Killer Prose

Earlier this month, Meta announced and update in the way businesses interact with the platform. They not only want to charge businesses for posting external links, they tried to add some pretty shady stuff to the terms of service. I also talk about the update to KU and the rebrand to Kindle+. Connect with the show at: Join the Discord Community for live Writing Sprints: https://discord.gg/xkm9TPMz...

Getting booted from KDP sucks, and it's happening to a lot of authors. Today, I sit down with Ali Toothman author of Libby Lives to talk about her experience and her place moving forward. Connect with Ali at Author Website: https://alitoothmanauthor.bigcartel.com/ Ali's Link Tree: https://linktr.ee/alitoothman Links discussed in the episode: Novel Marketing Podcast: https://www.authormedia.com/why...

In today's episode, I talk about my plans for distribution and my thought process for choosing between being exclusive to KU or Going wide with my Ebooks. I also update you on the progress with Dangerous Whispers as we approach launch date. Links discussed in the episode: Novel Marketing Podcast: https://www.authormedia.com/should-you-leave-kindle-unlimited-in-2026/ Draft 2 Digital: https://draft2...

In this episode I talk to author Andrew Najberg about balancing the art of writing with the business of publishing. I ask what's changed in his process since stepping into his new Role at Wicked House Publishing. We also talk about his new book Eat the Light. Connect with Andrew at: www. Andrewnajberg.co m www.wickedhouse.com Meet Andrew at: https://acrosstheblackveil.bigcartel.com/ https://www.dr...

In today's episode, I interview award winning audiobook narrator, Alice Sockett. We talk about what it's like to work with a professional narrator, how to find the right voice, and mistakes to avoid so you get the most out of your audiobook. Connect with Alice: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alicesockettaudio/?hl=en Companies mentioned in this episode: ACX: https://www.acx.com Audible: https...

In the episode, I talk to author Brad Ricks about his series, The Night Crew. We chat about what it's like to write a series vs. a stand-alone, writing a monster/case of the week format while weaving in overarching plot points, and the importance of strong, relatable characters. Connect with Brad and his books at https://bradricks.com https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GX2YGMYG?lv=shuf&channelId=500&...

Word selection in fiction writing profoundly influences the narrative's tone and atmosphere, guiding the reader's emotional experience. Specificity in language allows for deeper insights into character. In this episode, I dig into word choice and how it can help you craft vivid worlds that keep your readers connected. Connect with me: Join the Discord Community for live Writing Sprints: https://di...

In this episode, I talk about the crucial role coaching has played in my voice acting and audiobook narration journey, and the importance of investing in the same professional guidance for writing. I look back on my six-year journey as a writer and how my initial focus on craft (while important) didn't help me with the business side of publishing, which is essential for success. Resources mentione...

In this episode, Tanner talks about how seeking out feedback has helped him bcome a better writer and audiobook narrator. Connect with the show at https://www.killerprose.com Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/9ZnxYbJj Email me at killerpenbooks@gmail.com Follow my work at https://www.tannerrutledgebooks.com Holly's Writing Classes: https://www.hollyswritingclasses.com/ Autocrit: https://www.a...

In this episode of Killer Prose, Tanner shares his one-year journey into audiobook narration. He details his initial struggles with recording quality and his gradual shift from podcasting to high-quality VO work. Tanner gets into the technical and financial aspects of setting up a professional recording environment, debunking myths about costly setups. He offers practical advice on equipment, room...

Wow, I really missed the mark on some of my 2025 goals. In this episode, I talk about what went wrong, what went right, and what I learned along the way. 00:00 Intro 00:54 Goals and Challenges: A Year in Review 01:42 Rewriting and Retitling: The Creative Process 03:27 Lessons Learned from Podcasting and Writing 07:14 Looking Ahead: Goals for 2026 09:42 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Connect with...

In this episode, Tanner discusses how dictation has significantly improved his writing speed, doubling or tripling his output in the first draft stage. He shares his initial challenges and the benefits he discovered, such as increased productivity and more effective use of liminal times. He provides practical tips for getting started with dictation using simple tools like a smartphone and earbuds,...

In this episode of Killer Prose, Tanner sits down with John Ward, author of the Scareville series, to discuss the nuances of writing middle-grade and adult horror. John shares his journey into writing, including early influences like Goosebumps, his writing process, and how he approaches crafting horror stories for younger audiences. They get into the challenges of transitioning between middle-gra...

In this episode of Killer Prose, Tanner sits down with author R.M. Galardo to discuss her latest book, 'Traveler,' and its development from her initial work, 'Sister.' They talk about the complexities of series writing, exploring how 'Heirloom' evolved into 'Traveler' and the lessons learned during the writing journey. The conversation also highlights the importance of writing courses and communit...

In this episode of the Killer Pros podcast, Tanner updates listeners on his list of resources for writers in 2025. Tanner discusses valuable tools and platforms he uses for every stage of the writing process, from learning and drafting to editing and marketing. The episode includes his go-to classes, writing communities, and podcasts, as well as essential software and services for writing and publ...

In this episode of the Killer Pros podcast, Tanner provides an update on his time management strategies, leading to significant progress in his writing and author brand development. Tanner discusses his upcoming debut novel, the transition from writing 'Hant' to focusing on the 'Whisper Hollow Mystery' series, and the essential steps in setting up his author brand and publishing business. He touch...

In this episode of the Killer Podcast, Tanner shares insights on how writers can take control of their time to enhance productivity and achieve their long-term goals. Tanner discusses his personal experience with time management, including how his chaotic day job and family life led him to conduct a time audit. He explains three powerful strategies: time audits to track where your time is going, t...

In this episode of The Killer Prose Podcast, Tanner takes you into the world of audio productions, focusing on turning written stories into audiobooks, podcasts, or YouTube content. Tanner discusses the value and benefits of audiobooks, the process, and expenses involved, and details the equipment and setup needed for professional narration. He explains the difference between dynamic and condenser...

In this episode of Killer Pros, Tanner chats with cover designer Ruth Anna Evans about all aspects of cover design. They discuss Ruth's career, her approach to designing book covers, and the intricacies of working with a cover designer, including licensing. Ruth shares her journey from designing covers for her own books due to budget constraints to becoming a professional cover designer. The conve...

In this solo episode of the Killer Pros podcast, Tanner discusses recent changes in his revision process, particularly shifting back to using notecards for outlining and revisions. He also shares personal updates, including recovering from a fractured arm which has impacted his writing and podcasting activities. Tanner highlights his ongoing projects, such as working on the revision of his book 'T...

In this episode of the Killer Pros podcast, host Tanner interviews Meriah Gutterson, an experienced editor from Marked Up Editing. They discuss the editing process, the importance of maintaining story continuity, and the common mistakes new authors make. Mariah shares valuable insights on how to work with an editor and the benefits of early consultation. She also provides tips for character develo...

In this solo episode of the Killer Pros podcast, I discusses my writing process, recent projects, and how I developed my unique voice and style as a horror thriller writer. I share insights on genre blending, my evolving writing style, and the outline process for my latest works, including 'The Hant.' 00:28 Introduction 01:02 Current Writing Projects 01:42 Exploring Genre Blends 04:07 Finding My W...

In this episode of the Killer Pros, Tanner interviews author Brad Ricks about his new series, 'The Night Crew.' They discuss the intricacies of blending horror with action thriller elements, the evolution of writing styles, and the challenges of creating authentic and engaging stories. Brad shares insights into his writing process, character development, and the motivation behind his vampire lore,...

In this episode I discusses updates on my upcoming mystery book 'Fools & Corpses' and details on setting up a home studio for audiobooks. I also reflects on the challenges of deciding between Amazon's KU and Kobo Select for distribution. In the meat of the episode, I take a look at different types of plot twists in storytelling, focusing the importance of foreshadowing and avoiding overuse. 00...

In this episode of Killer Prose, Tanner discusses strategies for dealing with writer's block and managing stress. He offers personal insights into his own practices for de-stressing and staying focused, such as prioritizing workouts and meditation, observing the world for inspiration, and experimenting with his writing process. Tanner also provides updates on his current projects, including 'Fools...