In this episode, Donna sits down with Vanessa, owner of Breezy Bookshop, for a conversation about books, community, and what it really means to champion indie authors.

Vanessa shares how Breezy Bookshop got its name (hint: it involves a corgi named Bree), why she traded a 10x10 tent for a fully air-conditioned trailer, and how she went from reconnecting with her community to building a bookshop that readers keep coming back to.

She also breaks down exactly how her famous blind dates with books work, including how she researches spice levels and tropes for books she hasn't even read yet.

For any indie authors listening, this one is packed with practical insight. Vanessa talks about what actually gets a book into her shop, why she prefers wholesale over consignment, what makes her say yes to a new author, and the one thing that matters more to her than a five-star review. Plus, a portion of every sale from Breezy Bookshop goes to the Animal Welfare League of Charlotte County, the only no-kill shelter in Charlotte County.

Whether you're a reader, an indie author, or someone who's ever dreamed of running your own bookshop, this conversation is warm, honest, and full of great bookish energy.

Find Breezy Bookshop on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, and sign up for the newsletter at BreezyBookshop.com for discounts and upcoming events.

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In this first episode, they dig into their reading histories, how the romance genre has evolved over the years, and what actually draws them to a book (spoiler: covers matter, no matter what anyone says).

They share the reads that have stuck with them, swap opinions on ebooks vs. paperbacks, and talk through what they've been reading lately, including a series set in Hawaii, a small-town romance with a grumpy chef, and a beautifully written story involving a woman, an aquarium, and a very wise octopus.

They also ask the important questions: Can you really read the book after watching the movie? Is it possible to read too many books at once? And what are the official rules for bookmark usage?

Come hang out, get some book recommendations, and drop your suggestions in the comments for what Donna and Tonia should read next month!

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In this episode, Donna chats with debut author DeAnna K. Fields about her journey from dreaming about writing to actually doing it, and everything that came after.

DeAnna writes cozy, closed-door romance with happily ever afters, all set in her fictional small town of Shepherd's Grove. Her debut novella, Golden Hour, releases July 1st and features one of the most unique meet-cutes you'll hear about: a blind date photo shoot. Yes, it's a real thing, and yes, it's as adorable as it sounds.

They talk about why DeAnna chose indie publishing, what it was like navigating KDP and Ingram as a first-time author, how she uses beta readers, and the best piece of advice she received that had nothing to do with writing at all. Plus, DeAnna gives readers a peek at her characters Bellamy and Edison, and hints at what's coming next in the Shepherd's Grove series.

If you've ever thought about writing a book but haven't started yet, this one's going to feel like a nudge in the right direction.

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They dig into why K.M. chose indie publishing over the traditional route, what draws her to writing novellas in addition to full-length novels, and how collaborating with other authors has shaped her journey. Plus, K.M. shares the story of finally sitting down to write after years of dreaming about it. If you've ever thought about writing a book, this one's for you. Reach out to K.M Ryan on her website: https://www.authorkmryan.com/

Purchase her books on her website or Amazon Whether you're a reader who loves a peek behind the curtain or an aspiring author figuring out your next step, this conversation is warm, honest, and full of great insight. 🎧 Subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Until next time,

Happy Reading!

Donna R. Madden https://www.donnarmadden.com/

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Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up, you'll walk away with real, actionable advice.

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