Written In MelaninIn this episode of the Written In Melanin podcast, host C. M. Lockhart speaks with guest Brianna Peppins, author of young Adult Contemporary books, about her journey as a Black and Indie author, the influence of HBCUs on her writing, challenges in book marketing for Black authors, and advice for aspiring writers.
00:00 Welcome to the Written In Melanin Podcast 00:23 Meet Brianna Peppins: Author Spotlight 02:00 Choosing Spelman College: A Journey to HBCU 05:10 Creating Black Spaces in YA Literature 10:51 Empathy and Grace: Themes in Brianna's Writing 27:50 Navigating the Publishing World as a Black Author 39:05 Advice for Aspiring Writers and Closing Thoughts
Brianna Peppins on Black representation and being a Black author in YAWritten In Melanin2024-05-22 | In this episode of the Written In Melanin podcast, host C. M. Lockhart speaks with guest Brianna Peppins, author of young Adult Contemporary books, about her journey as a Black and Indie author, the influence of HBCUs on her writing, challenges in book marketing for Black authors, and advice for aspiring writers.
00:00 Welcome to the Written In Melanin Podcast 00:23 Meet Brianna Peppins: Author Spotlight 02:00 Choosing Spelman College: A Journey to HBCU 05:10 Creating Black Spaces in YA Literature 10:51 Empathy and Grace: Themes in Brianna's Writing 27:50 Navigating the Publishing World as a Black Author 39:05 Advice for Aspiring Writers and Closing Thoughts
BookHarts Community | discord.gg/XSWtDRMyNb - The Links: https://WrittenInMelanin.com/links Melanin Library: https://MelaninLibrary.com/ Patreon: https://Patreon.com/WrittenInMelanin Services: writteninmelanin.com/services #BlackAuthors #AuthorTubeWriting the overlooked experiences of Black menWritten In Melanin2024-10-09 | Dr. Sabin Prentis Duncan, a multifaceted educator and author, joins C. M. Lockhart on this episode of the Written in Melanin Podcast to discuss his journey as author of both fiction and non-fiction works. He shares insights into writing his trilogy, reflects on his growth as an author, and speaks on the importance of authentic representation in literature.
https://x.com/DiannetheWriter/status/1830377107408490789Popup Writing Sprints! | Writing Project Necromancer ✍🏾Written In Melanin2024-09-06 | We'll be working in 45-minute sprints with 10-minute breaks.
1. tiktok.com/t/ZP81G3Vco (The Calli Girl) 2. tiktok.com/t/ZP81G7FJc (The Scammed Author)Young Adult and New Adult are not the same | Anthology TalkWritten In Melanin2024-08-27 | What's the difference between Young Adult (YA), New Adult (NA), and Adult audiences when it comes to writing books? Find out in the conversation with Tatiana Obey as we discuss how we define them, especially when it comes to Magic in the Melanin.
BookHarts Community | discord.gg/XSWtDRMyNb - The Links: https://WrittenInMelanin.com/links Melanin Library: https://MelaninLibrary.com/ Patreon: https://Patreon.com/WrittenInMelanin Services: writteninmelanin.com/services #BlackAuthors #AuthorTubePopup Writing Sprints! | Project Necromancer, the plot is PLOTTING 📝Written In Melanin2024-08-23 | We'll be working in 45-minute sprints with 10-minute breaks.
BookHarts Community | discord.gg/XSWtDRMyNb - The Links: https://WrittenInMelanin.com/links Melanin Library: https://MelaninLibrary.com/ Patreon: https://Patreon.com/WrittenInMelanin Services: writteninmelanin.com/services #BlackAuthors #AuthorTubeRachel Howzell Hall — You have to LOVE 💚 thisWritten In Melanin2024-08-16 | ...The Melanin Chat | ✨ COVER REVEAL ✨ and defining what Black fiction is ✊🏾Written In Melanin2024-08-14 | PREORDER ✨Magic in the Melanin: A Black Fantasy Anthology✨: shop.melaninlibrary.com/products/magic-in-the-melanin-hardback-preorder? - #BlackAuthors #MelaninChat #writteninmelanin - Season 5, Episode 14 - SUBSCRIBE TO THE MELANIN LIBRARY: @MelaninLibrary - CHELSEA'S BOOKS All of them: shop.writteninmelanin.com We Are the Origin: amzn.to/3SVZdk2 We Are Dying Gods: amzn.to/48AlauO Stygian Collection: stygiansociety.com/?ref=5porep5c - SUPPORT 🤎 Patreon: https://Patreon.com/WrittenInMelanin 💫 Merch: https://shop.MelaninLibrary.com 💚 Donate: donate.stripe.com/aEU02PgWV6kF1fafYY - OTHER LINKS Chelsea's Links: writteninmelanin.myflodesk.com Audra's Site: http://BetweenTheReads.com Melanin Library: https://MelaninLibrary.com/ Chelsea's Server: discord.gg/dqb5KXeZUe - RELEVANT LINKS Author Submission: https://forms.gle/Q5JrM9MFFAASocBJ6 Anthology Street Team: https://forms.gle/NCwyyuTz4ZEHioVk8 Artist Submission: https://forms.gle/jWhs6ziEh7hsMrA96C² Chronicles | All Black Anthologies 🤎 Submitting to them and creating one 👀Written In Melanin2024-08-07 | Chronicle 1 of Chelsea's Chaotic Creative Chronicles! I share my journey with submitting to FIYAH, organizing MAGIC IN THE MELANIN, and where I'm at with all my book projects.
Edit: Idk what happened with the text y'all 😭 I'll do better next time! - ANTHOLOGY Authors: https://forms.gle/Q5JrM9MFFAASocBJ6 Street Team: https://forms.gle/NCwyyuTz4ZEHioVk8 Artists: https://forms.gle/jWhs6ziEh7hsMrA96- Merch: shop.melaninlibrary.com - Books: amazon.com/author/cebenson - Discord: discord.gg/XSWtDRMyNb - The Links: writteninmelanin.myflodesk.com - Melanin Library: https://MelaninLibrary.com/ Patreon: https://Patreon.com/WrittenInMelanin Services: writteninmelanin.com/services #BlackAuthors #AuthorTubeBalancing Life and Writing with Rachel Howzell HallWritten In Melanin2024-07-26 | Chelsea talks with Rachel Howzell Hall as they discuss her journey as an author, balancing a full-time job, transitioning from writing thrillers to romanticy, and the impact of life experiences on her writing.
00:00 Welcome to the Written In Melanin Podcast 00:22 Introducing Rachel Howzell Hall 01:33 Balancing Writing with a Full-Time Job 03:48 The Creative Process and Finding Time 12:04 Navigating the Publishing Industry 18:50 The Importance of Support and Community 25:00 AI as a Tool: Embracing the Future 25:25 Transitioning Genres: From Thriller to Romanticy 33:20 Personal Growth and Grief 44:08 Writing Advice and Final Thoughts
00:00 Welcome to the Written in Melanin Podcast 00:22 Introducing Kelis Rowe and Her Debut Novel 01:50 Kelis Rowe's Journey to Becoming an Author 02:21 The Reality of Publishing and Writing 04:34 Navigating the Publishing Industry 06:51 The Importance of Writing What You Love 13:17 Building Relationships with Editors 18:29 Marketing and Promoting Your Book 25:41 Balancing Writing with Personal Life 36:15 Kelis Rowe's Upcoming Projects 38:49 Final Thoughts and Writing Advice - Kelis' Links: https://linktr.ee/keliswrites Finding Jupiter: melaninlibrary.com/books/6459 - Merch: shop.melaninlibrary.com - Chelsea's Books We Are the Origin: shop.writteninmelanin.com/b/KihME We Are Dying Gods: shop.writteninmelanin.com/b/wadge - Chelsea's Discord Community: discord.gg/XSWtDRMyNb - The Links: https://WrittenInMelanin.com/links Melanin Library: https://MelaninLibrary.com/ Patreon: https://Patreon.com/WrittenInMelanin Services: writteninmelanin.com/services #BlackAuthors #AuthorTubePopup Writing Sprints! | Project Necromancer, Chapter 4 ✍🏾Written In Melanin2024-07-12 | We'll be working in 45-minute sprints with 10-minute breaks.
Submit to the anthology: https://forms.gle/Q5JrM9MFFAASocBJ6 Join the street team: https://forms.gle/NCwyyuTz4ZEHioVk8 - The Melanin Library: @MelaninLibrary - Music by Chillhop (chillhop.ffm.to/creatorcred) (Aso - Seasons chll.to/baec7f31) - DISCORD SERVER (The BookHarts) discord.gg/XSWtDRMyNb - MY BOOKS https://CMLockhart.com - ANTHOLOGIES stygiansociety.com/?ref=5porep5c - Website: https://WrittenInMelanin.com Melanin Library: https://MelaninLibrary.com/ Store: shop.melaninlibrary.com Patreon: https://Patreon.com/WrittenInMelanin Services: writteninmelanin.com/services #BlackAuthors #WritingSprints #AuthorTubeWhy do you write? 🎙️ #podcast #blackauthors #blackbooksWritten In Melanin2024-07-08 | Every author has a reason why they write and Julian Winters shares his in the latest episode of the podcast. Listen everywhere podcasts are available or check out the full video on our channel ✌🏾The Melanin Chat! | Trad pub doesnt understand the industry either 🙄Written In Melanin2024-07-03 | SUBSCRIBE TO THE MELANIN LIBRARY: @MelaninLibrary - #BlackAuthors #MelaninChat #writteninmelanin - Season 5, Episode 12 - BOOKS The Shape of Lost Things: amzn.to/4eNLoyj - CHELSEA'S BOOKS All of them: shop.writteninmelanin.com We Are the Origin: amzn.to/3SVZdk2 We Are Dying Gods: amzn.to/48AlauO Stygian Collection: stygiansociety.com/?ref=5porep5c - The BookHarts Server: discord.gg/dqb5KXeZUe - SUPPORT Chelsea's Patreon: https://Patreon.com/WrittenInMelanin Melanin Library Merch: https://shop.MelaninLibrary.com - OTHER LINKS Written In Melanin: https://WrittenInMelanin.com/links Audra Russell: http://BetweenTheReads.com Melanin Library: https://MelaninLibrary.com/ - RELEVANT LINKS https://x.com/shardai_smithh/status/1805999866403049980Fantasy Worldbuilding: How to Create a World Readers Want to Live In | Authortube Writing ConferenceWritten In Melanin2024-06-29 | This presentation will focus primarily on fantasy worldbuilding, but the information provided will be applicable to all writers, whether they write contemporary romance and are building a small-town setting, or horror authors who are building a haunted house.
Tips and advice will supply authors with concrete information they can use to enhance their worldbuilding skills. This will also give authors things to keep in mind as they critique the stories they may have already written and add to their world for any series they may be currently working on.
Attendees will walk away knowing where to focus their worldbuilding efforts, what details aid the reader in visualizing their world, how much detail can be included before it becomes overwhelming, and more. This presentation will be ideal for attendees looking to improve their craft and ask questions of published, indie fantasy authors.
Speakers: C. M. Lockhart and Tatiana Obey - AWC LINKS AWC Website: authortubewritingconference.com 2024 AWC Playlist: bit.ly/2024-AWC-Playlist 2024 AWC Feedback Form (to enter GIVEAWAYS!): bit.ly/AWC-2024-Feedback - Merch: shop.melaninlibrary.com - CHELSEA'S BOOKS All of them: https://CMLockhart.com We Are the Origin: amzn.to/3SVZdk2 We Are Dying Gods: amzn.to/48AlauO - TATIANA'S BOOKS All of them: https://www.TatianaObey.com/ Bones to the Wind: amzn.to/3KN4sz9 Sistah Samurai: amzn.to/45sBgH3 - BookHarts Community | discord.gg/XSWtDRMyNb - The Melanin Library Channel: @MelaninLibrary - Tatiana's Interviews 1. youtu.be/vUIbRHAU7So 2. youtu.be/y1HUCidA2ek - The Links: https://WrittenInMelanin.com/links Melanin Library: https://MelaninLibrary.com/ Patreon: https://Patreon.com/WrittenInMelanin Services: writteninmelanin.com/services #BlackAuthors #AuthorTubeHow to Write Authentic Stories That Matter Lessons from Julian WintersWritten In Melanin2024-06-28 | In this episode of the Written In Melanin podcast, host C. M. Lockhart speaks with author Julian Winters about his journey as a Black and queer writer, the importance of authentic storytelling, transitioning from young adult to adult fiction, and the impact of representation in literature.
00:00 Welcome to the Written In Melanin Podcast 00:23 Introducing Julian Winters 03:44 Navigating the Publishing Industry 20:38 Accolades and Awards 25:29 Shifting from Young Adult to Adult Fiction 30:05 The Importance of Black Voices in Literature 37:15 The Joy of Writing 47:00 Advice for Aspiring Authors 49:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
BookHarts Community | discord.gg/XSWtDRMyNb - The Links: https://WrittenInMelanin.com/links Melanin Library: https://MelaninLibrary.com/ Patreon: https://Patreon.com/WrittenInMelanin Services: writteninmelanin.com/services #BlackAuthors #AuthorTubeCreating Diverse Narratives in Film and MangaWritten In Melanin2024-06-12 | In this episode of the Written In Melanin podcast, host C. M. Lockhart speaks with guest Robbie J. Atkinson, renowned for her avant garde storytelling, about her unique approach to crafting complex characters and plots in Manga and film, the journey of entrepreneurship, and the importance of creating diverse and thought-provoking narratives.
00:00 Introduction to the Written In Melanin Podcast 00:24 Meet Robbie J. Atkinson: Avant Garde Storyteller 01:28 Robbie's Unique Storytelling Approach 01:58 The Importance of Original Stories 03:50 Balancing Entertainment and Thought-Provoking Content 04:38 Creating Complex Characters and Stories 09:10 Robbie's Journey in Film and Manga 10:10 Founding RPX Media Production 32:28 Challenges and Rewards of Creating Manga 37:39 Marketing and Business Strategies for Creatives 44:49 Advice for New Authors 47:49 Conclusion and Where to Find More
The tweet I saw: https://x.com/wordsiren/status/1796562421865435150Thursday Writing Sprints! | Working on a short story today ✍🏾Written In Melanin2024-05-31 | THURSDAY SPRINTS! I can't say "I'm back!" but, I am back for the day. So, let's be productive! We'll be working in 45-minute sprints with 10-minute breaks.
00:00 Introduction to Pacing in Writing 00:31 The Importance of a Strong Start 02:29 Crafting Compelling Chapter Endings 03:11 Delivering on Promises: Keeping Readers Engaged 04:08 Concluding Thoughts on Pacing and Reader Engagement
BookHarts Community | discord.gg/XSWtDRMyNb - The Links: https://WrittenInMelanin.com/links Melanin Library: https://MelaninLibrary.com/ Patreon: https://Patreon.com/WrittenInMelanin Services: writteninmelanin.com/services #BlackAuthors #AuthorTubeThe book community is now responsible for what children read? 🤔 | The Melanin Chat!Written In Melanin2024-05-22 | SUBSCRIBE TO THE MELANIN LIBRARY: @MelaninLibrary - #BlackAuthors #MelaninChat #writteninmelanin - Season 5, Episode 9 - BOOKS Along for the ride: melaninlibrary.com/books/7176 - CHELSEA'S BOOKS All of them: shop.writteninmelanin.com We Are the Origin: amzn.to/3SVZdk2 We Are Dying Gods: amzn.to/48AlauO Stygian Collection: stygiansociety.com/?ref=5porep5c The BookHarts Server: discord.gg/dqb5KXeZUe - SUPPORT Chelsea's Patreon: https://Patreon.com/WrittenInMelanin Audra's Patreon: patreon.com/betweenthereads Melanin Library Merch: https://shop.MelaninLibrary.com - OTHER LINKS Written In Melanin: https://WrittenInMelanin.com/links Audra Russell: http://BetweenTheReads.com Audra's Channel: youtube.com/channel/UCcKleAY_chktUJgybBBYu3w Melanin Library: https://MelaninLibrary.com/ - RELEVANT LINKS Indie Lit Awards: submit.jotform.com/241204443582147 Book Communitea: youtu.be/0-LKZdP4CPc?si=8D_FTaSgURtYhzGcHow to write a book | Find a story structure that works for youWritten In Melanin2024-05-17 | I’m not even gone hold y’all, this video was a challenge for me! I was studying up on structures for Y’ALL (laughing emoji). I’m going to go ahead and lead with the fact that this is how MY brain understands story structures. I know (now — post recording) that there’s some historical differences to the structures, but that doesn’t change how I process things or what I said. So, take a grain of salt with this one!
3 Act, 9 Block notion template: https://cmlockhart.notion.site/What-happens-next-public-4faf40cb5ae84e83bf0fae7f0825f9e0 - 00:00 Intro 01:16 Three Act Structure 02:48 The Four Act Structure 04:35 Seven Act Structure 05:52 Final Thoughts and Recommendations - Merch: shop.melaninlibrary.com - Chelsea's Books We Are the Origin: amzn.to/4afhdMQ We Are Dying Gods: amzn.to/3QHmUMN
BookHarts Community | discord.gg/XSWtDRMyNb - The Links: https://WrittenInMelanin.com/links Melanin Library: https://MelaninLibrary.com/ Patreon: https://Patreon.com/WrittenInMelanin Services: writteninmelanin.com/services #BlackAuthors #AuthorTubeHow to get indie books in bookstoresWritten In Melanin2024-05-08 | This is part 2 of the interview with Demetrius Frazier the owner of Resist Booksellers @resistbks .
Resist Booksellers 233 N Sycamore Street, Petersburg, VA 23803, USA
BookHarts Community | discord.gg/XSWtDRMyNb - The Links: https://WrittenInMelanin.com/links Melanin Library: https://MelaninLibrary.com/ Patreon: https://Patreon.com/WrittenInMelanin Services: writteninmelanin.com/services #BlackAuthors #AuthorTubeWhy indie books arent in indie bookstores | Interview with Demetrius Frazier of Resist BooksellersWritten In Melanin2024-05-01 | This is part 1 of the interview with Demetrius Frazier the owner of Resist Booksellers @resistbks .
00:00 Welcome to the Written in Melanin Podcast 00:22 Spotlight on Demetrius Frazier: Literacy Advocate and Entrepreneur 03:05 The Mission and Impact of Resist Booksellers 11:24 Navigating the Book Industry as an Indie Author 31:30 The Power of Support: Valuing Indie Authors 33:08 Innovative Solutions for Indie Authors: Author Fairs 45:49 The Indie Author's Guide to Success: Tips and Strategies
Resist Booksellers 233 N Sycamore Street, Petersburg, VA 23803, USA
BookHarts Community | discord.gg/XSWtDRMyNb - The Links: https://WrittenInMelanin.com/links Melanin Library: https://MelaninLibrary.com/ Patreon: https://Patreon.com/WrittenInMelanin Services: writteninmelanin.com/services #BlackAuthors #AuthorTube🎉 New Book Release 🎉 | No Ones Gonna Take Her Soul Away by Amanda B. WeaverWritten In Melanin2024-05-01 | What do you get when a Black author writes a book that is Dante's Inferno meets the Wiz? 🧐
Find out in during this spine-tingling celebration of the latest addition to the horror genre, "No One's Gonna Take Her Soul Away" by the incredibly talented author, Amanda B. Weaver!
Tune in for an exclusive author interview where we'll dive deep into the world of horror and the creative process with Amanda B. Weaver as we explore the eerie depths of her new novel.
Have burning questions about the book, writing, or the supernatural? This is your chance to get them answered by the author herself during a live Q&A session!
Whether you're a horror aficionado or just love a good story, this livestream is not to be missed! Grab your copy of "No One's Gonna Take Her Soul Away" and join us for an unforgettable book launch of thrills, chills, and captivating conversation. - No One's Gotta Take Her Soul Away: amzn.to/4b8Ljm5 - Merch: shop.melaninlibrary.com - Chelsea's Books We Are the Origin: shop.writteninmelanin.com/b/wato-hardback We Are Dying Gods: shop.writteninmelanin.com/b/wadgph - BookHarts Community | discord.gg/dqb5KXeZUe - The Links: https://WrittenInMelanin.com/links Melanin Library: https://MelaninLibrary.com/ Patreon: https://Patreon.com/WrittenInMelanin Services: writteninmelanin.com/services #BlackAuthors #AuthorTubeThe unsavory truth behind traditional publishing | Part 2 of the Bethany Baptiste InterviewWritten In Melanin2024-04-29 | This is part 2 of the interview with Bethany Baptiste the author of "The Poisons We Drink"
00:00 Welcome to the Written In Melanin Podcast 00:22 The Journey of 'The Poisons We Drink' with Bethany Baptiste 00:33 Navigating the Challenges of Traditional Publishing 02:16 Bethany's Publication Rollercoaster: Delays, Misprints, and Tours 12:17 The Emotional Toll of Publishing Setbacks 23:07 The Culture of Silence in Traditional Publishing 40:02 Personal Reflections and the Future of Publishing 46:29 Closing Thoughts and Where to Find Us
BookHarts Community | discord.gg/XSWtDRMyNb - The Links: https://WrittenInMelanin.com/links Melanin Library: https://MelaninLibrary.com/ Patreon: https://Patreon.com/WrittenInMelanin Services: writteninmelanin.com/services #BlackAuthors #AuthorTubeThe Melanin Chat! | Yall saw that 🐻❄️ woman pretending to be a POC?Written In Melanin2024-04-24 | We're here to talk about Black, Bookish, and Writerish things!
Hosted by C. M. Lockhart (Chelsea) of Written in Melanin & the Melanin Library, along with Audra Russell of Between the Reads Podcast (@BetweentheReads ) the Melanin Chat is the place where Black authors come together to discuss the craft of writing, share new and new to y'all books, and discuss every aspect of the publishing industry from indie to traditional. We are here for the tea, the laughs, and the books!
This Melanin Chat is in partnership with Between the Reads Podcast — so check it out! betweenthereads.com/episodes
You can always find books by Black authors at https://MelaninLibrary.com ✌🏾
**Fair warning: we talk like grown folks.**
This is recorded in front of a live virtual audience — so don't be afraid to jump in and join the Melanin Chat!