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Episode Summary
In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa talk with Alison Romig, Associate Editor at Delacorte Press, about middle grade and YA fiction. Aspiring authors will gain insight into what editors look for in first pages, how to use comps effectively when pitching, and how to navigate the ever-evolving publishing landscape—especially in middle grade.

Guest Bio
Alison Romig is an associate editor at Delacorte Press, where she edits middle grade and young adult fiction. Since joining Delacorte in 2019, she’s worked with New York Times bestselling authors Lindsay Curry and Catherine Quinn, among others. A lifelong fan of horror, she lives in Brooklyn, New York.

Key Discussion Points

• How horror became Alison’s lifelong reading passion—and why the genre is having a major moment
• What makes a first line or first page irresistible to editors
• The hidden power of accurate comps in query letters and what they reveal about your audience
• Common mistakes in submissions (and why most novels start in the wrong place)
• Balancing multiple POVs and keeping the story cohesive
• The editor–author relationship: collaboration vs. prescription in editorial feedback
• How sales track and market “weirdness” factor into acquisitions—especially for middle grade authors
• Alison’s top wishlist item: horror romance, from chilling to cozy

Conclusion

This episode reminds writers that a strong editorial partnership is built on trust, open communication, and shared creative vision. Whether you’re writing middle grade, YA, or exploring new genres, Alison’s insights demystify the submission process and empower authors to craft stories that truly connect with readers—and maybe even give them a good scare.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts

Weird Horror. Created by Kevin Schrock and Annie Marie Morgan.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

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Episode Summary
In this Ask Beth & Lisa episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa dive into first-page critiques, offering real-time feedback on listener-submitted rom-com and middle grade openings. Aspiring authors will gain insight into what makes a first page hook an editor—and what doesn’t.

Guest Bio
No guest this week—just your favorite co-hosts offering expert feedback, writerly wisdom, and a behind-the-scenes look at their creative process.

Key Discussion Points
• Why first pages matter more than ever in today’s publishing landscape
• Rom-Com critique: Bohemian Girl in Ruins – balancing snark and heart, setting tone, and why emotional vulnerability matters
• Craft insights: Using voice, internal conflict, and pacing to create immediate reader engagement
• Middle Grade critique: Liam Calloway and the Cosmic Conspiracy – voice authenticity, anchoring in-scene emotion, and hooking readers fast
• Red flags in opening pages—over-describing, passive language, and missing stakes
• Foreshadowing, genre expectations, and how to revise for connection, not just cleverness
• Sneak peek into Beth and Lisa’s video podcast debut and future live retreat plans

Conclusion
This episode reminds writers that capturing attention on page one is both art and strategy. Whether you're polishing a rom-com or drafting a middle grade novel, grounding your character, tightening the prose, and creating emotional stakes are key to making your manuscript stand out.

Links & Resources
• Submit your first page: https://writerswithwrinkles.net
• Instagram: @writerswithwrinkles

Subscribe & Connect
Don’t miss future episodes! Subscribe, rate, and review Writers With Wrinkles wherever you listen. Submit questions for “Ask Beth and Lisa” or sign up for our newsletter at writerswithwrinkles.net and join us on Instagram @writerswithwrinkles.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts

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In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa welcome literary agent Leslie Zampetti for an honest and insightful conversation about what makes a successful author-agent relationship. From red flags to communication tips, aspiring authors will gain clarity on how to choose the right agent and navigate the business side of publishing.

Guest Bio

Leslie Zampetti is a literary agent with Open Book Literary, representing fiction and select nonfiction for children and adults. She champions underrepresented voices, especially disabled writers, and brings deep experience as a former librarian and writer. Connect with Leslie on Instagram and Twitter @LiteraryLeslieZ or visit www.openbooklit.com.

Key Discussion Points

• What agents look for in long-term author relationships
• Red flags and green flags when evaluating literary agents
• What authors should ask before signing with an agent
• How to handle communication breakdowns or ethical concerns
• Why pivoting genres (like from middle grade to cozy mystery) can reignite creativity
• How to know if your manuscript is ready to query
• The value of writing community and peer feedback
• The emotional and professional impact of publishing delays and burnout

Conclusion

This episode is packed with actionable advice for writers navigating the intimidating world of literary representation. Leslie Zampetti pulls back the curtain on the agenting process, giving listeners a real-world look at what agents value, how decisions are made, and how writers can position themselves for long-term success. Whether you're querying your first book or considering a genre shift, this conversation will leave you empowered and informed.

Links & Resources

• Leslie’s website: www.openbooklit.com
• Instagram/Twitter: @LiteraryLeslieZ
• Leslie’s Query Submission Link: QueryTracker - Leslie Zampetti
• Mentioned Resources:
  • Association of American Literary Agents (AALA)
  • Kate Allen Fox – Scratching the Surface
  • Apples & Honey Press

🎧 Subscribe & Connect

Don’t miss future episodes! Subscribe, rate, and review Writers With Wrinkles wherever you listen.
Submit your questions for “Ask Beth and Lisa” at writerswithwrinkles.net or follow us on Instagram

Listen on: Apple Podcasts

Weird Horror. Created by Kevin Schrock and Annie Marie Morgan.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Support the show

Visit the Website

Writers with Wrinkles Link Tree for socials and more!

Send us a text

In this Ask Beth & Lisa episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid share updates on their current writing projects and dive into hot publishing topics: copyright oversight, AI-related lawsuits, and the rules of using brand names in fiction. They also unveil details for their new First Page Feedback segment and tease an upcoming Writers With Wrinkles retreat.

Guest Bio
No guest this week—just cohosts and authors Beth McMullen (Mrs. Smith’s Spy School for Girls, Lola Benko Treasure Hunter, Secret of the Storm) and Lisa Schmid (Ollie Oxley and the Ghost), bringing candid advice and insider stories from the world of publishing.

Key Discussion Points

• Writing Updates: Lisa announces she’s pivoting from middle grade to writing cozy mysteries, while Beth wrestles with revisions on her dark psychological thriller. Both share challenges of voice, tense, and confidence in switching genres.
• Copyright Oversight: A cautionary tale about publishers failing to file proper copyrights—why authors must confirm their works are registered, the risks of neglect, and how it connects to ongoing AI lawsuits. Link for checking your copyright status: https://copyright.gov/
• Trademark Use in Fiction: Guidelines for mentioning real brands in your writing. Neutral product mentions (Coke, Nike) are fine, but avoid negative associations that harm a brand’s reputation. Learn when to invent fictional stand-ins and why publishers sometimes over-police brand references.
• First Page Feedback: Writers can now anonymously submit the first 350 words of a work-in-progress (picture book, MG, YA, or adult) for on-air feedback. Focus is on craft, clarity, and hook. Full submission details available at writerswithwrinkles.net
• Upcoming Retreat: Beth and Lisa tease a low-pressure writing retreat designed for community building, creativity, and wine—with hints about the Mark Twain Room at their chosen venue.
• Next Episode Preview: Agent Leslie Zampetti returns to discuss red flags and best practices for author-agent relationships.

Conclusion
This episode blends practical advice with personal storytelling—whether you’re navigating genre shifts, protecting your copyrights, or deciding how to handle trademarks in your manuscript. Don’t forget to check the show notes for the copyright lookup link, submission details for First Page Feedback, and to sign up for the Writers With Wrinkles newsletter at writerswithwrinkles.net

Please rate and review the podcast wherever you listen to help spread the word!

Listen on: Apple Podcasts

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In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid sit down with literary agent Sheyla Knigge of Highline Literary Collective to talk about the art of building strong author-agent relationships. Sheyla shares her journey into publishing, her approach to championing authors, and the key questions every writer should ask before signing with an agent.

Guest Bio:
Sheyla Knigge is a literary agent at Highline Literary Collective with nearly two years of experience representing authors and selling books. A lifelong reader who entered agenting during the pandemic, she quickly proved her eye for marketable stories—discovering Where the Dark Stems Still by A.B. Poranek, which became a six-week New York Times bestseller. She now represents 25 clients across genres and is known for her transparency, passion for storytelling, and dedication to uplifting diverse voices.

Key Discussion Points:

• Origin story: how Sheyla transitioned from project management to slush-pile reader to full-time agent.
• Defining strong partnerships: the importance of open communication, trust, and transparency in the agent-author relationship.
• Red flags in queries: why writing outside one’s lived experience without sensitivity can be problematic, and how Sheyla evaluates submissions.
• Crucial questions for writers: why asking about an agent’s support system and mentorship is essential before signing.
• When to walk away: how gut checks, excitement about revisions, and true alignment matter more than a “big name.”
• Wish list: Sheyla’s dream project—“murderous cheerleaders,” a mashup of Bring It On meets I Know What You Did Last Summer.

Conclusion:
Sheyla Knigge reminds writers that publishing is about partnership, not desperation. Choosing the right agent means prioritizing communication, shared vision, and mutual growth over prestige. Her advice encourages authors to seek relationships that set their creative souls on fire, because the right story—and the right fit—will always find its way to readers.

Mentioned Links:

• Highline Literary Collective
• Sheyla Knigge on Instagram

Listen on: Apple Podcasts

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Beth and Lisa react in real-time to Taylor Swift’s engagement, connecting it to creativity, storytelling, and the writing life. They also dive into lessons on “first pages,” share a cautionary tale from a tough SCBWI conference, and tease details of their upcoming Writers With Wrinkles retreat.

Guest Bio
No guest this week—this is an Ask Beth & Lisa episode featuring co-hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid.

Key Discussion Points

• Taylor Swift’s Engagement: Beth and Lisa discuss the news, likening Taylor’s relationship to a rom-com and exploring how her songwriting may evolve now that she’s writing from happiness rather than heartbreak.
• Creativity and Emotion: How emotional upheaval, trauma, and personal history often fuel strong storytelling—and the challenge of sustaining creativity as life stabilizes.
• First Pages: Why first pages matter so much in grabbing readers, agents, and editors; common pitfalls like info-dumping; and how to balance polish without getting stuck rewriting forever.
• SCBWI Conference Flashback: A harsh “first pages” critique session that traumatized attendees serves as a cautionary tale about feedback done without kindness or actionable advice.
• Upcoming Retreat Plans: Beth and Lisa reveal they are scouting a wine-country location for the Writers With Wrinkles Workshop & Wine Retreat planned for Spring 2026. Expect fun, inspiration, and spider-free accommodations.
• The Waiting Game in Publishing: Lisa shares her experience of being on submission with a new middle-grade novel, reminding writers that rejection and silence are part of the process—and that community helps ease the wait.

Conclusion
This episode blends pop culture joy with practical writing wisdom, offering listeners both lighthearted fun and thoughtful reflection on the writing journey. Beth and Lisa invite listeners to sign up for the newsletter, follow on socials, and prepare for upcoming episodes—including an interview with agent Shayla Knigge of Highline Literary Collective dropping September 15.

Mentioned Links

• Writers With Wrinkles Website
• Think your first page is wrinkle-free? Send us up to 350 words—anonymously, of course—and find out. [full details here]

Listen on: Apple Podcasts

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In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, we dive into the world of self-publishing adult fiction. Authors Barb Hopkins and Kelly Garcia share how they turned frustration with traditional publishing into indie success, building their paranormal mystery series Chronicles of a Cursed Midlife from the ground up while navigating the challenges of co-authoring and marketing.

Guest Bios:

• Barb Hopkins – A former marketing director and freelance writer turned hybrid author, Barb writes middle grade fiction and co-authors the adult Chronicles of a Cursed Midlife series. Her dual path of querying middle grade while self-publishing adult fiction demonstrates persistence and versatility.
• Kelly Garcia – Known for her humorous, feel-good paranormal fiction, Kelly co-authors the Chronicles of a Cursed Midlife series. A veteran of the querying trenches, she now thrives in indie publishing, celebrating magical chaos, found family, and creative freedom.

Key Discussion Points:

• Why Barb and Kelly chose self-publishing for their adult series.
• The inspiration behind Chronicles of a Cursed Midlife and its themes of midlife empowerment, friendship, and second chances.
• The biggest challenges in indie publishing: editing, design, distribution, and discoverability.
• Essential tools and resources: Amazon KDP, Vellum, Canva, Publisher Rocket, Bowker, and 20BooksTo50K.
• How co-authoring adds both complexity and creative energy.
• Marketing lessons from Facebook takeovers, in-person events, and building an online community.
• Barb’s dual journey: querying middle grade while finding success in adult self-publishing.

Conclusion:
Barb and Kelly’s story shows that self-publishing isn’t just a backup plan—it’s a thriving path to creative control and connection with readers. Their success with adult fiction proves that persistence, community, and smart strategy can empower authors to take charge of their careers, even while pursuing traditional goals in other genres.

Links/Info Mentioned:

• From the Mixed-Up Files…of Middle-Grade Authors: https://fromthemixedupfiles.com
• Arcane Covers by Karen Dimmick – Cover design
• Publisher Rocket – Keyword research tool
• Bowker – ISBN provider
• Kindlepreneur – Self-publishing resource
• 20BooksTo50K Facebook Group – Indie author community

Listen on: Apple Podcasts

Weird Horror. Created by Kevin Schrock and Annie Marie Morgan.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Support the show

Visit the Website

Writers with Wrinkles Link Tree for socials and more!

Send us a text

Episode Summary:
In this Ask B&L episode, Lisa interviews Beth about her work as a book coach and what aspiring authors need to know before querying. Beth shares how she supports writers through revisions, builds their confidence, and helps them reach submission-ready status.

Guest Bio:
Beth McMullen is the author of multiple middle grade novels and a seasoned book coach who works primarily with middle grade writers. Drawing from her own experience in traditional publishing, Beth helps writers finish manuscripts, tackle revisions, and prepare their work for submission with a focus on structure, accountability, and emotional support.

Key Discussion Points:

• What is a book coach? Beth explains how a coach differs from an editor or critique group and why coaching provides actionable, structured feedback.
• Common issues writers face: From missing stakes to flat pacing or starting in the wrong place, Beth identifies recurring manuscript problems and how they’re fixable.
• The first step in coaching: A conversation to define the writer’s goals—whether it’s finishing a book or preparing to query.
• The emotional side of writing: Writers often need support and affirmation; coaching includes “30% therapy.”
• Breakthrough moments: Writers go from feeling overwhelmed to finding clarity and confidence with a clear roadmap.
• Advice for stuck writers: Write a logline. If you can’t summarize your story in one sentence, you may not be clear on it yourself.
• Target audience: Beth currently works mostly with middle grade fiction writers, avoiding genres like hardcore sci-fi or nonfiction.

Conclusion:
Book coaching bridges the gap between idea and execution, offering writers not only professional guidance but also much-needed support in a solitary craft. Beth’s kind, structured, and honest approach empowers writers to believe in their work and themselves. Aspiring authors—especially those ready to query—can benefit immensely from this episode’s insights.

Mentioned Links:

• Newsletter & Cheat Sheets: www.writerswithwrinkles.net
• Beth’s Book Coaching Services: bethmcmullenbooks.com
• Upcoming Guest: Barb Hopkins on self-publishing (airing August 18)
• Instagram: @bethmcmullenbooks

Listen on: Apple Podcasts

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Writers with Wrinkles Link Tree for socials and more!