282: Dirty Diana with Jen Besser & Shana Feste
My Simplified Life podcast releases two episodes per week featuring authors and changemakers. Every interview reveals life lessons we can embrace and stories of others that build empathy.
In this spicy and authentic episode of My Simplified Life, I’m leaving nothing on the table with authors Jen Besser and Shana Feste about their journey in creating the scripted podcast and book series Dirty Diana and Diana in Love. We are talking about the importance of open conversations around female desire, the challenges of portraying flawed characters, and the vulnerability involved in creative expression. Jen and Shana share insights into their characters' journeys, the impact of female friendships, and the evolving nature of personal fulfillment and career aspirations. They also touch on the reception of their work and the anticipation for the upcoming third book in the series.
Dirty Diana begins with spice…
Spicy for sure! This was definitely a read I couldn’t put down because it had me wanting to know what would happen next. The relationship between Oliver and Diana was heartbreaking yet realistic in how long time relationships take work on both sides. I enjoyed seeing how the friendship between Diana and L’Wren ran deeper than I anticipated and am really looking forward to what’s next.
Not to be outdone by Diana In Love…
Diana In Love picks up where Dirty Diana left off and allows the reader to really get to know Diana. I felt a closer connection to Diana in Diana In Love than I did in Dirty Diana and loved the friend relationships that proved to be so important. The reader gets a better understanding of what a separation can feel like and what a couple goes through, what happens when they aren't quite sure it's for them and what it's like to address regrets.
No spoilers, but I was happy to see where Diana's relationship ends up going and how the encouragement of others propels Diana to do more about the things she loves. We all need a Petra in our lives!
Jen and Shana make the reader ponder whether we are also living up to our potential and enjoying the jobs we do, the relationships we have (both friends and lovers) and what we want our future to look like.
I can’t wait to see what will happen when Diana Says Yes!
What We're Talking About
We need to keep having these conversations.
The journey of creating a scripted podcast was new for both of us.
Diana's character explores the question of female desire.
Communication is a big theme in the book.
Flawed characters can lead to deeper conversations.
Vulnerability in creativity is essential.
The impact of female friendships is significant.
Readers want more open discussions about female pleasure.
The reception of the book has been heartening.
The third book will take the story to new heights.
