Cliffhangers and Cocktails
Fantasy book discussions, author interviews, cocktail recipes (and drinking!), and witchy content. Hosted by Shéa MacCleod and Amy Cissell, USA Today Bestselling Authors of urban fantasy, cozy mysteries, paranormal women's fiction, and all things magical and wonderful.
Episode 62: The Witch’s Liquor Cabinet: Seasonal Spirits
Got thoughts? Let us know!
In this episode of Cliffhangers & Cocktails, Shéa and Amy talk cocktails - the themes, flavors, and ingredients to make seasonal libations based on the Wheel of the Year. Shéa shares an affirmation, we drink (and discuss) our Yule-based cocktails, and, of course, have our usual divination draw!
The full show notes, including recipes for today’s cocktails, are on our website: https://www.cliffhangersandcocktails.com/post/episode-62-seasonal-cocktails
Resources
https://www.uujackson.org/phoenix-of-the-grove/wheel-of-the-year
https://www.rmg.co.uk/storie...
Episode 61: The Underground Cookie Revolution and an Interview with T. J. DESCHAMPS
Got thoughts? Let us know!
In this episode of Cliffhangers & Cocktails, Shéa and Amy interview T. J. DESCHAMPS about her latest urban fantasy novel “Wings and Fangs,” the first in her Supernatural Legacies trilogy. We also talk about what we’ve been up to, the joy of a French martini, and of course, general shenanigans.
There’s also an affirmation and our usual divination draw!
The full show notes, including recipes for today’s cocktails, are on our website: https://www.cliffhangersandcocktails.com/post/episode-61-TJ-Deschamps
Find TJ!
From the Archives: Blessed Samhain!
Got thoughts? Let us know!
Tomorrow is Samhain in the northern hemisphere, so in honor that holiday, I’m bringing back the episode we aired last year.
On today's episode, which originally aired in October 2025, we talked a little about the history, celebrations, and themes around the holiday.
So make yourself a Hades Snare and settle in for a look at my favorite Sabbat! (And for my Southern Hemisphere besties - I’ve linked the Beltane episode in the show notes and on our website!
YouTube: https://youtu.be/tumcewvb1qw
...
Episode 60: An Interview with J. R. Pearse Nelson
Got thoughts? Let us know!
In this episode of Cliffhangers & Cocktails, Shéa and Amy interview J. R. Pearse Nelson about her latest paranormal women’s fiction book “The Way of Wands and Wilds,” the first in her Thornvale Witches Trilogy. We also talk about the dangers of comparing yourself to someone’s social-media-curated life, doing what we want (in life and with cocktails), and of course, general shenanigans.
There’s also an affirmation and our usual divination draw!
The full show notes, including recipes for today’s cocktails, are on our website: https://www.cl...
Episode 59: Witchcraft | Using Whiskey in Ancestral Rites
Got thoughts? Let us know!
In this episode of Cliffhangers & Cocktails (and just in time for Northern Hemisphere Samhain), Shéa and Amy pull from their May episode with C. N. Rowan to dive deeper into using whiskey in ancestral rites. We also talk the history of whiskey, generational trauma - and blessings! - and of course, general shenanigans.
There’s also an affirmation and our usual divination draw!
The full show notes, including recipes for today’s cocktails, are on our website: https://www.cliffhangersandcocktails.com/post/episode-59-ancestral-rites
<...
Episode 58: Waxing Moon Magic and an Interview with TJ GREEN!
Got thoughts? Let us know!
In this episode of Cliffhangers & Cocktails, Shéa and Amy talk to TJ Green about her urban fantasy book, “Blood, Feather, and Bone,” Book 4 in her Storm Moon Shifters series and living our best lives as really real witches.
We also talk spicy margaritas, share this week’s affirmation, share some waxing moon rituals, and end with our usual divination draw!
Also, Amy built a whole app to track productivity and mood and compare it against the moon phase and the seasons. She has no idea if it actually...
Episode 57: Writing Craft | Using Tarot to Guide Your Writing
Got thoughts? Let us know!
In this episode of Cliffhangers & Cocktails, Shéa and Amy discuss using tarot cards as a tool to guide our writing.
We also talk espresso cocktails, share this week’s affirmation, ask some silly supernatural questions, and end with a tarot-card promise!
The full show notes, including recipes for today’s cocktails, are on our website: https://www.cliffhangersandcocktails.com/post/episode-57-deal-me-in
Decks
Murder of Crows Tarot by Corrado Roi: https://www.loscarabeo.com/products/murder-of-crows-tarot
Find Y...
Episode 56: An Interview with STEPHANIE MIRRO
Got thoughts? Let us know!
In this episode of Cliffhangers & Cocktails, we interview STEPHANIE MIRRO about writing urban fantasy, Stephanie’s author journey, character development, and the inspiration behind WINGS OF FIRE. We also talk about magical margaritas, share this week’s affirmation, ask some silly supernatural questions, and draw an oracle card.
The full show notes, including recipes for today’s cocktails, are on our website: https://www.cliffhangersandcocktails.com/post/episode-56-stephanie-mirro
Find Stephanie!
https://www.stephaniemirro.comfacebook.com/stephaniemirroinstagram.com/stephaniemirrotiktok.com/@stephaniemirroauthorGet the Priestess Oracle: https://earthm...
From the Archives: Blessed Mabon!
Got thoughts? Let us know!
Today is the autumnal equinox in the northern hemisphere, so in honor that holiday, we’re bringing back our most popular Sabbat episode ever!
On today's episode, which originally aired in September 2025, we talked a little about the history, celebrations, and themes around the holiday.
Pour yourself a glass of wine or a Maple Old Fashioned and settle in for a look at the Equinox! (And don’t worry, Southern Hemisphere besties - II’ve got your link to our Ostara episode right here!
YouTube: https://youtu.be...
Episode 55: ARCANE AWAKENINGS, Money Pigs, and Puppy Piddles
Got thoughts? Let us know!
OMFG y'all!
This episode was uploaded about 10 days ago and was supposed to go live on the 15th of September. HOWEVER - apparently, for the first time in ages, I had a tech glitch. And also for the first time in ages, I did not double check that everything worked, so I only noticed when I came back to upload this week's episode. So - you get new stuff two days in a row!
The Kickstarter has been live for a week now and is fully funded and...
Episode 54: The Witch’s Liquor Cabinet: A Twist of Magic
Got thoughts? Let us know!
In today’s episode of Cliffhangers and Cocktails, Shéa and Amy Just Say No — to Ghosts! We’re talking spirit-free fun with mocktails.
Not everyone wants to drink all the time. Not everyone drinks. We wanted to make sure to cover sans alcohol drinks that are still totally witchy and 100% spellcraft. Yay, potions!
Now, sit back, grab your fave N/A beverage (ideas in the website show notes), relax, and enjoy a Twist of Magic with Amy & Shéa!
Resources
Por...
Episode 53: Very Stable Geniuses Fart Out Perfect First Drafts!
Got thoughts? Let us know!
Nobody’s perfect. (Or are they?) In today’s episode of Cliffhangers and Cocktails, Shéa and Amy sit down to discuss the myth of the perfect first draft in a one-hit wonder episode about writing craft.
This week’s episode was recorded a million years (give or take almost a million years) ago in late 2025 but never saw the light of day. UNTIL NOW.
Now, while I did consider NOT editing this episode to really share what the first draft of a podcast looks like, I decided against...
From the Archives: Blood Worm Moons and an Interview with LINDA MERCURY!
Got thoughts? Let us know!
Shéa and Amy are wrapping up their vacation, so please enjoy your last rerun of the summer! (We’re back September 1 with all new episodes.)
On today's episode, which originally aired in May 2025, we interview author Linda Mercury about her paranormal romance and her oracle deck. Episode 5 was originally released late due to a broken foot (Amy’s). AND GUESS WHAT? Amy just had that same foot x-rayed, almost a full year and a half later, and it is still broken. Now, Linda’s episode was always the plan for thi...
From the Archives: Stuff grows in dirt and an interview with TARA WEST!
Got thoughts? Let us know!
Shéa and Amy are (still) on vacation, so we're bringing back one of our earliest (not re-edited at all) episodes.
On today's episode, which originally aired in February 2025, we interview author Tara West about her books "Sugar, Spice, and a Magical Midlife" and "Fuck Off, I'm Fifty."
Find Tara!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tarawestauthor/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tara_west_author/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/discover/author-tara-west
For complete show notes and recipe, visit us at: https://www.cliffhangersandcocktails.co...
Episode 52: Total Eclipse (of the Heart): Shady Business and Sunny Shenanigans
Got thoughts? Let us know!
Shéa and Amy are taking a brief vacation from their summer break to bring you a TOTALITY awesome, brand new, episode.
In today’s episode of Cliffhangers and Cocktails, Shéa and Amy are talking the total eclipse (totality in Spain, Iceland, Greenland, and points between). This episode features Fun Facts with Amy(™), an eclipse ritual for writers, and of course, a kickass cocktail.
And remember -
Whether you’re in the path of the eclipse or not, tomorrow’s total eclipse is a great time to res...
From the Archives: Christmas Down Under and an interview with LAURETTA HIGNETT!
Got thoughts? Let us know!
Shéa and Amy are on vacation, so we're bringing back one of our earliest (not redited at all) episodes.
On today's episode, which originally aired in July 2025, we interview author extraordinaire Lauretta Hignett about her "Susan, You're the Chosen One," the first in her "Welcome to Midlife Magic" series and try not to cringe too much at Amy’s fangirling.
You can find Lauretta at the following places:
https://laurettahignett.com/
https://www.amazon.com/stores/Lauretta-Hignett/author/B079ZPLXNL
https://www...
From the Archives: IT’S REAPING TIME! Happy Lughnasa
Got thoughts? Let us know!
Shéa and Amy are on vacation, so we're bringing back one of our earliest (not redited at all) episodes.
This was originally recorded for Lughnasa 2025. This year (2026), Lughnasa falls on August 1 in the Northern Hemisphere - so I hope you have plans for this weekend!
Pour yourself a glass of wine and settle in for a brief overview of the first of the harvest festivals.
***
Bread recipe (Alas, not the one discussed, but also super easy!): https://www.kingarthurbaking.com/recipes/no-knead-crusty-white-bread-recipe
...
From the Archives: Magic ROCKS! An interview with SAMANTHA HARGROVE!
Got thoughts? Let us know!
Shéa and Amy are on vacation, so we're bringing back one of our earliest (not redited at all) episodes.
Please stir up a G&T, lean back, and enjoy this interview with Samantha Hargrove!
You can learn all about Samantha and book her services at https://www.solas-space.com
Go grab a glass of wine at Sip d’Vine in Tigard, OR: http://www.sipdvine.com
For complete show notes and recipe, visit us at: https://www.cliffhangersandcocktails.com/post/magic-rocks-samantha-hargrove
Wa...
Episode 51: The Witch’s Liquor Cabinet: Bring Us a Shrubbery
Got thoughts? Let us know!
In today’s episode of Cliffhangers and Cocktails, Shéa and Amy take on the Knights who say Ni! And while they’re doing that, they talk about shrubs, a vinegar based beverage that’s been used for ages. It can be used as a beverage, a cocktail ingredient, or a spell ingredient! And making them feels like fun, fermented magic.
And remember -
Craft your shrubs with intent, because you’re not just mixing a drink.
You’re mixing magic.
Resources
History<...
From the Archives: Bloody Bellinis, Moody Alpacas, and an Interview with ELIZABETH HUNTER!
Got thoughts? Let us know!
Shéa and Amy are on vacation, so we're bringing back one of our earliest (not redited at all) episodes.
Please make yourself a bloody bellini, settle back, and enjoy this interview with Elizabeth Hunter!
You can find Elizabeth Hunter (and buy her books direct) at elizabethhunter.com, follow her on Instagram (@elizabethhunterwrites), and join her Facebook Group "Hunters Haven" https://www.facebook.com/groups/ElizabethHunterFans/.
For complete show notes and recipe, visit us at: https://www.cliffhangersandcocktails.com/post/from-the-archives-bloody-bellinis-moody-alpacas-and-an-interview-with-elizabeth-hunter
W...
Episode 50: Fire Snakes & Wood Tigers celebrate our 50th EPISODE!
Got thoughts? Let us know!
In today’s episode of Cliffhangers and Cocktails, Shéa and Amy are reminded that words come from fingers, not faces as they look back over their favorite moments of the last year and a half. And while Shéa was able to choose a single cocktail as her pod fave (a limoncello lemondrop), Amy couldn’t decide between a French 75 (she did her signature Cherry Portuguese 77) and a spicy pineapple margarita.
Join us for a glimpse at some of our favorite moments over the last 49 episodes!
<...
Episode 29: “Paul and I Are Pirates,” Role Playing Levi-TEA, and an “Interview” with ISA MEDINA!
Got thoughts? Let us know!
In today’s episode of Cliffhangers and Cocktails, Shéa and Amy talk about inherent witchiness of tea and the magic of joy, make a play for a Harney & Sons sponsorship (call us!), and Amy pretends to be author ISA MEDINA.
Isa's Links
https://www.instagram.com/isamedina_author/
https://www.isa-medina.com
https://www.facebook.com/IsaMedinaAuthor
Other Resources
“Finding joy in the middle of a struggle should be considered a superpower. Especi...
Minisode 19: Joyous Litha!
Got thoughts? Let us know!
In today’s episode of Peach Pie and Lord of the Rings … err, we mean Cliffhangers and Cocktails, Shéa and Amy talk about Litha - the Summer Solstice. Make yourself a Solstice sip (strawberry margaritas anyone?) and settle in for some history, a ritual, and some divination.
Litha Ritual -
Sample power statements:
“I am amazing. I am powerful. The work I have done is real and good. I do not need permission to take up space. I do not apologize for being myself. I will no...Episode 28: Part Time Lovers, Sacred Shadow Work, and an interview with IRIS BEAGLEHOLE!
Got thoughts? Let us know!
In today's episode, Shéa and Amy talk crystals that amplify self-love and healing, the best tangy, floral cocktails, and interview IRIS BEAGLEHOLE about magic, both real and fictional.
Find Iris
https://irisbeaglehole.com/
https://www.instagram.com/irisbeaglehole/
https://www.facebook.com/IrisBeaglehole
https://www.tiktok.com/@irisbeagleholeauthor
Arcane Awakenings Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/arcaneawakenings/arcane-awakenings
Best Crystals for Self Love
Witch's Liquor Cabinet: Elixirs of Enchantment -The Magic of Liqueurs (Minisode 18)
Got thoughts? Let us know!
In today's episode, Shéa and Amy talk about how to make liqueurs, the secret weapon of magical potions...um...cocktails.
Remember to craft your liqueurs with intent, because you’re not just mixing a drink.
You’re mixing magic.
Resources
For a quick guide on the magical correspondences of base spirits for your liqueurs, this is a good reference:
https://www.tumblr.com/the-brambled-way/55137545408/the-magick-of-booze-a-correspondence-table
For herb and spice magical correspondences, Shéa recommends: Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs (available on Amazon...
Episode 27: Oddballs, Cartomancy, and an interview with DELLE B. DIVINE!
Got thoughts? Let us know!
This week's episode is all about Tarot and Oracle decks. Shéa and Amy delve into the difference between the two before interviewing Cartomancer Extraordinaire Delle!
So grab a cocktail (might we recommend an Empress Gin French 75 or a Bergamot Old Fashioned?) and settle in!
Y'all - the references here are bananas. We talked about so many books and card decks and other things - hopefully, we didn't miss anything.
Find Delle!
https://www.instagram.com/babetriarch/
h...
Minisode 18: Once in a Blue Moon
Got thoughts? Let us know!
Today's episode is about the May 31, 2026 Blue Moon. We're talking astrology, fun facts & superstitions, ways to celebrate this every 2.5 year event, and sharing moon words and moon joy.
Make yourself a Blue Moon Margarita and join us!
Sources:
https://www.crystals.com/blogs/news/may-2026-lunar-guide-flower-moon-in-scorpio-blue-moon-crystal-rituals#:~:text=A%20Blue%20Moon%20(the%20second,%2C%20freedom%2C%20and%20higher%20purpose.
https://magebymoonlight.com/ways-to-celebrate-full-moon/
https://www.astrowitch.org/blue-moon-energy-explained/
https://www.thepsychictree.co.uk/blogs/psychic-skills-education-and-how-to-guides/a-full-moon-sacred-reset-for-mind-body-spirit-blue-moon-31-may-2026?srsltid=AfmBOopn...
Episode 26: Candle magic limericks, Guyanese folklore, and an interview with JASMAINE PAYNE!
Got thoughts? Let us know!
This week's episode features protective amulets and spells - mostly to keep our minds safe from Jasmaine Payne's LEECH! Blend up a piña colada and settle in for a great interview that covers topics such as Guyanese folklore, writing and mentoring in Guyana, and ways to protect your mind and spirit.
Find Jasmaine Payne:
Buy LEECH on Amazon! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FBL75992
Website: https://jasmainepayne.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/author_j...
The Witch's Liquor Cabinet: Bitters and Balance (minisode 17)
Got thoughts? Let us know!
In today's episode, Shéa and Amy talk about how to balance your beverages with bitters - as well as how to make your own!
Mix yourself a cocktail (originally defined as spirits, water, sugar, and bitters) and learn about the energy you can find in the various roots and botanicals and how to combine them to make bitters and bring balance to the force ... er cocktails.
Remember to craft your bitters with intent, because you’re not just mixing a drink.
You’re mix...
Episode 25: Historical nonsense, inane wittering, and whiskey drink(s) with C.N. ROWAN!
Got thoughts? Let us know!
This week's episode features an interview with urban fantasy author C.N. Rowan, the magic of whiskey, and a journey with our ancestors. So find yourself a glass of single malt Scotch and come along for the ride!
Affirmation: "I carry forward the resilience and strength of my ancestors, while releasing their fear."
Sign up for the Chris's newsletter & get free books! https://cnrowan.com/
https://www.patreon.com/u103571045
https://www.instagram.com/cnrowanauthor/
https://www.facebook.com/groups...
Minisode 16: Blessed Beltane!
Got thoughts? Let us know!
In today's minisode, you can learn all about the ancient Celtic trampolines, as well as the history of, superstitions around, and modern practices to celebrate Beltane.
Make yourself a strawberry honey mojito, get your thorn bush decorated for the Best Bush contest, and settle in to this week's minisode!
Affirmation: The Beltane fires ignite my passion and creativity
In the Southern Hemisphere? Check out our Samhain Episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2429206/episodes/18110509
...
Episode 24: Bad Ass-tronauts, Planetal [sic] Alignments, and an interview with HEATHER G. HARRIS!
![Episode 24: Bad Ass-tronauts, Planetal [sic] Alignments, and an interview with HEATHER G. HARRIS! episode artwork](https://storage.buzzsprout.com/9r0x94c6ya46k7ip4wec58t24zdu?.jpg)
Got thoughts? Let us know!
Today's episode requires Moon joy and a strawberry daiquiri! Join Shéa and Amy as they talk to Heather G. Harris about her upcoming books. We'll also talk about Artemis II, planetary alignment, and the imminent rise of the matriarchy!
Affirmation: I am worthy of all success.
Find Heather G. Harris!
Website: https://heathergharris.com/
Aria Ashbrook website: https://www.aria-ashbrook.com/
Amazon: https://www.amazon.es/stores/Heather-G.-Harris/author/B097ZP5J8S
Free a...
Minisode 15: Writing Inspiration - TV, Movies, and eavesdropping
Got thoughts? Let us know!
Pulling from the archives of unpublished awesomeness! This week's minisode covers the way TV and movies inspire our writing. (We also talk about football, fairy tales, and eavesdropping.)
Join us for an overview of our favorite witchy media!
Let us know what inspires you - or what you think should inspire us! (Head on over to our instagram to see the brackets of Amy's 2023 Vampire Showdown - and let us know if you'd like to see another contest for 2026!)
...
Episode 23: The search for Shéa's soul and an interview with EMMA HAMM!
Got thoughts? Let us know!
Today's episode calls for an alcohol-free Aperol spritz! Join Shéa and Amy as they talk about witchcraft, Emma Hamm's latest release "The Heartless One," and general shenanigans.
Affirmation:
I stand in my power, honoring the strength of my ancestors while healing generational wounds and reshaping the future.
Emma Hamm:
Website: emmahamm.com
Instagram: instagram.com/emmahammauthor
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@emmahammauthor
Aperol Spritz (Energy: Joy, luck, a...
The Witch's Liquor Cabinet: Stirring up Spells (and Syrups) (a minisode!)
Got thoughts? Let us know!
In today's episode, Shéa and Amy talk about how to sweeten your spells with syrups and sauces - as well as how to make your own!
Mix yourself a cocktail and learn about the energy you can find in the various fruits, herbs, or spices used to add sweetness, texture, and complex flavor profiles to drinks!
Remember to choose your syrups with intent, because you’re not just mixing a drink.
You’re mixing magic.
Resou...
Episode 22: In case of emergency, brandish fork - and enjoy an interview with JENNIFER L. HART!
Got thoughts? Let us know!
Today's episode calls for an electric lemonade! Join Shéa and Amy as they talk about Aries season, Jennifer L. Hart's upcoming release "Queen of the Midlife Mystics," manifestation, cocktails, and general shenanigans.
Affirmation:
I am fearless in pursuit of what brings me joy and sets my soul on fire.
Resources:
Shea's Kickstarter! https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/sheamacleod/lady-rample-steps-out-special-edition-cozy-mystery-hardback
The Rooted Woman Oracle Deck by Sharon Blackie: https://sharonblackie.net/rooted-woman-oracle/
The Trope Thesaurus by J...
Minisode 13: Happy Ostara!
Got thoughts? Let us know!
Grab your springiest mocktail and settle in for a brief overview of Ostara, including CONTROVERY, then stay for Amy's fangirlling over medievalist Eleanor Janega, bareknuckle boxing, and a list of our favorite historians!
Affirmation: I am nurturing and growing a life that brings me joy!
In the Southern Hemisphere? Check out our Mabon Episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2429206/episodes/17883603
Amy's Ostara Sources
https://www.tragicbeautiful.com/blogs/book-of-spells/rituals-for-ostara?_pos=1&_psq=rituals+for+ost<...
Episode 21: Coming up on HGTV: Vampires - Crafting Edition! and an interview with STEFFANIE HOLMES!
Got thoughts? Let us know!
Find yourself a bottle of limoncello and settle in for an interview with Steffanie Holmes!
We're gonna talk Pisces season, the Nevermore Murder Club and Smutty Book Coven (best series name ever? I think so), cocktails, and general shenanigans.
Affirmation:
I release my mistakes and open myself to new opportunities.
Resources:
Follow Steffanie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steffanieholmeswrites
Sign up (for free!) for Steffanie's Spookybat fan club: https://www.patreon.com/cw/SteffanieHolmesWrites
<...Minisode 12: Writing Through the Shadows Part II
Got thoughts? Let us know!
Today's minisode is a bit more serious than usual. Join Shéa and Amy as they talk about writing during hard times, including physical and mental health issues.
But always remember -
If you CAN write, write.
If you can’t, care for yourself and return when you can.
The words will come back.
They always do.
Resources
National Alliance on Mental Illness: https://www.nami.org/find-your-local-nami/
Su...Episode 20: A trio of cougar shifters would like to say Happy 49th Birthday to AMY CISSELL
Got thoughts? Let us know!
Grab some gin, cherry liqueur, and bubbles, and join us for Amy's 49th birthday episode. We're gonna talk Pisces facts, Amy's upcoming release, cocktails, and general shenanigans.
Affirmation:
Magic flows through me, adapting to the shape of my energy.
Resources:
Amy's cocktail cherry recipe: https://www.crowdedkitchen.com/homemade-cocktail-cherries/
Visit Amy's website & sign up for her newsletter at: https://amycissell.com
Pre-order Wolf Pack of the Apocalypse! https://books2read.com/wolfpackoftheapocalypse
Norse Goddess...
