Reality Writes

Send us a message! What happens when a mystery author teams up with a talented artist to create something completely new? Join Ellie and the Tech Guy as they welcome Rebecca Demos, the artist behind the Color & Sleuth interactive mystery coloring book series. We'll dive into how this unique collaboration came together, explore the creative process of blending storytelling with visual art,...

Send us a message! How do you go from zero readers to thousands of engaged "darlings" who genuinely care about your writing journey? Join me and the Tech Guy as we break down the real strategies behind building an authentic mystery community. We'll share what actually worked (and our spectacular failures), discuss the balance between vulnerability and boundaries, and give you action...

Send us a message! In this episode, we tackle the messy ethical dilemmas authors actually face. Should you blurb another author’s book if you don’t like it? What happens when you want to use real-life businesses or locations in your murder mystery? How do you handle using actual people as the inspiration for a villain or a victim? We'll present real scenarios, poll the live audience for their...

Send us a message! Ever wondered how I keep all my characters, timelines, and plot twists straight across multiple cozy mystery series? In this special live episode of Reality Writes, we’re diving into my personal systems for series writing—from my (messy) story bibles to real-life continuity slip-ups and the readers who caught them. I’m also answering your live questions, talking about keeping th...

Send us a message! Hello, Darlings! A reader recently asked me how I come up with the food themes in my books, and I couldn’t wait to bite into this one! In this episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes of my Bakeshop Mysteries and sharing how I research (and test!) every recipe, including some delicious—and disastrous—kitchen moments. From writing a scene inspired by a raspberry Danish to travel...

Send us a message! I’ve gotten some reader messages that are…let’s just say memorable. In this episode, I’m sharing a few of the wildest things people have sent me (anonymously, of course) and talking about what authors actually control when it comes to things like pricing, covers, and shipping. Spoiler alert: it’s not as much as you might think. We’ll laugh, we’ll cringe, and I’ll offer some hone...

Send us a message! Get ready for some spicy book opinions in this episode of Reality Writes ! I’m breaking down five bookish hills I’ll die on—from why I DNF without guilt to why blurbs and awards don’t matter (as much as we think they do). Plus, The Tech Guy and I tackle reader guilt over library books, the tragedy of cracked spines, and whether it’s okay to pass along a book you hated. It’s cozy...

Send us a message! Hello, Darlings! What happens when you revisit the first mystery series you ever wrote—ten years later? In this episode of Reality Writes, I’m talking about the re-release of the Meg Reed Investigates series (formerly the Pacific Northwest Mysteries), how it all began, and what it’s like reading through your first series so many years later. We get into character inspiration, be...

Send us a message! What happens when two mystery writers team up to plan a cozy crime scene in real life? In this episode, I talk with Emmeline Duncan about Halloween books, Ashland Mystery Fest, and awkward reader encounters. Plus, we answer the ultimate question: what should you actually say to an author when you don’t know what to say? 🎉 Join me on Patreon for bonus content. Website Instagram...

Send us a message! Hello, Darlings! We’re back and just getting warmed up! After a hectic couple of months, we’re settling back into a rhythm and looking forward to diving into some fun new topics on Reality Writes. For the rest of this season, we’ll be discussing the ups and downs of writing life, exploring topics ranging from writing inspirations to bringing a series back to life, and sharing ev...

Send us a message! Hey, Darlings! The Tech Guy came up with a new segment for the podcast that has me a little worried—"Stump Ellie." 🕵️‍♀️ Put your cozy mystery knowledge to the test by sending in questions about any of my series! Think you know the "Bakeshop Mysteries" better than me? Now’s your chance to prove it! The Tech Guy also shares the trial-and-error process of findi...

Send us a message! Hey, Darlings! 🎉 We're back with a special release week episode all about "Killing Me Souffle," the 20th book in the Bakeshop Mystery series. 🎂 Join us as we reminisce about our journey, from launch parties filled with delectable pastries to the creative process that brings these stories to life. What's your favorite Bakeshop Mystery moment so far? 🍰 Watch...

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...