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    Arts

    The Shit No One Tells You About Writing

    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.

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    Copyright: © 2022 The Shit No One Tells You About Writing

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    Latest Episodes:
    Shooting The Shit: About Editors, The "Death" Of The Novel & Authors With The "It" Factor Aug 04, 2025
    Show notes

    In this episode of ‘Shooting the Shit’, Carly and CeCe dive into the juicy, unfiltered side of publishing. From the surge in dark romance to how women are being written—and writing themselves—into new spaces, they explore the evolving landscape of literature with wit and insight. They also get personal about reading slumps, dissect the pressures of author branding, and question how social media is reshaping the way we see (and judge) writers. Plus, they pull back the curtain on what editors are really dealing with these days. It’s a smart, funny, and refreshingly honest chat that proves the publishing world is anything but black and white.

    Note: Carly Watters and CeCe Lyra are literary agents at P.S. Literary Agency, but their work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly and CeCe on this podcast are solely that of them as podcast co-hosts 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

    It’s Beta Reader Match Up time again where you can be matched up with those writing in a similar genre and/or time zone, so they can critique your work as you critique theirs.


    Our Sponsors:
    * Check out The Comprehensive Copywriting Academy and use my code thecca.co/tspodcast for a great deal: https://thecca.co
    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

    From Books with Hooks to Published Author-How Writing is Rewriting Jul 31, 2025
    Show notes

    In this episode, debut author Melissa O’Connor takes us behind the scenes of her publishing journey with ‘The One and Only Vivian Stone.’ She shares how her query letter evolved, what it was like navigating the submission process, and the pivotal decision to restructure the manuscript with a dual timeline. Melissa opens up about weaving romance and mystery into her story, the role of character relationships, and how agent and editor feedback shaped the final book. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that celebrates creativity, persistence, and the thrilling milestones of a first-time author.

    Note: Carly Watters and CeCe Lyra are literary agents at P.S. Literary Agency, but their work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly and CeCe on this podcast are solely that of them as podcast co-hosts 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

    It’s Beta Reader Match Up time again where you can be matched up with those writing in a similar genre and/or time zone, so they can critique your work as you critique theirs.

    For more information and to register, go to: https://www.biancamarais.com/beta-reader-match-

    up.html


    Our Sponsors:
    * Check out The Comprehensive Copywriting Academy and use my code thecca.co/tspodcast for a great deal: https://thecca.co
    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

    July Bonus Episode Jul 28, 2025
    Show notes

    In part one of July’s bonus episode, Bianca sits down with debut author Jacqueline Faber for a thoughtful and inspiring conversation. With a rich academic background and a diverse writing portfolio, Jacqueline shares her path to publication and the creative decisions that shaped her novel, ‘The Department’. They explore the emotional challenges of receiving feedback, the intentional design of the book’s narrative structure, and the nuanced process of character development. Jacqueline also offers insight into the role of memory in storytelling and her organic, intuitive approach to writing. This conversation offers valuable perspectives for writers and readers alike, highlighting the depth and complexity behind powerful fiction.

    In part two of this month’s bonus episode, Carly interviews historical fiction author Jane Healey about her new book, 'Women of Arlington Hall.' The conversation explores the true stories of female codebreakers during the Cold War, the challenges of fictionalizing real history, and the themes of women's empowerment and friendship. Jane shares her creative process, the dynamics of office culture, and the intricacies of writing a slow-burn romance. The discussion also touches on the balance between blood and chosen family, as well as the joys and challenges of the writing journey.


    Note: Carly Watters and CeCe Lyra are literary agents at P.S. Literary Agency, but their work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly and CeCe on this podcast are solely that of them as podcast co-hosts 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 The Comprehensive Copywriting Academy and use my code thecca.co/tspodcast for a great deal: https://thecca.co
    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

    Making Context Feel Organic Jul 24, 2025
    Show notes

    In this exciting episode of Books with Hooks, debut author Tali Shammas steps into the spotlight to share her query letter for her genre-blending novel ‘The Color of Blood’—a bold mix of horror, romance, and razor-sharp feminist themes. The hosts dive into an engaging discussion on social justice in fiction, the power of a strong hook, and how to clearly define your audience. They dissect the manuscript’s opening pages, exploring tone, character depth, and what makes a first line unforgettable. Plus, they wrap up with actionable marketing tips and a look at Tali’s inspiring writing journey.

    Don’t hit stop just yet! We have a most puzzling surprise for you at the end of this episode!

    Note: Carly Watters and CeCe Lyra are literary agents at P.S. Literary Agency, but their work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly and CeCe on this podcast are solely that of them as podcast co-hosts 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 The Comprehensive Copywriting Academy and use my code thecca.co/tspodcast for a great deal: https://thecca.co
    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

    Shooting The Shit Jul 21, 2025
    Show notes

    Get ready for a brand-new segment with Carly and CeCe that dives into the juiciest side of publishing! In this fun, freewheeling episode, they spill the tea on industry gossip, break down the latest trends—like the dark rom-com craze—and dish on this year’s bestselling books. Plus, they share smart, no-fluff advice on social media strategies for authors, and why staying authentic online might just be your secret weapon. It’s insightful, unfiltered, and totally binge-worthy.

    Note: Carly Watters and CeCe Lyra are literary agents at P.S. Literary Agency, but their work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly and CeCe on this podcast are solely that of them as podcast co-hosts 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 The Comprehensive Copywriting Academy and use my code thecca.co/tspodcast for a great deal: https://thecca.co
    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

    How Setting is More Than Just Story Backdrop Jul 17, 2025
    Show notes

    In this week’s episode, Bianca connects with novelist Laura Resau. Laura provides an insightful outlook regarding her transition from writing for young audiences to authoring her inaugural adult novel, ‘The Alchemy of Flowers.’ She offers profound insights into her writing methodology, emphasizing the criticality of a persuasive query letter and the impact of title revisions in the publishing domain. Furthermore, Laura addresses the complexities inherent in genre fusion, the elaborate nature of world-building, and the indispensable role of meticulous research in achieving verisimilitude.

    Note: Carly Watters and CeCe Lyra are literary agents at P.S. Literary Agency, but their work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly and CeCe on this podcast are solely that of them as podcast co-hosts 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 The Comprehensive Copywriting Academy and use my code thecca.co/tspodcast for a great deal: https://thecca.co
    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

    What is a familiar query letter... Jul 10, 2025
    Show notes

    In this episode of Books with Hooks, literary agents Carly and CeCe return with insightful feedback on query letters, focusing on commercial women’s fiction and book club fiction. They celebrate Bianca’s exciting book launch and dive deep into the craft of storytelling—discussing character development, emotional resonance, and the vital role of originality in fiction. This episode also highlights the importance of clearly conveying conflict and stakes in query letters, offering practical tips for writers looking to capture an agent’s attention.

    Don’t miss this powerful reading from ‘Let Us Play.’ Harrison Brown opens up about his remarkable journey from competing as a female athlete to living authentically as a transgender man. Through his story, he sheds light on the emotional and physical complexities of transitioning, the hurdles trans athletes face in sports, and the ongoing evolution of inclusion policies. With honesty and courage, Harrison explores the vital role of advocacy, visibility, and compassion in creating a more equitable athletic world.

    Note: Carly Watters and CeCe Lyra are literary agents at P.S. Literary Agency, but their work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly and CeCe on this podcast are solely that of them as podcast co-hosts 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 submit a question for the show, go to https://www.theshitaboutwriting.com/submit-a-question.html

    To subscribe to our Substack newsletter, go to https://theshitaboutwriting.substack.com/about


    Our Sponsors:
    * Check out The Comprehensive Copywriting Academy and use my code thecca.co/tspodcast for a great deal: https://thecca.co
    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

    Replacing Plot with Emotion in Quiet Novels Jul 03, 2025
    Show notes

    In this engaging conversation, Bianca interviews debut author Lidija Hilje. Her articles and essays were published in the New York Times, and other outlets. She runs a book club for writers with a membership of close to 100, and is an active member of the WFWA.The authors discuss her novel 'Slanting Towards the Sea,' exploring themes of literary citizenship, the writing process, and the emotional depth of her characters. Lidija shares her journey from being a book coach to a published author, the challenges of writing in a foreign setting, and the importance of emotional truth in storytelling. The discussion also delves into her querying experience and the significance of crafting a compelling opening for a quiet novel.

    Note: Carly Watters and CeCe Lyra are literary agents at P.S. Literary Agency, but their work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly and CeCe on this podcast are solely that of them as podcast co-hosts 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 submit a question for the show, go to https://www.theshitaboutwriting.com/submit-a-question.html


    To subscribe to our Substack newsletter, go to https://theshitaboutwriting.substack.com/about


    Our Sponsors:
    * Check out The Comprehensive Copywriting Academy and use my code thecca.co/tspodcast for a great deal: https://thecca.co
    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

    June Bonus Episode Jun 30, 2025
    Show notes

    In part one of this month’s bonus episode, Bianca Marais chats with New York Times bestselling author Lucy Foley about her shift from historical fiction to gripping thrillers. They dive into the essential role of setting, atmosphere, and character development in her novels, and Lucy shares how she builds suspense and keeps readers guessing with techniques like unreliable narrators and meticulous editing.

    In part two, CeCe Lyra sits down with Dr. Courtney Tracy, a.k.a. ‘The Truth Doctor’, for an honest conversation about the writing journey behind her new book. From choosing to write it herself—no ghostwriter involved—to embracing vulnerability and authenticity, Dr. Tracy reveals how personal storytelling deepened her connection with readers. She also reflects on how her book evolved during the process and offers practical advice for aspiring authors.

    Note: Carly Watters and CeCe Lyra are literary agents at P.S. Literary Agency, but their work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly and CeCe on this podcast are solely that of them as podcast co-hosts 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 submit a question for the show, go to https://www.theshitaboutwriting.com/submit-a-question.html

    To subscribe to our Substack newsletter, go to https://theshitaboutwriting.substack.com/about


    Our Sponsors:
    * Check out The Comprehensive Copywriting Academy and use my code thecca.co/tspodcast for a great deal: https://thecca.co
    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

    Emotions—But Make It Messy Jun 26, 2025
    Show notes

    In this exciting episode of Books with Hooks, Bianca, CeCe, and Carly sit down with Casey, winner of the Masana Literary Project Fundraiser, to chat about her debut novel, ‘The Break of Light.’ The hosts dive deep into Casey’s query letter, unpacking the story’s emotional layers, compelling plot, and rich character dynamics. CeCe and Carly offer sharp insights on upping the narrative stakes—with tips on mastering causality, embracing messy emotions, and building a vivid, believable world. From the protagonist’s urgent quest to save her best friend to the crucial first pages, this episode is packed with craft takeaways for writers at every stage.

    Note: Carly Watters and CeCe Lyra are literary agents at P.S. Literary Agency, but their work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly and CeCe on this podcast are solely that of them as podcast co-hosts 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 The Comprehensive Copywriting Academy and use my code thecca.co/tspodcast for a great deal: https://thecca.co
    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

    Previous 1 11 12 13 14 15 46 Next

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