The Shit No One Tells You About Writing
- Episodios
- 465
- Se publica
- varias veces por semana
- Último episodio
- 12 Nov 2026
Sobre el podcast
This is a podcast for emerging writers who want to improve the quality of their work and learn more about the publishing industry. Your one host, Bianca Marais (the bestselling author of 'The Witches of Moonshyne Manor') interviews authors, agents, editors and just about anyone and everyone who's involved in bringing a book to market. She's joined by her cohosts, literary agents Carly Watters and CeCe Lyra from P.S. Literary Agency, who read and critique query letters as well as opening pages in their Books with Hooks segment. Expect good advice, honest insights, and a few laughs along the way.
Episodios 465
Why Writing is Rewriting
Bianca welcomes number one international bestselling author Jeffery Deaver to discuss his latest thriller, The Collateral Heart, and the secrets in creating his page-turning novels. Known for his meticulous …
Notas del episodio
Bianca welcomes number one international bestselling author Jeffery Deaver to discuss his latest thriller, The Collateral Heart, and the secrets in creating his page-turning novels. Known for his meticulous outlining process, Jeffery shares why structure is essential to storytelling, how character descriptions can create deeper emotional connections, and his three-step approach to revision. Jeffery also shares his practical editing tricks, explains why writers should listen to their manuscripts aloud, and shares his thoughts on AI in creative writing.
Note: CeCe Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates. If you’d like to query CeCe, please refer to the submission guidelines at www.wsherman.com. Carly Watters is a literary agent at P.S. Literary Agency, but her work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly on this podcast are solely that of her as a podcast co-host and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.
Find us on our socials:
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_shit_about_writing
https://www.threads.net/@biancamarais_author
https://www.threads.net/@carlywatters https://www.threads.net/@cece_lyra_agent
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_shit_about_writing/
https://www.instagram.com/biancamarais_author/ https://www.instagram.com/carlywatters/ https://www.instagram.com/cece_lyra_agent/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TSNOTYAW
Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com
Sign up for Coaching Corner: https://learn-with-cece.thinkific.com/products/courses/cecescoachingcorner
Bookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwriting
To sign up for our Substack newsletter, head to https://theshitaboutwriting.substack.com
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Quince and use my code TSNOTYAW for a great deal: https://www.quince.com
* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code RosettaStone.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com
* Check out Uncommon Goods and use my code uncommongoods.com/TSNOTYAW for a great deal: https://www.uncommongoods.com
* Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsShooting The Shit About 1.7 million on Day One
It’s been a minute…or more like a month! The dynamic literary agent duo are reunited and Shooting the Shit! Carly and CeCe catch up on publishing events, exciting book deals, their latest reads, and why …
Notas del episodio
It’s been a minute…or more like a month! The dynamic literary agent duo are reunited and Shooting the Shit! Carly and CeCe catch up on publishing events, exciting book deals, their latest reads, and why personal relationships remain so important in the publishing industry. They also get into it about blockbuster romantasy sales and the growing influence of AI on declining nonfiction readership, printing challenges, and rising book costs.
As mentioned on the podcast:
https://variety.com/2026/tv/news/a-court-of-thorns-and-roses-book-6-sales-sarah-j-maas-1236934581/)
Note: CeCe Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates. If you’d like to query CeCe, please refer to the submission guidelines at www.wsherman.com. Carly Watters is a literary agent at P.S. Literary Agency, but her work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly on this podcast are solely that of her as a podcast co-host and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.
Find us on our socials:
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_shit_about_writing
https://www.threads.net/@biancamarais_author
https://www.threads.net/@carlywatters https://www.threads.net/@cece_lyra_agent
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_shit_about_writing/
https://www.instagram.com/biancamarais_author/ https://www.instagram.com/carlywatters/ https://www.instagram.com/cece_lyra_agent/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TSNOTYAW
Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com
Bookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwriting
To sign up for our Substack newsletter, head to https://theshitaboutwriting.substack.com
Sign up for CeCe's course:
https://learn-with-cece.thinkific.com/products/courses/cecescoachingcorner
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Quince and use my code TSNOTYAW for a great deal: https://www.quince.com
* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code RosettaStone.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com
* Check out Uncommon Goods and use my code uncommongoods.com/TSNOTYAW for a great deal: https://www.uncommongoods.com
* Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsAn Editorial Director on Books with Hooks
Literary agent CeCe Lyra is joined by Editorial Director Bhavna Chauhan, at Doubleday Canada, for a special Books with Hooks episode. They dig into two query letters and opening pages, covering everything from …
Notas del episodio
Literary agent CeCe Lyra is joined by Editorial Director Bhavna Chauhan, at Doubleday Canada, for a special Books with Hooks episode. They dig into two query letters and opening pages, covering everything from choosing strong comps and clarifying genre to building tension, strengthening interiority, and creating opening scenes that keep readers turning pages. Bhavna also offers an acquiring editor’s perspective on what makes a pitch—and a protagonist—stand out.
Bhavna Chauhan is Associate Publisher at Doubleday Canada where she edits for and oversees the imprint’s commercial program. A book business veteran of nearly three decades (including ten years as a bookseller), she now works across several genres and with an array of brilliant writers, including Heather Marshall, Shari Lapena, Liane Moriarty, Eva Jurczyk, Dolly Alderton, Shilpi Somaya Gowda, Chantel Guertin, Rick Mofina, and Molly Fader. As an editor, she’s on the hunt for smart, feel-good (and sometimes laugh-out-loud) upmarket book club fiction that features unforgettable characters on life-affirming journeys, and sophisticated, intricately crafted psychological thrillers that play with form.
Note: CeCe Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates. If you’d like to query CeCe, please refer to the submission guidelines at www.wsherman.com. Carly Watters is a literary agent at P.S. Literary Agency, but her work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly on this podcast are solely that of her as a podcast co-host and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.
Find us on our socials:
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_shit_about_writing
https://www.threads.net/@biancamarais_author
https://www.threads.net/@carlywatters https://www.threads.net/@cece_lyra_agent
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_shit_about_writing/
https://www.instagram.com/biancamarais_author/ https://www.instagram.com/carlywatters/ https://www.instagram.com/cece_lyra_agent/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TSNOTYAW
Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com
Bookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwriting
To sign up for our Substack newsletter, head to https://theshitaboutwriting.substack.com
Sign up for CeCe's course:
https://learn-with-cece.thinkific.com/products/courses/cecescoachingcorner
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Quince and use my code TSNOTYAW for a great deal: https://www.quince.com
* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code RosettaStone.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com
* Check out Uncommon Goods and use my code uncommongoods.com/TSNOTYAW for a great deal: https://www.uncommongoods.com
* Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsShooting The Shit With Special Guest Regina Brooks
It’s Carly’s turn to give CeCe FOMO! Carly is back in the hot seat with special guest Regina Brooks, founder and CEO of Serendipity Literary Agency and President of the Association of American Literary Agents …
Notas del episodio
It’s Carly’s turn to give CeCe FOMO! Carly is back in the hot seat with special guest Regina Brooks, founder and CEO of Serendipity Literary Agency and President of the Association of American Literary Agents (AALA), for a firsthand look at the evolving landscape of literary agenting. Regina provides listeners with a lesson in Canon of Ethics 101 and its impact on authors, the financial realities of being a literary agent, the challenges facing today’s publishing industry and the growing impact of AI. She also answers (in her opinion) why staying informed might be the biggest challenge facing the publishing industry today.
About Regina Brooks:
Ms. Regina Brooks is the founder and CEO of Serendipity Literary Agency in NY, where she has represented and established a diverse base of award-winning clients in adult and young adult fiction, nonfiction, and children's literature. Her clients have received Newbery, Caldecott, Edgar, Kirkus, NAACP Image and National Book Awards and honors.
Currently the president of the Association of American Literary Agents (AALA), Brooks is also the co-producer of the People of Publishing Conference, former co-producer of the U.S. Book Show, and a founding member of Literary Agents of Change (LAOC) and the Black Book Accelerator. She is a board member of the Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP) and a member of National Book Foundation’s Book Council
Brooks is the author of Writing Great Books for Young Adults: Everything You Need to Know, from Crafting the Idea to Getting Published (Sourcebooks), You Should Really Write a Book: How to Write, Sell, and Market Your Memoir (St. Martin's Press), and Essence Magazine's quick pick children's book, Never Finished, Never Done (Scholastic).
She is also a co-publisher with Open Lens, an imprint of Johnny Temple's (founder of the Brooklyn Book Festival) Akashic Books. She also partnered with poet Jessica Care Moore and was instrumental in relaunching Moore Black Press as an Amistad/HarperCollins poetry imprint.
Brooks has been highlighted in the New York Times, USA Today, Wall Street Journal, The Atlantic, bkreader and the Los Angeles Times. Her awards and honors include Stevie Awards in Business and for Women Entrepreneurs. The National Association of Professional Women named Brooks Woman of the Year, and Writer's Digest Magazine named Serendipity Literary Agency one of the top 25 literary agencies.
Prior to her publishing career, Brooks worked as an aerospace engineer and made history as the first African American woman to receive a Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering from The Ohio State University, and today she's a pilot and cofounder of Brooklyn Aviation.
Note: CeCe Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates. If you’d like to query CeCe, please refer to the submission guidelines at www.wsherman.com. Carly Watters is a literary agent at P.S. Literary Agency, but her work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly on this podcast are solely that of her as a podcast co-host and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.
Find us on our socials:
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_shit_about_writing
https://www.threads.net/@biancamarais_author
https://www.threads.net/@carlywatters https://www.threads.net/@cece_lyra_agent
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_shit_about_writing/
https://www.instagram.com/biancamarais_author/ https://www.instagram.com/carlywatters/ https://www.instagram.com/cece_lyra_agent/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TSNOTYAW
Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com
Bookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwriting
To sign up for our Substack newsletter, head to https://theshitaboutwriting.substack.com
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Quince and use my code TSNOTYAW for a great deal: https://www.quince.com
* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code RosettaStone.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com
* Check out Uncommon Goods and use my code uncommongoods.com/TSNOTYAW for a great deal: https://www.uncommongoods.com
* Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsBelieving in Your Worth Despite Being Rejected Over 250 Times
This week on the podcast Bianca sits down with Cherokee Nation member, USA Today bestselling author Vanessa Lillie to discuss her gripping new thriller, The Bone Thief. Vanessa shares her long road to …
Notas del episodio
This week on the podcast Bianca sits down with Cherokee Nation member, USA Today bestselling author Vanessa Lillie to discuss her gripping new thriller, The Bone Thief. Vanessa shares her long road to publication, navigating rejection and the business of publishing, and why writers need to trust their instincts. She also explains how writers can create a propulsive opening, write complex characters, and use suspense to explore Indigenous history, the trauma of colonialism, and the theft of Indigenous remains.
Note: CeCe Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates. If you’d like to query CeCe, please refer to the submission guidelines at www.wsherman.com. Carly Watters is a literary agent at P.S. Literary Agency, but her work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly on this podcast are solely that of her as a podcast co-host and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.
Find us on our socials:
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_shit_about_writing
https://www.threads.net/@biancamarais_author
https://www.threads.net/@carlywatters https://www.threads.net/@cece_lyra_agent
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_shit_about_writing/
https://www.instagram.com/biancamarais_author/ https://www.instagram.com/carlywatters/ https://www.instagram.com/cece_lyra_agent/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TSNOTYAW
Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com
Bookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwriting
To sign up for our Substack newsletter, head to https://theshitaboutwriting.substack.com
Sign up for CeCe's course:
https://learn-with-cece.thinkific.com/products/courses/cecescoachingcorner
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Quince and use my code TSNOTYAW for a great deal: https://www.quince.com
* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code RosettaStone.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com
* Check out Uncommon Goods and use my code uncommongoods.com/TSNOTYAW for a great deal: https://www.uncommongoods.com
* Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsOctober Bonus Episode
It’s the last Monday of the month and that means it’s Bonus Episode week! Back in the hot seat is Emilie Sommer from East City Bookshop to answer all your comp questions. But first, join Bianca Marais and #1 …
Notas del episodio
It’s the last Monday of the month and that means it’s Bonus Episode week! Back in the hot seat is Emilie Sommer from East City Bookshop to answer all your comp questions. But first, join Bianca Marais and #1 international bestselling author Sir Ian Rankin, to discuss his latest crime thriller, The Heights. Sir Ian Rankin shares why he writes without an outline, how his characters guide the story, and the challenges of keeping track of details across a decades-long series. The two authors talk about compelling mysteries, creating unforgettable characters, the importance of trusting readers, and why the first draft is all about discovery.
Note: CeCe Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates. If you’d like to query CeCe, please refer to the submission guidelines at www.wsherman.com. Carly Watters is a literary agent at P.S. Literary Agency, but her work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly on this podcast are solely that of her as a podcast co-host and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.
Find us on our socials:
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_shit_about_writing
https://www.threads.net/@biancamarais_author
https://www.threads.net/@carlywatters https://www.threads.net/@cece_lyra_agent
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_shit_about_writing/
https://www.instagram.com/biancamarais_author/ https://www.instagram.com/carlywatters/ https://www.instagram.com/cece_lyra_agent/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TSNOTYAW
Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com
Sign up for Coaching Corner: https://learn-with-cece.thinkific.com/products/courses/cecescoachingcorner
Bookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwriting
To sign up for our Substack newsletter, head to https://theshitaboutwriting.substack.com
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Quince and use my code TSNOTYAW for a great deal: https://www.quince.com
* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code RosettaStone.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com
* Check out Uncommon Goods and use my code uncommongoods.com/TSNOTYAW for a great deal: https://www.uncommongoods.com
* Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsYour Job Is to Seduce, Not Explain
Bianca, Carly, and CeCe are joined by listener Yemeng Lu-Myers. Our hosts critique Yemeng’s upmarket novel, discussing the importance of specificity when discussing inciting incidents in queries, strengthening …
Notas del episodio
Bianca, Carly, and CeCe are joined by listener Yemeng Lu-Myers. Our hosts critique Yemeng’s upmarket novel, discussing the importance of specificity when discussing inciting incidents in queries, strengthening tension between a character’s obligations and their desire, as well as how comps and titles can be used to position your book for the right audience. Carly, CeCe, and Bianca also dig into Yemeng’s opening pages, emphasizing some of CeCe’s favourite things – interiority, emotionality, and curiosity! Listen to find out more about hooking and seducing readers… hint: don’t reveal all your cards right away!
Note: CeCe Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates. If you’d like to query CeCe, please refer to the submission guidelines at www.wsherman.com. Carly Watters is a literary agent at P.S. Literary Agency, but her work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly on this podcast are solely that of her as a podcast co-host and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.
Find us on our socials:
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_shit_about_writing
https://www.threads.net/@biancamarais_author
https://www.threads.net/@carlywatters https://www.threads.net/@cece_lyra_agent
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_shit_about_writing/
https://www.instagram.com/biancamarais_author/ https://www.instagram.com/carlywatters/ https://www.instagram.com/cece_lyra_agent/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TSNOTYAW
Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com
Bookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwriting
To sign up for our Substack newsletter, head to https://theshitaboutwriting.substack.com
Sign up for CeCe's course:
https://learn-with-cece.thinkific.com/products/courses/cecescoachingcorner
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Quince and use my code TSNOTYAW for a great deal: https://www.quince.com
* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code RosettaStone.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com
* Check out Uncommon Goods and use my code uncommongoods.com/TSNOTYAW for a great deal: https://www.uncommongoods.com
* Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsShooting the Shit Featuring Guest Literary Agent Ashley Lopez
With Carly still on vacation, CeCe is getting herself into a little mischief! This week CeCe trades her cup of coffee and pours herself a glass of wine with friend and literary agent Ashley Lopez of MMQA …
Notas del episodio
With Carly still on vacation, CeCe is getting herself into a little mischief! This week CeCe trades her cup of coffee and pours herself a glass of wine with friend and literary agent Ashley Lopez of MMQA Literary Agency. CeCe and Ashley talk about the rise of AI-narrated audiobooks and AI-generated rejection letters to the struggles facing nonfiction and the case for paperback originals. They also discuss why the agency behind your literary agent matters, the best times to query, and what Ashley is currently looking for in her inbox.
About Ashley Lopez:
Ashley Lopez is an agent with Massie McQuilkin & Altman Literary Agents. She received her MFA in Fiction from Sarah Lawrence College and has over a decade of publishing experience. Formerly the Director of Foreign Rights and an agent at WLA Books, she has worked on international and New York Times bestsellers, bringing a global perspective to her authors. An active member of the AALA, she represents literary and book club fiction, grounded speculative, horror, thrillers, narrative and practical nonfiction, as well as select poetry and YA.
As discussed on the podcast:
https://lunch.publishersmarketplace.com/2026/10/fbf-the-future-of-audio-frankfurt/
https://thewalrus.ca/nonfiction-is-struggling-publishers-are-making-it-worse/
https://leighstein.substack.com/p/losers-v-victims
Note: CeCe Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates. If you’d like to query CeCe, please refer to the submission guidelines at www.wsherman.com. Carly Watters is a literary agent at P.S. Literary Agency, but her work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly on this podcast are solely that of her as a podcast co-host and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.
Find us on our socials:
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_shit_about_writing
https://www.threads.net/@biancamarais_author
https://www.threads.net/@carlywatters https://www.threads.net/@cece_lyra_agent
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_shit_about_writing/
https://www.instagram.com/biancamarais_author/ https://www.instagram.com/carlywatters/ https://www.instagram.com/cece_lyra_agent/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TSNOTYAW
Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com
Bookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwriting
To sign up for our Substack newsletter, head to https://theshitaboutwriting.substack.com
Sign up for CeCe's course: https://learn-with-cece.thinkific.com/products/courses/cecescoachingcorner
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Quince and use my code TSNOTYAW for a great deal: https://www.quince.com
* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code RosettaStone.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com
* Check out Uncommon Goods and use my code uncommongoods.com/TSNOTYAW for a great deal: https://www.uncommongoods.com
* Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsEverything You Write Is Both a One-Star Review and a Tattoo
Bianca sits down with author Jonathan Edward Durham to talk about Winterset Hollow, his genre-bending novel that went from self-published hidden gem to cult favourite—and eventually landed a traditional …
Notas del episodio
Bianca sits down with author Jonathan Edward Durham to talk about Winterset Hollow, his genre-bending novel that went from self-published hidden gem to cult favourite—and eventually landed a traditional publishing deal. Jonathan shares the unconventional journey behind the book, the power of word of mouth, and how he built an authentic social media following without constantly selling his work. They also dig into craft, from writing a book within a book to blending horror, fantasy, humour, and friendship—and why finding the right story can bring out your best writing.
Note: CeCe Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates. If you’d like to query CeCe, please refer to the submission guidelines at www.wsherman.com. Carly Watters is a literary agent at P.S. Literary Agency, but her work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly on this podcast are solely that of her as a podcast co-host and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.
Find us on our socials:
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_shit_about_writing
https://www.threads.net/@biancamarais_author
https://www.threads.net/@carlywatters https://www.threads.net/@cece_lyra_agent
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_shit_about_writing/
https://www.instagram.com/biancamarais_author/ https://www.instagram.com/carlywatters/ https://www.instagram.com/cece_lyra_agent/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TSNOTYAW
Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com
Bookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwriting
To sign up for our Substack newsletter, head to https://theshitaboutwriting.substack.com
Sign up for CeCe's course:
https://learn-with-cece.thinkific.com/products/courses/cecescoachingcorner
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Quince and use my code TSNOTYAW for a great deal: https://www.quince.com
* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code RosettaStone.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com
* Check out Uncommon Goods and use my code uncommongoods.com/TSNOTYAW for a great deal: https://www.uncommongoods.com
* Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsShooting the Shit With CeCe's Former Co-Workers Turned Bestie
Will Carly have a serious case of FOMO after this Monday’s Shooting the Shit episode?! In this special episode, CeCe was supposed to fly solo—but instead, she twisted the arms of her former colleagues turned …
Notas del episodio
Will Carly have a serious case of FOMO after this Monday’s Shooting the Shit episode?! In this special episode, CeCe was supposed to fly solo—but instead, she twisted the arms of her former colleagues turned besties, literary agents Eric Smith, Nour Sallam, Adria Goetz, and Claire Harris, to join her for a publishing industry catch-up. This fireside chat amongst besties, covers everything from printing delays and a new children's imprint to the resurgence of bookstores and the latest buzz from the Frankfurt Book Fair. AI…the agents go there. Diving into the increasingly complicated world of AI in publishing, discussing author protections, AI-generated submissions, and the controversy surrounding AI detection tools like Pangram. This episode is packed with loads of laughs, strong opinions, and publishing industry hot takes. Sorry, Carly. You definitely missed a good one!
As mentioned on this episode:
Sign up for Coaching Corner for access to the editorial library with agents' feedback — including feedback from Eric, Claire, Adria, and Nour!
https://learn-with-cece.thinkific.com/products/courses/cecescoachingcorner
The first publisher to issue AI guidelines to authors and illustrators:
https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/connect/contact-us/ai-policy-for-authors-and-illustrators/
Supply Chain Issues Threaten Book Sales:
What's Hot at the Frankfurt Book Fair:
Note: CeCe Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates. If you’d like to query CeCe, please refer to the submission guidelines at www.wsherman.com. Carly Watters is a literary agent at P.S. Literary Agency, but her work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly on this podcast are solely that of her as a podcast co-host and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.
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Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsDelivering on the DNA of the Book
It’s Books with Hooks week on the podcast! This week, CeCe and Bianca are joined by acquiring editor Elizabeth Hitti Musicant from Dial Press, an imprint of Penguin Random House. As they critique two queries …
Notas del episodio
It’s Books with Hooks week on the podcast! This week, CeCe and Bianca are joined by acquiring editor Elizabeth Hitti Musicant from Dial Press, an imprint of Penguin Random House. As they critique two queries, they break down choosing strong comps, creating specific stakes, trimming an overstuffed query, and making sure your opening pages deliver on your pitch. Plus, they unpack romantasy vs. romantic fantasy, prologues, dual POVs, and what it takes to create romantic chemistry readers can root for.
Note: CeCe Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates. If you’d like to query CeCe, please refer to the submission guidelines at www.wsherman.com. Carly Watters is a literary agent at P.S. Literary Agency, but her work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly on this podcast are solely that of her as a podcast co-host and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.
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It’s the first Monday of the month, which means Carly and CeCe are back for another Shooting the Shit! This week, Carly and CeCe unpack the latest from the People of Publishing Conference, from shifting reader …
Notas del episodio
It’s the first Monday of the month, which means Carly and CeCe are back for another Shooting the Shit! This week, Carly and CeCe unpack the latest from the People of Publishing Conference, from shifting reader habits and publishing trends to what’s happening behind the bestseller lists. CeCe shares what she learned about the return of historical fiction, the pressure on authors to promote their own books, why some books find success long after pub week, and the industry’s ongoing—and complicated—conversation around AI. Plus, Carly and CeCe talk about the power of long-term relationships in publishing and why sometimes it takes 20 years for the right agent-editor-book combination to come together.
Note: CeCe Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates. If you’d like to query CeCe, please refer to the submission guidelines at www.wsherman.com. Carly Watters is a literary agent at P.S. Literary Agency, but her work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly on this podcast are solely that of her as a podcast co-host and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.
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October is starting with a BANG. And this episode delivers. In part one, Bianca sits down with award-winning author Imbolo Mbue, author of the New York Times bestseller Behold the Dreamers, winner of the …
Notas del episodio
October is starting with a BANG. And this episode delivers. In part one, Bianca sits down with award-winning author Imbolo Mbue, author of the New York Times bestseller Behold the Dreamers, winner of the PEN/Faulkner Award for Fiction and an Oprah’s Book Club selection. Her second novel, How Beautiful We Were, was named one of The New York Times’ ten best books of 2021. Now, Imbolo joins the podcast to discuss her new novel, Every Story Is a Love Story, and its powerful exploration of grief, guilt, forgiveness, and healing. She shares her unconventional path to publication—including years of writing, countless rejections, and finally landing her dream agent—plus the personal experience that inspired her latest novel. Imbolo discusses craft, from creating complex characters to weaving together timelines, plots, and subplots, and why structure is essential to her writing process.
Stay tuned for part 2! Patrick Ryan, author of Buckeye, joins Bianca to talk about the eight-year journey behind the novel and why he learned to separate the joy of writing from the pressure to publish. They dive into writing without rigid rules, balancing showing and telling, experimenting with structure, mastering the omniscient narrator, and why revision is where so much of the magic happens. Patrick also shares what writing short stories taught him about economy, pacing, and giving a novel room to breathe.
Note: CeCe Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates. If you’d like to query CeCe, please refer to the submission guidelines at www.wsherman.com. Carly Watters is a literary agent at P.S. Literary Agency, but her work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly on this podcast are solely that of her as a podcast co-host and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.
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In part one of this month’s bonus episode, Emily St. John Mandel joins Bianca Marais to talk about Exit Party, the interconnected Mandelverse, and her unconventional writing process. She shares why she writes …
Notas del episodio
In part one of this month’s bonus episode, Emily St. John Mandel joins Bianca Marais to talk about Exit Party, the interconnected Mandelverse, and her unconventional writing process. She shares why she writes without a plan, treats first drafts as raw material, and relies on meticulous revision to shape the story. They also dig into complex characters, POV, keeping exposition moving, working with editors, and Emily’s best tip for stronger prose: read your novel aloud.
In the second part of this month’s bonus episode, Bianca welcomes bestselling author Chloe Benjamin back to the podcast to discuss her ambitious new novel, Understory. Chloe shares how real-life science inspired the story, the five-year journey of writing her first draft, and how she balanced extensive research with creative discovery. She also dives into crafting complex timelines, maintaining tension across a sprawling novel, working with a new editor, and why even an ambiguous ending should always be an intentional choice.
Note: CeCe Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates. If you’d like to query CeCe, please refer to the submission guidelines at www.wsherman.com. Carly Watters is a literary agent at P.S. Literary Agency, but her work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly on this podcast are solely that of her as a podcast co-host and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.
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In this extra-special Books with Hooks, Olivia Haberman joins Bianca, Carly, and CeCe to workshop her upmarket novel Nobody Panic—and earns some seriously rare praise. They dig into what makes a query …
Notas del episodio
In this extra-special Books with Hooks, Olivia Haberman joins Bianca, Carly, and CeCe to workshop her upmarket novel Nobody Panic—and earns some seriously rare praise. They dig into what makes a query impossible to stop reading, writing omniscient POV without falling into head-hopping, creating tension through dramatic irony, and knowing when not to over-explain your choices. Plus, Olivia shares why intentionality matters at every stage of the writing process and offers candid advice for writers considering an MFA.
Note: CeCe Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates. If you’d like to query CeCe, please refer to the submission guidelines at www.wsherman.com. Carly Watters is a literary agent at P.S. Literary Agency, but her work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly on this podcast are solely that of her as a podcast co-host and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.
Find us on our socials:
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Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsShooting The Shit About The AI Creativity Loop And Book Emergencies
Carly and CeCe are back for another Shooting the Shit. This week they are talking about the unexpected work literary agents do behind the scenes—from tracking book availability and rights reversions to using …
Notas del episodio
Carly and CeCe are back for another Shooting the Shit. This week they are talking about the unexpected work literary agents do behind the scenes—from tracking book availability and rights reversions to using sales data to advocate for authors. They also dig into Spotify opening AI-powered audiobook narration to all authors and what increasing automation could mean for writers, narrators, readers, and the human side of storytelling. Plus, Carly shares the book she can’t stop talking about, while CeCe reveals the manuscript that already has her plotting the perfect pitch.
As mentioned on the podcast:
https://authors.spotify.com/blog/creationtools?mc_cid=8d36cc232e&mc_eid=f61c809461
Note: CeCe Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates. If you’d like to query CeCe, please refer to the submission guidelines at www.wsherman.com. Carly Watters is a literary agent at P.S. Literary Agency, but her work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly on this podcast are solely that of her as a podcast co-host and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.
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Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsWriting Insights From the Greats: Isabelle Allende and Jodi Picoult
Bestselling author Isabel Allende joins CeCe Lyra for an incredible interview that touches on storytelling, creativity, and the writing life. From the difference between writing and storytelling to the power of …
Notas del episodio
Bestselling author Isabel Allende joins CeCe Lyra for an incredible interview that touches on storytelling, creativity, and the writing life. From the difference between writing and storytelling to the power of discipline, research, dreams, and solitude, Isabel shares the lessons she's learned over a lifetime of crafting unforgettable novels. They also discuss magical realism, overcoming self-doubt, trusting the creative process, and why every writer should protect their writing time as fiercely as their stories.
Stay tuned for part two! Bestselling author Jodi Picoult connects with fellow bestselling author Bianca Marais to share her approach to crafting unforgettable novels, from building stories around irresistible "what if" questions to conducting months of immersive research before writing a single page. She discusses plotting twist-filled narratives, creating compelling characters readers can't leave behind, weaving timelines with purpose, and why emotional tension matters more than explosive openings. Plus, Jodi reflects on revisiting beloved characters, trusting the writing process, and the surprises that emerge even after decades of storytelling.
Note: CeCe Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates. If you’d like to query CeCe, please refer to the submission guidelines at www.wsherman.com. Carly Watters is a literary agent at P.S. Literary Agency, but her work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly on this podcast are solely that of her as a podcast co-host and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.
Find us on our socials:
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Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com
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To sign up for our Substack newsletter, head to https://theshitaboutwriting.substack.com
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* Check out Uncommon Goods and use my code uncommongoods.com/TSNOTYAW for a great deal: https://www.uncommongoods.com
* Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsShooting the Shit About The End of Nonfiction And Immersive Trends In Fiction
Carly and CeCe are back! This week they tackle what’s shifting in the book world—from immersive audiobooks becoming a “movie between your ears” to bookstores proving that reading and community are very much …
Notas del episodio
Carly and CeCe are back! This week they tackle what’s shifting in the book world—from immersive audiobooks becoming a “movie between your ears” to bookstores proving that reading and community are very much alive. They also discuss the decline of nonfiction, why readers may be turning to other ways to learn, and what it means for authors and publishing.
As mentioned on this episode:
https://defector.com/what-do-booksellers-make-of-the-end-of-reading?giftLink=73a5c6e0b00
Note: CeCe Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates. If you’d like to query CeCe, please refer to the submission guidelines at www.wsherman.com. Carly Watters is a literary agent at P.S. Literary Agency, but her work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly on this podcast are solely that of her as a podcast co-host and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.
Find us on our socials:
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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TSNOTYAW
Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com\
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To sign up for our Substack newsletter, head to https://theshitaboutwriting.substack.com
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Quince and use my code TSNOTYAW for a great deal: https://www.quince.com
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* Check out Uncommon Goods and use my code uncommongoods.com/TSNOTYAW for a great deal: https://www.uncommongoods.com
* Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsAn Acquiring Editor on Books With Hooks
This week's Books with Hooks welcomes special guest and acquiring editor Kirsiah Depp. Together with CeCe and Bianca, she critiques two fantasy queries, shares what makes a query stand out in today's crowded …
Notas del episodio
This week's Books with Hooks welcomes special guest and acquiring editor Kirsiah Depp. Together with CeCe and Bianca, she critiques two fantasy queries, shares what makes a query stand out in today's crowded market, explains why blockbuster comps can hurt your pitch, and dives into opening pages that balance worldbuilding, atmosphere, plot, and emotional momentum. If you're querying fantasy—or any commercial fiction—you won't want to miss this one.
Note: CeCe Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates. If you’d like to query CeCe, please refer to the submission guidelines at www.wsherman.com. Carly Watters is a literary agent at P.S. Literary Agency, but her work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly on this podcast are solely that of her as a podcast co-host and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.
Find us on our socials:
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_shit_about_writing
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_shit_about_writing/
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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TSNOTYAW
Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com
Bookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwriting
To sign up for our Substack newsletter, head to https://theshitaboutwriting.substack.com
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Quince and use my code TSNOTYAW for a great deal: https://www.quince.com
* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code RosettaStone.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com
* Check out Uncommon Goods and use my code uncommongoods.com/TSNOTYAW for a great deal: https://www.uncommongoods.com
* Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsShooting the Shit About Advance Sizes and E-Learning Economics
Carly and CeCe are back to Shoot the Shit about the money behind publishing—and why getting published doesn’t mean the hard part is over. They dig into why an author’s second advance might be smaller than their …
Notas del episodio
Carly and CeCe are back to Shoot the Shit about the money behind publishing—and why getting published doesn’t mean the hard part is over. They dig into why an author’s second advance might be smaller than their first, the complicated relationship between effort and outcome, and why publishing sits at the messy intersection of art, passion, and business. Then, Carly and CeCe unpack new research on library e-lending and what the rise of ebooks could mean for consumer book sales. Plus, their thoughts on fall submission season, writing with AI, and why there is no magical “champagne room” waiting for writers once they make it.
As mentioned on the podcast:
https://theweekendrant.substack.com/p/when-literary-agents-become-public
Note: CeCe Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates. If you’d like to query CeCe, please refer to the submission guidelines at www.wsherman.com. Carly Watters is a literary agent at P.S. Literary Agency, but her work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly on this podcast are solely that of her as a podcast co-host and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.
Find us on our socials:
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_shit_about_writing
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_shit_about_writing/
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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TSNOTYAW
Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com
Bookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwriting
To sign up for our Substack newsletter, head to https://theshitaboutwriting.substack.com
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Quince and use my code TSNOTYAW for a great deal: https://www.quince.com
* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code RosettaStone.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com
* Check out Uncommon Goods and use my code uncommongoods.com/TSNOTYAW for a great deal: https://www.uncommongoods.com
* Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsIn Conversation with Editor and Author
Author Elizabeth Urso and her editor Alex Brown of Rising Action Publishing join Bianca Marais to talk about the journey behind Hail Mary, a dark, visceral thriller steeped in family secrets, generational …
Notas del episodio
Author Elizabeth Urso and her editor Alex Brown of Rising Action Publishing join Bianca Marais to talk about the journey behind Hail Mary, a dark, visceral thriller steeped in family secrets, generational trauma, and Gothic horror. They chat about Elizabeth’s unconventional path to publication, crafting a prologue that immediately grabs—and unsettles—the reader, knowing your genre audience, and why horror is having such a moment in publishing.
Note: CeCe Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates. If you’d like to query CeCe, please refer to the submission guidelines at www.wsherman.com. Carly Watters is a literary agent at P.S. Literary Agency, but her work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly on this podcast are solely that of her as a podcast co-host and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.
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In part one this August bonus episode, Bianca connects with bestselling author Ann Garvin to unpack the craft behind her suspense novel, Tell to Friends. They dive into building tension from page one, planting …
Notas del episodio
In part one this August bonus episode, Bianca connects with bestselling author Ann Garvin to unpack the craft behind her suspense novel, Tell to Friends. They dive into building tension from page one, planting curiosity seeds that keep readers turning pages, writing unforgettable dual POVs, and making every scene work harder. Ann also shares why she shelved this novel for nearly a decade before the publishing world was finally ready for its unique blend of suspense, humor, and heart.
Stay tuned! Jennifer Michelle Herrera returns to the podcast to talk about her new novel, Siren Says, and her leap from thriller to fantasy. She shares how grief shaped the book’s themes of magic, wonder, and resilience, and how extensive research into botany and Welsh folklore helped bring its world to life. Jennifer also gets into the craft behind the novel—from finding the right opening and using outside readers to writing immersive scenes, sharp dialogue, and simmering sexual tension. Those of you interested in attending the All About Fantasy Virtual Retreat will want to get a sneak peek as Jennifer is one of the featured speakers!
In the third interview of our August bonus episode, Bianca sits down with bestselling author Candice Carty-Williams to explore the return of Queenie, writing beautifully flawed protagonists, and why imperfect characters resonate so deeply with readers. They discuss crafting authentic character arcs, balancing humour with emotional depth, building unforgettable friendships on the page, and creating scenes that reveal character while moving the story forward. Plus, Candice shares how she landed her agent, why planning can only take a story so far, and how letting characters surprise you often leads to the best fiction.
Last but not least, award-winning author and creative writing professor Laurie Petrou joins Bianca to discuss her latest novel, The Rayburn Affair, and the freedom—and strategy—behind writing across genres. She shares why contests can be game-changing for unpublished writers and why timing can play such a huge role in an author’s career. Laurie also chats about the importance of craft, including building a slow burn, cranking up tension and stakes during revision, choosing the right POV, and why your early drafts don’t need to get everything right.
Note: CeCe Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates. If you’d like to query CeCe, please refer to the submission guidelines at www.wsherman.com. Carly Watters is a literary agent at P.S. Literary Agency, but her work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly on this podcast are solely that of her as a podcast co-host and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.
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On this week's Books with Hooks, Carly, CeCe, and Bianca discuss two compelling submissions: a queer reality TV romance and a dark psychological thriller. They break down what makes a standout query letter, the …
Notas del episodio
On this week's Books with Hooks, Carly, CeCe, and Bianca discuss two compelling submissions: a queer reality TV romance and a dark psychological thriller. They break down what makes a standout query letter, the importance of differentiating your comps, why your opening pages need the right disruption, and how character dynamics, curiosity, and specificity can make or break a manuscript request. Plus, an exciting announcement about a new Books with Hooks format featuring acquiring editors.
Note: CeCe Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates. If you’d like to query CeCe, please refer to the submission guidelines at www.wsherman.com. Carly Watters is a literary agent at P.S. Literary Agency, but her work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly on this podcast are solely that of her as a podcast co-host and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.
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Carly and CeCe are back for another Shooting the Shit, talking about that gut-level feeling that makes an agent know they’ve found something special—and why a great premise still has to deliver all the way …
Notas del episodio
Carly and CeCe are back for another Shooting the Shit, talking about that gut-level feeling that makes an agent know they’ve found something special—and why a great premise still has to deliver all the way through. The literary agents also tackle the latest publishing scams targeting writers, AI watermarking and transparency, and the growing tension around publishers using AI in parts of the business. Plus, they dig into the “put-down, pick-up test”.
As mentioned on the podcast (please copy and paste the URL into your browser):
https://janefriedman.com/after-editing-two-ai-assisted-manuscripts-i-rewrote-my-client-agreement/
https://andibartz.substack.com/p/publishing-is-under-a-full-fledged?r=h5j0&utm_campaign=post-expanded-share&utm_medium=post%20viewer
Note: CeCe Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates. If you’d like to query CeCe, please refer to the submission guidelines at www.wsherman.com. Carly Watters is a literary agent at P.S. Literary Agency, but her work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly on this podcast are solely that of her as a podcast co-host and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.
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To sign up for our Substack newsletter, head to https://theshitaboutwriting.substack.com
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Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsAuthor Insights from Hank Phillippi Ryan, Linwood Barclay and Laura Moriarty
In part one of this week’s packed episode Bianca Marais chats with thriller powerhouse Hank Phillippi Ryan, they unpack the craft behind ‘Mother, Daughter, Sister, Stranger’, from writing an unforgettable …
Notas del episodio
In part one of this week’s packed episode Bianca Marais chats with thriller powerhouse Hank Phillippi Ryan, they unpack the craft behind ‘Mother, Daughter, Sister, Stranger’, from writing an unforgettable prologue to building relentless suspense through curiosity, ticking clocks, and emotional stakes. Hank shares why panic is an essential part of her writing process, how reading ambitious novels pushes her to take bigger creative risks, and why grounding readers in a character's emotional journey is the key to making every twist land.
Next up is Laura Moriarty to discuss the craft behind ‘Sunlight Finds You’, exploring how voice can carry an opening without a traditional hook, why switching from third person to first person transformed the novel, and how a retrospective narrator creates powerful opportunities for foreshadowing. They also dive into historical research, layering exposition naturally, and using hindsight to add emotional weight to a coming-of-age story that lingers long after the final page.
Last but not least is in part three of this packed episode is New York Times bestselling author Linwood Barclay joins Bianca Marais to talk thrillers, twists, and keeping readers hooked. Linwood breaks down his “somewhere in the middle” approach to plotting, why his stories often begin with a killer “what if?”, and how TV taught him to treat chapter endings like commercial breaks. Plus, they dig into breaking writing rules, avoiding backstory overload, creating curiosity from page one, and why what characters do and say matters more than what they look like.
Note: CeCe Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates. If you’d like to query CeCe, please refer to the submission guidelines at www.wsherman.com. Carly Watters is a literary agent at P.S. Literary Agency, but her work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly on this podcast are solely that of her as a podcast co-host and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.
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Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsShooting the Shit About Author Events and Memoirs That Sell
Carly and CeCe are back for another Shooting the Shit, digging into the latest publishing news—from what’s changing with local author events to encouraging new sales numbers across the industry. They also …
Notas del episodio
Carly and CeCe are back for another Shooting the Shit, digging into the latest publishing news—from what’s changing with local author events to encouraging new sales numbers across the industry. They also spotlight editor Whitney Frick and unpack what makes a memoir truly resonate, why fact-checking ultimately falls on the author, and the difference between simply recounting what happened and finding the emotional truth behind an experience.
As mentioned on the podcast:
https://www.wsj.com/arts-culture/books/whitney-frick-belle-burden-amy-griffin-dial-press-f67fc87
https://www.bookforum.com/print/3301/always-be-selling-62909
Note: CeCe Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates. If you’d like to query CeCe, please refer to the submission guidelines at www.wsherman.com. Carly Watters is a literary agent at P.S. Literary Agency, but her work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly on this podcast are solely that of her as a podcast co-host and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.
Find us on our socials:
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This week on Books with Hooks, CeCe, Carly, and Bianca critique two submissions: a literary LGBTQ novel centered on the closure of a rural queer bar and the buried trauma tied to its history, and an upmarket …
Notas del episodio
This week on Books with Hooks, CeCe, Carly, and Bianca critique two submissions: a literary LGBTQ novel centered on the closure of a rural queer bar and the buried trauma tied to its history, and an upmarket dual-timeline novel set within Guadalajara's expat community, where old secrets and unresolved love collide decades later. Along the way, they discuss choosing stronger comp titles, balancing mystery with clarity in query letters, crafting irresistible hooks, building tension across dual timelines, and why specificity—not vagueness—is what truly keeps readers turning the page. They also dive into the nuances of POV, seamless scene transitions, and how to make literary fiction emotionally immersive without sacrificing momentum.
Note: CeCe Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates. If you’d like to query CeCe, please refer to the submission guidelines at www.wsherman.com. Carly Watters is a literary agent at P.S. Literary Agency, but her work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly on this podcast are solely that of her as a podcast co-host and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.
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Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsShooting The Shit About Cancelled Auctions and AI Inevitability
Carly and CeCe are back to unpack another messy week in publishing, from a headline-making cancelled book auction and growing concerns over AI accusations to the urgent need for clearer industry guidelines …
Notas del episodio
Carly and CeCe are back to unpack another messy week in publishing, from a headline-making cancelled book auction and growing concerns over AI accusations to the urgent need for clearer industry guidelines around AI use. They dig into who should be responsible for setting those rules, why authors deserve more transparency, and the risks of relying on AI detection tools. Plus, they discuss alternative publishing models, the rise of no-advance deals, and the increasingly sophisticated scams targeting authors.
As mentioned on the podcast (please copy and paste the URL into your browser):
Note: CeCe Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates. If you’d like to query CeCe, please refer to the submission guidelines at www.wsherman.com. Carly Watters is a literary agent at P.S. Literary Agency, but her work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly on this podcast are solely that of her as a podcast co-host and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.
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Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsAuthor Insights From Chris Bohjalian, Bailey Hannah and Tarah DeWitt
In part one of this week’s episode, Bianca Marais sits down with bestselling author Chris Bohjalian to discuss The Amateur. Don’t miss this incredibly insightful interview that touches on voice, tension, and …
Notas del episodio
In part one of this week’s episode, Bianca Marais sits down with bestselling author Chris Bohjalian to discuss The Amateur. Don’t miss this incredibly insightful interview that touches on voice, tension, and emotional storytelling. They explore how to create deeply flawed yet unforgettable characters, use specificity to reveal backstory without slowing the narrative, and build suspense through foreshadowing and structure. Chris also shares why he wrote the novel in just 90 days, how he balances first-person narration with psychological depth, and why action—not exposition—is often the strongest path to revealing character.
Shifting over to Bailey Hannah who joins Carly Watters to celebrate the final book in the beloved Wells Ranch series, Love Wells Kept. They discuss bringing the five-book journey to a close, writing an emotional marriage-in-crisis romance centered on amnesia, balancing heartbreak with hope, and researching traumatic brain injuries to portray recovery authentically. Bailey also shares her approach to romance tropes, crafting emotionally intelligent heroes, writing interconnected series, and why aspiring authors should stop waiting for the perfect moment and simply write the book.
In part three of this week’s author interviews, Carly Watters interviews Tara DeWitt about her new book Lost and Found, the culmination of her Spoons series. They talk about themes of grief, motherhood, and the complexities of relationships, exploring how Tara's characters navigate their emotional journeys. The discussion also touches on the balance of sweetness and spice in romance writing, the impact of social media on authors, and the powerful connections formed with fans through storytelling.
Note: CeCe Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates. If you’d like to query CeCe, please refer to the submission guidelines at www.wsherman.com. Carly Watters is a literary agent at P.S. Literary Agency, but her work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly on this podcast are solely that of her as a podcast co-host and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.
Audio excerpted courtesy of Penguin Random House Audio from Love Wells Kept by Bailey Hannah; Read by James Cassidy and Samantha Brentmoor. © 2026 Bailey Hannah, ℗ 2026 Penguin Random House, LLC. All rights reserved.
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Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsShooting The Shit About AI Accusations & New Rules For Agents
They are back! On this week’s episode of Shooting the Shit, Carly and CeCe tackle some of the biggest conversations in publishing, from the rise of AI detection controversies to the ethics of literary agent …
Notas del episodio
They are back! On this week’s episode of Shooting the Shit, Carly and CeCe tackle some of the biggest conversations in publishing, from the rise of AI detection controversies to the ethics of literary agent services. They discuss the recent ‘Atlantic’ article accusing a bestselling author of using AI, why unreliable detection tools can have serious consequences, and what transparency should look like in publishing. They also unpack major changes to the AALA Canon of Ethics, including editorial services, referral fees, and what these updates could mean for authors. Plus, they answer a listener's question about the pros and cons of signing with a literary agent who’s also an author, and share an important reminder about publishing scams targeting writers.
As referenced on the podcast - make sure to copy and paste the url:
Note: CeCe Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates. If you’d like to query CeCe, please refer to the submission guidelines at www.wsherman.com. Carly Watters is a literary agent at P.S. Literary Agency, but her work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly on this podcast are solely that of her as a podcast co-host and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.
Find us on our socials:
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_shit_about_writing
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Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com
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To sign up for our Substack newsletter, head to https://theshitaboutwriting.substack.com
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