Ever wonder what it takes to turn personal stories into a literary revolution? Drew Banks spills the tea on writing authentic queer characters, navigating the indie publishing world, and the power of storytelling to bridge communities. Get ready to laugh, learn, and maybe feel a little inspired!

In this episode:

• Drew shares how his debut novel "Able Was I" challenged stereotypical gay narratives and expanded representation
• The evolution from physical bookstore tours to digital platforms like TikTok and Instagram
• The significance of personal connections, book clubs, and interviews in building an author platform
• The intriguing story behind the palindrome-inspired trilogy titles
• How traveling through Europe inspired themes of exile and reflection
• Navigating historical accuracy in historical fiction, including meticulous research and details like buttons and fashion
• The unconventional origin of Drew’s transition from business to writing and his motivation to break stereotypes
• The creative process: structured outlines versus organic character development
• The emotional impact of reader feedback and reactions
• The importance of authentically portraying women and diverse perspectives in storytelling
• How the queer community and storytelling intertwine in Drew’s projects like Father Netics

Resources & Links:

• Drew Banks Official Website