Conversations on Craft

About Conversations on Craft

Conversations on Craft is a monthly podcast from Ascent Novel Prize that dives deep into the art, and grit, of writing. Hosted by Hayley King, each episode features conversations with authors and agents who reveal the techniques, habits, and mindset required to become a powerful storyteller. Whether you're beginning a first draft or publishing your tenth novel, you'll find practical advice, inspiration, and honest discussions about what it takes to produce a book that works. If you're serious about the craft or writing, this podcast is for you. Subscribe now and transform your writing, one episode at a time.

Publisher

Hayley King

Category

arts · fiction

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

4 Dec 2025

Latest episode

16 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

14 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   16 Oct 2026

   On Writing Future Worlds - with Ty Ogunade

   Conversations on Craft with Ty Ogunade Hayley is joined by Ty Ogunade, a lawyer and writer of Nigerian heritage based in East London, to talk about publishing, craft, and how sci-fi and fantasy can become more accessible to underrepresented voices. Ty also shares the context behind his work as founder of the London Sci-Fi and Fantasy Authors Writing Group, and his cyberpunk novel A Blade Drawn from Envy, which won the Future Worlds Prize 2026. Key topics Ty Ogunade’s background as a lawyer and writer of Nigerian heritage in East London Making publishing more accessible for voices that are often excluded from sci-fi and fantasy The purpose of the London Sci-Fi and Fantasy Authors Writing Group Ty’s lifelong love of sci-fi His cyberpunk novel A Blade Drawn from Envy The Future Worlds Prize 2026 win for A Blade Drawn from Envy Visit Ascent Novel Prize (https://www.ascentnovelprize.com) Follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/ascent_novel_prize/) Learn more about London Sci-Fi Authors (https://www.instagram.com/scififantasyauthors/) or visit their webpage HERE (https://www.scififantasyauthors.co.uk/) Music: UJDM0MRSBB0POLNZ

2. 

   14 Aug 2026

   On Literary Horror - with Katie Huttleston

   Conversations on Craft with Katie Huttlestone Katie Huttlestone joins the show to discuss her debut novel, A Healthy Appetite, and the long, collaborative route that led to publication. This episode is especially useful for writers who want a practical look at pitching, querying, competitions, beta readers, editing, and finding the right publishing home. Follow Katie on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/katiehauthor/) Click to purchase A HEALTHY APPETITE (https://deadinkbooks.com/products/a-healthy-appetite-katie-huttlestone) Follow Ascent Novel Prize (https://www.instagram.com/ascent_novel_prize/) Hayley and Katie also dig into the emotional side of the process, including imposter syndrome, chronic illness, and why community matters so much in a solitary creative life. Key topics In this interview, Katie Huttlestone shares the origin of A Healthy Appetite, a literary horror novel about Hannah, a 30-year-old living with late-stage cancer and the fallout of a phase one medical trial. Katie explains that she writes as a discovery writer, and that her first idea for the novel came from her own experience of cancer and chronic illness. We discuss how the novel changed very little from first draft to finished manuscript, with the main work being expansion, added scenes, and deepening character relationships rather than major structural rewrites. Katie talks about the simple planning method she used early on: a before and after table that mapped her protagonist’s starting state, ending state, and transformation. She shares why the book sits on the border between literary fiction and horror, and why Dead Ink felt like the right home for something spiky and hard to categorise. Katie reflects on the unboxing moment and the emotional reality of seeing her finished copies and cover for the first time. The cover discussion includes why the guinea pig image works as a metaphor for medical testing, and how the pink palette adds flesh, desire, and unease. We discuss how competitions such as the Lucy Cavendish Prize and the Blue Pencil Agency Pitch Prize helped Katie gain external validation and confidence before querying agents. Katie offers a clear view of querying strategy, including batch submissions, keeping a spreadsheet, and using an offer of representation to create momentum with other agents. She explains how she developed her pitch, eventually distilling it into a short, punchy summary focused on character, setting, and crisis. Katie describes the submission process after signing with her agent, including rounds of editor interest, choosing Dead Ink, and the importance of finding a publishing team that felt like the right emotional fit. She shares how feedback, beta readers, critique partners, and editing have all strengthened her work, and why collaboration is energising rather than threatening. Katie also speaks openly about the financial barriers around courses like the Faber course, and why she tries to support other writers wherever she can. The episode closes with practical writing advice, including little and often drafting, letting people in, and staying in touch with the work without pressuring yourself unrealistically. To learn more visit: Ascent Novel prize (https://www.ascentnovelprize.com/) Music: UJDM0MRSBB0POLNZ

3. 

   10 Jul 2026

   On Rejection to Book Deal - with Cate Haynes

   From Rejection to Book Deal: The Journey of a Middle Grade Fantasy Author Join us as Cate Haynes shares her inspiring path to publication, from early rejections to signing with her dream publisher. Discover the creative process behind The Spell Whisperer, tips for overcoming writer's doubts, and insights into balancing craft, resilience, and passion. In this episode: Cate's journey from childhood writing to literary success, including her first sci-fi book in 2001 and the long road to her debut novel The importance of perseverance: submitting to 179 rejections before finding an agent How her personal experiences with stammering inspired her latest book The Spell Whisperer Her creative process: nursing ideas, meticulous planning, and the role of notebooks and mind maps The value of writing groups, competitions, and continuous learning to hone craft Insights into working with agents and editors, from initial query to publication deadlines Practical advice for writers: keep learning, build community, and embrace feedback Resources & Links: Right Mentor (https://write-mentor.com/) - Supportive writing community and courses Write Magic (https://www.facebook.com/groups/524422571871301/) - Facebook-based writing sprints and accountability groups Connect with Cate Haynes: Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/catehaynesauthor/) To learn more visit: Ascent Novel prize (https://www.ascentnovelprize.com/) Or follow us at: Ascent_Novel_Prize (https://www.instagram.com/ascent_novel_prize/) This episode is packed with actionable insights and heartfelt stories—ideal for writers at any stage of their journey. Music: UJDM0MRSBB0POLNZ

4. 

   22 Jun 2026

   On finding what feeds your soul - with Adebola Rayo

   Love writing BUT hate rejection? Then this episode is for you. Most writers face relentless rejection and self-doubt—Rayo’s journey proves resilience can turn passion into impactful change. In this inspiring episode, she shares how she took her storytelling dreams into her own hands, publishing her debut children's book after years of industry setbacks, and turning her personal passion into social impact through innovative initiatives like Karanta Kids and the Tani Series.You (https://www.instagram.com/taniseries/)'ll discover how Rayo navigated her evolution from law student to published author, and the unshakeable confidence that comes from trusting your voice despite industry noise. She reveals the power of storytelling in shaping identity, especially for children of colour, and offers practical advice for writers feeling vulnerable or discouraged by rejection. We break down: The behind-the-scenes story of how her award-winning children’s book Sleepy Guppy Finds Its Voice was crafted, illustrated, and brought to life through community engagement. The significance of representation in children’s literature, and how her organizations are closing the access gap with affordable, culturally relevant stories via digital platforms. The hidden struggles of publishing as a black author and how her own experience with industry prizes like the Faber-Fab Prize fuelled her confidence and persistence. The role of motherhood in deepening her compassion and shaping her voice—leading to more authentic storytelling. Practical tips on building a writing routine amid parenthood, including leveraging voice memos and learning to embrace rejection as part of the journey. Every writer’s path is littered with obstacles, but perseverance and the willingness to craft your own opportunities can make a difference. Whether you’re dreaming of publishing your first book or fighting to see your stories reflected in the world at large, Rayo’s story offers compelling proof that your voice can inspire change, no matter the setbacks. Perfect for aspiring children’s authors or anyone committed to using storytelling as a tool for empowerment and community-building—this conversation will leave you motivated to keep writing, creating, and impacting lives through your words. Rayo is the CEO of the Tani Series and co-founder of Karanta Kids, dedicated to amplifying Black stories for children worldwide. Her debut children's book Sleepy Guppy received high accolades from Faber and Faber, and she’s a passionate advocate for diversity, access, and storytelling’s transformative power. Visit Ascent Novel Prize (www.ascentnovelprize.com) for more. Visit Tani Series (https://www.instagram.com/taniseries/) here! RVDUHAKOYQW8GAEG

5. 

   2 Jun 2026

   S1:E10 Hannah Sheppard on Editing to Agenting

   Hannah Sheppard, literary agent and founder of HS-LA, shares insights into the agenting process and her journey to launching her own agency, HSLA. She discusses changes in publishing, navigating the query process, offering representation, protecting writers, pitching and polishing manuscripts, and the future of publishing. Her commitment to demystifying the publishing process is evident in her approach to accessibility and transparency. Takeaways Agenting Insights Navigating the Publishing Process Chapters 00:00 Insight into Agenting 07:38 Navigating the Query Process 15:52 Protecting Writers 23:13 Pitching and Polishing Manuscripts 30:04 The Future of Publishing 36:17 Demystifying the Publishing Process Visit HS-LA's Website (https://hs-la.com/) Sign up for Hannah's free monthly drop in (https://hs-la.com/the-drop-in/) Visit Ascent Novel Prize for writing advice (https://www.ascentnovelprize.com/) Follow Ascent Novel Prize on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/ascent_novel_prize/) Written a book for children? Enter our children's prize here. (https://www.ascentnovelprize.com/copy-of-prize-entry) Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: GCRY1Z5E6NJBQ1BK

6. 

   12 May 2026

   S1:E9 A.A. Sekhon on Crafting the Gothic - Bonus Episode

   Crafting the Gothic: Insights from A.A. Sekhon Discover the nuanced process behind writing and publishing a historical gothic novella set in Victorian London with author A.A. Sekhon. From crafting atmospheric openings to navigating the publishing world, Ash shares valuable tips rooted in years of experience. Resources & Links: Waterstones - UK Bookstore (https://www.waterstones.com/book/assumptions/a-a-sekhon/9781835841129) Amazon UK (https://www.amazon.com/Assumptions-Sekhon/dp/1835841120) Connect with Ash Sekhon: Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/aasekhonauthor/) Main Topics Covered: Ash's unique writing process: balancing organic development and planning Creating atmospheric, tension-filled gothic openings The importance of historical accuracy and detailed research Overcoming self-doubt and rejection in the publishing journey The value of community, mentorship, and strategic publishing options Practical advice for maintaining motivation during writer’s block How revisions and understanding industry standards improve craft In this episode: Ash explains why they prefer starting drafts on paper and type up for editing (0:38) Discussion on favourite gothic authors, including Poe, Stevenson, and Kafka (0:59) The complex process of developing characters Richard and Henry (6:50) Insights into writing a novel over two to three years alongside other commitments (8:23) The significance of historical and cultural research, including Japanese societal observations (20:24) How Ash’s personal history influences their Victorian setting and themes (17:07) The importance of authenticity in language, spelling, and setting to maintain reader immersion (12:02) Practical tips for handling rejection and embracing perseverance (23:49) The strategic decision to choose specific publishing routes to retain rights (32:02) Ash's advice for writers facing doubts, writer’s block, or industry barriers (36:18) Visit Ascent Novel Prize (https://www.ascentnovelprize.com/) for more or follow us on social media (https://www.instagram.com/ascent_novel_prize/).

7. 

   1 May 2026

   S1:E8 Erica Li on winning Ascent Novel Prize

   Exploring the journey of Erica Li: From family stories to winning the Ascent Novel Prize, and navigating the complex process of writing and publishing a novel. Are you an aspiring writer looking for inspiration tips, practical advice on craft, or insight into the publishing world? Erica Li, a celebrated author and winner of the inaugural Ascent Novel Prize, shares her rich writing journey, from researching her family history to completing her debut novel, A Thousand Rivers of Time. Discover her writing routine, how she handles feedback, and her tips for fellow writers striving to refine their craft and navigate the industry. Main Topics Covered: Erica’s inspiration and research process for A Thousand Rivers of Time The role of family history and memory in her storytelling Challenges and strategies in completing and revising her novel Her experience with writing courses, workshops, and networking Practical tips for writers: reading, writing, and seeking feedback Insights into the publishing industry and considerations for debut authors Erica’s future plans for her writing and advice for aspiring writers Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Erica Li and her debut novel 00:38 - Overview of A Thousand Rivers of Time and its themes 01:28 - The research behind Erica’s family history and its influence 02:51 - Themes of loss, memory, and dementia in her story 04:24 - Erica’s previous writing projects and the evolution of her novel 05:44 - The writing timeline and journey of her first draft 08:15 - Changes between her early draft and award-winning manuscript 09:05 - Erica’s daily writing schedule and routines 10:37 - Which parts of writing Erika enjoys the most 11:20 - Her poetic beginnings and development of her writer’s voice 12:44 - Favourite authors and books that influence her writing style 13:51 - The moment Erica discovered she won the Ascent Novel Prize 14:37 - Motivations behind entering writing competitions 15:36 - The impact of writing accolades and courses like Faber Academy 17:03 - Balancing her legal career and writing ambitions 18:01 - Writing alongside her Faber course and adapting her projects 19:23 - The role of beta readers and feedback in shaping her work 21:21 - Experiences with the HarperCollins Author Academy 22:26 - Top tips for aspiring writers: read more, write more, join groups 23:50 - Challenges and resources in navigating the publishing industry 24:23 - Erica’s favourite character and multi-generational storytelling 25:09 - Organizing complex narratives with planning and organic growth 26:36 - Future plans for A Thousand Rivers of Time and the rewriting process 28:20 - Surprising insights about publishing logistics and book length considerations 29:33 - Reflections on reader attention spans and the evolution of book consumption 31:15 - Erica’s advice for writers: persistence, consistency, and self-belief 31:45 - Closing thoughts and encouragement for aspiring authors Visit: ascentnovelprize.com (http://ascentnovelprize.com) Additional notes: Erica emphasizes the importance of consistent writing, embracing criticism, and the value of networking and ongoing education. Her story is a testament to perseverance and passion for storytelling—valuable lessons for any writer at any stage.

8. 

   6 Mar 2026

   S1:E7 Venetia Constantine on Fantasy World Building

   Venetia Constantine, author of The Last Starborn Seer, joins us to discuss her spic world-building and her exciting journey to publication. We take a deep dive into the joy of commissioning character art and Venetia advises us all to claim our space as writers. Chapter include: 00:00 Introduction to Venetia Constantine 02:58 The Evolution of The Last Starborn Seer 05:42 Writing Process and Drafting 08:21 World Building in Fantasy 12:50 Character Development and Art 16:20 Crafting Satisfying Endings in a Trilogy 18:20 Journey to Publication and Finding an Agent 21:27 Choosing the Right Literary Agent 25:03 Navigating the Submission Process 28:35 Improving Craft Through Community 30:23 Reflections on Early Writing Journey 31:59 Challenges of Writing Under Contract 35:46 Connecting with Readers 38:01 Advice for Aspiring Writers 39:55 Future Aspirations as a Writer To find out more about Venetia and to publish her debut novel visit: Home - Venetia Constantine (https://www.venetiaconstantine.com/) For information on Ascent Novel Prize, follow here: (1) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/ascent_novel_prize/) Or visit: Ascent Novel Prize | international writing competition (https://www.ascentnovelprize.com/)

9. 

   28 Feb 2026

   S1: E6 Aje Roberts on Writing the Book of your Heart

   In this episode of Conversations on Craft, Hayley King sits down with Aje Roberts, Senior Commissioning Editor at Tor Bramble and judge for the Ascent Novel Prize, for a deep dive into the messy and magical world of publishing. Aje shares what she looks for in submissions, how she builds long‑term author careers, and why intersectional, diverse voices matter more than ever. Learn how to craft a unique hook and discover what happens at an acquisition meeting. We talk tropes (including the infamous “only one bed”), dream acquisitions, book‑to‑screen adaptations, and the reality of working across authors, agents, and editorial teams. R.J. also lifts the curtain on how she scouts new talent, nurtures relationships, and champions writers beyond the debut. Whether you’re querying or a published author, this episode is full of insight, encouragement, and industry clarity. What we cover •             What a Senior Commissioning Editor actually does •             How submissions stand out in a crowded market •             The role of agents and how the author–agent–editor trio works •             Why fantasy has such a long tail in publishing •             How editors support authors beyond the debut •             Practical steps for championing diverse voices •             Tropes we love (and pretend to hate) 00:00 Introduction to R.J. Robert and Her Role 06:36 Building Relationships with Authors and Agents 09:52 Promoting Diverse Voices in Publishing 12:16 The Balance of Acquiring New Authors 14:35 Advice for Aspiring Writers 16:23 The Editing Process Explained 19:43 Insights into the Acquisitions Meeting 21:51 The Joy of Editing and Book Design 24:56 The Importance of Structural Edits 26:09 Advice for Aspiring Writers 28:06 Writing from Authenticity 30:05 Finding Authors in the Digital Age 31:01 The Instinct for Storytelling 32:32 Crafting Irresistible Hooks 34:52 Believing in Yourself as a Writer 37:07 Navigating the Publishing Landscape 38:31 Trends in the Publishing Industry 40:22 The Balance of Romance and Fantasy 42:13 The Future of Publishing 44:01 Final Thoughts and Encouragement To learn more about Ascent Novel Prize visit Ascent Novel Prize | international writing competition (https://www.ascentnovelprize.com/) Or follow us on social media: Ascent Novel Prize (@ascent_novel_prize) • Instagram photos and videos (https://www.instagram.com/ascent_novel_prize/)

10. 

    30 Jan 2026

    S1:E5 Ashleigh Nugent on being a Virginia Woolf from the Ends

    Ashleigh Nugent, author of Locks, is hailed as a 'Virginia Woolf from the ends'. He joins 'Conversations on Craft' for a discussion on identity, purpose and shares his own personal journey to publication. Discover how Ashleigh Nugent overcame personal and societal barriers to become a published author, delving into his creative process and the power of purpose in writing. This episode offers insights into Dr Nugent's stream-of-consciousness style and how he captures life as it's experienced. After leaving school believing education wasn't for him, he went through his own hero's journey and emerged with a PhD in Literature and was awarded Liverpool City Region's Artist of the Year. It was a trip to Jamaica in 1993 to find identity and escape the racism that found Ashleigh in a Jamaican detention centre. There, Ashleigh discovered, he was seen as the ‘white boy’. These are the events that inspired his debut novel LOCKS. It took Ashleigh nearly 30 years to get from a prison cell in Jamaica to a publishing deal with Picador. Resources & Links: Locks by Ashleigh Nugent - Pan Macmillan (https://www.panmacmillan.com/authors/ashleigh-nugent/locks/9781529097917) Ashleigh Nugent - Author of 'LOCKS' - Out Now (https://ashleighnugent.com/) Writing on the Wall - Supporting Writing in Liverpool City Region (https://writingonthewall.org.uk/) Ascent Novel Prize | international writing competition (https://www.ascentnovelprize.com/) Connect with Ashleigh Nugent: Instagram (1) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/locksbook/) Facebook (20+) Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100010147927714) Additional resources: Free PDF for Aspiring Writers: subscribe at Ashleigh Nugent - Author of 'LOCKS' - Out Now (https://ashleighnugent.com/) Note: The book's journey from self-published to mainstream is a testament to perseverance, authenticity, and embracing one’s voice. Timestamps: 00:00 - Nugent's creative background 02:03 - Writing habits: pen and laptop, capturing ideas on the go 04:45 - The significance of early morning writing sessions 05:19 - The autobiographical foundation of 'Locke's' and the long writing process 06:30 - Overcoming barriers: education, racism, and self-doubt 08:20 - Learning the craft through trial and error over 8 years 09:27 - Navigating altered states of consciousness in prose 12:20 - Aeon's quest for identity and its reflection of societal constructs 14:58 - Race, societal roles, and spiritual metaphors 16:50 - The scientific view of identity and the universe 19:34 - How societal boundaries are blurring and the fear of change 20:58 - The trauma and resilience behind the novel's themes 24:37 - Time perception in extreme experiences and spiritual dimension 29:12 - Evolutionary biology, love, and empathy as fundamental human traits 30:16 - The spectrum of potentialities within all of us 32:04 - The performative aspect of storytelling and writing rhythm 35:00 - Journey from self-publishing to agency representation 36:00 - The importance of perseverance and authenticity 42:36 - Editing and refining: balancing space and intensity 44:58 - Structuring flashbacks and nonlinear storytelling 50:42 - Literary influences: Virginia Woolf and stream of consciousness 52:43 - Advice for writers facing industry barriers: persistence and luck 56:25 - How to find Ashleigh Nugent online and purchase his book

11. 

    29 Dec 2025

    S1: E4 T.M. Payne's Top Crime Writing Secrets - Bonus Episode

    Join us as we dive into T.M. Payne's crime writing secrets. Tina worked in the criminal justice system for eighteen years, fourteen as a police case investigator within the Domestic Violence Unit. Tina now lives on the Wirral with her partner Suzie and spends her days (and nights!) plotting and writing crime novels. Her Detective Sheridan Holler series includes: Long Time Dead; This Ends Now; Play with Fire and Count the Dead. Book 5 will be published in July 2026. At the end of this podcast, Ascent Novel Prize Founder, Hayley King announces an exciting opportunity for all crime and thriller writers, sponsored by Tina and partner, Suzie. Visit Ascent Novel Prize in the new year for more. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to T.M. Payne and Her Journey 08:00 Tina's Writing Journey and Early Challenges 17:38 Finding an Agent and Building Confidence 24:03 The Complexity of Writing a Series 24:48 Tina's Journey: From Hardships to Blessings 26:08 Writing Process: Overcoming Blocks and Drafting Strategies 28:21 The Publishing Timeline: From Draft to Final Edit 34:59 Pacing and Structure: Crafting Engaging Narratives 42:56 Tying Up Loose Ends: The Art of Satisfying Endings 44:52 Advice to Aspiring Writers: Confidence and Persistence 46:07 Future Plans: Continuing the Journey with New Books 48:21 Supporting New Writers: Paying It Forward To find out more about Tina and her Detective Sheridan series, follow her at: (1) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/tmpayneauthor/) All of Tina's books are available at independent bookshop Messrs Fletcher and Frost, 51 Mount Pleasant Road, New Brighton. Or you can order them here: Long Time Dead by T. M. Payne | Waterstones (https://www.waterstones.com/book/long-time-dead/t-m-payne/9781662511301) Follow, like and share 'Conversations on Craft', available on Youtube, Spotify and Apple podcasts. For more information on Ascent Novel Prize visit: Ascent Novel Prize | international writing competition (https://www.ascentnovelprize.com/) Or follow us on instagram: (1) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/ascent_novel_prize/)

12. 

    19 Dec 2025

    S1: E3 Stacey Thomas on Research and the Writing Process

    Episode 3: Research and the writing process, with historical fiction writer, Stacey Thomas. Come join us as we dive deep into Stacey's process as a historical fiction writer. Stacey shares her journey to publication and offers many tips for writers, such as the power of the feedback, how to work with your editor and how to be kind with yourself during the messy process of writing. Chapters include: 00:00 Introduction to the Craft of Writing 02:19 The Genesis of a Book Idea 04:12 Researching and Writing Process 07:02 Navigating Feedback and Critique 10:09 The Evolution of the First Draft 12:06 Finding an Agent and Building Relationships 15:52 The Editing Process: A Writer's Journey 21:15 Navigating the Publishing Landscape 22:44 Competitions and Feedback: A Path to Improvement 25:38 Crafting Your Story: Tips for Aspiring Writers 27:37 Evolving as a Writer: Lessons Learned 29:43 Breaking Barriers: Advice for New Writers Learn more about Stacey and buy her book here: The Revels - HQ Stories (https://www.hqstories.co.uk/books/the-revels-stacey-thomas-9780008566692/) For more, please subscribe, like and share with your writer friends. To learn more visit www.AscentNovelPrize.com (http://www.AscentNovelPrize.com) or follow us on instagram: Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/ascent_novel_prize/)

13. 

    4 Dec 2025

    S1: E1 Pim Wangtechawat on writing habits that got a netflix deal

    We dive deep into Pim's writing process, learn about the difficulties of navigating the publishing world and are given some heartfelt advice on the validation every human seeks. Whether you're writing your first draft or publishing your tenth novel, this podcast is for you. Pre-order Pim's new book, 'I Dreamed of You' here: I Dreamed of You by Pim Wangtechawat | Waterstones (https://www.waterstones.com/book/i-dreamed-of-you/pim-wangtechawat/9781836431374) Follow Pim on Instagram: Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/pim.wangtechawat/) For more on Ascent Novel Prize and how to enter visit: www.ascentnovelprize.com (http://www.ascentnovelprize.com) Or follow us at: Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/ascent_novel_prize/)

14. 

    4 Dec 2025

    S1: E2 Literary agent Liza DeBlock on how to break into publishing

    In this episode of Conversations on Craft, literary agent Liza DeBlock shares her insights on the writing and publishing process. From the importance of editing and crafting a compelling synopsis to the realities of breaking into the industry, Liza provides valuable advice for aspiring authors. She discusses common mistakes writers make, the dynamics of the agent-author relationship, and the challenges of building a long-term writing career. Liza also highlights current trends in publishing and what she looks for in submissions, emphasizing the need for diversity and originality in storytelling. To learn more about the literary agency where Liza works and to see how to submit to her, please visit: https://www.greenstoneliterary.com/ (https://www.greenstoneliterary.com/) Liza DeBlock can be found online at: https://www.instagram.com/lizathelitagent/ (https://www.instagram.com/lizathelitagent/) To hear Liza's interview on Page One visit: https://youtu.be/ND4QwL2alfM (https://youtu.be/ND4QwL2alfM) Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Liza DeBlock and Her Journey 02:15 Editing Manuscripts: The Process and Importance 05:57 Knowing When a Manuscript is Ready 08:06 Common Mistakes Writers Make 09:15 Crafting a Great Synopsis 13:29 Breaking into the Publishing Industry 17:29 The Reality of the Publishing Process 19:34 The Agent-Author Relationship 21:47 What Happens if a Book Doesn't Sell? 23:44 Long-Term Careers in Writing 26:20 Understanding Lead Titles vs. Mid-List Writers 27:55 Diversity in Representation 29:28 Current Trends in Publishing 32:35 Advice for Struggling Writers 33:39 Liza's Wishlist for New Manuscripts 34:53 The Joy of Being an Agent 36:13 2.mp4 To support the show, subscribe, like and send to writer friends. You can find Ascent Novel Prize at: www.ascentnovelprize.com (http://www.ascentnovelprize.com) Until next time. Keep writing!

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