Reality Writes

Ellie Alexander

The Reality Writes Podcast stars bestselling mystery author Ellie Alexander and her Tech Guy husband as they reveal the ins and outs of writing. Ellie, who has written for big names like Macmillan and Simon & Schuster, and indie publishers like Storm, shares her journey from story ideas to publishing. Together, they dive into the highs, lows, and funny moments of creating captivating stories. With a blend of humor and honesty, Reality Writes offers a behind-the-scenes look at the writing world. So grab your coffee (or wine) and join Ellie and the Tech Guy for some story-spinning secrets. read less

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Title Tactics—Baking Up the Best Book Names

Title Tactics—Baking Up the Best Book Names

Hello, fellow cozy mystery buffs and pun aficionados! 🕵️‍♂️💕 It’s time for another cozy episode of "Reality Writes." This week, The Tech Guy and I dive deep into the art of title creation in Episode 01.18. Ever wonder why some books grab your attention right from the shelf? It’s all in the title! From the agony and ecstasy of brainstorming to the final publisher edits, titles are a huge part of a book's success. We even whipped up some hilariously punny titles with the help of AI—like a mystery called "Bread or Alive"! 🍞🔍 And speaking of puns, did you know a Harvard study says they're a sign of high intelligence? Join us for more tidbits like that, and get ready for practical tips on crafting perfect titles. Get comfy, press play, and step into our world. What's the quirkiest book title you’ve seen? Drop it below! 🙌🎧 Catch the latest episode now, and let’s keep this cozy chat rolling!

Episodes

Title Tactics—Baking Up the Best Book Names

Title Tactics—Baking Up the Best Book Names

Hello, fellow cozy mystery buffs and pun aficionados! 🕵️‍♂️💕 It’s time for another cozy episode of "Reality Writes." This week, The Tech Guy and I dive deep into the art of title creation in Episode 01.18. Ever wonder why some books grab your attention right from the shelf? It’s all in the title! From the agony and ecstasy of brainstorming to the final publisher edits, titles are a huge part of a book's success. We even whipped up some hilariously punny titles with the help of AI—like a mystery called "Bread or Alive"! 🍞🔍 And speaking of puns, did you know a Harvard study says they're a sign of high intelligence? Join us for more tidbits like that, and get ready for practical tips on crafting perfect titles. Get comfy, press play, and step into our world. What's the quirkiest book title you’ve seen? Drop it below! 🙌🎧 Catch the latest episode now, and let’s keep this cozy chat rolling!

Author Insights—Balancing Multiple Series

Author Insights—Balancing Multiple Series

Hello, Darlings! Welcome to Episode 17 of Reality Writes! 🎙️ In this episode, I take you behind the scenes of series writing and the challenges of balancing multiple books at once. 📚 I also share insights into my writing schedule and a sneak peek into the setting of my latest Bakeshop Mystery, which may or may not involve coffee research in Costa Rica! 🌴 Listen in as the Tech Guy and I explore the fascinating worlds of traditional, indie, and hybrid publishing and why setting aside that first draft is so crucial for a fresh perspective. Grab your favorite drink, get cozy, and join us. What keeps YOU coming back to a book series? Share your thoughts in the comments! ➡️ Don’t forget to follow, like, and share! 📢✨

Killer Ideas—Crafting Murder in Cozy Mysteries

Killer Ideas—Crafting Murder in Cozy Mysteries

Hello, Darlings! 🎧 Episode 16 of Reality Writes is live and filled with all kinds of inspiration straight from real life! 📚 Join me and the Tech Guy as we chat about how the rich history and quirky local events in Ashland weave their way into my stories. Did you know the “Downhill Dummy” competition on Mt. Ashland sparked the idea for a murder method in one of my books? We also talk about the hilarious (and sometimes awkward) moments of brainstorming murder plots in public. And, yes, chatting about potential murder methods over family dinner? Totally normal in my house! 😅 Have a quirky murder method idea you’re dying to share? 🎤 I’d love to hear it! Make sure to follow the podcast and join the conversation. Let’s keep building this creative community together. 🌟

Stirring the Plot—Why Food Writing Matters

Stirring the Plot—Why Food Writing Matters

Hello, Darlings! 😍 Ready for a delicious adventure? Episode 15 of Reality Writes is live, and we’re diving into the irresistible world of culinary mysteries. 🍰🔍 Join me and The Tech Guy as we chat about how I choose the perfect recipes for the Bakeshop Mystery series—spoiler alert, coffee is always involved! ☕ We’ll also talk about some of my family’s treasured recipes, like raspberry Danish and mocha almond buttercream torte. This episode is filled with sweet treats and the research that goes into perfecting each one. So, grab a cozy cup of coffee and tune in to this flavorful episode that blends baking and mystery! What’s your favorite family recipe? I’d love to hear about it in the comments! 🎧✨

Getting Organized—Tips and Advice for Writers

Getting Organized—Tips and Advice for Writers

Hello, Writers! 🌟 Welcome to Episode 14 of "Reality Writes!" I'm here with The Tech Guy, and this week, we're busting the myth that professional creatives are disorganized. This episode reveals how essential structured writing and editorial calendars are for success. We share tips on experimenting with your writing schedule, from late-night sips of wine to early-morning tea sessions, because finding what works for you is key! We also jump into balancing creativity with productivity through batching tasks and the importance of focused energy. ⚡️ So, grab a pen, get comfy, and dive into our discussion on keeping your writing life organized. Do you have any strategies you think we should try? 💡 Don't forget to follow, share, and tag us with your thoughts! Listen to the episode now and stay inspired. 🎧✨

Letting Go—Things Writers Can’t Control

Letting Go—Things Writers Can’t Control

Hello, Darlings! Welcome to Episode 13 of "Reality Writes!" I'm here with The Tech Guy, and in this episode, we’re diving into the nitty-gritty of the publishing world. We discuss the limited control some authors have over covers and distribution, why you should contact booksellers instead of authors about damaged copies, and how indie authors are shaking things up in the digital space. We also share some personal stories and answer burning reader questions. So grab your favorite drink, get cozy, and join us as we unravel the realities of being an author. Don't forget to follow, share, and send us your feedback. Let’s keep this writing conversation going!

The Bakeshop Mysteries—Series Overview

The Bakeshop Mysteries—Series Overview

In this episode of Reality Writes, we dive into Ashland, Oregon, the real-life inspiration behind my Bakeshop Mystery series. Join me and The Tech Guy as we explore Ashland's historic buildings, quirky local events, and the captivating Oregon Shakespeare Festival. We'll share behind-the-scenes stories, talk about character development in a long-running series, and even touch on some memorable real-life incidents that made their way into my books. You don't want to miss our chat about the joy and challenges of writing a cozy mystery series, the town's incredible features, and the inspiration behind Jules' cozy bakeshop. Grab a cup of coffee or tea and your favorite treat, and let's get started!

Genre Disrespect—It's Just a Cozy Mystery

Genre Disrespect—It's Just a Cozy Mystery

Dive into the world of cozy mysteries with Ellie Alexander and The Tech Guy. In this episode of Reality Writes, they unravel why the cozy mystery genre often gets the cold shoulder in publishing. Don’t miss it! 🕵️‍♀️📚

Dispelling the Myths—Five Writer Excuses

Dispelling the Myths—Five Writer Excuses

Do you find yourself making excuses for not writing? This week, we’re diving into some common excuses that keep you stuck. I’m looking at your writer's block.

Visiting a Real-Life Book Setting—The Ashland Mystery Festival

Visiting a Real-Life Book Setting—The Ashland Mystery Festival

What's it like visiting the real-life setting of a cozy mystery series? Come find out at the Ashland Mystery Festival! Ashland, OR, is the setting for my Bakeshop Mystery Series, and this October, the festival will be even bigger (even more cozy mystery authors!) and better than last year. Listen in as the Tech Guy, and I discuss last year's event and what's new for this year, and dish on our favorite places in and around Ashland to visit when you attend the festival. Will you be going to the Ashland Mystery Festival this year? Did you attend last year? Let me know in the comments!

Support Your Favorite Authors—Easy and Impactful Ways

Support Your Favorite Authors—Easy and Impactful Ways

Want to show love to your favorite authors? This episode is all about the simple, impactful ways you can support writers. Your support means the world to us! How do you support your favorite authors? Share your tips in the comments!

Internet Smarts–Tips for Readers and Writers

Internet Smarts–Tips for Readers and Writers

The Tech Guy and I are back with an episode dedicated to keeping you safe online. It might sound silly, but if you’re engaging on social media as a reader or a writer, you must protect yourself and know who you interact with. The Tech Guy is breaking out all of his best tips for this one.

Independent Bookstores–Sharing Some Love

Independent Bookstores–Sharing Some Love

Independent bookstores are the lifeblood of the book industry. I’ve been so fortunate to have incredible bookstore partners over the years. Booksellers who took a chance on me, helped launch my career, and have become dear friends over the years. We’re sending them all the love and sharing some of our favorite memories from the early years of logging miles and miles on our Subaru driving around the Pacific Northwest for book talks. Do you have a favorite bookstore? Let me know in the comments and maybe I’ll stop by and say hi!

Launching a Book–Everything it Takes

Launching a Book–Everything it Takes

Have you ever wondered how a book goes from an idea to a lovely bound copy on bookstore shelves? This is the podcast for you! We’re breaking down every step of the process, from the seed of an idea to editing, formatting, cover design, and so much more. We’re also exploring how the process differs in traditional, hybrid, or independent publishing. Sometimes, launching a book feels as (if not more) challenging than actually writing the book! Are you surprised by everything that leads up to launch day? What would you skip? Please say page proofs, please!

Taylor Swift vs Star Wars—It's On!

Taylor Swift vs Star Wars—It's On!

The Tech Guy and I are going head to head on our favorites this week. Taylor Swift versus Star Wars. How have they inspired and influenced my writing and his geekdom. Who’s the bigger fan and ultimately who wins the battle. Spoiler alert: it’s me, hi! I’m the winner, it’s me.

Writing is a Real Job—No, Seriously

Writing is a Real Job—No, Seriously

Is writing a real job? This week we’re chatting about the hard realities of carving out time for writing (especially when you’re first starting out) and breaking some myths about the work that goes into crafting a book and sending it out in the world. No, really it is a job!

Will it Stick?—Book Marketing

Will it Stick?—Book Marketing

Will it stick? Let's peel back the curtain on what it takes to get a book out in front of readers and grow an audience. We’ll share our hits, some hilarious misses, and everything we’ve learned along the way.

Deleted Scenes—The Plots Left Behind

Deleted Scenes—The Plots Left Behind

And the podcast is live! From the original names for some of my fictional settings of Torte and Nitro to love stories that never made it to the page, we chat about the early brainstorming process and the cutting room floor where so many ideas have gone to die.