In this compelling episode of Literary Lines, host GiGi Meier sits down with debut author Michelle Park Lazette to discuss her gripping dystopian novel, The Descended—a must-add to your TBR list! Michelle opens up about her unique journey from journalist and social media strategist to novelist, revealing how the "domino effect" of life events during COVID-19 ignited her creative spark and led her to craft a world where survival and humanity collide.

Michelle shares the challenges of writing after long days and navigating caregiver guilt, while leveraging feedback from alpha and beta readers to refine her work. She delves into the transition from journalism’s fact-based reporting to novel writing’s emotional depth, and how she learned to explore her characters’ interior lives. Listeners will also get an exclusive sneak peek at her next project—a sci-fi romance set in Cleveland, Ohio, titled 34 Overbrook, slated for a potential 2026 release.

From book signings and ads to engaging with book clubs, Michelle offers practical advice for fellow debut authors. Tune in to discover where to find The Descended online and why Michelle’s storytelling journey is just beginning.

Find Michelle here:

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/michellelazette/

How to find GiGi:

Website:

https://www.gigimeier.com/

Free Bonus and Deleted Scenes:

https://www.gigimeier.com/freebies

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/authorgigimeier

Substack:

https://gigimeier.substack.com

The Cougar Den Facebook Reader Group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/authorgigimeier

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@gigimeier

In this deeply human episode of Literary Lines, host GiGi Meier sits down with retired law enforcement veteran and crime fiction author Alphonso Williams Jr.—a man who’s lived the stories he writes. With 27 years on the force (plus three in the military), Alphonso worked nearly 500 homicide cases, rose to Assistant Special Agent in Charge of Florida’s Orlando FDLE region, and endured the devastating murder of his own sister—a tragedy that steeled his resolve to become a detective and give voice to the voiceless.

Alphonso opens up about how grief, psychology, and an unshakable sense of justice fuel his Chosen by Fate trilogy, blending authentic procedural detail with raw emotional truth. He shares his leadership philosophy rooted in empathy, breaks down Florida’s “Life Means Life” sentencing laws, and hints at upcoming nonfiction projects diving into serial killers and investigations.

From the bond of the brotherhood in blue to his vision of retiring in Montego Bay, this conversation is a powerful reminder that behind every badge is a heart—and behind every great crime novel is a author who’s walked the walk.

Find Alphonso here:

Website:

https://alphonsowilliams.com/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/alphonsowilliamsofficial

How to find GiGi:

Website:

https://www.gigimeier.com/

Free Bonus and Deleted Scenes:

https://www.gigimeier.com/freebies

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/authorgigimeier

Substack:

https://gigimeier.substack.com

The Cougar Den Facebook Reader Group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/authorgigimeier

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@gigimeier

In this inspiring episode of Literary Lines, host GiGi Meier sits down with women’s fiction author Patti Diener, whose journey from school librarian to full-time novelist is as compelling as the stories she writes. Bursting with infectious energy, Patti shares how the COVID-19 pandemic became a catalyst for reinvention—prompting her to leave her career in education, launch a podcast on second acts (Beautiful Second Act), and publish her debut novel amid the chaos of the California wildfires.

Patti opens up about the emotional resonance of her newest release, Wildflower, and why its themes of resilience and growth deeply moved her two daughters. She delves into the practicalities of building an author career: assembling a dedicated team of editors and designers, navigating audiobook production (out September 30!), and fostering genuine connections with readers through bookstores and social media.

From the importance of developing thick skin in writing groups to her creative strategies for bookstore partnerships and signings, Patti’s story is a testament to the power of dreaming boldly—no matter your age or stage of life. Tune in for a conversation filled with heart, hustle, and the kind of wisdom that only comes from living your truth.

Find Patti here:

Website:

https://www.pattidienerwrites.com/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/pattidiener/

How to find GiGi:

Website:

https://www.gigimeier.com/

Free Bonus and Deleted Scenes:

https://www.gigimeier.com/freebies

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/authorgigimeier

Substack:

https://gigimeier.substack.com

The Cougar Den Facebook Reader Group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/authorgigimeier

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@gigimeier