Join this engaging conversation as Chad sits down with fantastic fiction author Charlene Thomas, author of STREETLIGHT PEOPLE, SETON GIRLS and IT'S YOU EVERY TIME. Charlene talks about her journey into writing, what she values in a good story and how setting plays such a huge part in writing fiction.

In this engaging conversation, author and branding specialist Phoenix Williams shares her journey from aspiring storyteller to successful author and screenwriter. She discusses the importance of community, authenticity, and branding in the writing industry, as well as the challenges faced by underrepresented voices. Phoenix emphasizes the need for patience in the creative process and the value of mentorship in navigating the complexities of screenwriting and publishing. Her insights provide valuable guidance for aspiring authors looking to carve their own paths in the literary world.

In this episode of Books, Rhymes, and Life, Chad discusses the critical role of setting in storytelling, emphasizing that it should be treated as a character in its own right. He explores various techniques for enhancing the sense of place in writing, using examples from notable literary works such as 'Deliverance' and 'Lord of the Flies'. Chad highlights the importance of irony and conflict in setting, and provides practical tips for writers to create a more immersive narrative experience.

Listen in to literary agent Katharine Sands of the Sarah Jane Freymann Agency as she talks about how to approach agents, how agents work, and the best way to secure your agent.

In this engaging conversation, Chad interviews Saddiq Dzukogi, a talented poet and professor, about his journey into writing, the importance of identity, and the creative process. Saddiq shares his experiences of moving from Nigeria to the U.S., the significance of the blank page, and the urgency of expressing one's voice. He emphasizes the value of storytelling, the role of agency in writing, and the responsibility of a poet to listen and respond to the world around them. The discussion also touches on Saddiq's upcoming projects, including a poignant exploration of the kidnapped girls by Boko Haram.

In this episode of Books, Rhymes, and Life, host Chad Rhoad interviews author Nicholas Bellardes about his novel The Deading, which blends elements of horror with environmental themes. They discuss Nicholas's journey to becoming a writer, the significance of humor in horror, and the impact of environmental issues on storytelling. The conversation also touches on the importance of birding and the fragility of ecosystems, emphasizing the role of literature in raising awareness about these critical topics.

In this engaging conversation, Chad interviews Tasha Coryell, author of 'Love Letters to a Serial Killer.' Tasha shares her journey to becoming a writer, her creative process, and the themes explored in her work, including social issues, gender roles, and the power dynamics in relationships. The discussion also touches on the role of humor in addressing serious topics and the nostalgia for early internet culture. Tasha reveals her upcoming projects and the excitement surrounding her next book.

For the very first episode of Books, Rhymes & Life we look at how to start building your platform as an author through joining a community.