Writing and Killing Unicorns
What does it mean to be a writer? Am I bragging if I tell people I am a writer? Am I a failure or scared if I don't? Writing and Killing Unicorns is a raw and unapologetic look into what it means to be a writer and how a crumbling world could affect the craft and the writer, hosted by me, Karen. Hollywood would have us believe books can be written in five minutes-that inspiration is this magical creature. It's time for those lies to die. Writing is hard, and scary, and fun, and healing. I will discuss the joys and fears of being a creative with the written word in a world that is literally crumbling at the seams. Through self-understanding, research and the help of people in the business, let's learn together. And remember: if you have a pen in your hand, no matter what, you're write.
Writing and Killing Unicorns
The Myth of the Happy Ending: What Happens After You Get an Agent? - Ally Russell
You got an agent—now what? In this candid and insightful episode, host Nelly sits down with author Ally Russell to talk about the gritty realities of traditional publishing after you land representation. From querying to editor submission hell, editorial rejection, and maintaining mental health through the highs and lows, Ally gives us a transparent look behind the curtain.
This is not a fairy tale ending — it's the start of a new adventure full of monsters, uncertainty, and growth. Sort of like a Witcher quest… but with fewer swords and more emails.
Whether you're in the trenches of querying, on submission, or just trying to figure out what’s next, this episode will give you wisdom, laughs, and the honest truth the writing streets don’t always tell you.
In This Episode:
- Ally’s early brushes with rejection and resilience
- The emotional rollercoaster of querying and signing with an agent
- What really changes — and what doesn’t — after you get “the call”
- The harsh truths of going on submission to editors
- How community, mindset, and dark humor keep us going
- What Ally wishes she’d known from the start
Links & Mentions:
- Follow Ally Russell: @onedarkally
- Get your copy of It Came from the Trees wherever books are sold
- Follow @the_krnelson for updates and behind-the-scenes
- Subscribe, rate, and review the podcast on your favorite platform
Remember: There are no shortcuts to writing. Only the craft.
