This week I catch up with award-winning crime writer John Copenhaver who pens historical mysteries that celebrate minorities and those whose stories aren’t often told. We explore what a story needs at the very start, whether or not to plan out your crime novel before writing it, and the drawbacks of workshopping stories. We also talk about his latest novel, HALL OF MIRRORS. Check it out and subscribe!
Transcription available on request.
If you’ve ever read an action or military thriller you’re probably familiar with the name “Tom Clancy.” And, while he unfortunately passed away in 2013, other gifted authors are still carrying on his legacy and I’m thrilled today to have one of them joining on The Story Blender to talk about his writing process and his latest book TOM CLANCY: SHADOW STATE.
M.P. Woodward, a former U.S. Naval intelligence officer, shares his thoughts on leaving no danglers, the importance of an ironic ending, writing action-packed thrillers with heart, when to break the rules to improve your story, and how to weave in believability and surprise. Give it a listen and subscribe so you don’t miss any upcoming episodes.
Transcription available on request.
Listen in as I pick the brains of co-authors Isabella Maldonado and Jeffery Deaver on the process of writing a crime thriller that will keep readers turning pages. We discuss how to keep your characters intriguing, inside information on writing, and the importance of getting the facts right. We also talk about outlining, their latest thriller, FATAL INTRUSION, and how many drafts and rewrites Jeffery does for his novels (it will probably surprise you!) Give it a listen!
Transcription available on request.
This week I chat with Caroline Cleveland about her southern mystery WHEN CICADAS CRY. She talks about the five aspects of Southern Fiction and how she tried to weave them into her story, the power of story to bring people together, and how cultures are both shaped by stories and reflected in the stories we tell. Give it a listen!
Transcription available on request.
This week I talk with James Gordon, who worked for decades in Hollywood in the documentary and reality TV world and contributed to more than 100 shows, including Big Brother, Project Runway and America’s Next Top Model. We talk about his experiences in putting together meaningful and poignant shows, how stories bring us all together, Breaking Bad, and his latest venture, the acclaimed travel podcast, Skiptown All-Stars Travel Podcast. Check it out!
Transcription available on request.
Acclaimed screenwriter and novelist Jule Selbo shares insights on plot, why she started watching sports after she left Hollywood, finding the new normal at the end of a story, and celebrating dilemma over theme. She also shares the drawbacks of outlining and the story behind her latest novel, 8 DAYS. Give it a listen, check it out, and subscribe.
Transcription available on request.
This week, author Cara Reinard joins me to talk about shaping and developing twists and psychological suspense in your writing, the importance of flawed characters, how to be an expert “breadcrumber,” and more. We also chat about your latest release, THE WIFE AT THE WINDOW. Give it a listen, like, and subscribe!
Transcription available on request.
Have you heard of the novelist Richard Castle? Well… I had a chance to chat with him. Listen as I talk with Tom Straw, who wrote numerous books under Castle’s name. Tom is an award-winning screenwriter, humorist, and New York Times bestselling author whose sharp and witty writing has connected with fans around the world. Together, we explore how stories can lean into struggles, truth, and humor. You’ll love his insights and his encouraging words. Check it out!
Transcription available on request.
This week I caught up with acclaimed Cowboy Poet Brigid Reedy. She is a singer, songwriter, fiddler, poet, and storyteller who has become a singular young voice representing her beloved home state of Montana. At just twenty-three years old, she has already performed at the Grand Ole Opry, the National Storytelling Festival, and Carnegie Hall. We talk about what it means to “feel” a story, how important it is to be passionate about the material you perform, the importance of being aware, the loudest sound you can make on stage, and much more. Give it a listen and subscribe to receive our weekly podcasts!
Transcription available on request.
This week I caught up with bestselling author and writing instructor Vincent Davis. We chat about the only Latin I know (it might surprise you), complex villains, how the best fiction rhymes with reality, how story is its own teacher, and agenda-driven fiction vs. dilemma-driven fiction. Great insights! Give it a listen and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any future Story Blender episodes.
Transcription available on request.