Samurai Gone Girl
Summary
Host Alex Goldman investigates the mysterious author Carrie Asai, creator of the YA series *Samurai Girl*, after listener Allison seeks her out. The search reveals Asai is a pseudonym for Alloy Entertainment, a book packaging company. Hosts uncover that Sarah Shepard, author of *Pretty Little Liars*, ghostwrote the series early in her career. The episode concludes by connecting Allison with Shepard, highlighting how the anonymous work launched Shepard’s career and inspired Allison’s own writing.
Topics discussed
Intro: 250 years of US history and Radiotopia series
Ad: Fodzyme for digestive comfort
Ad: TalkIatry for psychiatric care
Hyperfixed membership drive and live show announcement
Listener Allison's mystery: The missing author of Samurai Girl
Investigation begins: Searching for Carrie Asai online
Interview with Luke McMullen: The TV adaptation connection
The Book Packaging Model: Interview with Bob Levy
Alloy's shift away from collective pseudonyms
Ad: Leesa Legend Chill mattress
Ad: Gusto payroll software
Ad: Keeper password manager
Unmasking the author: Identifying Sarah Shepard
Interview with Sarah Shepard on her ghostwriting experience
Connecting Allison and Sarah: A full circle moment
Outro: Credits, thanks, and Radiotopia promo
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