A Novel Twist Podcast

Letting Go of the Final Draft, Encouragement for Authors and Readers

🎙️ Book Talks with Keith Episode Title: Letting Go of the Final Draft Book Talks with Keith is where southern storyteller, author, and speaker J. Keith Brown invites you behind the scenes of the writing life. Each episode explores the heart, humor, and humanity behind great stories — from the creative process to the moments that shape us along the way. Finishing a book should feel like crossing the finish line — but often, it feels more like saying goodbye. In this heartfelt episode, Keith shares an honest reflection on the emotional tug-of-war that comes when a writer releases their final draft for publishing. It’s a moment filled with pride, relief, and a touch of fear — the same mix of emotions a parent feels sending their 18-year-old off to college. You’ve guided it, worried over it, and loved it into being. Now, you have to trust that it’s ready for the world. Keith offers gentle wisdom and humor as he talks about the stress of “letting go,” the pull of perfectionism, and the peace that comes when you finally release what you’ve created. * Why finishing a book can be harder than writing it * How to quiet the perfectionist’s “one more edit” voice * The beauty and freedom in letting go How every ending makes room for a new beginning Key Quote “Your book, like a grown child, is ready to live its own story. Trust that you’ve done enough — and that it’s time to let go.” If you’re an author, creative, or anyone who’s ever struggled to release something you’ve worked hard on, this episode will speak to your soul. 🎧 Listen to “Letting Go of the Final Draft” wherever you get your podcasts — and remember: your story is ready for the world.

Reading Between the Lines: How Fiction Teaches Us About Real Life

🎙️ Book Talks with Keith Episode Title: Reading Between the Lines: How Fiction Teaches Us About Real Life 🌟 Episode Summary In this episode, Keith Brown—southern storyteller, novelist, and lifelong reader—invites you to explore how fiction does more than entertain. It teaches. It mirrors. It transforms. Through thoughtful reflection and a few charming stories, Keith shares how the characters we meet on the page can reveal truths about our own hearts. From Atticus Finch’s timeless wisdom to those complex characters we can’t help but love (or love to hate), you’ll discover how every great story carries a message meant just for you. Whether you’re curling up with a cozy mystery, wandering through a small southern town, or escaping into a sweeping romance—this episode reminds you that fiction’s real magic lies between the lines. * How stories sneak truth past our defenses * Why we emotionally connect with fictional characters * What even the villains can teach us about ourselves * The “mirror” effect of great storytelling * A simple challenge to rediscover meaning in your favorite novel Revisit a novel that once touched your heart. Read just one chapter—and then ask yourself: “What truth about life, or about me, did this story whisper when I wasn’t paying attention?” Follow Keith’s work as an author and southern storyteller at JKeithBrownAuthor.com You can also find updates, book news, and more episodes of Book Talks with Keith wherever you listen to podcasts. And remember— Every story has something to teach us… if we’re willing to listen.

Writing for YOUR True Audience

Episode Show Notes Episode Title: Writing for Your True Audience Every writer faces it—the sting of criticism. It’s that fear that can keep us from putting words on the page or from sharing our stories with the world. But here’s the truth: your writing isn’t for everyone. And it doesn’t need to be. In this episode of Book Talks with Keith, I encourage you to release the pressure of trying to please everyone and instead write with confidence, knowing that your words are right for the right audience. We’ll talk about: * Why criticism is inevitable (and survivable!) * The danger of trying to write for everyone * How to trust that your true audience will find your work * Why courage and authenticity matter more than perfection If fear of rejection or criticism has been holding you back, this episode will give you the encouragement to keep going—pen in hand, head held high. 👉 Your job isn’t to write for everyone. Your job is to write with courage for the readers who need your voice. Resources & Links: * Share this episode with a fellow writer who needs encouragement * Subscribe to Book Talks with Keith so you don’t miss future episodes

Author Sheryl Bass

My author guest today is Sheryl Bass. Sheryl holds a master’s degree in Social Work and Journalism. She has also studied child development. She uses these insights to inform her picture book writing. Bass is a member of The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) and Children’s Book Insider (CBI). Bass also holds a master’s degree in Journalism and is currently working in public relations. Her goal in creating Be-Kind Publishing is to produce lighthearted rhyming stories with gentle themes of teamwork and friendship. Bass resides just outside of Chicago, IL with her husband and two terriers. Her first book is: "Baby Dragon’s Big Sneeze." [https://www.amazon.com/s?k=baby+dragons+big+sneeze&crid=RWLREW7TGT2D&sprefix=Baby+Dragons+big+s%2Caps%2C156&ref=nb_sb_ss_ts-doa-p_1_18] This book has earned Eleven international book awards. Here is a synopsis: A sick baby dragon feels terrible when his fiery sneeze causes problems for a neighboring village. Can they forgive and find it in their hearts to help the giant young dragon? Follow one brave little girl who enters his cave and confronts the dragon. After learning about his plight, she advocates for him with the townspeople. It will take problem-solving at its best to prevent further destruction and heal the ailing dragon. Here follow-up book is called "Baby Dragon Finds His Family." [https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Dragon-Finds-His-Family/dp/B0CLRX6WKG/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3RP1MKYBU0299&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.OlIKqEj3qxY49MKtcqtxNkgyaZL7btcWb0377IcznJvcbbpkhwdP6bxLzPTlGcEuEWny5i16RXZhUcP8oq1n5voQHT3bMncYZrKPvFk8jUBHMN0DccQ4FDI6HXM1rIYSXJzAeex3rJwOZT-iE5pFaNVp_bzmaC7ZsAJgQJu4Mvb50v6hKy_erU2tYW2eRi797jj9X7JpYl6HRbLJdcJK5wL4yYS_144sVpUNaSkbtmQ.mEde53EWyGyrZGIA5WYL6YtjRM4a1x62vAti8khEZUU&dib_tag=se&keywords=baby+dragon+finds+his+family&qid=1736453967&sprefix=%2Caps%2C110&sr=8-1] www.bekindpublishing.com [https://www.bekindpublishing.com]

Author, Marco Gamboa

Marco was born in Chicago but has also lived in Mexico City and San Antonio. He holds two bachelor’s degrees in English and Psychology, as well as a Master of Jurisprudence. With 15 years of experience in the corporate sector, his roles have spanned product management, operations, governance, and call center positions. In 2011, after the birth of his first daughter, Marco began to feel ill. For nine years, he was told it was anxiety, but nothing seemed to help. It wasn’t until 2020 that he was finally diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. From 2011 to 2022, Marco struggled with agoraphobia, but with the help of medication, therapy, and supportive friends, he was able to overcome these limitations. During his time at home, Marco began writing a collection of fictional short stories. Originally, he intended to gift the stories to his daughters, the youngest of whom was born in 2013. However, after sharing the stories with friends, he was encouraged to consider publishing them. In 2023, the stories were published as a novel titled Within Normal Limits. Shortly after its release, the novel became an Amazon Best Seller in the Multiple Sclerosis category. The novel follows a fictional version of Marco as he navigates struggles with religion, relationships, fatherhood, and connecting with others who are also dealing with their own solitude. After the publication, Marco began doing readings. Though the book is quite sad, Marco (the author) is not, which led to the readings evolving into comedy routines. This eventually opened the door for Marco to participate in stand-up comedy around town.     Book Synopsis:   This gripping collection of stories tells the story of Marco, a young man diagnosed with multiple sclerosis who must confront the harsh reality of his prognosis. Set against the backdrop of a life being slowly taken away from him, the reader is taken on a journey of strength, courage, and resilience as Marco learns to appreciate the beauty of life. With his relationships pushed to the limit, Marco must find the courage to face his illness and discover the weight of hope.   Website: https://www.wnlmarco.com [https://www.wnlmarco.com/]