Uploaded April 2024 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago

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This episode of the Written In Melanin podcast features host C. M. Lockhart in conversation with Bethany Baptiste, discussing her journey as a young adult sci-fi fantasy novelist. They dive into Baptiste's book 'The Poisons We Drink', exploring its unique blend of fantasy, politics, and the power of love potions. They discuss the inspiration behind the novel, the importance of representing morally grey Black characters, and the challenges faced in the traditional publishing world, especially for Black authors.

00:00 Welcome to the Written In Melanin Podcast
00:23 Introducing Bethany Baptiste
01:06 Diving Into 'The Poisons We Drink': A Unique YA Fantasy
03:49 The Inspiration Behind the Story: From Election Night to Dream Visions
11:20 Crafting Morally Gray Characters and Navigating Publishing Challenges
24:41 Bethany's Writing Journey: From Fanfiction to Published Author
41:43 Empowering Advice for Aspiring Authors

Watch part 2 here: youtu.be/5nxl0xOKqLs

Bethany's Book
melaninlibrary.com/books/8112

Bethany's Website
bethanybaptiste.com
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Merch: shop.melaninlibrary.com
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Chelsea's Books
We Are the Origin: shop.writteninmelanin.com/b/wato-hardback
We Are Dying Gods: shop.writteninmelanin.com/b/wadgph

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