Episode Description
Award-winning author Jordan Taylor takes us on a thrilling journey from her days as a tech reporter to becoming a best-selling novelist. Learn how her witty reality TV show recaps caught the eye of literary agent Danielle Burby, setting her on the path to writing her debut novel. Jordan shares the intriguing inspiration behind her latest thriller, "Wicked Darlings," drawn from her experiences with Manhattan's elite, while juggling her role as Executive Editor at Men's Health magazine. Her unique insights into the literary world offer aspiring writers a treasure trove of advice on crafting compelling proposals and understanding market dynamics.
Discover the inner workings of the author-agent relationship and Jordan's approach to pitching and developing book ideas. From brief pitches to writing sample chapters, she highlights the steps in transforming an idea into a proposal that sells. With personal anecdotes and industry insights, Jordan underscores the importance of reading widely within your genre and the value of perseverance in the writing journey. Her strategies for writing and publishing are likened to a workout routine, emphasizing the need for balance, taking breaks, and squeezing in writing time despite a hectic schedule.
As our conversation unfolds, Jordan reflects on the challenges of launching books during the COVID-19 lockdown and the creative ways she connected with readers. She delves into the art of writing captivating opening pages, weaving complex characters, and ensuring endings that resonate with readers. Highlighting her commitment to inclusivity, Jordan passionately discusses her efforts to address book banning and advocate for LGBTQ representation in literature. This episode offers a heartfelt and inspiring exploration of storytelling, with a focus on leaving a positive impact through engaging narratives and inclusive tales.
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🎙️ Craft Chat Chronicles with J.D. Myall
Candid conversations on writing, publishing, and creative life — featuring bestselling authors, MFA students, and writers at every stage of the journey.
About J.D. Myall
J.D. Myall is the co-chair of Drexel University’s MFA Alumni Association and a publishing and library professional. She is the creator and host of Craft Chat Chronicles, where she interviews authors, agents, and industry insiders about the art and business of writing.
Her work has appeared in Ms. Magazine, Writer’s Digest, and HuffPost. Her debut novel, Heart’s Gambit, releases with Wednesday Books/Macmillan in February 2026.
When she’s not conjuring magic, murder, and mayhem on the page, J.D. mentors emerging writers through workshops and alumni programs, fostering community among aspiring and published authors alike.
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