Writerly Lifestyle: Recent Episodes
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Interviews and reviews for writerly folks hoping to turn their love of writing into a career they can be proud of.
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Debut author Marisa Walz joins the show to talk about her psychological suspense novel Good Intentions. It's story about obsession, grief, and moral ambiguity that kept her up all night plotting after a single book inspired her to finally write it.
Marisa shares:
- What the publishing journey really looks like
- How she balances writing unlikable protagonists
- The unexpected challenges that come after you finally land that book deal
Bio: Marisa Walz is the author of Good Intentions, her debut psychological suspense novel. She lives in the Chicago suburbs with her husband and two young children.
Learn more about Marisa here: https://www.marisawalz.com/
Connect with Marisa here: https://www.instagram.com/marisacwalz/
Episodes I think You'll Love:
150 Writing a Complex Mystery Novel with Bianca Marais
What Editors Really Want Right Now with Chantelle Aimée Osman, Who Provides a Sneak Peek Inside Simon & Schuster's Newest Imprint
141 Literary Agent Vicky Weber on Why Most Writers Aren't Agent-Ready (And How to Fix It)
Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction
Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now
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What if the secret to writing unforgettable characters isn't interrogating them with questionnaires, but letting them reveal themselves organically?
In this episode, bestselling author Bianca Marais shares how she "pantsed" her way through writing her newest novel, A Most Puzzling Murder.
It’s especially impressive because this novel is a complex mystery with 12+ POVs, choose-your-own-adventure chapters, interactive puzzles, and a character who emails readers back.
If you've ever wondered how to build three-dimensional characters that feel alive, balance ambitious storytelling mechanics without losing narrative control then this conversation is perfect for you!
Bianca reveals the unique writing techniques that allowed her to juggle multiple perspectives while maintaining emotional depth, and why giving up control might be the key to unlocking your best work.
Bianca's Instagram
Bianca's Website
- The Art of Dual POV & Crafting Psychological Thrillers with Liz Alterman
- Writing Character Backstory with Author Liz Alterman
- Literary Agent and Author Jenna Satterthwaite on Making it in the Publishing Industry
Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction
Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now
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New York Times bestselling author Chevy Stevens pulls back the curtain on what separates a good thriller from an unforgettable one.
And it might not be what you think.
In this episode, Chevy reveals her unconventional process for crafting antagonists that readers love to hate.
She also shares the exact mindset shift that helped her sustain an eight-book career.
If you are...
- struggling to create believable villains
- feeling stuck in your thriller's plot
- wondering how to build a lasting writing career in today's market
This conversation will give you the tools to break through.
What Listeners Will Learn:
• How to create antagonists that traditional publishers love
• The "enough juice" test for evaluating thriller concepts
• Why your second book matters more than your first
Connect with Chevy:
Website
Chevy Stevens lives on Vancouver Island with her husband and daughter. When she isn’t working on her next book, she’s spending time with her family and their two dogs. Her books, including Still Missing, a New York Times bestseller and winner of the International Thriller Writers Award for Best First Novel, have been published in more than thirty countries.
Episodes I think You'll Love:
- Author Liz Alterman Reveals Her Weekly Writing Ritual That Transforms First Drafts Into Gold And How to Know When Your Story Idea Is Worth Writing
- Literary Agent Amy Nielsen on How to Fix Your Opening Pages
- Literary Agent Jessica Berg Shares How to Catch an Agent's Eye
- How to Write an Opening Chapter that Keeps Readers Reading with Author David McCloskey
Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction
Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now
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Struggling with how to write a thriller that grabs readers immediately?
In this interview, writing expert Daniel David Wallace shares game-changing writing tips for crafting plots that keep readers hooked from page one.
Daniel, creator of the Character First Writing Approach and host of Escape the Plot Forest summit, reveals why traditional plotting advice often fails thriller writers.
And he offers three essential strategies for developing compelling, character-driven narratives.
Whether you're working on your first manuscript or polishing a novel for traditional publishing, these writing techniques will help you avoid the common pitfalls that cause readers to abandon your story.
Learn how to create protagonists with immediate momentum, maintain emotional connection through plot twists, and structure midpoints that trap both your characters and your readers in the story.
Learn more about Daniel here...
Daniel David Wallace is the host of Escape the Plot Forest, an annual online conference for writers. He spent four years of a PhD researching new ways to help writers tell a great story.
His stories, reviews, and essays have been published in great magazines like Tampa Review, McSweeney's Internet Tendency, Air Schooner, and his writing has won him awards like the Toni Brown scholarship and the Hodges prizes.
Daniel designed a way of teaching plot, the "character-first" approach that aims to return writers to their original love of storytelling (because it teaches you to write according to how your ideal readers will experience your book).
This approach has resonated with so many people: more than 13,000 writers read his newsletter each week.
- Literary Agent and Author Jenna Satterthwaite on Making it in the Publishing Industry
- First Page Formula: Author and Writing Coach April Davila on What Agents & Readers Want to See in Your Thriller Manuscript Opening
- How to Edit Your Own Writing with Author & Editor Chantelle Aimée Osman
Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction
Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now
Send me a Text Message!
What if the setting you choose could be as morally complex as your protagonist?
In this episode, USA Today bestselling author Aaron Philip Clark pulls back the curtain on how he crafts crime fiction that thrills and matters.
Aaron reveals:
- his process for weaving heavy themes into page-turners without slowing the pace
- why he writes from a place of frustration and injustice
- how to make every setting choice deliberate and loaded with meaning.
If you're tired of writing surface-level thrillers or struggling to add depth without killing your momentum, this conversation will change how you approach your craft.
Aaron's insights on creating "literary humans" instead of plot devices alone are worth the listen, but his framework for balancing suspense with substance is something I personally will be implementing in my work.
https://www.aaronphilipclark.com/
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https://www.instagram.com/realapcbooks/
Episodes I think you'll love...
How to Develop Characters and Themes with Author Aaron Philip Clark
Writing Action Scenes with Author Aaron Philip Clark
Literary Agent and Author Jenna Satterthwaite on Making it in the Publishing Industry
First Page Formula: Author and Writing Coach April Davila on What Agents & Readers Want to See in Your Thriller Manuscript Opening
Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction
Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now
Send me a Text Message!
What if the tropes you love are actually holding your thriller back?
In this episode, Charlene Wang reveals how she transformed the beloved campus novel into a feminist revenge thriller by strategically subverting genre expectations.
And the results landed her a major book deal.
You'll discover the counterintuitive truth about "wasted" drafts (spoiler: nothing is ever wasted), learn how to weaponize social media as a character psychology tool rather than just a plot device, and understand why the most compelling morally gray characters make us root for their goals while questioning their methods.
If you're struggling to make your thriller feel fresh or your contemporary setting feel authentic, this conversation will fundamentally change how you approach revision and might just save you years of trial and error.
Learn more about Charlene
Bio: Charlene Wang was born in Beijing and, after immigrating to the US when she was three, has lived in seven different cities from Los Angeles to Rockville to Biloxi. Graduating with a B.A. in English from Dartmouth College and a J.D. from University of Virginia School of Law, she worked as a litigator for six years before quitting to pursue her childhood dream of becoming an author. She now lives in Brooklyn, NY, with her fiancé and their dog Winky.
Episodes I think you'll love...
- Agent Carleen Geisler Reads a Submission & Shares How Agents Evaluate Opening Pages
- Writing Your Opening Scene with Thomas Mullen
- Writing Unique Openings to Grab Literary Agent Attention: Jason Powell Author
Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction
Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now
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What if I told you that right now, while established agents are drowning in hundreds of submissions, there's a brand new literary agent who's actively building his client list and genuinely excited to discover your manuscript?
In this episode, Tommy Dean shares what makes him your ideal partner in this industry.
Tommy shares...
- the insider secrets that separate professional queries from amateur ones
- why newer agents might actually be your best bet for building a career-long partnership,
- some hard truths about what's instantly killing your chances in the query process.
If you're serious about traditional publishing, this conversation could be the game-changer that gets your work noticed.
Bio: Tommy Dean is an associate literary agent with Rosecliff Literary, the author of two flash fiction chapbooks, Special Like the People on TV (Redbird Chapbooks, 2014) and Covenants (ELJ Editions, 2021), and a full flash collection, Hollows (Alternating Current Press, 2022). He lives in Indiana, where he is currently the editor of Fractured Lit and Uncharted Magazine. A recipient of the 2019 Lascaux Prize in Short Fiction, his writing can be found in Best Microfiction 2019, 2020, 2023, and Best Small Fiction 2019 and 2022. His work has been published in Monkeybicycle, Laurel Review, Moon City Review, Pithead Chapel, Harpur Palate, and many other litmags. He has taught writing workshops for the Gotham Writers Workshop, The Writers Center, and The Writers Workshop. Find him at tommydeanwriter.com and on Twitter @TommyDeanWriter.
Episodes I think you'll love...
- How to Find Your Literary Agent with Carey Blankenship-Kramer- Literary Agent Michelle Z. Jackson Helps Writers Navigate the Querying Process- Literary Agent Jennifer Chevais Shares What Grabs Attention in a Query SubmissionGet the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction
Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now
Send me a Text Message!
You’re going to love this exclusive conversation with Chantelle Aimée Osman, Senior Editor at Simon & Schuster's new imprint, Simon Maverick.
Chantelle reveals how the publishing industry is evolving to meet indie and hybrid authors where they are.
And why audio is becoming the new frontier that could transform your writing career.
Discover the submission strategies that actually work, learn why your biggest strength might be the one thing editors can't fix, and find out how to reframe rejection in a way that accelerates rather than derails your publishing journey.
Whether you're traditionally published, indie, or still figuring out your path, this conversation offers insider insights that could change everything about how you approach your writing career.
Past Episodes with Chantelle
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How to Edit Your Own Writing with Author & Editor Chantelle Aimée Osman- Chantelle Aimée Osman Interview Series: An Editor's Advice for Writers- Rethinking Rejection & How to Form a Team for Your Work with Chantelle Aimée OsmanWhat You'll Learn:
-
Why audio publishing is the new gold rush opportunity
- The one manuscript element editors absolutely cannot fix
- How to reframe rejection as progress toward your goal
Click here to learn more about Chantelle Aimee Osman
Guest Bio: Chantelle Aimée Osman (she/her) is senior editor at Simon & Schuster's newest imprint, Simon Maverick. Prior to joining Simon & Schuster, Chantelle Aimée Osman was an acquiring editor at Amazon Publishing, where she worked with bestselling authors such as Robert Dugoni, Mark Sullivan, Suzanne Redfearn, Megan Chance, Victoria Helen Stone, and Simon Tolkien. Previously, she helped found Agora Books, an imprint of independent press Polis Books, focusing on crime fiction and horror with unique social and cultural voices—themes which still hold a special place in her heart. She's online at chantelleaimee.com
Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction
Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now
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Tamara Miller's debut thriller INTO THE FALL has launched her career with a two-book publishing contract.
But her path from government policy analyst to published author wasn't built on talent alone.
It was strategic business thinking that made the difference.
In this episode, Tamara Miller reveals the approach that got her agent's immediate attention and explains why treating your query like a business proposal changes everything.
She also shares some immersive writing techniques that keep readers turning pages.
Whether you're struggling with submissions or wondering how to make your manuscript stand out, this episode’s practical insights will shift how you think about the publishing game.
What You'll Learn:
- Why query letters must be business proposals first, pitches second
- The "equation" for writing immersive scenes that hook agents instantly
- How to research and position your book for commercial success
Click here to learn more about Tamara Miller
Guest Bio: Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Tamara L. Miller earned her PhD in Canadian history before embarking on a career working for the federal government. Miller began as a doe-eyed policy analyst and eventually moved into an executive role with the Government of Canada. She later left public service, older and perhaps a little wiser, to become a writer. Tamara is past president of Ottawa Independent Writers and has written several articles published online by the likes of CBC and Ottawa Life Magazine. Into the Fall is her first novel.
Over the years, the author has called many Canadian cities home but now lives in Ottawa with her family and two long-suffering cats. She’s always been fascinated by the raw beauty of the wilder places in the world and escapes to them whenever possible.
Episodes I think you'll love...
Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction
Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now
Send me a Text Message!
Literary agent Lori Galvin reveals exactly what makes a query letter irresistible.
She breaks down the specific elements that make agents request materials, and the common mistakes that lead to instant rejections.
Whether you're crafting your first query or your fiftieth, this episode delivers the agent perspective that every fiction writer needs to hear.
What You'll Learn:
- Why manuscript word count can kill your chances instantly
- The test some agents use to evaluate opening pages
- How to prove you're serious about writing in your bio
Click here to learn more about Lori Galvin
Guest Bio: Lori Galvin, has been with Aevitas Creative Management since 2015 and represents a wide variety of bestselling, award-winning, and critically acclaimed writers of both fiction and nonfiction including Wanda M. Morris, Nishita Parekh, and Kwame Onwuachi. Prior to her agenting career, she was an editor at America’s Test Kitchen as well as Houghton Mifflin. She has also worked as a restaurant cook and managed a bed-and-breakfast in coastal Maine. She lives in Massachusetts. Lori only accepts submissions through Query Manager: QueryManager.com/QueryLoriGalvin
Episodes I think you'll love...
Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction
Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now
Send me a Text Message!
Ever wondered why it feels nearly impossible to land a literary agent these days?
In this episode, I had a chat with Vicky Weber, a literary agent, bestselling children's author, and marketing strategist, who pulls back the curtain on the harsh realities facing today's publishing industry.
Vicky reveals why the bar for getting agented has skyrocketed, how agents are making just $20 on some deals, and why editors no longer do the developmental work they used to.
But more importantly, she shares a few of the strategies that helped one of her books profit over $18,000 and explains exactly what agents are really looking for when they say a manuscript "isn't the right fit."
If you're serious about getting published, this conversation will fundamentally change how you approach querying, revisions, and building relationships in the industry.
What You'll Learn:
- Why developmental editing now falls on authors, not editors
- The marketing plan framework that can ensure your book doesn’t flop
- How to signal coachability and professionalism in queries
Click here to learn more about Vicky
At Home Author Blog
Guest Bio: Vicky Weber is a literary agent, bestselling children’s book author, and publishing industry expert with years of experience helping authors navigate both traditional and self-publishing. As the founder of At Home Author, she has guided countless writers through the process of crafting, publishing, and marketing successful books. With a background in education, Vicky is passionate about breaking down complex industry concepts into actionable steps. Whether securing book deals for her clients or sharing insights on the ever-evolving publishing market, she is dedicated to helping authors turn their creative dreams into reality.
Episodes I think you'll love
- Turn Your Manuscript into a Page-Turner Using The Central Question Framework with Julie Tyler Ruiz
- Author Liz Alterman Reveals Her Weekly Writing Ritual That Transforms First Drafts Into Gold And How to Know When Your Story Idea Is Worth Writing
- Literary Agent Jessica Berg Shares How to Catch an Agent's Eye
Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction
Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now
Send me a Text Message!
Developmental editor and former literary agent Mary Kole breaks down the exact process that transforms manuscripts from "just okay" to "must-read."
In this episode, you'll learn why most writers approach feedback and revision completely wrong.
You’ll discover the important difference between revision and editing.
And you’ll master the "boring edit" technique that ensures your story grips readers from page one to the end.
Mary reveals
- When to seek feedback (and when not to)
- How to create a mission statement that guides every revision decision
- Why cause-and-effect logic is the secret weapon of successful storytellers.
Whether you're drowning in feedback or paralysed by perfectionism, this episode gives you the roadmap to finish your manuscript and make it as good as you’d always hoped it would be.
What You'll Learn:
- How to filter feedback and reject notes that don't serve your story.
- The mission statement technique that guides every revision decision.
- Why big-picture changes must come before sentence-level editing.
Click here to learn more about Mary Kole
Guest Bio: Former literary agent Mary Kole provides consulting and developmental editing services to writers of all categories and genres. She founded Good Story Company in 2019 to create valuable content for writers—like the Thriving Writers Podcast, YouTube channel, and Thriving Writers classes and resources. Mary has presented at hundreds of regional, national, and international writing conferences, and guest lectured at Harvard, the Ringling College of Art and Design, the Highlights Foundation, and the Loft. She also develops unique and commercial intellectual property for middle grade, young adult, and adult readers with Bittersweet Books.
Episodes I think you'll love…
- Agent Carleen Geisler Reads a Submission & Shares How Agents Evaluate Opening Pages
- Literary Agent and Author Jenna Satterthwaite on Making it in the Publishing Industry
- Turn Your Manuscript into a Page-Turner Using The Central Question Framework with Julie Tyler Ruiz
- First Page Formula: Author and Writing Coach April Davila on What Agents & Readers Want to See in Your Thriller Manuscript Opening
Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction
Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now
Send me a Text Message!
Former Scholastic editor Shelly Romero just made the leap to literary agent.
And she's spilling the industry secrets most writers never hear.
After eight years of editorial experience and now with an agent's perspective, Shelly reveals…
- What really happens when agents read your opening pages
- Why manuscripts need to be more polished than ever
- The submission mistakes that trigger instant rejections.
What You'll Learn:
- Why voice trumps plot in manuscript submissions
- Exact polish level needed for today's publishing market
- Query red flags that guarantee instant rejections
Click here to learn more about Shelly Romero
Connect with Shelly on Instagram
Guest Bio: Shelly Romero began her publishing career in 2017 at Scholastic, where she rose up the ranks from editorial assistant to associate editor, where she acquired her own titles and assisted on series publishing for The Bad Guys and Goosebumps. She later joined Cake Creative as Lead Editor, and she was most recently a freelance editor. She graduated from Stephens College with a bachelor’s degree in English and attended the 2017 NYU Summer Publishing Institute. Shelly was selected as a 2020 Publishers Weekly Star Watch Honoree and is a member of Latinx in Publishing & People of Color in Publishing. Born and raised in Miami by Honduran parents, she now resides in New York City, where she might be found at a movie theatre viewing the latest release from her Letterboxd watchlist.
Episodes I think you'll love…
- 3 Keys to Nailing the Opening of Your Novel
- Literary Agent and Author Jenna Satterthwaite on Making it in the Publishing Industry
- Turn Your Manuscript into a Page-Turner Using The Central Question Framework with Julie Tyler Ruiz
- Literary Agent Jessica Berg Shares How to Catch an Agent's Eye
Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction
Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now
Send me a Text Message!
Every thriller, mystery, suspense, and crime writer faces the same dilemma…
How do you craft a story that keeps readers turning pages?
In this episode, Julie Tyler Ruiz reveals a simple framework that separates forgettable genre fiction from the stories readers obsess over for years.
You'll discover…
- How to identify the one central question that must drive your entire manuscript
- Learn the specific prompts that will transform vague plot ideas into page-turning gold
- Master the art of creating payoffs that leave readers breathless.
Whether you're stuck in the middle of a manuscript or planning your next story, this conversation will give you the confidence to craft questions worth answering.
And (most importantly) answers that readers will never forget.
What You'll Learn:
- How to transform questions into page-turning hooks
- Why character stakes must connect to your main question
- How to build toward answers that create lasting impact
Click here to learn more about Julie Tyler Ruiz
Connect with Julie on Instagram
Guest Bio: Julie Tyler Ruiz, PhD, is a writer, educator, and creator of StoryBold. With a decade of experience in higher education and a PhD in English, she combines business savvy with a deep passion for storytelling to help writers craft their best work. Through self-study courses, group masterminds, in-depth articles, and private coaching, Julie empowers writers to unlock their authentic voice and bring their stories to life. Now a sought-after voice in the writing world, she’s dedicated to guiding storytellers toward clarity, confidence, and creative success.
Episodes I think you'll love…
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Pacing and Process: Writing Thrillers and Mysteries with Elle Grawl
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Thriller Writing Secrets: Building a Writing Process with Leslie Conner
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How to Hook Readers with Alex Kenna’s Expert Thriller-Writing Advice
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Literary Agent Jennifer Chevais Shares What Grabs Attention in a Query Submission
Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction
Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now
Send me a Text Message!
Liz Alterman joins the podcast to discuss her latest novel, "You Shouldn't Have Done That", and reveals the unconventional strategies that have shaped her successful writing career.
From her unique character development process involving weekly read-aloud sessions to her bold decision to switch from traditional publishing to a nimble indie press offering 99-cent e-books, Alterman shares practical insights that challenge conventional wisdom about both craft and business.
She opens up about how she tests story premises, develops authentic character voices, and why she believes flexibility is the key to getting your work into readers' hands.
Whether you're struggling with character development or navigating publishing decisions, this conversation offers actionable advice for writers at every stage of their journey.
What You'll Learn:
- How to test story premises before committing months to writing.
- The weekly feedback system that prevents major character voice problems.
- Why pricing strategy can dramatically impact your book's reach and success.
Click here to learn more about Liz Alterman.
Guest Bio: Liz Alterman is the author of the award-winning memoir, Sad Sacked, the young adult thriller, He’ll Be Waiting, the suspense novels The Perfect Neighbourhood, The House on Cold Creek Lane, and You Shouldn't Have Done That, as well as the romcom Claire Casey's Had Enough. Her work has been published by The New York Times, The Washington Post, McSweeney's Internet Tendency, and other outlets. Subscribe to her Substack where she shares the ups and downs of the writing life (and cat photos). Liz lives in New Jersey with her husband and three sons. When she isn't writing, Liz spends most days reading, microwaving the same cup of coffee, and looking up synonyms.
Episodes I think you'll love…
- The Art of Dual POV & Crafting Psychological Thrillers with Liz Alterman
- Writing Character Backstory with Author Liz Alterman
- Literary Agent and Author Jenna Satterthwaite on Making it in the Publishing Industry
- First Page Formula: Author and Writing Coach April Davila on What Agents & Readers Want to See in Your Thriller Manuscript Opening
Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction
Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now
Send me a Text Message!
Ever wondered what it's really like behind the scenes of being a literary agent?
What You'll Learn in this episode:
• Why agents prioritize story over polished prose
• The brutal financial reality of the publishing industry
• What makes manuscripts stand out in queries
Jenna's honesty about the industry might just shift how you approach your writing career.
Join Jenna's Substack HERE
Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction
Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now
Send me a Text Message!
Writing coach April Davila reveals the non-negotiable elements that make first pages irresistible to readers and agents.
Learn why most manuscripts fail in the opening paragraph, discover the strategic approach to character revelation that transforms boring descriptions into magnetic hooks.
Then find out which common opening mistakes instantly kill reader interest.
Plus, April shares her surprising advice about when to actually write your first page (hint: it's not when you think).
What You'll Learn:
- The essential elements every first page needs
- Why dream sequences and flashbacks kill reader interest
- Strategic character reveals through environmental details
Click here to learn more about April Davila.
Guest Bio: April Davila is an award-winning author, speaker, and writing coach. Publisher's Weekly called her debut novel, 142 Ostriches, a "vivid, uplifting debut" and the book went on to win the WILLA Award for Women Writing the West. Writer's Digest listed her blog (at aprildavila.com) as one of the Best 101 Websites for Writers and she is the creator of the Sit Write Here writing coaching program, which integrates mindfulness meditation techniques to help writers quiet their inner critics, overcome writer's block, and edit more effectively. Her second novel is forthcoming.
Episodes I think you'll love…
- Literary Agent Amy Nielsen on How to Fix Your Opening Pages (Part 2)
- How to Write an Opening Chapter that Keeps Readers Reading with Author David McCloskey
- 3 Keys to Nailing the Opening of Your Novel
- Agent Carleen Geisler Reads a Submission & Shares How Agents Evaluate Opening Pages
- Writing Your Opening Scene with Thomas Mullen
Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction
Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now
Send me a Text Message!
Storyteller's Society Sneak Peek: This Creative Silos method can make you way more efficient in your writing practice.
Creativity coach Cindy Cisneros reveals why traditional productivity advice fails creative writers, her game-changing "Silos" method that stops the destructive cycle of switching between writing and querying, and the "cross-modality" technique that breaks through even the most stubborn creative blocks.
What You'll Learn:
- The "Creative Silos" strategy that lets you batch writing and other tasks for maximum flow
- Why waiting for natural motivation beats forcing daily word counts every time
- The real reason creative people need "incubation time" and how to use it strategically
Click here to learn more about Cindy
Episodes I think you'll love...
- Time Pockets: Could This Tip Revolutionize Your Writing Process?2. Writing Your Series & Developing Dynamic Characters with Author Stephen Spotswood3. 90% of Writers Make THESE Writing Mistakes Interview with Ex-Literary Agent Karyn Fischer4. Literary Agent Jessica Berg Shares How to Catch an Agent's EyeGet the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction
Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now
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Your opening page has 30 seconds to hook an agent or it's as good as a rejection.
Literary agent Amy Nielsen reveals the cliché openings that kill manuscripts, the scene structure 90% of authors get wrong, and her "General-Specific-Personal" formula that eliminates info-dumping while building irresistible voice.
What You'll Learn:
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How to avoid cliché openings that scream "amateur"
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A literary agent's simple test to tell if your opening is actually a scene
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The inciting incident strategy that finds your perfect entry point
Episodes to Check Out Next
- 2 Literary Agents & an Author Weigh in on How to Write Your Opening Pages
- Agent C.L. Geisler Reads a Submission & Shares How Agents Evaluate Opening Pages
- Literary Agent Amy Nielsen on How to Write a Query Letter that Gets Attention
- 90% of Writers Make THESE Writing Mistakes Interview with Ex-Literary Agent Karyn Fischer
Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction
Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now
Send me a Text Message!
Find out more about Eloise here.
In this interview, I talk to author Eloise Corvo about her debut novel OFF THE BEATEN PATH. Eloise reveals her practical three-part framework for crafting effective red herrings, which is a vital skill for any thriller, mystery, suspense, or crime fiction writer.
You’ll discover essential writing tips for balancing misdirection with reader satisfaction and gain insider insights into publishing options beyond traditional routes.
Whether you're drafting your first mystery or refining your tenth thriller, Eloise's practical advice on how to write compelling suspense will transform your approach to planting clues and creating satisfying twists.
This episode packed with actionable writing techniques is perfect for mystery authors looking to elevate their craft and engage readers from page one to the final reveal.
What Listeners Will Learn
- The Three-Element Formula for Red Herrings
- Mystery Structure and Pacing
- Publishing Journey Insights
Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction
Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now
Send me a Text Message!
Find out more about Stephen Spotswood
Listen to the episode with Douglas Corleone
Come hang out for an interesting conversation with author Stephen Spotswood as he shares his creative process behind his successful Pentecost Parker thriller series.
In this episode, Stephen shares his writing tips for crafting engaging mystery series characters that evolve across multiple books while maintaining reader interest.
Whether you're interested in the writing techniques, genre-blending strategies, or the practical aspects of planning a multi-book series, this interview delivers valuable insights for writers at any stage.
Discover how Spotswood approaches the revision process, balances character development with plot mechanics, and maintains his passion for characters throughout a long-term writing project.
- Series Development Strategy: Learn how to plan and structure a multi-book series
- Genre-Blending Techniques: Discover how Spotswood successfully combines elements of classic mystery, hard-boiled crime, and noir to create a unique series that stands out in the marketplace
- Revision Process for Character Evolution: Understand Spotswood's two-phase revision approach
Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction
Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now
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Find out more about Douglas Corleone
This interview is with Douglas Corleone, author of the new thriller "Falls to Pieces."
In this episode, Douglas shares essential thriller writing techniques that have helped him successfully navigate multiple sub-genres, from legal thrillers to psychological suspense.
Learn practical writing tips for incorporating meaningful themes into commercial fiction and discover how to push genre boundaries while still meeting reader expectations.
- How to identify and skillfully navigate the boundaries between thriller sub-genres to create distinctive fiction that still satisfies reader expectations
- Techniques for incorporating meaningful personal themes into commercial thriller writing, particularly when handling sensitive or challenging subject matter
- Strategies for crafting memorable twist endings that readers won't forget, avoiding the common pitfall of formulaic conclusions that fail to leave a lasting impression
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Learn more about Amy Nielsen
Having reviewed thousands queries in the past two years, literary agent Amy Nielsen shares exclusive writing tips specifically tailored for thriller writers on the traditional publishing route.
This agent interview with Amy dives deep into query structure, comp titles, and how to craft a pitch that perfectly matches your opening pages.
Whether you're writing thriller, mystery, suspense, or crime fiction, Amy's professional insights will help you avoid common pitfalls and significantly improve your chances of catching an agent's attention with your query.
Learn how to write query letters that stand out from the slush pile with practical advice from one of the industry's most approachable literary agents.
- The exact structure of a winning query letter, including where to place metadata, how to craft a personal introduction, and how to keep your word count tight at 300-350 words
- Why comparative titles are crucial to query success, with a real-life example of how changing just one comp title led to representation and publication offers
- How to ensure your query pitch accurately reflects your opening pages (especially if you have a prologue), and why this alignment is essential for thriller writers working with agents
Bio:
Amy Nielsen spent nearly 20 years as a youth librarian. Daily immersion in story took root and she penned her YA debut WORTH IT behind her circulation desk. In addition to being an author, Amy is an editorial literary agent at The Purcell Agency. She is also a freelance editor and runs Mayflower Media where she helps authors make book trailers and other video marketing materials.
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Learn more about Karyn Fischer
Jessica Berg Literary Agent Interview
Want to know what literary agents really think when they read your submission?
In this interview, former literary agent and current book coach and writing expert Karyn Fischer shares insider knowledge on how to write a novel that stands out.
Discover the top mistakes writers make, why 90% of submissions aren’t ready, and the essential writing tips you need to elevate your work.
Whether you're preparing to query or refining your first 10 pages, this episode will help you improve your craft and increase your chances of landing an agent.
- The top 10 writing mistakes that make agents reject manuscripts—and how to fix them
- How to hook a literary agent in the first 10 pages of your novel
- What stakes really mean in thriller writing and why they’re critical to success
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Learn more about Jessica Berg
Listen to Daria White Osah's Episode
Want to write a thriller that stands out in today’s crowded market?
In this episode, literary agent Jessica Berg shares expert insights into what makes a manuscript irresistible to agents and publishers.
We dive into essential thriller writing techniques, including...
- The power of a strong character voice
- The importance of genre mashups
- How to balance plot, tension, and stakes.
If you’re looking for writing tips, querying advice, or an insider’s perspective on how to write a gripping thriller, this is a literary agent interview you won’t want to miss!
We cover...
- How a compelling character voice can make or break your manuscript – and why agents will forgive other flaws if your character shines.
- Why genre mashups are the future of thriller writing – and how blending suspense with horror, mystery, or humor can make your book more marketable.
- What agents really look for in a query and full manuscript – plus, the biggest mistakes authors make when pitching their books.
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Learn more about Daria White Osah
Listen to David McCloskey's Episode
Struggling to find time to write? In this episode, Daria White Osah (author and book coach) discusses a great strategy for busy writers—Time Pockets.
If you’ve ever wondered how to write more efficiently while juggling work, family, and life, this episode is packed with actionable writing tips to help you prioritize your craft.
Whether you’re deep into thriller writing or working on your first novel, Daria’s approach will help you stay consistent, avoid burnout, and finally finish that book.
Actionable Tips:
✔️ How to prioritize your writing like a business meeting and make it non-negotiable
✔️ The Time Pockets method—how to identify hidden opportunities in your schedule to write consistently
✔️ Strategies to overcome writing slumps and get back into your routine when life gets in the way
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Leslie Conner's Episode
Connect with David
Find David on Instagram
In this episode, we’re joined by David McCloskey, a former CIA analyst and author of the thrillers The Seventh Floor, Moscow X, and Damascus Station. David brings a wealth of real-world experience into his fiction, and today, we’ll explore how his background as a CIA agent has shaped his writing. You’ll will learn how to blend real-world expertise with gripping fiction, we’ll also dive deep into character development, and master pacing and high-stakes in your opening chapter. If you’re looking to craft stories that feel authentic, compelling, and full of tension, this conversation is for you.
- How to use real-world experience to enhance your thriller writing.
- Writing an opening chapter that readers will love
- Pacing techniques that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.
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Alex Kenna's Episode
Connect with Leslie
In this episode, thriller author Leslie Conner joins us to share expert tips on crafting suspenseful mysteries. She shares valuable resources and an insight into her writing practice that will help writers see how to develop a series!
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Download the One-Page Study of Alex Kenna's Writing
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Elle Grawl's Episode
Connect with Alex on Instagram
Join me for an in-depth author interview with Alex Kenna, the brilliant mind behind What Meets the Eye. This episode is packed with writing tips for aspiring thriller authors, including how to write gripping characters, avoid backstory pitfalls, and use word choice to reveal personality and mood. If you’re passionate about thriller writing, this conversation offers actionable advice you can implement immediately. Don’t miss these insights from an expert storyteller!
What You’ll Learn:
- How intentional word choice reveals character personality and mood.
- Why intriguing lines can replace heavy backstory to keep readers hooked
- The importance of setting up character goals early in your story.
Actionable Tip:This week, experiment with introducing a new character using Alex’s techniques. Write one paragraph that:
- Reflects their personality through word choice.
- Hints at their backstory without giving too much away.
- Clearly shows what they’re striving for.
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Learn more about Elle
In this episode, I talk with Elle Grawl, author of the psychological thrillers One of Those Faces and What Still Burns. Elle shares how she wrote her debut novel while balancing a demanding day job, how her writing process has evolved, and her best advice for writers navigating pacing and productivity challenges.
What You’ll Learn:
- How Elle finished her debut novel while working full-time.
- The importance of pacing in thrillers and mysteries and how to refine it.
- Tips for evolving your writing process as life and creative needs change.
- Why experimenting with different methods can reignite your creativity.
Actionable Tip:
Take a moment to evaluate your current writing process. Is it still working for you? Try incorporating one new technique this week—whether it’s experimenting with drafting out of order, bullet-pointing your next few chapters, or carving out time during your lunch break to write. See how it feels and adjust as needed. Flexibility is key to keeping your momentum!
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Previous episode with Aaron Philip Clark
Learn more about J.T. Ellison
Join J.T. Ellison's Substack
Bestselling thriller author, J.T. Ellison shares how she create the unforgettable twists and characters that define her work.
Whether you're an aspiring writer or an experienced author, this episode is packed with actionable writing tips, insider insights, and inspiration from one of the best in the genre.
- How to create plot twists that are surprising yet inevitable and avoid “cheat” endings.
- J.T. Ellison’s process for juggling multiple points of view in thriller writing.
- The importance of trusting your subconscious and revisiting earlier sections of your story for foreshadowing opportunities.
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Download the 50 editing mistakes authors make as shared by an editor for Lake Union Publishing!
In this episode, Aaron Philip Clark shares invaluable writing tips on crafting compelling characters, weaving meaningful themes into your stories, and making your thrillers stand out in today’s market.
If you’re an aspiring or experienced author looking for actionable advice on character development, plot construction, and building deeper layers into your writing, this episode is for you.
In this episode, we talk about:
- How to incorporate meaningful themes into your thrillers and mysteries to create stories that resonate with readers on a deeper level.
- Actionable advice for developing rich, multi-dimensional characters who feel authentic and drive your story forward.
- Insights into Aaron Philip Clark’s writing process and career journey, including lessons he’s learned about storytelling and publishing.
Here's the episode with Carla Conti
Find out more about Aaron HERE
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Download the 50 editing mistakes authors make as shared by an editor for Lake Union Publishing!
In this episode, we talk about:
- Using Documentation to Enhance Authenticity
- Setting Deadlines for Momentum
- How to Know When a Story Is Ready
Find out more about Carla HERE
Carla Conti is a true crime journalist, storyteller, and prison reform advocate who previously covered the police beat and criminal courts as a newspaper reporter in the Midwest and Northeast. In 2011, she was asked to write about federal inmate Kevin Sanders, who was incarcerated inside the brutal, torturous conditions of Pennsylvania’s Lewisburg Prison. Carla then became part of the legal team that defended Kevin against unjust assault charges and remained his advocate and friend on the outside ever since.
Because of her exclusive access to Kevin’s first-person accounts, she knows the stories that led to the 2018 shutdown of USP Lewisburg’s Special Management Unit, one of the bloodiest experimental prison programs in the country. For a decade, Carla followed Kevin’s journey inside various federal prisons to write an exposé on the world of prison abuse, corruption, and violent prison gangs he experienced. However, she became imperiled by association after two separate prison gangs tried to kill Kevin and learned she was writing a tell-all book about his case.
You can read more about Carla on her Author Profile pages at Amazon, Bookbub, and Goodreads, where you can also ask her questions via the Goodreads forum.
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Listen to the episode with Stacy Frazer
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Listen to the episode with Anne Brooks
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Connect with Stacy on Instagram
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Learn more about Anne Brooks
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Thriller 101 Storyteller's Society
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Episode with Jenna Satterthwaite
- How horror reflects societal fears and anxieties throughout different periods in history.
- What's next for societal fears reflected in our themes
- Insights into why certain genres remains a unique genre for exploring the darker side of human nature and social issues.
Connect with Jeremy Dauber
Learn more about Jeremy Dauber
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Episode with Jason Rekulak
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Jenna's Substack
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Episode with Marybeth Mayhew Whalen
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Jess Munday's Article
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Episode with Michelle Chouinard
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Learn more about the Thriller 101 Community
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Listen to Liz Alterman's interview
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JM Donellan Episode
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Thriller 101 NewsletterLast week's episode with Kathy ReichsLearn more about Liz AltermanListen to the last conversation I had with LizEloise Corvo: How to Navigate a Book Contract
Ever wondered how to master the intricate art of crafting multi-perspective thrillers?
You're in for a treat with our latest episode of Thriller 101 featuring the brilliant Liz Alterman. Liz, the celebrated author behind the gripping novel "The House on Cold Creek Lane," unpacks her unique approach to writing from multiple viewpoints. We dive into the narrative structure and character dynamics that make her stories so compelling, with practical advice for both new and seasoned writers. Liz offers a treasure trove of insights into the challenges and rewards of maintaining timeline consistency and creating authentic voices for her characters.
Don't miss this chance to learn from one of the best in the business!
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Thriller 101 NewsletterLearn more about Kathy Reichs3 Story Elements You Need in Your Opening Paragraphs EPISODE INFO:How about some writing advice from an author who’s books inspired twelve seasons of an award winning television show?
You know the show Bones? It’s is a drama series created for Fox and ran from 2005 to 2017, airing for 246 episodes over 12 seasons. It starred Emily Deschanel and David Boreanaz. The woman who wrote those books, Kathy Reichs, is here to talk to us about writing.
We're going to talk about how to effectively incorporate your expertise into your writing without overwhelming your readers.
This is especially crucial for genres like police procedurals, legal thrillers, and medical thrillers, but it’s useful for anyone who does research on their novels and has wondered how much to keep and how much to cut…
BIO:Kathy Reichs’s first novel Déjà Dead catapulted her to fame when it became a New York Times bestseller and won the 1997 Ellis Award for Best First Novel. Her other Temperance Brennan books include Death du Jour, Deadly Decisions, Fatal Voyage, Grave Secrets, Bare Bones, Monday Mourning, Cross Bones, Break No Bones, Bones to Ashes, Devil Bones, 206 Bones, Spider Bones, Flash and Bones, Bones Are Forever, Bones of the Lost, Bones Never Lie, Speaking in Bones and the Temperance Brennan short story collection, The Bone Collection. In addition, Kathy co-authored the Virals young adult series with her son, Brendan Reichs. The best-selling titles are: Virals, Seizure, Code, Exposure, Terminal, and the novella collection Trace Evidence. The series follows the adventures of Temperance Brennan’s great niece, Tory Brennan. Dr. Reichs’ latest novel, Two Nights, was released July 11 and features Sunday Night, a tough-talking, scarred heroine. Dr. Reichs was also a producer of the hit Fox TV series, Bones, which is based on her work and her novels.
From teaching FBI agents how to detect and recover human remains, to separating and identifying commingled body parts in her Montreal lab, as a forensic anthropologist Kathy Reichs has brought her own dramatic work experience to her mesmerizing forensic thrillers. For years she consulted to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in North Carolina and to the Laboratoire de Sciences Judiciaires et de Médecine Légale for the province of Québec. Dr. Reichs has traveled to Rwanda to testify at the UN Tribunal on Genocide, and helped exhume a mass grave in Guatemala. As part of her work at JPAC (Formerly CILHI) she aided in the identification of war dead from World War II, Korea, and Southeast Asia. Dr. Reichs also assisted in the recovery of remains at the World Trade Center following the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
Dr. Reichs is one of only 100 forensic anthropologists ever certified by the American Board of Forensic Anthropology. She served on the Board of Directors and as Vice President of both the American Academy of Forensic Sciences and the American Board of Forensic Anthropology, and is currently a member of the National Police Services Advisory Council in Canada. She is a Professor in the Department of Anthropology at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte.
Dr. Reichs is a native of Chicago, where she received her Ph.D. at Northwestern. She now divides her time between Charlotte, NC and Montreal, Québec.
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Check out the Thriller Opening Data Tracker HERE
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Click here for more information about the pitching system that guarantees full requests or your money back.
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Thriller 101 NewsletterLearn more about Lisa KuselJessica Payne EpisodeHeather Levy EpisodeLisa Unger Episode EPISODE INFO:Ever wondered how authors create those unforgettable characters that seem to linger in your mind after the last page? You know, those characters that feel like they’re living and breathing? Well, today, we’re talking to a master at character voice. Lisa is going to help us develop a process for character voice that can make your characters come alive for readers.
BIO:Lisa Kusel was born in New Jersey and raised in California, Lisa Kusel lived in various exotic locales across the globe before she made a home in Vermont with her family. She is the author of a memoir, a short story collection, and the novel Hat Trick. Learn more about her at www.lisakusel.com.
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Thriller 101 NewsletterLearn more about Jessica PayneJennifer Chevais Episode EPISODE INFO:You’re going to get insights into exactly how Jessica writes her books now that she’s a seasoned author.
And then you’ll hear why she says you should, under no circumstances, copy her process.
We’re going to talk about all that and more in today’s episode and you’ll walk away with a plan for how to better edit your novels. Because we all need that.
By the end of this episode, you'll have a better understanding of:
- How to edit your novel like a pro
- How to keep track of the lessons you learned
- What experienced writers like Jessica do to maintain their book writing pace
BIO:Jessica Payne is a thriller author living in the Pacific Northwest where the mountains and Puget Sound are home. Beyond writing, she loves to run, rock climb, and explore the great outdoors with her daughter and husband. She is also an RN and host of #MomsWritersClub on YouTube. When holding still, which isn’t often, you’ll find a book in her hand and a cat /dog/small child in her lap.
Jessica is the author of MAKE ME DISAPPEAR, THE LUCKY ONE, THE GOOD DOCTOR, and NEVER TRUST THE HUSBAND.
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Thriller 101 NewsletterLearn more about Jennifer ChevaisDr. Leslie Dobson EpisodeRead Roxie Key's ArticleConnect with David on Twitter EPISODE INFO:If you ever find yourself wondering what agents think about while reading your submission, then you’re in the right place.
If you ever find yourself wondering what agents think about while reading your submission, then you’re in the right place.
By the end of this episode, you'll have a better understanding of:
- What agents are looking for in submissions
- How to hook an agent's attention
- Why subverting tropes can be a great way to grab an agent's attention
- And so much more!
BIO:Jennifer Chevais is currently building her list of authors specialising in fantasy, science fiction, and horror, but she also has a soft spot for thrillers, upmarket fiction, memoir, graphic novels, and many more.
Jennifer’s experience includes freelance acquisition reading and translating for a French publisher as well as nearly a decade in advertising.
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Thriller 101 NewsletterLearn more about Dr. Leslie Dobson Alex Kenna EpisodeConnect with David on Twitter EPISODE INFO:Dr. Leslie Dobson is not my typical guest on Thriller 101.
But when I say she delivered for the writing community, I mean it.
By the end of this episode you’ll have a better sense of how to build character motivation—and why it might be just as important to think about your audience as about your character, how to navigate themes of mental illness, and so much more!
BIO:Dr. Leslie Dobson is a licensed clinical and forensic psychologist in California. She has over 20 years of psychology experience. She has worked in maximum security settings with individuals who committed violent felonies and were found to have a severe mental illness. Over the past three years, Dr. Dobson has primarily focused on civil law. She is an expert in psychological evaluations to determine the truth. Through a variety of assessment measures, she determines the truthfulness of claims regarding emotional distress, especially sexual abuse allegations. In her clinical practice, she focuses on trauma, and also empowering clients to set interpersonal boundaries. Dr. Leslie spent years with psychopaths, and she is passionate about educating and empowering clients, especially women, to live their best life and set boundaries with toxic people, preserving their energy. Dr. Dobson’s first book, The Friend Cleanse: How to identify energy vampires, set boundaries & balance your glass of life, will be published on January 1, 2024.
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Thriller 101 NewsletterPitch Your Article to Thriller 101Learn more about Alex Kenna Roxie Key EpisodeViviana Vasiu's article: 3 Agent Offers in 48 DaysConnect with David on Twitter EPISODE INFO:I firmly believe that quality thrillers, mystery, suspense, and crime fiction use this technique where there’s tension in the main plot (or what I call the professional plot).
This is the dead body or missing person plot line that is omnipresent in these genres.
But the thing that differentiates really great stories is that there’s also this running tension in the main character’s personal life that makes them feel more real.
This has to be done well, though. And that’s what we’re talking about today.
In this episode, you’ll learn about how Alex balanced the personal and professional tension in her story, and how she developed the kind of backstory necessary to keep that tension high and keep readers on the edge of their seats throughout the entirety of her novel.
That way you’ll be able to apply it to your story.
BIO:Alex Kenna is a mystery writer, prosecutor, and amateur painter based in Los Angeles. Her first novel, WHAT MEETS THE EYE, was a 2023 Shamus Award Finalist for best first P.I. novel. Her second novel, BURN THIS NIGHT, is coming November 2024.
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Thriller 101 NewsletterPitch Your Article to Thriller 101Learn more about Roxie KeyDaniel Hurst EpisodeEloise Corvo's article: Turning a Standalone Mystery into the First in a SeriesConnect with David on Twitter EPISODE INFO:How should you start your novel? Should you have a prologue? Should you jump right into the action? Or spend time with the characters? Today’s guest is going to talk us through the how and why she started her novel the way she did. And I have to tell you, it might be her debut novel, but she knocked this out of the park.
BIO:Roxie Key lives in Northampton, UK, with her wife and daughter. Currently working as a creative copywriter for a global brand, Roxie has a degree in creative writing and an unhealthy obsession with crime thrillers. Roxie’s debut thriller, The Deadly Spark, is a dark, compelling crime novel about the fallout after a deadly house fire, perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, Jane Casey and Clare Mackintosh. Published by HQ, an imprint of HarperCollins, it's available in paperback, ebook and audiobook.
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Thriller 101 NewsletterThriller 101 Agent Pitch ContestLearn more about Daniel Hurst Michelle Jackson EpisodeJody Wenner's "On Brand "articleConnect with David on Twitter EPISODE INFO:By the end of today’s episode you’ll understand
- Why Daniel decided to go from self-publishing to working with an independent press
- His writing process
- You’ll have a better understanding of how he writes the kinds of clear, compelling hooks that make readers buy his novels.
- He shares the biggest reasoning behind his decision to sign with a publisher.
BIO:Daniel Hurst was born in the northwest of England, a part of the world famous for its comedians, pasties and terrible weather.
He has been employed in several glamorous roles in his lifetime, including bartending, shelf stacking and procurement administration, all while based in some of the most exotic places on the planet, like Bolton, Preston and South London.
Since following his lifelong passion for writing in 2020, he has amassed a loyal and devoted set of readers, and regularly has several books in the top 100 of the Psychological Thriller Charts on Amazon. His title The Passenger became the #1 selling psychological thriller in the UK in October 2021, and his bestselling book to date is his title The Doctor’s Wife, which topped the Amazon UK Kindle Chart on February 16th 2023. He remembers that date because he stayed up all night celebrating.
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Thriller 101 NewsletterThriller 101 Agent Pitch ContestLearn more about Michelle Z. Jackson as an agentLearn more about Michelle Z. Jackson as an author Heather Levy EpisodeConnect with David on Twitter EPISODE INFO:If you’re hoping to land an agent this year, you’re going to love this conversation with Michelle.
We talk about:
- Connecting your pitch to your opening
- How to maintain tension
- The benefits of active voice,
- What agents look for in a submission
- And what makes them pass on a project.
BIO:Michelle Z. Jackson represents books that evoke heartfelt emotions and fervent conversations among its readers. Her mission is to mentor and develop authors, particularly those from underrepresented communities, and help them build a brand of quality and authentic reads.
Originally from Jamaica, West Indies, she is now a literary agent with LCS Literary. She began her agenting career as an intern and then a Literary Associate with Olswanger Literary. She is also a published author and has earned educational degrees from New York University, SUNY at StonyBrook, Teachers College Columbia University and Argosy University. She is a member of AALA and SCBWI.
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Thriller 101 NewsletterWant to Hear More about a Thriller Community? Learn more about Heather LevyCatherine Mack EpisodeConnect with David on Twitter EPISODE INFO:Should you be writing characters first?
Or maybe you should develop your plot?
How do you write books with multiple timelines? Do you write them chronologically? Or linearly in relation to the thread of the story?
Heather Levy is going to cover all this and more!
Plus, she struck up a really interesting debate and I’m curious about your take!
BIO:Heather Levy is a born and bred Oklahoman and graduate of Oklahoma City University’s Red Earth MFA program for creative writing. The New York Times called her Anthony-nominated debut Walking Through Needles “a spellbinding novel at the nexus of power, desire, and abuse that portends a bright future” and the L.A. Times called it “a standout for its frank but sensitive exploration of trauma and desire.” Publisher’s Weekly says her thriller Hurt for Me “delivers both heat and heart.” Her novels focus on kink-positive stories centered around badass women. She lives in Oklahoma with her husband, two kids, and three murderous cats. Readers can follow her on X and IG @heatherllevy or on her website at www.heatherlevywriter.com
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Thriller 101 NewsletterSubmit an Article to Thriller 101Learn more about Catherine MackMatt Shao EpisodeConnect with David on Twitter EPISODE INFO:We’ve all had those moments where we wonder if it’s time to take on something new with our writing.
Something bolder or more daring.
Maybe it’s a new genre, new point of view, different structure or something else entirely.
Well imagine if, by making that brave choice, you absolutely nail it.
My guest today did just that.
And she pulled it off so well that the NYT reviewed her book.
BIO:CATHERINE MACK (she/her) is the pseudonym for the USA Today and Globe & Mail bestselling author of over a dozen novels. Her books are approaching two million copies sold worldwide and have been translated into multiple languages including French, German, Portuguese, and Polish. Television rights to Every Time I Go on Vacation, Someone Dies and its forthcoming sequels sold in a major auction to Fox TV for development into a series, with Mack writing the pilot script. A dual Canadian and US citizen, she splits her time between Canada and various warmer locations in the US.
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Click here to submit to the Thriller 101 Pitch ContestThriller 101 NewsletterLearn more about M.E. ShaoEllie Monago EpisodeConnect with David on Twitter EPISODE INFO:On the Thriller 101 podcast, we hear a lot from authors who are published.
I also get the opportunity to share writers who are submitting to agents through the Thriller 101 pitch contest.
However, it's rare that we get to hear from someone who's in the middle of that publishing process..
My guest today has signed with an indie press and his book comes out in 2024, but he's in the process of editing and revising before the book can go to publication.
This is an interesting perspective that, honestly, as writers, we can learn a lot from and we don't hear enough about.
BIO:Born in Baltimore, MD, Matt Shao, who writes under the pen name M.E. Shao, grew up in a suburb of Music City in what was then a very small town called Mount Juliet, TN. He attended the local public high school before being recruited to play baseball at nearby Nashville’s Vanderbilt University. Graduating in Spring of 2009 with a degree in Economics and Corporate Strategy, he still carries the life lessons and influence inspired by legendary college ball coach Tim Corbin.
Matt first began writing in August of 2015, immediately following the loss of his beloved mother, Elizabeth Louise. His debut work, a science fiction novel entitled "Continuity", was published in April 2016, and was followed by a sequel called “Continuity: Coalescence” two years later. The two books have since been compiled into one installment as the first in what will become a series, and is scheduled for release in December of 2024 care of Wild Ink Publishing, LLC.
Matt’s writing portfolio includes columns & short stories for newspapers, published poetry, business copy, and more. His freely available content can be found on his website, howtheworldshouldwork.
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Click here to submit to the Thriller 101 Pitch ContestThriller 101 NewsletterLearn more about Ellie MonagoMichelle Glogovac EpisodeConnect with David on Twitter EPISODE INFO:There are more avenues to publication now than there have ever been.
Whether it’s publishing by partnering with a literary agent, or small or independent publishers, or even self-publishing, there’s so many ways to get your book out there.
Which way is the best?
Well, today we’re going to hear from an author with a variety of publishing backgrounds.
That way you can decide what’s right for you.
BIO:Ellie Monago is a novelist and practicing therapist. She moved from California to Canada three years ago with her family. Her novel, THE CUSTODY BATTLE, was just released, and a related novel called THE DIVORCE LAWYER is available for pre-order now and comes out in May. Ellie also writes under the name Holly Brown
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Click here to submit to the Thriller 101 Pitch ContestThriller 101 NewsletterLearn more about Michelle GlogovacConnect with Michelle on Twitter (X)Connect with Michelle on InstagramLearn more about the MLG CollectiveCarey Blankenship-Kramer EpisodeConnect with David on Twitter EPISODE INFO:Have you ever thought about being a guest on a podcast?
It’s never to early to build your author platform.
And in today’s episode my guest is going to talk about why you should want to be on a podcast as a writer and author, and how to do it.
Today’s guest is something a little bit different than my normal interviews but I had the chance to talk to Michelle and I couldn’t be more excited.
So whether you’re planning on being on podcasts this year or it’s in the future plans to happen for you at some point, you’re going to love this episode.
BIO:Michelle Glogovac is THE Podcast MatchmakerTM, an award- winning publicist, host of the My Simplified Life podcast and author of How To Get On Podcasts (McGraw Hill, 2024). Michelle is working with clients who make an impact by defining their stories and matching them with the perfect podcasts. She has helped entrepreneurs, authors, nonprofits and advocates hone their storytelling abilities, grow their businesses, and elevate themselves as thought leaders on over 1,000 podcasts. Michelle is a sought-after speaker in this niche and has presented to thousands of publicists and groups on how to not only perfectly pitch a podcast but to create marketing content from every interview. She has coached 14,000 authors through the process of creating and launching a podcast book tour through the Nonfiction Writers Association.
Michelle is a wife, mom of two, stepmom of two, and a fur mom. She has her B.A. and M.S. in Law, and is the Founder + CEO of The MLG Collective®. Michelle resides in the Bay Area and is a sushi lover.
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Click here to submit to the Thriller 101 Pitch ContestThriller 101 NewsletterLearn more about Carey Blankenship-KramerConnect with Carey on Twitter (X)Mel Mattison EpisodeConnect with David on Twitter EPISODE INFO:Should you include a theme in your summary?
How do agents read queries anyway?
And what do you need in your opening to catch an agent’s attention?
All this and more on this episode of Thriller 101 where Belcastro literary agent shares all her top tips for hooking a literary agent.
BIO:After growing up surrounded by books and people who loved to read them, Carey debut novel, GHOST SCOUTS HONOR, is being published by Scholastic January 2025. And yes, she does have experience with how ghosts have zero respect for personal space. She is currently repped by Sheyla Knigge at High Line Literary Collective.
Carey graduated from Berry College with a dual degree in English and Creative Writing. She later received her master’s in Writing and Digital Communications from Agnes Scott College. She has experience working with both publishing houses and literary agencies and loves her role as Junior Agent at Belcastro Agency.
Outside of work and writing, you can usually find Carey spending time with her small zoo and husband, getting way too competitive on the tennis court, gardening, playing video games, or eating candy.
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Click here to submit to the Thriller 101 Pitch ContestThriller 101 NewsletterLearn more about Mel MattisonConnect with Mel on Twitter (X)Ash Clifton EpisodeConnect with David on Twitter EPISODE INFO:If you want to learn how to effectively introduce characters to your readers, you’re going to love today’s guest.
Mattison talks about finding a big idea that will carry you through a novel.
And often those ideas come from two or three ideas mashed together. You'll hear that in Mattison's story of how he came up with the idea for his novel, QUOZ.
Writers often talk about how best to introduce a character but in a lot of ways less is more.
In today's episode, we hear how to create concise character descriptions to keep readers engaged without overloading them with character description
BIO:
Mel Mattison is a writer and financial services veteran. Leveraging over twenty years’ experience in the realm of high finance, he brings real-world authenticity to his fictional narratives. Mel holds an MBA from Duke University and studied creative writing at Loyola University Chicago.
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Click here to submit to the Thriller 101 Pitch ContestThriller 101 NewsletterLearn more about Ash CliftonConnect with Ash on Twitter (X)Lisa Unger EpisodeConnect with David on Twitter EPISODE INFO:How much backstory is too much backstory? Can there be any backstory at all? I mean, your characters have to have something going on…right? But what does that look like? Luckily, Ash Clifton is here to help us with that and so much more!
BIO:Ash Clifton was raised in Gainesville, Florida, where he attended the university and got a B.A. in English. He then earned an M.F.A. in Creative Writing from the University of Arizona. His short fiction has appeared in The Missouri Review, The Massachusetts Review, Cutthroat: A Journal of the Arts, and StepAway Magazine. His debut novel, Twice the Trouble, is forthcoming from Crooked Lane Books on March 5, 2024.
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Click here to submit to the Thriller 101 Pitch ContestThriller 101 NewsletterLearn more about Lisa UngerConnect with Lisa on Twitter (X)Sandy Lu EpisodeConnect with David on Twitter EPISODE INFO:Do you want to write characters with as much depth as a New York Times and international bestselling author?
Today, we’re going to hear how Lisa Unger writes the kinds of characters that feel so incredibly real.
This episode contains advice and a mindset around character development that I’ve never heard before.
It might change how you think about writing your characters.
BIO:
LISA UNGER is a New York Times and internationally bestselling author of twenty novels, including Confessions on the 7:45and Secluded Cabin Sleeps Six. An award-winning and acclaimed writer with millions of readers worldwide, Lisa is widely regarded as a master of suspense. Her books are published in thirty-three languages and have been voted "Best of the Year" or top picks by the Today show, Good Morning America, Entertainment Weekly, Amazon, IndieBound and many others. In 2019, her novel Under My Skin and her short story "The Sleep Tight Motel" were both nominated for the prestigious Edgar Award. Her nonfiction work has appeared in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, NPR and Travel + Leisure. Lisa lives on the west coast of Florida with her family.
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Click here to submit to the Thriller 101 Pitch Contest
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Learn more about Sandy Lu
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Vera Kurian EpisodeConnect with David on Twitter EPISODE INFO:If you’re hoping to sign with your agent this year, you’re going to love this episode today.
We’re going to dive deep into a fantastic submission to the Thriller 101 podcast!
And my guest is going to share so many tips you’re going to want to pay close attention with this one.
If your goal is to land a literary agent as soon as possible, then this will be one of the most valuable things you do for your writing career this week.
BIO:Sandy Lu founded Book Wyrm Literary Agency in 2020 after working as a literary agent for more than a decade at other boutique agencies, most recently the L. Perkins Agency. Her client list includes Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Publishers Weekly, USA Today, and The New York Times bestsellers, Anthony Award, Hammett Prize, and Stoker Award nominees, Goodreads Choice Awards finalists, and New York Times Best of the Year recipient.
Born and raised in Taiwan, Sandy immigrated to the United States when she was sixteen and has lived in New York ever since. She holds BAs in psychology and sociology from Queens College, with minors in music, business, and Japanese. Prior to becoming an agent, she worked in various business positions in the theater industry. Her areas of study and work experience greatly inform her interest in submissions.
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Click here to submit to the Thriller 101 Pitch Contest
Thriller 101 Newsletter
Learn more about Vera Kurian
Vera Kurian Substack
Jason Powell EpisodeConnect with David on Twitter EPISODE INFO:You know when people say that the setting became like it’s own character?
And you sit there thinking…how do I make readers feel like that?Well Vera Kurian is going to give us some advice on how she absolutely crushed the setting of her new novel A STEP PAST DARKNESS out now.
I read an advanced reader copy for this one and, seriously, this is going to be one of those books people talk about for years to come..
Go grab a copy. You won’t be disappointed.
But before you go buy her book, she’s going to teach us how to write a setting as epic and all-encompassing as hers.
BIO:Vera Kurian is a writer and scientist based in Washington DC. Her debut novel, NEVER SAW ME COMING (Park Row Books, 2021) was an Edgar Award nominee, was named one of the New York Times’ Best Thrillers of 2021, and has sold in 15 countries. A STEP PAST DARKNESS, is out now. She has a PhD in Social Psychology, where she studied intergroup relations, ideology, and quantitative methods. You can find her on Substack or Instagram
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Click here to submit to the Thriller 101 Pitch Contest
Thriller 101 Newsletter
Learn more about Jason Powell
Elle Grawl EpisodeConnect with David on Twitter EPISODE INFO: If you want the kind of opening that gets an agent's attention, you'll want to listen to what Jason Powell has to say.
The opening for his novel, No Man's Ghost opening might be the most unique one I’ve covered on the podcast and Jason will share why he thinks it works so well.
Plus, the slight change he made with his agent to make it even stronger.
BIO:Jason Powell is an Author and New York City Firefighter. When he isn't at the firehouse or at a desk, he can be found in the city with his back pack filled with snacks, water, a notebook and a novel. Born the youngest of 9 kids, his household of eleven people taught him to appreciate alone time and sweet escapes. He has found there is no better place to escape to than in between the covers of a book.
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Click here to submit to the Thriller 101 Pitch Contest
Connect with Elle Grawl
Last time I talked to Elle Grawl
Tori Westminster EpisodeConnect with David on Twitter EPISODE INFO:If all you’re doing is writing a thriller the way they used to be written, you might be missing out on some untapped potential.
I’ve been reading a lot of thrillers recently that have some extra, added elements that work toward building tension.
My guest today is going to share the two she used in her most recent novel and why she chose them.
If you want to level-up your writing and stand out in your query, you're going to love this interview today.
BIO:Elle Grawl is a lawyer and author of ONE OF THOSE FACES and WHAT STILL BURNS.
After obtaining her B.A. in English Literature, she took a detour into law before returning to her love of writing.
Her lifelong interest in true crime and experiences as an attorney have provided her with plenty of writing material. Elle enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband and their two dogs.
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Refer 3 Friends for Query Letter and Pages Feedback
Connect with T.C. Westminster
Grab your copy of THE HOST
Natasha C. Sass EpisodeConnect with David on Twitter EPISODE INFO:The words “author platform” can make any writer roll their eyes. However, it’s also one of those important aspects of being a writer that isn’t much about actually being a writer.
Luckily, today’s guest makes author platforms fun!
So if you want to improve the quality and quantity of your author platform this year, there’s a simple framework my guest today used to get more than 20k followers on social media.
And honestly, it’s way simpler than I expected it to be.
Tori’s new novel, THE HOST, is out now. It’s a phenomenal thriller that I’ll let her talk about, but it’s one of those books that gets under your skin and you just can’t seem to get it out.
She also shares the harrowing story of how the book came to be, and her method of finding the right kind of followers on social media.
BIO:Some of Tori Westminster’s closest author friends joke that she lives in a bunker, much like the one in her book, THE HOST. She doesn't often leave the house because she lives with chronic illness and a neurological disorder that involve extended periods of intense pain. During those periods, she has learned to distract herself with stories. These stories and characters have kept her spirits up when her body failed her.
Outside of writing, she’s homeschooled her gifted children and do her best to keep up with her adventuring family despite her physical limitations. They're even willing to cart her around the wilderness in a wheelchair when necessary, so she doesn’t miss out. They go the extra mile for an experience.
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Download Natasha's Cozy Mystery Workbook
Episode with Erin Flanagan Connect with David on Twitter EPISODE INFO:Does it feel like Cozy Mysteries are making a come back? Well it did to me. So I reached out to Cozy expert, Natasha C. Sass. She quite literally wrote the book on cozy mysteries.
BIO:Natasha has been in the publishing industry for 20 years. She's helped to organize regional conferences for authors, and teaches classes on writing and self-publishing. As a former corporate trainer, she breaks down the complex into understandable pieces to make the business of writing faster and easier. She loves to see her students succeed. Visit her and find her workshops at natashacsass.com
She's been in the cozy mystery space since 2021 where she publishes under the pen name Julia Koty.
Her bestselling book How to Write a Cozy Mystery Step-by-Step is now available.
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Find out more about Erin Flanagan
Episode with Mandy McHughConnect with David on Twitter
EPISODE INFO:The art methodically rising tension is a tricky one...because there really isn’t a hard and fast rule.
However, while talking to our guest today, I learned so much about how to incrementally increase tension over the course of a novel.
Plus, we cover some major misconceptions about the publishing business.
We’re busting myths out here so come along for the ride.
BIO:Erin Flanagan is the author of two short-story collections and three novels including Deer Season, winner of the 2022 Edgar for Best First Novel, and the most recent Come with Me. She is an English professor at Wright State University and a regular book reviewer for Publishers Weekly. For more information about her and her writing, please visit www.erinflanagan.net or say hello on Twitter and Instagram at @erinlflanagan.
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Download the Official Thriller 101 Hook Checklist Here
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Find out more about Mandy McHugh Connect with David on Twitter
EPISODE INFO:If you’re into morally gray characters, then you’re going to love today’s guest.
And you’re going to love her even more if you want to write great dialogue.
Seriously, if you need to improve your dialogue writing, read Mandy McHugh’s work.
BIO:Mandy McHugh is an author from upstate NY. She received her MA in English Lit from the College of Saint Rose in Albany, NY and her BA in English from Le Moyne College in Syracuse, NY.
Her debut novel, CHLOE CATES IS MISSING, was one of Popsugar's best mysteries and thrillers of 2022.
IT TAKES MONSTERS is out now!
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Download the Official Thriller 101 Hook Checklist Here
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Find out more about Amy Nielsen
Listen to Last Time: Catherine McKenzie Connect with David on Twitter
EPISODE INFO:If you’re hoping to sign with your agent in the next few months, you’re going to love this episode with my guest today.
We’re going to dive deep into a fantastic submission that shows a ton of promise!
Amy is going to share so many tips with use that you’ll find yourself pausing, rewinding, and (safely) taking notes.
If your goal is to land a literary agent ASAP then this will be one of the most valuable things you do for your writing career this week.
BIO:
Amy Nielsen spent nearly twenty years sharing her love of books with young readers on the other side of the writing aisle as a youth librarian. Daily immersion in story took root, and she started penning her 2024 YA debut, Worth It, behind her checkout desk.
She left the library after her youngest son was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and began writing full-time. She also began working with other authors helping them to elevate their craft and go on to pursue publication deals. While she will always enjoy pursuing her own writing goals, helping other authors has become a passion. She is honored to now serve as an associate literary agent at The Purcell Agency.
Amy also has a background in television production and creates book trailers for authors to use as a marketing tool. She started Mayflower Media where she works collaboratively with writers to bring the heart of their stories from the page to the screen.
In addition to her debut, Amy is the author of It Takes a Village: How to Build A Support System for Your Exceptional Needs Family, the picture book, Goldilocks and the Three Bears: Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Teaching Television Production, Beyond the Morning Newscast. She is the co-author of the upcoming title Navigating the Wild World of Publishing: A Workbook for Indie and Self-Published Authors and the co-host of the Author(ish) podcast.
When not writing or reading she and her family can be found boating in Tampa Bay. You can find Amy at www.amynielsenauthor.com.
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Free 5-Day Email Mini Course on Hooking an Agent with Your Opening
Paula Hawkins on LitHub
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Free 5-Day Email Mini Course on Hooking an Agent with Your Opening
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Find out more about Catherine McKenzie
Link to the last time Catherine was on the podcastConnect with David on Twitter
EPISODE INFO:In today’s episode, we’re going to hear from a best-selling author about how she plans and organizes her novels.
Anyone who writes in the thriller, mystery, suspense, or crime genre considers multiple points of view and multiple timelines.
So few pull it off as well as Catherine McKenzie.
Listen to how she does it here!
BIO:Catherine McKenzie was born and raised in Montreal, Canada. A graduate of McGill in History and Law, Catherine practiced law for twenty years before leaving the practice to write full time. An avid runner, skier and tennis player, she’s the author of numerous bestsellers including HIDDEN, FRACTURED, THE GOOD LIAR and I’LL NEVER TELL. Her works have been translated into multiple languages and PLEASE JOIN US and I’LL NEVER TELL have all been optioned for development into television series.
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Free 5-Day Email Mini Course on Hooking an Agent with Your Opening
Click here to rate and review the podcast!
Find out more about Emmy Nordstrom Higdon
Link to the last time Emmy was on the podcastConnect with David on Twitter
EPISODE INFO:In today’s episode, we’re going to hear from a literary agent about what you need in your opening pages.
If you’re hoping to sign with an agent this year, then you’ll love the clear, actionable steps outlined in this episode.
BIO:emmy (they/them) holds a PhD in justice-oriented social work with a focus on critical animal studies from McMaster University, with peer-reviewed publications in public health and psychology. In 2019, they made a lateral career move into publishing after four years as a bookseller at a local independent bookstore.
They are a literary agent at Westwood Creative Artists, a faculty member for the Manuscript Academy, and an advisor for the Festival of Literary Diversity and Sheridan College Creative Writing and Publishing programs. In their agenting work, they use a hands-on, conscious editing approach.
emmy is a queer, trans, and non-binary colonizer originally from Ktaqmkuk (Newfoundland), the ancestral homelands of the Beothuk and the Mi’kmaq, now based on the Haldimand Tract, which is the territory of the Anishinaabe, Haudenosaunee, and Attawandaran peoples. emmy is autistic, has psychiatric disabilities, and a hormone-related chronic illness.
emmy lives with their partner, a Deaf Dalmatian named Pavot, two formerly feral Maine coon cats, Whisper and Willow, and their collection of plants, informally nicknamed The Leafy Bois. They keep busy with vegan cooking, needlework, wholesome games, snail mail, their sticker collection, TTRPGs, and… obviously, reading.
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Free 5-Day Email Mini Course on Hooking an Agent with Your Opening
Wanda Morris on CrimeReads
Interviews Referenced:
Literary Agent Kimberly Brower
Author James Byrne
Author JM Donellan
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Free 5-Day Email Mini Course on Hooking an Agent with Your OpeningAgent: Carleen Geisler Author: Brooke Robinson
Author: Aaron Philip Clark
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Find out more about Kathleen Foxx
Brooke Robinson Episode
Carleen Geisler EpisodeSign up to be notified when agent submissions reopen! Connect with Kathleen on TwitterConnect with David on Twitter
EPISODE INFO:Today, we have another agent interview! I’m so excited to share this conversation with a brand new agent who has a resume that will make you take notice.
She gives a masterclass on opening pages!
Kathleen Foxx is a new agent at The Rights Factory. She shares some absolutely priceless information for writers.
BIO:Kathleen is a new literary agent at The Rights Factory, representing clients from anywhere in the world. She’s also a freelance fiction editor, podcaster, and co-founder/host of #MoodPitch, helping connect writers with agents and publishers around the globe. Kat is most interested in thrillers/suspense, gothic/supernatural horror, light romance and romcom, pre-20th century historical fiction/fantasy, and select nonfiction topics. Her submission guidelines and detailed MSWL can be found at kathleenfoxxagent.com/mswl or on Manuscript Wishlist.
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Click here to rate and review the podcast!Sign up to be notified when agent submissions reopen! Connect with Brooke on TwitterConnect with Brooke on Instagram Connect with David on Twitter
EPISODE INFO:The opening of your story is something we talk about a lot on, through their one-on-one and that's because it's so important.
It's not just important to get an agent's attention. It's also important to hook and hold on to readers.
Luckily, we have a debut author who balanced her opening in a way that I personally think is genius. And she's going to talk all about how she pulled it off.
BIO:Today’s guest is Brooke Robinson grew up in Sydney, Australia. She worked as a bookseller, university administrator and playwright in Australia and the UK. For a short time she wrote music reviews and interviewed rock musicians for streetpress magazines in Sydney, and for an even shorter time, considered a career in physics. The Interpreter is her first novel.
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Antagonist ChecklistSign up to be notified when agent submissions reopen! Connect with JM DonellanJM Donellan's YouTubeConnect with David on Twitter
EPISODE INFO:In thrillers, (maybe more so than in any other genre) an antagonist has a lot of weight to carry. They have to be believable but ruthless. Dangerous and deadly but also sympathetic. I mean, how much time do we spend on our main characters? If you’re anything like me, you create entire backstories for them. You try to understand their goals, ambitions and needs. And of course you do. You should. But do you do the same for your antagonists? Today’s guest is going to share his 3 secrets for writing unique and memorable antagonists.
BIO:J.M. DONELLAN is a writer, musician, poet, and teacher. He was almost devoured by a tiger in the jungles of Malaysia, nearly died of a lung collapse in the Nepalese Himalayas and fended off a pack of rabid dogs with a guitar in the mountains of India.
He is the author of the novels A Beginner’s Guide to Dying in India and Killing Adonis (which was nominated for the Kirkus prize). His children’s fantasy novel Zeb and the Great Ruckus was described by one child as ‘the best book ever, but it should have had Dr Who in it.’ He has spoken/performed at the Brisbane Festival, the Sydney Opera House, TEDxBrisbane, World Science Festival, and some very distinguished basements.
Aside from novels and poetry he has also written plays, video games, the internationally admired podcast series Six Cold Feet and the dance performance INTER. His latest novels are the gothic mystery Lenore’s Last Funeral and the surreal thriller Rumors of Her Death, the film version of the latter is currently in development with Continuance Pictures. He’s won numerous awards in a range of artistic fields but refuses to list them all here because no one likes a braggart.
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BONUS: Carleen shares where to put your inciting incident & more!
ArticleSign up to be notified when agent submissions reopen!Connect with Carleen on TwitterConnect with Carleen on InstagramConnect with David on Twitter
EPISODE INFO:Are you wondering what agents are looking for in submissions? Well this agent is going to talk all about what to include in a summary of your novel AND what you need in those opening pages to catch an agent’s eye.
Today’s guest is Carleen Geisler, an associate agent at ArtHouse Literary. She started her own author career as well as an agenting career at ArtHouse Literary.
Carleen talks about balance and what to put in your opening pages. She also shares her thoughts on a little twist to your summary that can help grab an agent’s attention. You’re going to love this episode!
BIO:
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The 5 Minute Writer Series is designed to help writers save time.
James Byrne Interview
Allison Buccola Interview
It’s a free weekly article that provides ~5 minute summaries of a longer articles, podcasts, videos, or courses. It’s designed to give you the highlights without the fluff so you can gain the knowledge without wasting time. So you can get back to writing!
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5 Minute Writer
ArticleSign up to be notified when agent submissions reopen! Connect with JamesConnect with David on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- Don't get stuck on genre conventions
- Revamp your writing routine
- Write unique characters
EPISODE INFO:Character voice can make or break a manuscript. And a lot of times, as writers we’re trying to imitate what we see commonly in the genre. Maybe that means moody, angry, or short-tempered characters that fit the tone of our work, But it’s sometimes interesting to flip the script on readers as a way to provide a unique voice. That’s what James Byrne did in his Desmond Limerick novels. And I got the opportunity to ask him about how he develops unique character voices by ignoring common conventions.
We talk about so much more than just unique character voice. He also shares about why a top editor told him he needed a prologue, and he gives us his a unique writing process for writing books really fast. All that plus more on this episode of Thriller 101.
BIO:
Today’s guest is James Byrne, the author of a dozen novels. And, most recently, the second novel in his Desmond Limerick series, which is called DEADLOCK.
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Learn more about submitting to the Agent Contest
Listen to the episode about the Agent Contest
Liz Alterman Interview
Josh Stallings Interview
Bianca Marais Interview
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Listen to Wednesday's episode with big announcement here!
Thriller 101
Sinem Gunel: Full Interview
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Listen to yesterday's episode with big announcement here!
Thriller 101
Paula Munier
Lori Galvin
Thomas Mullen
Write like Lisa Jewell
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Hey everyone! Today, I'm introducing Thriller 101, the new podcast that will take over for Writerly Lifestyle!
Exciting things are happening and I can't wait to tell you all about it!
Click here to submit!
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5 Minute Writer
ArticleLast week's interview with Lori GalvinConnect with Thomas on TwitterLink to Thomas Mullen's websiteConnect with David on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- Writing opening scenes
- Incorporating big ideas into your writing
- Using existing literature to fuel your writing
EPISODE INFO:How many times do you revise your opening scene?
If you’re anything like me, you’re constantly concerned with giving away too much information and boring readers in your opening.
Or maybe you're worried about going to far the other way and confusing readers by not providing enough context.
Thomas Mullen is going to talk through how he nailed the opening of his new novel, BLIND SPOTS, which is out today! I highly recommend you pick it up!
BIO: (From ThomasMullen.net)
Thomas Mullen is the author of seven novels, including his internationally acclaimed series set in midcentury Atlanta: Darktown, an NPR Best Book of the Year, which was shortlisted for the Los Angeles Times Book Prize, the Southern Book Prize, the Indies Choice Book Award, and was nominated for two CWA Dagger Awards; Lightning Men, which was named one of the Top 10 Crime Novels of the Year by the New York Times Book Review and was shortlisted for a CWA Dagger; and Midnight Atlanta, which was shortlisted for the CWA Gold Dagger. His first novel, The Last Town on Earth, was named Best Debut Novel of 2006 by USA Today and was awarded the James Fenimore Cooper Prize for excellence in historical fiction.
His works have also been named to Year’s Best lists by The Chicago Tribune, USA Today, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, The Irish Times, Kirkus Reviews, The Onion’s A/V Club, The San Diego Union-Times, Paste Magazine, and The Cleveland Plain-Dealer, and have been nominated for or won awards in France, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. His stories and essays have been published in Grantland, Paste, The Huffington Post, Atlanta Magazine, Crime Reads, LitHub, and The Bitter Southerner. He lives in Atlanta with his wife and sons.
His new novel, Blind Spots, will be published April 4, 2023.
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5 Minute Writer
ArticleLast week's interview with Author Aaron Philip ClarkConnect with Lori on TwitterConnect with David on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- What agents are looking for in a client
- Your first 5-10 pages
- What it's like working with an agent
EPISODE INFO:
Are you looking to land an agent in 2023?
In this episode, Aevitas Creative literary agent Lori Galvin is going to share the things you need to know if you want to grab an agent’s attention, both in your query letter and bio, but also when talking to an agent, and even those all-important first few pages.
She even shares something I hadn’t heard before from agents about what they’re really looking for in a client.
BIO:
Lori Galvin is a senior literary agent with Aevitas Creative Management. Previously she worked as an editor at Houghton Mifflin and America’s Test Kitchen. And, she also survived running a b&b in coastal Maine. She represents fiction (crime and book club) and select nonfiction (true crime, memoir, and food writing). A few of her clients include Kwame Onwuachi, Wanda M. Morris, and Sara Goudarzi.
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5 Minute Writer
ArticleLast week's interview with Ausma Zehanat KhanAaron's WebsiteConnect with Aaron on TwitterConnect with David on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- How to write action scenes
- Using our unique experiences to drive our stories
- Developing your craft
EPISODE INFO:
No matter what kind of writing you’re doing, you’re going to use have to write movement into your manuscript. So how do you pull off those all-important action moments in a way that helps to reveal character and inform theme?
Aaron Philip Clark is here to help us!
BIO:
Aaron Philip Clark is a native of Los Angeles, CA. He is a novelist, poet, and former Los Angeles Police Department recruit. His first novel, THE SCIENCE OF PAUL: A Novel of Crime (New Pulp Press), was published in 2011. The debut was met with interest and acclaim. Clark followed THE SCIENCE OF PAUL with A HEALTHY FEAR OF MAN (Snubnose Press) published the following year. Both novels featured the morally plagued and emotionally damaged protagonist, Paul Little, as he fought to escape the perils of Philadelphia street culture and return to his deceased grandfather’s farm in North Carolina. Inspired by the works of French existentialists, Clark’s prose reverberated with ideas and philosophies put forth by Jean-Paul Sartre, Jean-Patrick Manchette, and Fyodor Dostoevsky.
After leaving his career in law enforcement, Clark returned to higher education and continued his work as an educator teaching college-level English, Creative Writing, and Humanities. During this time, Clark completed THE FURIOUS WAY, a stand-alone thriller, and UNDR COLOR OF LAW, inspired by his experiences with the LAPD. The novel centered on Det. Trevor “Finn” Finnegan, a Black LAPD detective, who is tasked with investigating the murder of a young Black academy recruit amid protests against police brutality and calls for reform. The novel was nominated for an International Thriller Writers Award in 2022, and Clark has more books planned for the series. BLUE LIKE ME, the second Trevor Finnegan novel, will be published on November 8, 2022, by Thomas & Mercer.
Clark is completing ALL THE SMOKE, a modern psychological thriller that explores racial identity, Black male trauma, and psychopathy. The story is set in the music industry and takes inspiration from THE TALENTED MR. RIPLEY and other works by Patricia Highsmith.
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Your Free Editing Outline
5 Minute Writer
ArticleLast week's interview with Johnny Compton Ausma's WebsiteConnect with Ausma on TwitterConnect with David on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- Writing tension into your story
- The author-agent relationship
- Sharing stories that matter
EPISODE INFO:
There are so many ways to write a novel. But the bottom line is this: you just have to find a way to keep readers reading. And that is what my guest today is going to help us with.
Ausma’s novel, BLACKWATER FALLS was able to propel readers through the investigation while always keeping us waiting and hunting for that next clue.
We talk about outlines, changes in later drafts, and more!
BIO:
Ausma Zehanat Khan holds a Ph.D. in international human rights law with a specialization in military intervention and war crimes in the Balkans. Blackwater Falls, her new crime novel on racial justice and policing, was published inNovember 2022 to rave reviews from the New York Times and the Washington Post. Blackwater Falls is also an Apple Books and Publishers Weekly Best Books of 2022 pick. Khan is the author of the award-winning Esa Khattak and Rachel Getty crime fiction series, which begins with The Unquiet Dead, and the author of the critically acclaimed Khorasan Archives fantasy quartet, which begins with The Bloodprint. She is also a contributor to the anthologies Private Investigations, Sword Stone Table, and The Perfect Crime. A British-born Canadian and former adjunct law professor, Khan now lives in Colorado with her husband.
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Your Free Editing Outline
5 Minute Writer
ArticleLast week's interview with Liz AltermanJohnny's WebsiteConnect with Johnny on TwitterConnect with David on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- Perfecting your dialogue
- Developing an editing outline
- Finding your unique idea
EPISODE INFO:
It’s sometimes hard to notice when you’re reading great dialogue because you end up so sucked into the story that pages and pages go by and you’re just barreling through the story.
All of a sudden you look up and think to yourself, “Wait, how did that author just do that?”
Today’s guest is going to spill all his dialogue secrets.
BIO:
Johnny Compton’s (he/him) short stories have appeared in Pseudopod, Strange Horizons, The No Sleep Podcast and many other markets. He is an HWA member and creator and host of the podcast Healthy Fears. His debut novel, THE SPITE HOUSE is out now!
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5 Minute Writer
ArticleLiz's WebsiteConnect with Liz on TwitterConnect with David on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- Character backstory
- How to find the right community
- Finding an agent
EPISODE INFO:
The dreaded backstory.
How much to use? How much to cut out? Are you building character or are you boring readers?
My guest today is going to help us!
Liz Alterman is an absolute master at developing characters. She is the author of a domestic suspense novel, The Perfect Neighborhood, a young adult thriller, He’ll Be Waiting, and a memoir, Sad Sacked. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, McSweeney’s, and other outlets.
I learned so much about writing by reading her novel The Perfect Neighborhood and by picking her brain about building characters.
Liz shares how she started writing, why she writes thrillers, and-most importantly-how she writes them.
We talk about strategic backstory and using it enough to build a character, but not so much as to bore a reader.
There’s a sweet spot you have to hit. Let’s find out what that sweet spot is!
BIO:
Liz Alterman is the author of a domestic suspense novel, The Perfect Neighborhood, a young adult thriller, He’ll Be Waiting, and a memoir, Sad Sacked. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, McSweeney’s, and other outlets. She lives in New Jersey with her husband, three sons, and two cats, and spends most days microwaving the same cup of coffee and looking up synonyms. When she isn’t writing, she’s reading.
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5 Minute Writer
Elle Grawl Interview
Interviews referenced in this episode:
Editor: Chantelle Aimeé Osman
Literary Agent: Amy Elizabeth Bishop
Literary Agent: Emmy Norstrom Higdon
Author: Rob Hart
Author: Josh Stallings
Subscribe for Aaron Philip Clark & Ausma Zehanat Khan (Coming in Feburary!)
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5 Minute Writer
ArticleElle's WebsiteConnect with Elle on TwitterConnect with David on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- Agent author relationship
- Editing your manuscript
- Using your life experiences to influence your fiction
EPISODE INFO:
Are you wondering what happens after you sign with an agent? Will you go through edits? What will that relationship be like? Today’s guest is going to tell us what to expect when we enter into that important relationship.
Today’s guest is debut author Elle Grawl. She is a lawyer, professor, and author of psychological thrillers One of Those Faces (out now) and What Still Burns (coming Aug. 2023).
In this episode, I asked Elle all about her querying process, as well as what happened after she signed with her agent. It’s a really interesting part of the process that we don’t hear about too much and I thought it was so interesting.
BIO:
Elle Grawl is a lawyer by day and writer by night. After obtaining her B.A. in English Literature, she took a detour into law before returning to her love of writing.
Her lifelong interest in true crime and experiences as an attorney have provided her with plenty of writing material. Elle enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband and their two dogs.
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5 Minute Writer
ArticleThe Jordy Albert Literary AgencyConnect with Helen on TwitterConnect with David on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- What are agents looking for in an author?
- How to approach the querying process
- The state of the publishing industry
EPISODE INFO:
If you want to land an agent in 2023, you’re going to love this conversation with my guest today.
Today’s guest, Helen Lane, is relatively new to this whole agenting thing. She has amazing insights on what it takes to get signed by an agent in 2023!
How many queries do agents get? What are they looking for? How are they organizing the workload? All this and more.
And as a bonus, she even shares what she’ll be looking for when she reopens this year! So let’s get into the interview!b
BIO:
Helen Lane started at The Booker Albert Literary Agency as an intern/ assistant having previously interned for other leading agencies. She is a writer of YA and Adult Fantasy. She has a BSc in Environmental Science from the University of East Anglia and a postgrad qualification in Acoustics. She is passionate about books and has spent the last decade working with manuscripts. She lives in London with her family and the world’s naughtiest cocker spaniel.
Helen is actively building her list and represents YA, NA, and Adult.
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5 Minute WriterCatherine McKenzie InterviewKatherine Ramsland Interview
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5 Minute Writer
ArticleCatherine's WebsiteConnect with Catherine on TwitterConnect with David on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- Getting and implementing feedback that keeps your story
- Importance of surrounding yourself with people you trust
- Planning for your debut now
EPISODE INFO:
Have you wondered what project you should be taking on? Do you have multiple works in progress rolling around in your head (or on your computer)? You’re not alone.
As writers it feels like we face so much rejection that we start to second guess ourselves. What’s going to sell? What’s going to land you an agent?
In the end, you already know which project you need to be working on. But let’s have my guest today tell you why you already know!
BIO:
Catherine McKenzie was born and raised in Montreal, Canada. A graduate of McGill in History and Law, Catherine practiced law for twenty years before leaving the practice to write full time. An avid runner, skier and tennis player, she’s the author of numerous bestsellers including HIDDEN, FRACTURED, THE GOOD LIAR and I’LL NEVER TELL. Her works have been translated into multiple languages and PLEASE JOIN US and I’LL NEVER TELL have all been optioned for development into television series.
Her next novel, HAVE YOU SEEN HER, is releasing on June 27, 2023!
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Happy New Year! I know I've been sporadic about publishing during the last few months. So I wanted to explain WHY and then make a New Year's resolution that pertains to you.
But first I want to just say thank you. You've all been amazing about supporting me.
You've connected with me on Twitter. You've rated and reviewed the podcast and recommended it to writing friends. I can't thank you enough for all that.
But what today is about is about 2023 and what that holds for Writerly Lifestyle. This one is going to be short and to the point!
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17 Things to Think About When Talking to an Agent/PublisherArticleJessica's WebsiteFirst Interview with JessicaInterview with Katherine RamslandInterview with Bryan YoungConnect with Jessica on TwitterConnect with David on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- Getting and implementing feedback that keeps your story
- Importance of surrounding yourself with people you trust
- Planning for your debut now
EPISODE INFO:
What should you be doing NOW to have a successful debut launch? Jessica Payne helps us understand the ins-and-outs of preparing for a writing career.
Are you wondering what you can be doing right now to launch a successful debut book? Whether you’re agented or not, even if you’re just querying or even still editing or drafting.
I asked Jessica Payne this exact question. After successfully launching her career with her debut novel MAKE ME DISAPPEAR, then following it up with another great launch of yet another fantastic thriller THE LUCKY ONE.
Jessica knows a thing or two about what you can do NOW so that your launch goes smoothly even if it’s months or years from now.
Last time on the podcast I talked to Bryan Young who shares how he finds readers for his fiction through his other interests.
It’s a great pairing for this episode with Jessica Payne. So if you liked this and want to learn more about what you can do to plan for your writing career, definitely check that episode out.
BIO:
Jessica grew up in Kansas City, later moving to the Pacific Northwest where the mountains and Puget Sound became home. Beyond writing, she loves to run, rock climb, and explore the great outdoors with her daughter and husband. She is also an RN. When holding still, which isn’t often, you’ll find a book in her hand and a cat or dog in her lap. Jessica writes suspense and thriller and is the host of #MomsWritersClub on Twitter and YouTube.
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5 Minute WriterArticleConnect with Bryan on TwitterLast week on the interview series I talked to author, Katherine Ramsland. She shared how to turn the true stories we hear into fiction.
First Interview with Jessica Payne. (Be sure to subscribe for new Jessica Payne interview in the coming weeks!)
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- Using nonfiction to build a community
- How to find writing opportunities
- Writing what you love
BIOBryan Young (he/they) works across many different media. His work as a writer and producer has been called "filmmaking gold" by The New York Times. He's also published comic books with Slave Labor Graphics and Image Comics. He's been a regular contributor for the Huffington Post, StarWars.com, Star Wars Insider magazine, SYFY, /Film, and was the founder and editor in chief of the geek news and review site Big Shiny Robot! IN 2014, he wrote the critically acclaimed history book, A Children’s Illustrated History of Presidential Assassination. He co-authored Robotech: The Macross Saga RPG has written two books in the BattleTech Universe: Honor's Gauntlet and A Question of Survival. He teaches writing for Writer’s Digest, Script Magazine, and at the University of Utah. Follow him on Twitter @swankmotron.
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Join the 5-Minute Writer Series! I'm sharing the 3 most important lessons I learned about storytelling while listening to a True Crime Podcast!My wife and I took our two kids to visit my sister over Thanksgiving. And like any parent knows on a long trip, the kiss of death when traveling with young kids is talking too much once they’ve fallen asleep.
So we queued up a podcast, and as soon as we heard snoring from the backseat, we started listening to Up and Vanished, atrue crime podcast about a 10 year old cold case of a missing woman.
While I listened, it made me think a lot about how we write fiction (and specifically suspense, thriller, mystery, horror, and crime fiction).
Interview with Katherine Ramsland
Interview with Rob Hart
Interview with Josh Stallings
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5 Minute WriterAuthor: Bianca Marais InterviewLiterary Agent: Kimberly Brower Interview
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5 Minute WriterArticleConnect with Katherine via FacebookLast week on the interview series I talked to author, Emmy Nordstrom Higdon. They shared how to write diversity into our stories.
First Interview with Jessica Payne. (Be sure to subscribe for new Jessica Payne interview in the coming weeks!)
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- Turning real life ideas into fiction
- Trusting your narrative voice
- Studying great writing
BIOKatherine Ramsland has played chess with serial killers, dug up the dead, worked with profilers, and camped out in haunted crime scenes. As a professor of forensic psychology and an investigative consultant (like her main character, Annie Hunter), she’s always vigilant for unique angles and intriguing characters. She spent five years working with “BTK” serial killer Dennis Rader to write his autobiography, Confession of a Serial Killer , and has been featured as an expert in over 200 true crime documentaries. The author of 69 books, she’s been a forensic consultant for CSI, Bones and The Alienist , an executive producer on Murder House Flip and A&E’s Confession of a Serial Killer , and a commentator on 48 Hours, 20/20, The Today Show, Dr. Oz, Nightline, Larry King Live, Nancy Grace and other shows. She blogs regularly for Psychology Today and once wrote extensively for CourtTV’s Crime Library. She’s become the go-to expert for the most extreme, deviant and bizarre forms of criminal behavior, which offers great background for her Nut Cracker Investigations series. I Scream Man is the first novel in the series.
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5 Minute WriterArticleEmmy's Manuscript Wish ListConnect with Emmy on Twitter!Connect with David on TwitterLast week on the interview series I talked to author, Josh Stallings. He shared how to write unique and three-dimensional characters by avoiding cliche's.
Interview with Christopher Golden.
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- Writing real characters
- Finding people you trust to work with
- How our life experiences can drive our fiction
BIO
emmy (they/them) holds a PhD in justice-oriented social work with a focus on critical animal studies. They are a member of the planning team for the Festival of Literary Diversity, a faculty member at the Manuscript Academy, and a literary agent at Westwood Creative Artists. They are a queer, trans, and non-binary colonizer based in Tkaronto (Toronto, Ontario). emmy lives with their partner, a Deaf Dalmatian named Pavot, two formerly feral Maine coon cats, Whisper and Willow, and their collection of plants, informally nicknamed The Leafy Bois. They keep busy with vegan cooking, thread painting embroidery, crochet, wholesome video games, snail mail, their sticker collection, and… obviously, reading.
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5 Minute WriterArticleJosh's WebsiteConnect with Josh on Twitter!Connect with David on TwitterLast week on the interview series I talked to Rob Hart, author of six novels. He shared how he develops suspense early in a novel to keep readers engaged.
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- Writing real characters
- Finding people you trust to work with
- How our life experiences can drive our fiction
BIO
Josh Stallings’ latest book TRICKY, was listed by Library Journal as one of the ten best crime books of 2021. YOUNG AMERICANS, a disco heist novel was nominated for the Lefty and Anthony awards. Born in Los Angeles, and raised by counter-culture activists in Northern California, he grew up an undiagnosed dyslexic and spent some time as a petty criminal and failed actor before becoming a movie trailer editor. He, his wife, and two wonderful mutts now live in Idyllwild. TRICKY, was written in honor of his son Dylan, who is intellectually disabled.
5 Minute WriterArticleRob Hart's WebsiteConnect with Rob on Twitter!Connect with David on TwitterLast week on the interview series I talked to Bianca Marias, author of the new release The Witches of Moonshyne Manor and host of the popular podcast, The Shit No One Tells You About Writing. She shared how she developed unique character voices in her novel
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- Use a variety of ways to develop character voice
- The importance of a great agent-author relationship
- Where The Shit Noone Tells You About Writing podcast is headed
Today's interview will help anyone who feels like their writing needs a little boost. Rob shares some really important and practical writing tips while giving a behind the scenes look at how he creates his fascinating and suspenseful novels. Let’s get to the interview!
**BIO
Rob Hart is the author of six novels, including The Paradox Hotel and The Warehouse , as well as the short story collection Take-Out , Scott Free with James Patterson, and a Star Wars short story. The Warehouse , sold in more than 20 countries and was optioned for film by Ron Howard!
5 Minute WriterArticleBianca Marais WebsiteConnect with Bianca on Twitter!The Shit No One Tells You About Writing PodcastConnect with David on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- Use a variety of ways to develop character voice
- The importance of a great agent-author relationship
- Where The Shit Noone Tells You About Writing podcast is headed
BIO
In this week's author interview, I'll be talking to Bianca Marais. She is the author of Hum If You Don't Know the Words and If You Want to Make God Laugh and most recently The Witches of Moonshyne Manor. She teaches at the University of Toronto's School of Continuing Studies where she was awarded an Excellence in Teaching Award for Creative Writing in 2021.
She is the co-host of the popular podcast, The Shit No One Tells You About Writing, which is aimed at helping emerging writers become published.
5 Minute Writer Newsletter (Grab Your 1st Edition Here)ArticleBrower Literary & Management Connect with Kimberly on Twitter!Connect with David on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- How to edit your book
- Intangibles that will help you find an agent
- What agents are looking for in debut authors
EPISODE INFO:
Last time on the interview series I talked to book coach, Megan Clancy about how to edit your own work. Don't miss it! In today's episode, Kimberly and I discuss finding the RIGHT literary agent for you. What agents are looking for in a writer. Plus, she shares some of the editing advice she gives her own clients.
BIO:
Kimberly fell in love with reading when she picked up her first Babysitter’s Club book at the age of seven (Super Special editions were her favorites) and hasn’t been able to get her nose out of a book since. She holds a BS in Business Administration from California State University, Northridge and received her JD from Loyola Law School, Los Angeles. After spending a decade in the business world, it was kismet that she found herself in publishing. She previously worked for over two years at a boutique literary agency before starting her own. When not providing individual attention to her clients, Kimberly manages all of the day-to-day operations of the agency. This includes overseeing the management of the foreign, audio and all other subsidiary rights for all the authors in the agency.
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Stranger Things became a national phenomenon this summer. So I dug in to this series to try and find out what made it such a powerful example of storytelling.
Listen to the entire Jessica Payne Interview
Listen to the entire Christopher Golden Interview
5 Minute Writer Newsletter (Grab Your 1st Edition Here)2 FREE Downloads: 6 Things to Think About When Hiring and Editor & Discover the Heart of Your StoryArticleMegan's WebsiteConnect with Megan on Twitter!Connect with David on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- Are MFA's worth it?
- Managing guilt and resentment
- What is book coaching and how do you find the right one?
EPISODE INFO:
Last time on the interview series I talked to Chantelle Aimée Osman about how to edit your own work. Don't miss it!
BIO:
Megan is a writer who is also a mom. And on other days, she is a mom who is also a writer. They are equal parts of who she is and she works hard to keep that balance in her life. But she knows she is at her best when she's working on stories.
FREE 5 Minute Writer Newsletter (Grab Your 1st Edition Here)50 Editing Mistakes Authors MakeArticleChantelle's WebsiteConnect with Chantelle on Twitter!Connect with David on Twitter
PREVIOUS EPISODES FEATURING CHANTELLE
- How to Become an Editor
- Rethinking Rejection
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- Writing graphic novels
- Editing your manuscript
- How to get into the writing zone
EPISODE INFO:
Last time on the interview series I talked to Rachel May and Emily Golden of Golden May Editing about the 6 Things You Should Think About BEFORE Hiring and Editor. I learned so much about the editing process by talking to them so definitely check that out if you haven't already!
Also, if you're in the revision stage, you'll really enjoy this interview with Paula Munier. As a best selling author and literary agent, she shares what keeps good writers from becoming published authors!
BIO:
Chantelle is the editor of Agora Books. Agora focuses on "socially and culturally unique crime fiction and horror from award-winning publisher Polis Books."
She was named to Publisher's Weekly Rising Star honoree list in 2020. She's been a freelance editor for over 10 years. She is an instructor at the Virginia G. Piper Center for Creative Writing, Authors at Large and LitReactor. She is the author of The Quick and Dirty Guides To…, which is a non-fiction series on writing that I recommend checking out.
Chantelle hosts Words of Prey podcast through the Pipeline Artists Network.
- Discover the Heart of Your Story to Unearth Your Story Point (FREE download from Golden May Editing!)
- 6 Things to Think About When Looking for an Editor or Book Coach PLUS List of All Questions Suggested by Emily & Rachel
- Article
- Golden May Website
- Connect with David on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- The difference between an editor and writing coach
- 6 Things to think about when looking for an editor
- Questions to ask yourself and a potential editor
Last time on the interview series I talked to debut debut author, Annie Lisenby. She shared all about about independent publishing, finding the right fit for your work, and making your manuscript shine!
In this episode, Rachel and Emily share how to decide what kind of editor or book coach you need, what to look for in an editing professional, how to navigate choosing an editor, and what questions to ask yourself as well as questions to ask an editor or book coach!
BIO:
Emily and Rachel, Golden May’s co-founders, book coaches, and editors met on Twitter through the #WritingCommunity.
They believe that it’s impossible to see the holes in your own work and that learning together is infinitely more productive than learning alone.
Their goals are to help you identify your book’s potential, teach you how to fulfill it, and connect you with the community needed to sustain your writing journey!
17 Things to Think About When Talking to an Agent/PublisherArticleAnnie's WebsiteConnect with Annie on TwitterConnect with David on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- Finding an independent publisher
- What to know about independent publishing
- What to look for in a relationship with a publisher
EPISODE INFO:
Last time on the interview series I talked to debut thriller author, Jessica Payne. She shared all about writing thrillers, finding an agent, and how to navigate picking the right people to work with!
Today, we're talking about independent publishing, finding the right fit for your work, and making your manuscript shine!
BIO:
A native of the Missouri Ozarks, Annie's traveled to exciting places that she bring into my writing. She primarily writes for teens and young adults, but she also enjoys expanding into other areas too. In most of her work, you’ll find a generous dash of romance.
17 Things to Think About When Talking to an Agent/PublisherArticleJessica's WebsiteConnect with Jessica on TwitterConnect with David on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- How to write a great plot
- The importance of community
- What she looked for in an agent and what the relationship with your agent should be like
- Tips for when you finally get that publishing contract
EPISODE INFO:
Last time on the interview series I talked to author and literary agent Paula Munier. She shared amazing information about her writing process, what agents are looking for, and how to burst out of the slush pile!
Today, we're talking about how to find the right agent for you, why it's important to keep writing, and how to build suspense into your work.
BIO:
Jessica grew up in Kansas City, later moving to the Pacific Northwest where the mountains and Puget Sound became home. Beyond writing, she loves to run, rock climb, and explore the great outdoors with her daughter and husband. She is also an RN. When holding still, which isn’t often, you’ll find a book in her hand and a cat or dog in her lap. Jessica writes suspense and thriller and is the host of #MomsWritersClub on Twitter and YouTube.
FREE 5 Minute Writer Weekly NewsletterArticlePaula's WebsiteConnect with Paula on TwitterConnect with David on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- Writing as a career - making that shift from writer to author
- What she’s looking for as a literary agent
- How to pitch your book/story to agents
EPISODE INFO:
Last time on the interview series I talked to freelance writer, author, and ghostwriter, Paulette Perhach. She had so much information about how to be productive as a writer without overworking yourself.
Today, we're talking about going from first draft to a query-ready manuscript. If you've been through the query gauntlet and want to make it through to the other side with an agent, you're going to love this interview!
BIO:
PAULA MUNIER is Senior Agent and Director of Storytelling and Content for Talcott Notch Literary and the USA TODAY bestselling author of the Mercy Carr mysteries. A Borrowing of Bones, the first in the series, was nominated for the Mary Higgins Clark Award and named the Dogwise Book of the Year. Blind Search also won a Dogwise Award. The Hiding Place appeared on both Lesa Holstine and Dru Ann Love's Best of 2021 Lists. THE WEDDING PLOT debuts in July 2022. Paula credits the hero dogs of Mission K9 Rescue, her own rescue dogs, and a deep love of New England as her series’ major influences. Paula has also written three popular books on writing: Plot Perfect, The Writer’s Guide to Beginnings, and Writing with Quiet Hands, as well as Happier Every Day and the memoir Fixing Freddie. She lives in New England with her family and Bear the Newfoundland-retriever rescue, Bliss the Great Pyrenees-Australian cattle dog rescue, pandemic puppy Blondie, a Malinois rescue (much like Elvis in her books), and Ursula The Cat, a rescue torbie tabby who does not think much of the dogs.
Writerly Lifestyle Free NewsletterArticlePaulette's WebsiteConnect with Paulette on TwitterConnect with David on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- Focusing too much on productivity can be...unproductive
- Writing is a process and focus on the process instead of the results (especially rejections)
- Don’t be afraid of the business of writing
EPISODE INFO:
Last time on the interview series I talked to professional editor, Ericka Baldwin. She had so much information about how to find an editor, what to do when you're done with your first draft, and more!
But today we're talking about productivity, what to look for in a routine, how to approach your day, how to handle rejection. Plus, what to think about if you're looking for a writing coach and more!
Paulette Perhach is an amazing writer, coach, and all around hilarious human being. You're going to really love this interview!
BIO:
Paulette Perhach has been published in the New York Times, Vox, Elle, Slate, Cosmopolitan, Glamour, Marie Claire, Yoga Journal, McSweeney’s Internet Tendency, Hobart, and Vice.
She wrote a book called Welcome to the Writer's Life which was selected as one of Poets & Writers' Best Books for Writers.
On her blog, she talks about writer’s craft, business, personal finance, and joy at welcometothewriterslife.com and leads meditation and writing sessions through A Very Important Meeting.
She also works with writers as a coach to help them figure out how to build their writing careers.
Learn more about her here.
Writerly Lifestyle Free NewsletterArticleEricka's WebsiteConnect with David on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- Before looking for an editor, lay out your strengths and weaknesses so you know what kind of editor you need!
- What to look for in an editing relationship
- How to mentally prepare yourself for an edit
EPISODE INFO:
Last time on the interview series I talked to debut author, Zulie Rane about how to grow your platform through Medium. I learned so much talking to her and it's definitely worth a listen whether or not you'r going to write on Medium.
This interview really reminded me of the interview(s) I did with Chantelle Aimée Osman (Part I & Part II)
BIO:
Ericka loves storytelling! She is a professional editor, writer, and provides coaching for resumes, novels\books, cover letters, curriculum vitae, and website content for authors, business professionals, college graduates, networks, and publishing houses worldwide.
She recently published 16 Copy-Editing Enhancements that will improve your writing, increase your novel’s readability, and boost the confidence it takes to become a Best Selling Authors.
Get Started on Medium!
Writerly Lifestyle Free Newsletter5 Minute Writer **- Sometimes all you have is 5 minutes...but it might be all you need!
SEE INTERVIEW DETAILS:
Interview article
HANG OUT WITH Zulie! Website*Follow Zulie on Medium* HANG OUT WITH DAVID!*Follow David on Medium*
Connect with David on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS**
- How fiction writers can use Medium
- Overcoming self-doubt
- Being willing to try new forms of writing
EPISODE INFO: Medium is a publishing platform where writers can get paid for their words. And my guest, Zulie Rane is one of the top writers there. But there's something very important about Zulie that might make you pay close attention to what she has to say.
If you listened to my interview with Sinem Günel a few weeks ago, you'll know there's some pretty great earning potential through Medium's platform.
But then I talked to Allison Buccola, a debut author, and I started thinking about how to merge these two writing careers. How can fiction writers improve their book sales using Medium?
So if you write fiction, there's this really important added incentive to write on Medium, but before Zulie tells you how to maximize your bookselling potential, I'll tell you that special thing about Zulie: She wants to write fiction! So she's going to share what she would do to build a readership on Medium for our fiction work!
Note: I sometimes use affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, I may receive compensation for promoting this content. I ONLY promote products and services I have direct experience with. In this instance, I am a Medium user and highly recommend the platform
Check this out to find out more about what the 2nd Season of the Writerly Lifestyle podcast is all about!
Writerly Lifestyle Free NewsletterArticle Tobie's Twitter, Instagram & Tik-Tok Kelly's Twitter & InstagramConnect with David on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- Building a focused community is important
- Struggling to stay motivated is common
- Remembering your ‘why’ you started writing
EPISODE INFO:
Last time on the interview series I talked to writer and editor Chantelle Aimée Osman about finding a team for your writing and rethinking rejection.
BIO:
Tobie Carter is a fiction writer living in TX with her husband and two children. She writes adult suspense and contemporary romance and also co-hosts the bi-weekly #ThrillsandChills chat with Kelly Malacko on Twitter. She fell in love with reading in seventh grade when her teacher made her read And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie. Her love of writing didn’t appear until a story popped into her head while rocking her daughter to sleep, and since then, she’s written four stories and has no plan on stopping.
Kelly Malacko has a background in Journalism and Communications but focuses on writing fiction now. A boxing coach during the day, she balances writing at a computer with push-ups and sprawls in the gym and hopes her words hit as hard as her left hook. She is the mother of two girls and a six-month-old Airedale Terrier and is married to a police officer who barely flinches when she plots crimes and asks for his input.
Writerly Lifestyle Free NewsletterArticleChantelle's WebsiteConnect with Chantelle on Twitter!Polis BooksConnect with David on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- Find a team for your writing by finding people who appreciate your work
- Rethink your ideas about rejection
- What to look for in an agent
EPISODE INFO:
Last time on the interview series I talked to debut author, Allison Buccola. It was so fun to talk to her about what it was like to be a debut author. Definitely check that out if you haven't already!
Chantelle's business mindset really reminded me of my interview with Bianca Marais. So if you liked that interview, you’re really going to like this one.
BIO:
Chantelle is the editor of Agora Books. Agora focuses on "socially and culturally unique crime fiction and horror from award-winning publisher Polis Books."
She was named to Publisher's Weekly Rising Star honoree list in 2020. She's been a freelance editor for over 10 years. She is an instructor at the Virginia G. Piper Center for Creative Writing, Authors at Large and LitReactor. She is the author of The Quick and Dirty Guides To…, which is a non-fiction series on writing that I recommend checking out.
Chantelle hosts Words of Prey podcast through the Pipeline Artists Network.
Writerly Lifestyle Free Newsletter5 Minute Writer **- Sometimes all you have is 5 minutes, but it might be all you need!
SEE INTERVIEW DETAILS:*Interview article* HOW TO FIND ALLISON!*WebsiteInstagramTwitter* HANG OUT WITH DAVID!
Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS**
- Make small progress every day
- Edit by re-typing
- Find a critique group
EPISODE INFO:
If you're an aspiring author, you'll love hearing about how Allison managed to develop her story while managing two kids. Her goal-setting and managing plan is something I plan to emulate. You'll see why!
Plus, she shared an editing tip that I am OBSESSED with. I can't wait for you to hear it!
We talk about:
- How to get started on Medium
- The biggest mistakes new writers make
- Top tips for writers who want to make money
- How to think of your writing like a business
- Learning to hook readers
- AND MORE!
If you listened to my interview with Sinem Günel last week, you'll know I'm taking Medium seriously this month. However, I'm also still working on my own manuscript.
In this episode, I share the books I read and how they might help you with your story! I hope you enjoy!
Get Started on Medium!
Writerly Lifestyle Free Newsletter5 Minute Writer - Sometimes all you have is 5 minutes...but it might be all you need! HANG OUT WITH ME!Follow me on Medium
Connect with me on Twitter
Note: I sometimes use affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, I may receive compensation for promoting this content. I ONLY promote products and services I have direct experience with. In this instance, I am a Medium user and highly recommend the platform
Get Started on Medium!
Writerly Lifestyle Free Newsletter5 Minute Writer **- Sometimes all you have is 5 minutes...but it might be all you need!
SEE INTERVIEW DETAILS:*Interview article* HANG OUT WITH SINEM!*Sinem Günel's Website- Medium Writing AcademySinem's FREE Medium Writing Advice!Follow Sinem on Medium* HANG OUT WITH DAVID!*Follow David on Medium*
Connect with David on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS**
- Treat your writing like a business
- Give readers what they want
- Sell your next sentence
EPISODE INFO:
Last time on the interview series I talked to Christopher Golden, award winning author of books and comics.
Sinem is a Top Medium Writer in more than 15 categories, making more than $5,000 a month solely through her writing on Medium. She reaches hundreds of thousands of readers every month. She also runs an 8,000 person Facebook group. As well as a Medium Writing Academy where she teaches writers how to have success on the platform.
Note: I sometimes use affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, I may receive compensation for promoting this content. I ONLY promote products and services I have direct experience with. In this instance, I am a Medium user and highly recommend the platform
Writerly Lifestyle Free NewsletterArticleChristopher's WebsiteConnect with David on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- Connect with a community
- Study genre texts and read voraciously
- Don’t be afraid to explore and take from mediums and genres outside your comfort zone
EPISODE INFO:
Last time on the interview series I talked to Chantelle Aimée Osman, editor at Agora Books.
Christopher Golden is the New York Times bestselling, Bram Stoker Award-winning author of such novels as Road of Bones, Ararat, Snowblind, and Red Hands. With Mike Mignola, he is the co-creator of the Outerverse comic book universe, including such series as Baltimore, Joe Golem: Occult Detective, and Lady Baltimore.
As an editor, he has worked on the short story anthologies Seize the Night, Dark Cities, and The New Dead, among others, and he has also written and co-written comic books, video games, screenplays, and a network television pilot.
His work has been nominated for the British Fantasy Award, the Eisner Award, and multiple Shirley Jackson Awards. For the Bram Stoker Awards, Golden has been nominated ten times in eight different categories, and won twice. His original novels have been published in more than fifteen languages in countries around the world.
Writerly Lifestyle Free NewsletterArticleChantelle's WebsiteConnect with Chantelle on Twitter! Article Chantelle Referenced: How Amina Akhtar Changed Her Life at 40Polis BooksConnect with David on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- There's no 'right' or 'wrong' way to start a creative career
- Why Chantelle decided to start Agora
- How to “Level-Up” your craft
EPISODE INFO:
Last time on the interview series I talked to Emma Dhesi, writer and podcaster. She's been shared some awesome content for writers in our interview so definitely check that out if you haven't already.
Chantelle's business mindset really reminded me of my interview with Bianca Marais. So if you liked that interview, you’re really going to like this one.
Chantelle is the editor of Agora Books. Agora focuses on "socially and culturally unique crime fiction and horror from award-winning publisher Polis Books."
She was named to Publisher's Weekly Rising Star honoree list in 2020. She's been a freelance editor for over 10 years. She is an instructor at the Virginia G. Piper Center for Creative Writing, Authors at Large and LitReactor. She is the author of The Quick and Dirty Guides To…, which is a non-fiction series on writing that I recommend checking out.
Chantelle hosts Words of Prey podcast through the Pipeline Artists Network.
Writerly Lifestyle Free Newsletter
Use this quick tip to make sure readers stay engaged with your writing!
Link to the YouTube Video for this recording.
If you're looking to keep readers reading, try this technique I uncovered while comparing unpublished beta reads to more polished best-selling novels.
Plus, added bonus if you have some nostalgia for the days of JJ Abrams Lost!
Writerly Lifestyle Free NewsletterArticleEmma's WebsiteBe a Bestseller 3.0Turning Readers into Writers PodcastConnect with David on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- You CAN make a living with your writing - but you need to learn how
- Write for the joy of it and do the best work you can
- Learn from others
BIO
Emma Dhesi is a book coach who specializes in helping beginner authors write their first novel. She helps you improve your craft, provides feedback on your written work and navigates you through the emotional rollercoaster of finishing a novel.
For more hands-off assistance, Emma hosts a Facebook group and podcast, both called Turning Readers Into Writers.
Writerly Lifestyle Free NewsletterArticleBianca Marais' WebsiteConnect with Bianca on Twitter!The Shit No One Tells You About Writing Podcast (& KoFi)Connect with David on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- Be tenacious
- Build a community
- Make sure your first pages show your character, their goal, and what’s at stake
BIO
In this week's author interview, I'll be talking to Bianca Marais. She is the author of Hum If You Don't Know the Words and If You Want to Make God Laugh. She teaches at the University of Toronto's School of Continuing Studies where she was awarded an Excellence in Teaching Award for Creative Writing in 2021.
She runs an Own Voices Initiative to empower young Black women in Africa to write and publish their own stories, and is constantly fundraising to assist grandmothers who are caring for children who have been orphaned by HIV/AIDS.
She is the co-host of the popular podcast, The Shit No One Tells You About Writing, which is aimed at helping emerging writers become published.
Writerly Lifestyle Free NewsletterArticle and Full Transcript
Free Copywriting Training!
Nicki Krawczyk Bio
What is copywriting?
Filthy Rich Writer Testimonials
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- Copywriting can be a game-changer for writers
- There's a learning curve - it's a specific type of writing
- Continue taking action
BIO
Nicki is the founder of Filthy Rich Writer.
She's been a copywriter for more than 15 years, working for and with clients including TripAdvisor, Marshalls, Hasbro, Keurig, adidas, and even Harlequin Romance novels.
She's worked for agencies both in-house and as a freelancer. And she's made over six figures as a copywriter for several years.
She created Filthy Rich Writer because there’s never been a better time to be a copywriter: There are more companies than ever before who need—and are actively seeking—skilled copywriters.
She believes it's hard to find top quality, real-world copywriting training so she put together the exact resources and trainings she would give herself if she had to start over in her career.
Note: Some of the above links are affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, I may receive compensation for promoting this content. I ONLY promote products and services I have direct experience with. In this instance, I am a Comprehensive Copywriting Academy member and recommend it for anyone thinking about copywriting!
Writerly Lifestyle Free NewsletterArticle & Get SA Sidor's Recommended Books!
Connect with SA Sidor on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- Be willing to take feedback
- Use life's experiences to tell great stories - look for stories everywhere
- Try to hijack your time by whatever means necessary
BIO
SA Sidor is the author of supernatural-pulp adventures. He lives near Chicago with his family. His second Arkham Horror novel Cult of the Spider Queen out now!
HELP!
If you're reading this, can you do me a favor? Punch, slap, or poke that subscribe button! It costs you nothing and goes a long way in supporting this channel. I really appreciate it. See you next week!
Writerly Lifestyle Free NewsletterArticle and Full Transcript
Nurse Papa Website
Connect with David on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- Keep creating work you can be proud of
- Sometimes the structure comes at the end of the creative process
- Balance is important in stories (and life)
BIO
David has worked as a pediatric oncology nurse at UCSF Children’s Hospital for twelve years now. The bravery, laughter, perseverance, and the many smiles of the children and their parents who he has worked with have inspired this project.
Nurse Papa is a prescriptive and heartwarming book written from the perspective of a pediatric oncology nurse who is also a father. The meditations within are directed at parents and all people who are looking to ask and answer some of life's big questions. You will laugh, you will cry, and you will learn about yourself.
HELP!
If you're reading this, can you do me a favor? Punch, slap, or poke that subscribe button! It costs you nothing and goes a long way in supporting this channel. I really appreciate it. See you next week!
Writerly Lifestyle Free NewsletterArticle and Full Transcript
Nurse Papa Website
Connect with David on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- Keep creating work you can be proud of
- Sometimes the structure comes at the end of the creative process
- Balance is important in stories (and life)
BIO
David has worked as a pediatric oncology nurse at UCSF Children’s Hospital for twelve years now. The bravery, laughter, perseverance, and the many smiles of the children and their parents who he has worked with have inspired this project.
Nurse Papa is a prescriptive and heartwarming book written from the perspective of a pediatric oncology nurse who is also a father. The meditations within are directed at parents and all people who are looking to ask and answer some of life's big questions. You will laugh, you will cry, and you will learn about yourself.
HELP!
If you're reading this, can you do me a favor? Punch, slap, or poke that subscribe button! It costs you nothing and goes a long way in supporting this channel. I really appreciate it. See you next week!
LINKSWriterly Lifestyle Free NewsletterArticle and Full Transcript
Grady Hendrix's Website
Connect with him on Twitter
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- We have to make sacrifices for what we want in life
- Study your genre
- Dark moments can lead to something worthwhile if you push through
BIO
Grady Hendrix is an award-winning novelist and screenwriter. He’s the author of Horrorstor (which is being turned into a movie). He’s also written My Best Friend’s Exorcism (which is being adapted into a feature film by Amazon Studios), We Sold Our Souls, and the Southern Book Club’s Guide to Slaying Vampires (currently being adapted into a TV series). He also wrote the Bram Stoker Award-winning nonfiction book Paperbacks from Hell, a history of the horror paperback boom of the seventies and eighties. And most recently, The Final Girl Support Group about the women who fought back and defeated the killer, avenged their friends, and emerged victorious. But after the sirens fade and the audience moves on. What happens to her?
HELP!
If you're reading this, can you do me a favor? Punch, slap, or poke that subscribe button! It costs you nothing and goes a long way in supporting this channel. I really appreciate it. See you next week!
LINKSWriterly Lifestyle Free NewsletterArticle and Full Transcript
Grady Hendrix's Website
Connect with him on Twitter
BIO
Grady Hendrix is an award-winning novelist and screenwriter. He’s the author of Horrorstor (which is being turned into a movie). He’s also written My Best Friend’s Exorcism (which is being adapted into a feature film by Amazon Studios), We Sold Our Souls, and the Southern Book Club’s Guide to Slaying Vampires (currently being adapted into a TV series). He also wrote the Bram Stoker Award-winning nonfiction book Paperbacks from Hell, a history of the horror paperback boom of the seventies and eighties. And most recently, The Final Girl Support Group about the women who fought back and defeated the killer, avenged their friends, and emerged victorious. But after the sirens fade and the audience moves on. What happens to her?
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- Writing is hard
- Writing is really all about the rewriting
- Treat writing like a job
Next week, Grady and I continue our conversation and will be talking more deeply about the horror genre. We'll also talk about his most difficult moment as a writer and his advice for people listening. You won't want to miss it!
If you're reading this, can you do me a favor? Punch, slap, or poke that subscribe button! It costs you nothing and goes a long way in supporting this channel. I really appreciate it. See you next week!
Welcome to the second and final part of this interview with Amy Elizabeth Bishop.
LINKSWriterly Lifestyle Free NewsletterArticle and Full Transcript
Amy's Agency Page
Query Manager
Manuscript Wish List
Connect with her on Twitter
BIO
Amy joined Dystel Goderich & Borret literary agency in 2015 after interning for them in 2014. At DG&B, she's cultivating a wide-ranging list in literary and upmarket fiction, expert-driven narrative nonfiction, and select YA, with a special interest in the voices of BIPOC authors. Her list includes titles such as The Last Story of Mina Lee by Nancy Jooyoun Kim (a Reese's Book Club selection and NYT bestseller), The Silence of Bones by June Hur (a Junior Library Guild selection and Edgar Award nominee), and Living Brave by Shannon Dingle (published Summer 2021). Before diving into the world of publishing, she graduated from SUNY Geneseo with a degree in Creative Writing. Though she grew up upstate, she currently resides in Astoria, Queens. You can find her on Twitter at @amylizbishop.
If you're a writer thinking about submitting to Amy, be sure to listen for what she represents. More importantly, think about what she's looking for because she provides a pretty clear message on what she wants!
If you want to be a literary agent, think about how Amy finds her clients. I think it's so interesting when she talks about what she looks for in stories she wants to represent.
3 BIG TAKEAWAYS
- Diversity in publishing allows everyone to have a seat at the table
- Make sure you understand your story thematically
- Agents aren't as scary as they seem
Favorite Quote:
"...we're [agents] not as scary as we seem...we're all just people who have books and want to have a conversation about books."
Next week, I'm going to be talking to bestselling author Grady Hendrix about his new book, The Final Girl Support Group, plus his previous bestseller, The Southern Book Clubs Guide to Slaying Vampires, as well as his multiple projects in production coming to a screen near you! We discuss his projects and film production, what it's like to write the screenplay based on your own book. And what it's like to pass your book on to someone else to be adapted. So make sure you check it out!
Bennett Pellington is an award winning filmmaker who is hard at work at Part 2 of his award winning short film. He and I talk about storytelling, the struggles with filmmaking, and how to over come them!
LinksWriterly Lifestyle Free NewsletterLink to Article and Full Transcript
Miner's Mountain
Miner's Mountain Part II Trailer
Bennett Pellington's Website
Bennett's Instagram
3 Big Takeaways
- Feel comfortable making things up — but in the right way
- Leave your ego at the door.
- Use whatever you have to make good art
Favorite Quote
"I think just resilience, just, just don't give up, I know it's so cliche, but you just keep powering through. If you believe in the story you're trying to tell, or, you know if you’re a cinematographer in totally immersing yourself and learning that craft, and then even pushing it further to like, now everyone knows you can shoot something that looks beautiful.
But now immerse into the psyche of like story, right, trying to understand why are we pushing in here? Why not use this lens instead of this lens? When to hold in closer?
It becomes such a wonderful collaboration that I think if you just really stick it out, and if you can find yourself working alongside others that inspire you are better than you. It can really become a beautiful relationship in many ways because you're going to learn a lot from them."
Welcome to part 1 of this 2 part interview. Today, I'll be talking to Amy Elizabeth Bishop.
LINKSWriterly Lifestyle Free NewsletterArticle and Full Transcript
Amy's Agency Page
Query Manager
Manuscript Wish List
Connect with her on Twitter
BIO
Amy joined Dystel Goderich & Borret literary agency in 2015 after interning for them in 2014. At DG&B, she's cultivating a wide-ranging list in literary and upmarket fiction, expert-driven narrative nonfiction, and select YA, with a special interest in the voices of BIPOC authors. Her list includes titles such as The Last Story of Mina Lee by Nancy Jooyoun Kim (a Reese's Book Club selection and NYT bestseller), The Silence of Bones by June Hur (a Junior Library Guild selection and Edgar Award nominee), and Living Brave by Shannon Dingle (published Summer 2021). Before diving into the world of publishing, she graduated from SUNY Geneseo with a degree in Creative Writing. Though she grew up upstate, she currently resides in Astoria, Queens. You can find her on Twitter at @amylizbishop.
If you ever wondered what it was like to be a literary agent, Amy takes us on quite the tour through her day to day life, but also how she got to where she is. It’s important to remember that people don’t become agents
3 Big Takeaways
- Get book or media industry experience under your belt
- Structure your day around your brain power
- Reach out to professionals in the career you want.
Favorite Quote:
"[As an agent] you work in the service of your clients, and their best interests, and if people get mad at you about that, that's not your problem. Your clients come first, and always first. And so you're going to ruffle some feathers sometimes but like that's, you know, we want to be courteous and polite at all times if possible, but you can't be faulted for doing what is in the best interest of your clients."
In part two of this interview, Amy and I will be talking about what she’s looking for now, why it's helpful to go with newer agents, trends in publishing, twitter pitch parties, and Amy's tips for writers. Be sure to check that out next week!
Bennett Pellington is an award winning filmmaker who is hard at work at Part 2 of his award winning short film. He and I talk about storytelling, the struggles with filmmaking, and how to over come them!
LinksWriterly Lifestyle Free Newsletter
Miner's Mountain
Miner's Mountain Part II Trailer
Bennett Pellington's Website
Instagram
Link to Full Transcript
3 Big Takeaways
- Use "Master Texts" to practice your craft
- Best books for aspiring filmmakers: Blake Snyder's Save the Cat & Hollywood Standard
- The Silent Film Check: Watch a movie silently and see if you can follow what's happening. If you can't there's probably too much exposition. Do this check with your own work.
Favorite Quote
"No one should plagiarize. That is not anywhere near when I'm even trying to get across here. But one thing that helped me kind of learn screenwriting and find my voice and writing is looking at other scripts. And they don't even have to be in the genre that you're working on. But to read from those writers who have done it in the past and sold their script and just hear how they wrote, like even your action lines or describing lines. It's really informative,
You know, as long as you're not stealing like dialogue and other big things are set pieces whatever like, don't, don't take it but make it your own. Take what they did, which works, and go make it your own. Now you have a bit of a roadmap.
I have a buddy who used to take a scene from a movie that he'd say it's kind of like the general same sense of a scene from another movie. And he'll take that scene, and he would open up a new draft and not copy that scene, but he would put his characters in, and paste all the action lines, and then he'd go through one by one, and write it out as if he was writing, you know Die Hard or whatever, right.
But then by manipulating it and changing and making his own, you have a totally different scene, but it's in the same arc as a scene from, you know, Die Hard or something, and it just helped inform him how to go about that next hurdle right because you cross that hurdle and then you got 100 more in front."
Bennett Pellington is an award winning filmmaker who is hard at work at Part 2 of his award winning short film. He and I talk about storytelling, the struggles with filmmaking, and how to over come them!
LinksWriterly Lifestyle Free Newsletter
Miner's Mountain
Miner's Mountain Part II Trailer
Bennett Pellington's Website
Instagram
Link to Full Transcript
3 Big Takeaways
- It's important to write the stories that stick with you
- Don't always rush something into publication. It's often worth it for you to wait until it's fully fleshed out.
- Character is vital to telling a great story.
Favorite Quote
"...when I started discovering other movies like dramas that I really really really enjoyed. I started finding the whole character arcs and seeing how filmmakers and writers like develop the plot points and characters when I started falling in love with that more. So, I do love the thriller.
I just think it's such a great genre to help build tension and kind of feel a little claustrophobic and who hasn't ever felt like they just have the world on their shoulders and, yeah, you know what I mean I think that a lot of people can relate, even if it is like wild circumstances."
Hey friends, my name is Dave and on the Writerly Lifestyle Podcast, we're going to explore the strategies and tools that help writers and creatives live happier, richer, more productive lives. We're here to prove that writing careers are more than hobbies and that making a good living isn't just possible, it's probable. We're going to do this through interviews, articles, tutorials, reviews and more.
On this channel you'll hear from award winning filmmakers, best-selling authors, literary agents, talented editors, and more! Every week you'll get episodes that will help you grow as a writer and achieve the goals you have for yourself. This podcast will show you what it takes to make it in a creative career.
So be sure to subscribe and join the Writerly Lifestyle Community. Because you're not going to want to miss a single episode!