Substacks recommended by Andrew Thomas | The Desk in the Lantern Room

Recommended by Andrew Thomas

A twice weekly newsletter chock-full of guidance and support from publishing industry insiders. Expect author interviews, guest blogs, giveaways, and more!

Books Are Life

By Kristen L. Berry

Welcome to my newsletter all about writing, reading and a behind-the-scenes look at author life.

Kristen is a fellow communications professional who is currently living the dream I hope to achieve! I can't wait to read her debut novel. For now, I can tell you that, based on her Substack posts, she is incredibly organized and driven. Aspiring writers can learn a lot from how Kristen climbed her way out of the trenches and into the published world!

- Andrew Thomas

Happy Nielsen

Follow along as I write a cozy fantasy novel

Happy is a delightful, energetic presence on Substack. I just started reading her story "Jack and the Beanstalk Cafe," and it's pretty great in its cozy unexpectedness. Check it out!

- Andrew Thomas

FOR SALE: Baby Shoes. Good Shit!

By Jay Wilcox

Hello, all! I retrieve writing prompts from far-off lands where men fear to tread. My work has been featured in diverse locales, such as right here, in the substack you are currently looking at.

Fabled Lines: Soft Magic with a Sharp Wit

By Hallie

Stories of real life meeting whimsy, with chaotic rom-com energy.

Prompt Response with Jay & Andrew

By Andrew Thomas

Prompt Response is a Substack live podcast in which hosts Jay Wilcox and Andrew Thomas discuss writing techniques while also interacting with attendees to create (and respond to) writing prompts and facilitate micro group activities.

Colin Meloy's Machine Shop

By Colin Meloy

A sporadic journal about song-making and story-writing

Colin's the reason I know about Substack, and a large part of why I'm both a writer and (occasional) songwriter. Getting a glimpse into his creative genius is invaluable!

- Andrew Thomas

Before and After the Book Deal

By Courtney Maum

Real talk about the writing + publishing industry from an author who doesn’t want you to feel confused, bewildered, or alone. Plus: craft tips, reading recommendations, writing support + solidarity (unless you are a jerk to people in the comments).

Courtney has tons of great resources for writers. She's a must read!

- Andrew Thomas

Austin Kleon

Weekly art, writing, and creative inspiration from the author of Steal Like an Artist and other bestsellers.

Austin's views on creativity and the creator's life are something special. I expect I'll be re-reading his books yearly.

- Andrew Thomas

Quiet Little Journeys

By Asteria Geisterblum

Quiet Little Journeys is home to the 4:44 series, The Unreliable Map Society, and a growing stash of short stories. Plus Pickpocket—my weekly reading recommendations. Subscribe so you don’t miss the next strange little trip.