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On the Write Track PodcastAuthor: Sarah Mughal Rana, Emily Varga
On the Write Track is a podcast from debut authors Sarah Mughal Rana and Emily Varga that address the little known secrets of traditional publishing and behind the scenes, from guests in different stages in the industry, to provide our listeners an insider's look. Guests include New York Times, International bestselling, and critically acclaimed authors, agents, Big 4 publishing editors, successful Tik Tok book influencers, marketers, and everything in between. Follow our socials and subscribe for the latest updates. Consider signing up to our Patreon page, even a small help goes a long way, to support the podcast, receive unique perks, and get exclusive Q&A access and writing advice from us! Language: en Genres: Arts, Books, Business, Marketing Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
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45: James Islington on Craft, Career, and Creating The Will of the Many
Episode 45
Thursday, 1 January, 2026
From a tech startup to bestselling fantasy author, James Islington joins hosts Sarah and Emily for an episode of On the Write Track for a deep dive into the discipline, worldbuilding, and creative instincts behind his craft and fantasy books.We explore how James made the leap from a tech career to full-time writing, how his indie beginnings shaped his career, and what changed when he transitioned to traditional publishing. James shares the many rejections early in his career; how he treats writing like a 9-to-5 job, the routines that keep him grounded, and the lessons he’s learned while building massive fantasy worlds.We get into the inspirations behind The Will of the Many—from Celtic lore to Egyptian mythology—and how he balances research, hard magic systems, mystery, and emotional stakes across a long series arc. James also answers questions on spoilers in his books; the length of the Hierarchy series, the ending, and offers invaluable advice for emerging fantasy writers on process, persistence, and trusting the story you’re meant to tell. SPOILER NOTE! - 16:58 → 20:53 James Islington's WebsiteBooks Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstoreThe Licanius Trilogy by James IslingtonThe Will of the Many by James IslingtonThe Strength of a Few by James IslingtonThe Wheel of Time by Robert JordanThe Name of the Wind by Patrick RothfrussDemon Copperhead by Barbara KingsolverBrandon SandersonEmily Varga's booksSarah Mughal Rana's books Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!
