EP.27 House Swaps and Hilarity: An Interview with Amy Poeppel
In this episode of Elena Meets the Author, I interview the wonderful novelist Amy Poeppel about her latest book, Far and Away, a comedic tale of two families from Dallas and Berlin embarking on a chaotic house swap. Amy shares the inspiration behind her book, drawn from her own experiences living in these cities, and we dive into the complexities of writing a multi-layered story. She discusses the humorous misunderstandings and cultural clashes her characters face and gives insights into her unique writing process, including her preference for using a whiteboard over outlining. We wrap up with a conversation about how Amy's characters discover the true meaning of home and community.Links to books mentioned:Please buy through these links to directly support the podcast for free! Amy Poeppel - Far and AwayAmy’s book recommendations: The Correspondence The Road to Tender HeartsRed Island House Check out my favorite rolling top 10 books, updated regularly! Watch Amy’s trailer here 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:39 Meet the Author: Amy Poeppel02:13 The Inspiration Behind the Novel05:00 Humorous Miscommunications11:03 Writing Process and Challenges15:24 Character Development and Research25:49 Exploring the Vermeer Scandal26:12 Writing Process and Research28:49 Teenage Dialogue and Miscommunication30:14 Character Development and Themes32:51 Challenges and Joys of Writing37:18 The Importance of Community39:17 Starting a Writing Career Later in Life45:59 Upcoming Projects and Inspirations49:43 Book Recommendations52:14 Conclusion and Final Thoughts This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit elenabowes.substack.com
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EP.26 - Demystifying the Magic with Yael Van Der Wouden
In this episode of Elena Meets the Author, I interview Dutch author Yael Van Der Wouden about her debut novel, 'The Safekeep', which was shortlisted for the Booker Prize. We delve into the novel's complex themes, including post-war Dutch society, familial relationships, and the nuances of loathing and desire. Yael shares insights into her writing process, the inspiration behind her work, and her experiences growing up Jewish in the Netherlands. The episode concludes with a discussion on building suspense and the art of writing erotica, offering listeners a comprehensive look at the making of a modern classic. Don't miss Yael reading an excerpt from her book and hinting at her upcoming novel.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:15 Meet the Author: Yael Van Der Wouden00:56 Synopsis of 'The Safekeep'01:22 Isabelle's Life and Family Dynamics02:35 Interview with Yael: Writing Process and Inspirations05:36 Yael's Childhood and Cultural Experiences09:39 Themes and Historical Context in 'The Safe Keep'15:55 Isabelle's Relationship with Her Brothers18:42 Reading an Excerpt from 'The Safekeep'20:59 Exploring Loathing and Desire22:38 Crafting Suspense in Writing25:25 Erotica and Tension29:26 Cinematic Influences in Writing31:07 The Three-Part Structure34:56 Character Development and Morality39:21 Author's Intent and Reader Takeaways42:10 Upcoming Projects and Conclusion This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit elenabowes.substack.com
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EP.25 - Unveiling the Magic: Annabel Monaghan on 'It's a Love Story'
In this episode of Elena Meets the Author, I sit down with the brilliant and beloved romance novelist Annabel Monaghan to talk about her upcoming book, It’s a Love Story, which hits shelves on May 27th. We dive into her creative process and the inspiration behind her central characters—Jane Jackson, a former child TV star trying to find her footing in Hollywood, and Dan Finnegan, her arrogant (but undeniably charming) nemesis turned potential love interest.Annabel reads a powerful excerpt from the book and opens up about the deeper themes of self-realization and challenging the beliefs we grow up with. We also chat about what makes romantic comedy both joyful and difficult to write, how she crafts characters that are flawed but lovable, explains how to write a sex scene, and tells us why date dresses and straightened hair aren’t necessarily the way to seduce your soulmate.She even gives us a sneak peek at what she’s working on next—and shares some of her recent favourite reads. If you love thoughtful conversations about books, creativity, and the messy beauty of love stories, you’re going to enjoy this one.00:14 Introducing Annabel Monaghan02:38 Reading from 'It's a Love Story'06:50 Inspiration Behind the Book08:28 Writing Process and Challenges15:17 Setting and Future Projects20:08 Pitching the Book Idea20:22 Jane's Date Dresses and Long Island Trip21:51 Uncomfortable Crisis in the Story22:40 Creating the Character of Dan23:49 Writing Convincing Love Scenes26:37 Mother-Daughter Relationship Dynamics28:37 Potential Film Adaptations31:36 New Book Project33:35 Reading Recommendations and Writing Routine This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit elenabowes.substack.com
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EP.23 - Exploring America's First Murder Trial with Lauren Willig
In this episode of 'Elena Meets The Author,' Elena Bowes sits down with Lauren Willig, the New York Times bestselling author of over 25 works of historical fiction. They dive into Willig's latest book, 'The Girl from Greenwich Street,' an enthralling courtroom drama set during America's first recorded murder trial in 1799. Willig shares her intricate journey from law to writing, her fascinating research process, and the historical nuances that make this story so compelling. The conversation also explores the socio-cultural dynamics of 1800s New York and how Willig breathes life into her characters through rich historical details.00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene00:00 Meet the Author: Lauren Willig00:31 The Historical Context of 'The Girl from Greenwich Street'02:16 Lauren Willig's Journey from Law to Literature04:28 The Unique Aspects of the Levi Weeks Trial05:51 Discovering the Story Through Research12:19 Life in 1800s New York City15:54 Reading from the Prologue19:46 Challenges in Uncovering Elma's Story23:00 The Defense Team: Burr and Hamilton26:02 The Manhattan Well and Its Historical Significance30:07 The Role of Women in the Case33:02 The Quaker Curse and Its Impact37:38 Upcoming Projects and Future Works This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit elenabowes.substack.com
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EP.22 - Lynda Cohen Loigman - The Magic of Historical Love Stories
In this episode, Elena interviews Lynda Cohen Loigman about her latest book, 'The Love Elixir of Augusta Stern,' which has made it to Elena's rolling top 10 books. They discuss the novel's dual timeline, set in a 1920s Brooklyn pharmacy and a 1980s Florida retirement home, its themes of second chances and the magic of youth. Lynda reads an excerpt from the book and shares her inspiration, drawn from family stories and personal experiences. The conversation delves into the historical role of pharmacies, the impact of timing and secrets in the plot, and the power of words. Linda also gives a glimpse into her next book, a coming-of-age story set in 1965.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:26 Book Overview: The Love Elixir of Augusta Stern02:01 Reading from Chapter One06:35 Inspiration Behind the Book17:21 Pharmacy and Historical Context31:05 Soap Opera Secrets and Storytelling32:28 Character Dynamics and Plot Twists33:30 Inspiration from O. Henry36:11 Research and Writing Process37:50 Themes in Historical Fiction41:57 The Power of Words46:53 Upcoming Projects and Recommendations This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit elenabowes.substack.com
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Om Elena Meets the Author
Welcome to Elena Meets the Author, the Podcast that brings you intimate conversations with authors about the art and craft of storytelling. Whether you’re a passionate reader, a curious creator, or simply love diving into the minds of creative thinkers, this podcast offers a behind-the-scenes look at how stories come to life.
Each episode features an in-depth interview with an author as they share their unique journey, the challenges they’ve faced, and the inspiration behind their work. From uncovering the spark of an idea to navigating the ups and downs of the creative process, we explore the human side of writing. My goal is to inspire and connect listeners with the magic of storytelling while celebrating the diversity of voices shaping today’s literary landscape.
This podcast is especially for people who enjoy exploring creativity, personal growth, and the stories that move us. But the insights and inspiration we uncover are universal, offering something for anyone who appreciates the power of words.
Tune in for thoughtful conversations that will leave you feeling inspired, connected, and ready to embrace your own creative journey.
New episodes released biweekly!
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