What are You Reading? What are You Writing? ep. 290 with Gail Ward Olmsted

I love it when I get to interview one of my favorite authors. Meet (or re-meet!) Gail Olmsted. Today is PUBLICATION DAY for her newest Legal Twist novel, Class Action. Gail writes both historical and contemporary fiction, and her Legal Twist series is known for suspense, plot twists, complex characters, and a touch of romance. In this lively conversation, Gail shares how she develops compelling heroines, how she collaborates with beta readers, and what she’s planning next.

In this publication-day conversation, we discuss Class Action, the newest book in her Legal Twist series. You’ll learn how Gail elevated a former secondary character to center stage, the differences between her protagonists, her writing routine, and the exciting new projects she has coming in 2026 and beyond. Plus book recommendations you don't want to miss.

What You’ll Learn (Key Takeaways)

• How Gail transformed a memorable secondary character into the star of Class Action

• The major differences between her various protagonists across the Legal Twist series

• What a typical writing day looks like for her

• How she uses beta readers to sharpen and refine her novels

• A preview of exciting new books coming in 2026 and beyond

• Excellent book recommendations you can add to your TBR pile

Karen’s Commentary: “I love Gail’s books. They are fun, twisty, easy to read, and always exciting.”

Author Bio — Gail Olmsted

Gail Ward Olmsted was a marketing executive and a college professor before she began writing fiction full-time. A trip to Sedona, AZ inspired her first novel, Jeep Tour. Three more novels followed before Landscape of a Marriage, a biographical novel featuring Frederick Law Olmsted—her husband’s distant cousin—and his wife Mary. Miranda Fights is the third book in the Miranda Quinn Legal Twist series. Gail loves writing about quirky, wonderful women searching for a second chance at happily-ever-after. When not writing, she enjoys kayaking, baking her famous blonde brownies, and drinking strong coffee—her love language.

Host Bio — Karen E. Osborne

Karen E. Osborne loves writing about strong, complicated women. Her award-winning novels include family dramas, murder mysteries, and historical fiction. She hosts What Are You Reading? What Are You Writing?, where she interviews exceptional authors about craft, creativity, and the writing life.

You can listen now as well as watch! We’re on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube. Enjoy the conversation and share it with friends who love smart, twisty fiction.

FAQ

Q: What is Class Action about?

A: Class Action is the newest book in Gail Olmsted’s Legal Twist series. It features a former secondary character who steps into the spotlight, navigating suspense, personal growth, and high-stakes legal drama.

Q: Do I need to read the earlier Legal Twist books first?

A: No. Gail designs her novels so that each one stands alone, though readers familiar with the series will enjoy seeing how recurring characters evolve.

Q: What makes Gail’s books unique?

A: Her stories blend suspense, romance, and richly drawn characters—especially women seeking reinvention, justice, or a second chance.

Q: What is Gail working on next?

A: Gail shares updates on upcoming projects slated for 2026 and beyond, including new entries in her Legal Twist universe.

Q: Who is the interview host?

A: Karen E. Osborne is an award-winning novelist known for stories featuring strong women. She also hosts What Are You Reading? What Are You Writing?, spotlighting authors and their creative journeys.