This bonus episode gives listeners an insider's look at the author's creative process by discussing two key elements: worldbuilding and playing with genre tropes.The author obsessively researches the Regency era to vividly recreate Castle Clairvoir and the historical setting for the story, filling it with period-accurate details that transport listeners to the past while avoiding info-dumps. The worldbuilding involves envisioning not just the physical surroundings - the gardens, library, rooms - but the intricate social environment governing class dynamics and etiquette. The author aims to make settings and backdrops "additional characters" that shape the protagonist Alice. While staying true to the "slow burn" romance and happy ending of the Regency genre, the author also adds fresh twists like giving Alice more agency and autonomy, nurturing female friendships, and avoiding pointless romantic conflicts. The author tries to both satisfy and subvert genre expectations in a fresh way while delivering an enjoyable love story. The discussion gives listeners a closer look at the author's creative choices and imaginative process behind building a compelling historical romance.

Don't forget to like and subscribe so you never miss an episode!