut fantasy series, The Heart of Quinaria. On Worldbuilding: For Bethany, worldbuilding is more than setting—it’s a character in its own right, shaping her story and influencing every decision her characters make. Writing Process & Challenges: Balancing writing with family life, Bethany discusses how becoming a mother reshaped her approach to creativity, and how she shifted from a structured routine to seizing moments of inspiration during naptimes. Self-Publishing vs. Traditional: Bethany reflects on her decision to self-publish after receiving feedback from agents. She highlights the value of creative control, the importance of research, and the ever-evolving landscape of indie publishing. Advice for Aspiring Authors: Finish your drafts, get feedback from beta readers, and build a supportive writing community—Bethany’s advice for writers at any stage of their journey. Join the Discussion: Have you considered self-publishing? What role does worldbuilding play in your stories? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to check out Bethany Garcia’s latest book, Of Love and Loss! Subscribe for more author interviews and writing tips from Writing Quest! #WritingQuest #BethanyGarcia #FantasyAuthor #Worldbuilding #SelfPublishing #OfThievesAndShadows #HeartOfQuinaria