Reality Writes

Send us a message! Hello, Cozy Mystery Fans! 🔎📖 We're buzzing with excitement in this episode as we reveal the all-star lineup for the 2025 Ashland Mystery Fest! This festival brings readers and authors together in the most immersive and community-focused way possible. Imagine being part of a real-life cozy mystery! Join us as we discuss all the juicy details about the events, including an...

Send us a message! Hello, Darlings! 🎉 I’m thrilled to welcome you back to Reality Writes for our special Valentine’s episode! Love is in the air, and I’m celebrating the release of my latest book, "A Victim at Valentine's." This episode is all about the irresistible charm of books and the immersive worlds they create—just like in my fifth book of the Secret Bookcase Mysteries. 📚💕...

Send us a message! Hey there, Darlings! 📖 This week, The Tech Guy and I are untangling the mystery of book blurbs. Did you know these little lines of text from fellow authors or publications are a key part of a book's marketing strategy? In this episode, we discuss the ins and outs of getting and giving blurbs, plus the stress and excitement they bring. Ever wonder if authors are paid for th...

Send us a message! Hello, Darlings! 🌟 In our latest episode of Reality Writes, The Tech Guy and I are diving into the controversial and intriguing world of AI in writing! 🤖📝 In this episode, we explore the diverse ways authors can use AI to enhance their writing process. From saving time on menial tasks like creating spreadsheets to using AI as a brainstorming partner, the possibilities are end...

Send us a message! Welcome back, darlings, to another exciting episode of Reality Writes! In today’s episode, “Slide into My DMs,” we’re braving the crisp January air and taking our conversation outdoors. This week, we’re diving into some of the best questions you’ve sent me via social media DMs. From crafting floor plans for fictional settings to the nitty-gritty of private investigation research...

Send us a message! Hello, darlings! Welcome to another road trip edition of Reality Writes, the podcast where we dive deep into the book world. I’m your host, author Ellie Alexander, joined by my trusty co-host, The Tech Guy. In today's episode, we tackle the work that follows the launch of a book. We’ll share insights on crucial post-launch activities, including updating pre-order links, lev...

Send us a message! Hey there, Darlings! Come along on our special road trip edition of Reality Writes. In this episode, we're headed home from the LA area to the South Bay, sharing our secrets on achieving work-life balance while soaking in the beauty of the Pacific Ocean. 🚗🌊 Discover how road trips have fueled our creativity, leading to exciting new projects and book ideas. Learn why it&ap...

Send us a message! Hello, Darlings! 📚 It’s the year-end wrap-up in Episode 20 of "Reality Writes," where The Tech Guy and I reflect on an incredible 2024 and look forward to 2025. We give you a peek into our whirlwind year, including trips to iconic places like Costa Rica and Seattle, all while juggling book research and writing deadlines. ✈️🌎 The picturesque landscapes of Costa Rica a...

Send us a message! The holiday season is here, and in this cozy episode of Reality Writes, the Tech Guy and I dive into tips for staying inspired and productive during the busiest time of the year. 🖋️🎁 Whether you’re navigating self-imposed deadlines or embracing a creative break, we’ve got insights and encouragement for every writer. We’re also sharing snippets of our favorite holiday activities...

Send us a message! Hello, fellow cozy mystery buffs and pun aficionados! 🕵️‍♂️💕 It’s time for another cozy episode of "Reality Writes." This week, The Tech Guy and I dive deep into the art of title creation in Episode 01.18. Ever wonder why some books grab your attention right from the shelf? It’s all in the title! From the agony and ecstasy of brainstorming to the final publisher edits...

Send us a message! Hello, Darlings! Welcome to Episode 17 of Reality Writes! 🎙️ In this episode, I take you behind the scenes of series writing and the challenges of balancing multiple books at once. 📚 I also share insights into my writing schedule and a sneak peek into the setting of my latest Bakeshop Mystery, which may or may not involve coffee research in Costa Rica! 🌴 Listen in as the Tech...

Send us a message! Hello, Darlings! 🎧 Episode 16 of Reality Writes is live and filled with all kinds of inspiration straight from real life! 📚 Join me and the Tech Guy as we chat about how the rich history and quirky local events in Ashland weave their way into my stories. Did you know the “Downhill Dummy” competition on Mt. Ashland sparked the idea for a murder method in one of my books? We als...

Send us a message! Hello, Darlings! 😍 Ready for a delicious adventure? Episode 15 of Reality Writes is live, and we’re diving into the irresistible world of culinary mysteries. 🍰🔍 Join me and The Tech Guy as we chat about how I choose the perfect recipes for the Bakeshop Mystery series—spoiler alert, coffee is always involved! ☕ We’ll also talk about some of my family’s treasured recipes, like...

Send us a message! Hello, Writers! 🌟 Welcome to Episode 14 of "Reality Writes!" I'm here with The Tech Guy, and this week, we're busting the myth that professional creatives are disorganized. This episode reveals how essential structured writing and editorial calendars are for success. We share tips on experimenting with your writing schedule, from late-night sips of wine to e...

Send us a message! Hello, Darlings! Welcome to Episode 13 of "Reality Writes!" I'm here with The Tech Guy, and in this episode, we’re diving into the nitty-gritty of the publishing world. We discuss the limited control some authors have over covers and distribution, why you should contact booksellers instead of authors about damaged copies, and how indie authors are shaking things u...

Send us a message! In this episode of Reality Writes, we dive into Ashland, Oregon, the real-life inspiration behind my Bakeshop Mystery series. Join me and The Tech Guy as we explore Ashland's historic buildings, quirky local events, and the captivating Oregon Shakespeare Festival. We'll share behind-the-scenes stories, talk about character development in a long-running series, and even...

Send us a message! Dive into the world of cozy mysteries with Ellie Alexander and The Tech Guy. In this episode of Reality Writes, they unravel why the cozy mystery genre often gets the cold shoulder in publishing. Don’t miss it! 🕵️‍♀️📚 🎉 Join me on Patreon for bonus content. Website Instagram YouTube TikTok Etsy Bookbub Facebook

Send us a message! Do you find yourself making excuses for not writing? This week, we’re diving into some common excuses that keep you stuck. I’m looking at your writer's block. 🎉 Join me on Patreon for bonus content. Website Instagram YouTube TikTok Etsy Bookbub Facebook

Send us a message! What's it like visiting the real-life setting of a cozy mystery series? Come find out at the Ashland Mystery Festival! Ashland, OR, is the setting for my Bakeshop Mystery Series, and this October, the festival will be even bigger (even more cozy mystery authors!) and better than last year. Listen in as the Tech Guy, and I discuss last year's event and what's new f...

Send us a message! Want to show love to your favorite authors? This episode is all about the simple, impactful ways you can support writers. Your support means the world to us! How do you support your favorite authors? Share your tips in the comments! 🎉 Join me on Patreon for bonus content. Website Instagram YouTube TikTok Etsy Bookbub Facebook

Send us a message! The Tech Guy and I are back with an episode dedicated to keeping you safe online. It might sound silly, but if you’re engaging on social media as a reader or a writer, you must protect yourself and know who you interact with. The Tech Guy is breaking out all of his best tips for this one. 🎉 Join me on Patreon for bonus content. Website Instagram YouTube TikTok Etsy Bookbub Face...

Send us a message! Independent bookstores are the lifeblood of the book industry. I’ve been so fortunate to have incredible bookstore partners over the years. Booksellers who took a chance on me, helped launch my career, and have become dear friends over the years. We’re sending them all the love and sharing some of our favorite memories from the early years of logging miles and miles on our Subar...

Send us a message! Have you ever wondered how a book goes from an idea to a lovely bound copy on bookstore shelves? This is the podcast for you! We’re breaking down every step of the process, from the seed of an idea to editing, formatting, cover design, and so much more. We’re also exploring how the process differs in traditional, hybrid, or independent publishing. Sometimes, launching a book fee...

Send us a message! The Tech Guy and I are going head to head on our favorites this week. Taylor Swift versus Star Wars. How have they inspired and influenced my writing and his geekdom. Who’s the bigger fan and ultimately who wins the battle. Spoiler alert: it’s me, hi! I’m the winner, it’s me. 🎉 Join me on Patreon for bonus content. Website Instagram YouTube TikTok Etsy Bookbub Facebook

Send us a message! Is writing a real job? This week we’re chatting about the hard realities of carving out time for writing (especially when you’re first starting out) and breaking some myths about the work that goes into crafting a book and sending it out in the world. No, really it is a job! 🎉 Join me on Patreon for bonus content. Website Instagram YouTube TikTok Etsy Bookbub Facebook