On Crafting the Gothic - with A. A. Sekhon - Bonus Episode

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

On Editing to Agenting - with Hannah Sheppard

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

On Crafting the Gothic - with A. A. Sekhon - Bonus Episode

Want to hook your reader with an atmospheric opening? Then this episode is for you! 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/].

0n winning Ascent Novel Prize - with Erica Li

Want to know what it takes to win an international writing competition? Then this episode is for you! 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.

On Fantasy World Building - with Venetia Constantine

Want to create fantasy worlds that readers will remember? Then this episode is for you! 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/]