Miles Beyond the Page | J.L. Sullivan
In this episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle sits down with J.L. Sullivan, award-winning author of From Brick & Darkness, to explore the gritty, magical world of urban young adult fiction. Drawing inspiration from abandoned buildings, back alleys, and the hidden stories buried in concrete landscapes, J.L. shares how he blends the real with the fantastical to reimagine ancient myths for a new generation.
We talk about his writing journey—from newspaper stories in high school to discovering contemporary fiction infused with subtle magic in college—and how those experiences shaped his dark, atmospheric debut. With the sequel From Ash & Darkness on the horizon, J.L. gives a sneak peek into what’s next for his hauntingly real characters and mythological twists.
If you love YA that walks the line between reality and wonder, this conversation is not to be missed.
📺 Watch now on YouTube
🎙️ Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, or iHeartRadio
ABOUT J.L. SULLIVAN:
J. L. Sullivan writes young adult novels inspired by gritty urban environments and the fantastical tales that percolate within abandoned buildings and desolate alleys. He began his writing journey in high school with a local newspaper before venturing into creating writing in college where he found himself lost in contemporary stories with magic summering just underneath the surface. His debut novel, From Brick & Darkness, is a dark reimagining of an ancient myth that won multiple awards following its spring 2022 release, with its sequel, From Ash & Darkness, out in 2025. He currently lives in St. Louis with his wife, two daughters, and a dog named Princess Penelope Picklesworth.
WHERE TO FIND J.L. AND HIS BOOKS:
Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | TikTok
B&N | Amazon
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Michelle Miles
Author, Narrator, Podcaster
MICHELLE MILES is the host of Miles Beyond the Page, a podcast that celebrates the magical, messy, and inspiring journey of storytelling.
As an author of fantasy, urban fantasy, and paranormal romance, Michelle brings her passion for writing and publishing to every episode—whether she's interviewing debut authors, bestselling giants, or industry pros. With her warm, down-to-earth style and curiosity for all things creative, she dives deep into the heart of the writer’s process, from first drafts to final edits, rejections to rave reviews.
When she’s not behind the mic or crafting enchanting worlds on the page, Michelle can be found wrangling her to-be-read pile, sipping wine, or plotting her next story twist. Miles Beyond the Page is her love letter to authors, readers, and the stories that connect us all.
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