Big Gay Fiction Podcast

Jeff Adams & Will Knauss

The Big Gay Fiction Podcast is for avid readers and passionate fans of queer romance fiction. Each week we bring you exclusive author interviews, book recommendations and explore the latest in queer pop culture. read less

Our Editor's Take

Listeners can find tales aplenty to fulfill their fantasies on the Big Gay Fiction Podcast. It brings queer romance fiction to fans and newcomers alike. The hosts introduce new authors, their favorite stories, and revealing conversations.

The hosts, Will Knauss and Jeff Adams, have known each other for over 20 years. They started in community theater and migrated towards writing gay romance. They created their own love story and got married along the way. Their love of storytelling inspired the creation of Big Gay Fiction Podcast. The series provides LGBTQIA+ romance writing knowledge to more readers. Besides interviewing authors, they discuss the craft of writing and publishing.

The theme song sets a sophisticated tone. It feels like an evening in an elite hotel ballroom or bar where chance encounters could lead to love. It might be a long-lasting love affair or a brief fulfillment of desire. Either way, the possibility of love and romance are latent in the air.

Guest authors include K. Sterling, Adriana Herrera, and Jordan Nassar. K. Sterling discusses her two series, Nannies of New York and The Handy Nanny. She shares why she uses the suspense and comedy genres as backdrops for romance. Why not add laughter and tension to love stories? In another episode, Justin Syde tells Jeff and Will about creating gay coloring books. Great for Pride Month, Pride: A Coloring Book portrays pride parades worldwide. Fans can fill in unique depictions of queer culture using their own rainbow of colors.

When not interviewing authors, Jeff and Will recap TV series and recommend new reads. They also discuss their writing journeys and achievements. The Big Gay Fiction Podcast may inspire listeners to write and read about queer love. Its information conversations will leave readers with new authors and books to explore. Jeff and Will invite fans to join the fun and embrace gay fiction today.

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Ep 452: Adib Khorram and "The Breakup Lists"

Ep 452: Adib Khorram and "The Breakup Lists"

Adib Khorram talks with Jeff about his new YA novel, "The Breakup Lists." He discusses what inspired the story of stage manager Jackson and swimmer-turned-actor Liam, including some elements that come from Adib's real life. We also find out about how Adib approached the deaf representation in the book, why he chose the plays he did to be staged within the book, and scenes that got left behind. Of course, Adib's got some great recommendations too. Complete show notes for episode 452 along with a transcript of the show are at BigGayFictionPodcast.com. Look for the next episode of Big Gay Fiction Podcast on April 8. Big Gay Fiction Podcast is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find many more outstanding podcasts at frolic.media/podcasts!

Episodes

Ep 452: Adib Khorram and "The Breakup Lists"

Ep 452: Adib Khorram and "The Breakup Lists"

Adib Khorram talks with Jeff about his new YA novel, "The Breakup Lists." He discusses what inspired the story of stage manager Jackson and swimmer-turned-actor Liam, including some elements that come from Adib's real life. We also find out about how Adib approached the deaf representation in the book, why he chose the plays he did to be staged within the book, and scenes that got left behind. Of course, Adib's got some great recommendations too. Complete show notes for episode 452 along with a transcript of the show are at BigGayFictionPodcast.com. Look for the next episode of Big Gay Fiction Podcast on April 8. Big Gay Fiction Podcast is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find many more outstanding podcasts at frolic.media/podcasts!

Ep 451: "Accidentally Undercover" with Layla Reyne, Allison Temple, and Cari Z

Ep 451: "Accidentally Undercover" with Layla Reyne, Allison Temple, and Cari Z

Jeff welcomes authors Layla Reyne, Allison Temple, and Cari Z to discuss the new "Accidentally Undercover" romantic suspense series. We talk about the origin of the series (which includes secret message chicken wings), and what it was like for Allison and Cari to write their first solo romantic suspense books. Plus, they talk about their own books in the series, and give the details about the other books. Cari, Allison, and Layla also have some great reading and watching recommendations. Complete show notes for episode 451 along with a transcript of the show are at BigGayFictionPodcast.com. Look for the next episode of Big Gay Fiction Podcast on Monday, April 22. Big Gay Fiction Podcast is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find many more outstanding podcasts at frolic.media/podcasts!

Ep 450: Steven Salvatore Talks About His Very Gay Take on "Pretty Woman"

Ep 450: Steven Salvatore Talks About His Very Gay Take on "Pretty Woman"

Jeff & Will welcome Steven Salvatore to discuss his new book "The Boyfriend Subscription," which is a queer retelling of "Pretty Woman." Steven talks about the inspirations he took from the Julia Roberts film, why he's started writing adult romance after several young adult titles, plus we get some hints about what's coming in the sequel. Steven also shares some reading recommendations to add to your TBR. Complete show notes for episode 450 along with a transcript of the show are at BigGayFictionPodcast.com. Look for the next episode of Big Gay Fiction Podcast on April 8. Big Gay Fiction Podcast is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find many more outstanding podcasts at frolic.media/podcasts!

Ep 449: Brad Gooch Discusses His "Radiant" Biography of Artist Keith Haring

Ep 449: Brad Gooch Discusses His "Radiant" Biography of Artist Keith Haring

Jeff & Will kick off this episode discussing books that Jeff's recently read including "A Different Kind of Brave" by Lee Wind, "Mona of the Manor" by Armistead Maupin, and "Radiant: The Life and Line of Keith Haring" by Brad Gooch. Brad then joins Jeff to discuss "Radiant," a biography that explores the life of artist Keith Haring from his earliest drawings through his death in 1990 at age 31. Brad talks about why he wanted to write this book, the fascinating research and interviews that he did, as well as the history he shares with Haring and 1980s New York City. Complete show notes for episode 449 along with a transcript of the show are at BigGayFictionPodcast.com. Look for the next episode of Big Gay Fiction Podcast on Monday, March 25. Big Gay Fiction Podcast is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find many more outstanding podcasts at frolic.media/podcasts!

Ep 448: Revisiting a Favorite: "Romancing the Rough Diamond" by Clare London

Ep 448: Revisiting a Favorite: "Romancing the Rough Diamond" by Clare London

Jeff & Will begin by recommending "Most Ardently" by Gabe Cole Novoa, which is a retelling of "Pride & Prejudice." To wrap up Valentine's month, the guys take a deep dive on one of their all-time favorite romances, "Romancing the Rough Diamond" by Clare London. Complete show notes for episode 448 along with a transcript of the show are at BigGayFictionPodcast.com. Look for the next episode of Big Gay Fiction Podcast on Monday, March 11. Big Gay Fiction Podcast is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find many more outstanding podcasts at frolic.media/podcasts!

Ep 447: Gregory Ashe Creates the Advanced Ashochism Reader Community

Ep 447: Gregory Ashe Creates the Advanced Ashochism Reader Community

Jeff & Will kick off this episode with details on the "Box of Hearts: Sweet to Spicy Tales of LGBTQIA+ Love" available from authors on Ream. Jeff also reviews "The Invention of Wings" by Robin Knight. Gregory Ashe discusses how subscription communities can engage readers on a deeper level. He shares insights from launching his own community, along with the early access and perks that his readers receive. Greg also talks about the first author he ever subscribed to and why he did it. Plus, he has details about his upcoming cozy mystery series, and some reading and viewing recommendations. Complete show notes for episode 447 along with a transcript of the show are at BigGayFictionPodcast.com. Look for the next episode of Big Gay Fiction Podcast on Monday, February 26. Big Gay Fiction Podcast is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find many more outstanding podcasts at frolic.media/podcasts!

Ep 446: Charlie Cochet & Victoria Sue on Connecting with Readers Through Subscriptions

Ep 446: Charlie Cochet & Victoria Sue on Connecting with Readers Through Subscriptions

Jeff & Will kick off this episode discussing the comments they got from members of the Big Gay Fiction Podcast community about authors offering subscriptions. Authors Charlie Cochet and Victoria Sue discuss the creative freedoms and community engagement that they have found since beginning their subscriptions. They also share details on upcoming projects, and offer book recommendations. Complete show notes for episode 446 along with a transcript of the show are at BigGayFictionPodcast.com. Look for the next episode of Big Gay Fiction Podcast on Monday, February 12. Big Gay Fiction Podcast is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find many more outstanding podcasts at frolic.media/podcasts!

Ep 445: Empowering Readers and Storytellers with Subscriptions

Ep 445: Empowering Readers and Storytellers with Subscriptions

Jeff and Will kick off the show with a review of "The (Fake) Dating Game" by Timothy Janovsky. Michael Evans, an author and co-founder of the subscription platform Ream, discusses the rising trend of author subscription programs and Ream's role in bringing readers and storytellers together. Michael shares the inspiration behind Ream, and the valuable resources available for readers looking to support their favorite writers, and for authors considering building their own communities. He also talks about features coming to Ream in the coming year. Complete show notes for episode 445 along with a transcript of the show are at BigGayFictionPodcast.com. Look for the next episode of Big Gay Fiction Podcast on Monday, January 29. Big Gay Fiction Podcast is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find many more outstanding podcasts at frolic.media/podcasts!

Ep 444: Enemies to Lovers in Hollywood with Kacen Callender

Ep 444: Enemies to Lovers in Hollywood with Kacen Callender

Jeff and Will share some favorite reads of 2023 from Big Gay Fiction patrons. Jeff also reviews "Heartstopper Volume 5" by Alice Oseman. Kacen Callender discusses their first adult romance novel "Stars in Your Eyes." They talk about writing and researching the enemies-to-lovers romance between two actors, and incorporating themes of mental health and social media culture. They also share insights about drawing from personal experiences to shape Logan and Mattie's story. Plus, Kacen offers some recommendations for listeners, and teases with some details on what's coming up next. Complete show notes for episode 444 along with a transcript of the show are at BigGayFictionPodcast.com. Look for the next episode of Big Gay Fiction Podcast on Monday, January 15. Big Gay Fiction Podcast is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find many more outstanding podcasts at frolic.media/podcasts!

Ep 443: "Time to Shine" with Rachel Reid

Ep 443: "Time to Shine" with Rachel Reid

Jeff and Will talk about their favorite reads of 2023, including books by Ari Baran, Leta Blake, Sarina Bowen, Sarah Rees Brennan, Kacen Callender, Slade James, LaQuette, Sher Lee, Dominic Lim, C.S. Pacat, David Valdes, N.R. Walker, and M.A. Wardell. Jeff reviews "Time to Shine" by Rachel Reid and then talks to Rachel about this hockey romance that is set during the holiday season. Rachel talks about the inspiration for Landon and Casey and this opposites attract, forced proximity story. RacRachel also discusses her holiday traditions, offers some reading recommendations, and details on what she's working on next. Complete show notes for episode 443 along with a transcript of the show are at BigGayFictionPodcast.com. Look for the next episode of Big Gay Fiction Podcast on Monday, January 1. Big Gay Fiction Podcast is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find many more outstanding podcasts at frolic.media/podcasts!

Ep 442: Elves, Cookies and Holiday Romance with David Valdes

Ep 442: Elves, Cookies and Holiday Romance with David Valdes

Jeff and Will share news about a holiday hockey romance anthology that features a new short story from Jeff. They also review books by Sarina Bowen, Keira Andrews, and David Valdes. David also discusses his new adult holiday rom-com "Finding My Elf." He talks about drawing from his own love of Christmas traditions in creating Cam and Marco's story. He also shares some of his favorite holiday traditions, offers up some reading recommendations and details on what he's working on next. Complete show notes for episode 442 along with a transcript of the show are at BigGayFictionPodcast.com. Look for the next episode of Big Gay Fiction Podcast on Monday, December 18. Big Gay Fiction Podcast is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find many more outstanding podcasts at frolic.media/podcasts!

Ep 441: M.A. Wardell Adds Spice to a Holiday Rom-Com

Ep 441: M.A. Wardell Adds Spice to a Holiday Rom-Com

Jeff and Will review books they've read recently, including "Manhandled" by Lauren Blakely, "The Billionaire's Assistant" by Silvia Violet, and two books by M.A. Wardell, "Teacher of the Year" and "Mistletoe & Mishigas." M.A. Wardell discusses the "Teachers in Love" series, the inspiration he drew from his teaching career, and how "Teacher of the Year" went quickly from a standalone book into a series. He also talks about the latest installment, "Mistletoe & Mishigas," and how Christmas and Hanukah provided the perfect setting for this fake dating rom-com. In addition, Matt chats about why he makes his rom-coms spicy, the artwork he commissions for the stories, and offers some book recommendations. Complete show notes for episode 441 along with a transcript of the show are at BigGayFictionPodcast.com. Look for the next episode of Big Gay Fiction Podcast on Monday, December 4. Big Gay Fiction Podcast is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find many more outstanding podcasts at frolic.media/podcasts!

Ep 440: A Christmas Full of Romance and Family with LaQuette

Ep 440: A Christmas Full of Romance and Family with LaQuette

Jeff and Will celebrate Big Gay Fiction Podcast's 8th Anniversary! Jeff shares reviews of recent books he's read, including "Stars in Your Eyes" by Kacen Callender, "Tempted by the Bollywood Star" by Sophia Singh Sasson, and the holiday romance from this week's guest LaQuette, "Secret Heir for Christmas." LaQuette then discusses "Secret Heir for Christmas" and the "Dynasty"-inspired family romance/drama series "Devereux Inc." She talks about the inspiration for Stephan and Carter's romance, and how she celebrates Black culture and familial love throughout the story. We also find out about her Christmas traditions, get some book recommendations, and find out what she's working on next. Complete show notes for episode 440 along with a transcript of the show are at BigGayFictionPodcast.com. Look for the next episode of Big Gay Fiction Podcast on Monday, November 20. Big Gay Fiction Podcast is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find many more outstanding podcasts at frolic.media/podcasts!

Ep 439: Prank Wars, Demons and Gothic Tales for Your Seasonal Reading

Ep 439: Prank Wars, Demons and Gothic Tales for Your Seasonal Reading

Jeff and Will discuss some of their favorite reads for the Halloween season, including "The Rivals of Casper Road" by Roan Parrish, and "This is not a Horror Movie" by Sara Dobie Bauer. They also recommend the "Reformed Rakes" podcast and their recent discussion of the gay gothic classic "Gaywyck" by Vincent Virga. The guys revisit the Big Gay Fiction Book Club episode from October 2020 to talk about one of their favorite gay gothic tales, "The Mystery of Brackenwell Hall" by Gillian St. Kevern. Complete show notes for episode 439 along with a transcript of the show are at BigGayFictionPodcast.com. Look for the next episode of Big Gay Fiction Podcast on Monday, November 6. Big Gay Fiction Podcast is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find many more outstanding podcasts at frolic.media/podcasts!

Ep 438: Viewing Recommendations for a Very Queer Halloween

Ep 438: Viewing Recommendations for a Very Queer Halloween

Jeff and Will kick off the show talking about two movies they've recently seen: the film adaptation of "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" and the Hallmark Channel original "Notes of Autumn." They also have recommendations perfect for your Halloween viewing, including "Dante's Cove," "Chucky," "Interview with the Vampire," "Out of Body," "The Paul Lynde Halloween Special," "Midnight Kiss," "Hellbent," "The Covenant," "A Nightmare on Elm Street 2: Freddy's Revenge," and "Scream, Queen! My Nightmare on Elm Street." Complete show notes for episode 438 along with a transcript of the show are at BigGayFictionPodcast.com. Look for the next episode of Big Gay Fiction Podcast on Monday, October 23. Big Gay Fiction Podcast is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find many more outstanding podcasts at frolic.media/podcasts!

Ep 437: Into the "Hazardverse" with Gregory Ashe

Ep 437: Into the "Hazardverse" with Gregory Ashe

Gregory Ashe talks about his new crossover series "Iron on Iron" uniting characters from the four series that make up the "Hazardverse." He also shares his strategies for balancing the large cast, and why he decided to do a Kickstarter. In addition, Greg discusses his day job as a high school librarian and the book bans he's dealt with first hand. Complete show notes for episode 437 along with a transcript of the show are at BigGayFictionPodcast.com. Look for the next episode of Big Gay Fiction Podcast on Monday, October 9. Big Gay Fiction Podcast is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find many more outstanding podcasts at frolic.media/podcasts!

Ep 436: In Conversation with Gregory Ashe, Josh Lanyon, Layla Reyne & Felice Stevens

Ep 436: In Conversation with Gregory Ashe, Josh Lanyon, Layla Reyne & Felice Stevens

Jeff & Will kick off the episode reviewing two YA books, "Lion's Legacy" by L.C. Rosen and "Fake Dates and Mooncakes" by Sher Lee. Then they bring you a panel discussion that Jeff hosted for a Barnes and Noble NOOKEvent Live featuring authors Gregory Ashe, Josh Lanyon, Layla Reyne, and Felice Stevens. The authors discuss their careers writing queer fiction, as well as how their characters and plots often surprise them as the writing unfolds. They also discussed the joy of bringing back characters in cameos, the challenges of crafting slow burn romances, and they each discuss their recent and upcoming books. Complete show notes for episode 436 along with a transcript of the show are at BigGayFictionPodcast.com. Look for the next episode of Big Gay Fiction Podcast on Monday, September 25. Big Gay Fiction Podcast is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find many more outstanding podcasts at frolic.media/podcasts!

Ep 435: Tre'Vell Anderson Discusses "We See Each Other"

Ep 435: Tre'Vell Anderson Discusses "We See Each Other"

https://frolic.media/podcastsJeff & Will welcome journalist and podcaster Tre'vell Anderson to talk about their book "We See Each Other: A Black, Trans Journey Through TV and Film." Tre'vell discusses the history of trans and gender expansive characters in TV and film, and how these representations impacted their own identity and community. They also highlight important moments through history, ongoing issues around representation, the memoir/personal aspects of the book, and advice for improving trans representation in media. Complete show notes for episode 435 along with a transcript of the show are at BigGayFictionPodcast.com. Look for the next episode of Big Gay Fiction Podcast on Monday, September 11. Big Gay Fiction Podcast is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find many more outstanding podcasts at frolic.media/podcasts!

Ep 434: Timothy Janovsky's Time Traveling Rom-Com

Ep 434: Timothy Janovsky's Time Traveling Rom-Com

Jeff & Will kick off this episode with their thoughts on "Heartstopper" season 2, and the movie adaptation of "Red, White & Royal Blue." Timothy Janovsky discusses his new book "New Adult," including its inspiration from time travel movies like "13 Going on 30." He talks about the book's themes of character growth, "queer time," memory, and the impacts of making the wrong choices. He also shares how he started writing romance during the pandemic, his love of rom-coms, and his favorite tropes. We also get details on his forthcoming books, including "The (Fake) Dating Game," and a queer holiday romance spin on "The Santa Clause." Complete show notes for episode 434 along with a transcript of the show are at BigGayFictionPodcast.com. Look for the next episode of Big Gay Fiction Podcast on Monday, August 28. Big Gay Fiction Podcast is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find many more outstanding podcasts at frolic.media/podcasts!

Ep 433: Big Gay Fiction Flashback: Casey McQuiston and "Red, White & Royal Blue"

Ep 433: Big Gay Fiction Flashback: Casey McQuiston and "Red, White & Royal Blue"

This week we revisit our interview with Casey McQuiston from May 2019. It's the perfect way to get ready for the "Red, White & Royal Blue" movie adaptation that hits Amazon Prime Video on August 11. Casey shares the inspiration for the book, how it changed during the 2016 election cycle, and some of the tropes and pop culture influences that are in the book. They also talk about the movie, which had only been optioned just a few days before the interview. Look for the next episode of Big Gay Fiction Podcast on Monday, August 14. Complete show notes for episode 433 along with a transcript of the show are at BigGayFictionPodcast.com. Big Gay Fiction Podcast is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find many more outstanding podcasts at frolic.media/podcasts!