Five Compelling Questions with Shawn

In this episode, Fergus Bordewich discusses his latest book, Centennial, about the 1876 Centennial Exhibition, its significance in American history, and lessons from the past that resonate today. The author explores America's technological innovations, social conflicts, and the importance of understanding history to navigate current challenges.

In this episode, author Marlie Parker Wasserman discusses her latest historical crime fiction novel, 'First Daughter,' exploring themes of kidnapping, historical accuracy, and the fascinating era of the late 19th century. She shares insights into her research process, character development, and the unique challenges of writing about historical people.

In this episode, we explore The Vanished Sister , the 9th book in the Lady Sherlock Series by Sherry Thomas. The author talks about her approach to genre-blending and insights on writing enduring characters like Sherlock Holmes. Discover how she balances historical accuracy, character agency, and genre versatility.

In this episode, author Brett Battles discusses his latest novel 'Deep Water,' exploring the intricacies of writing mystery and thriller genres, character development, and his writing routine. Discover insights into shipwreck stories, detective fiction, and the creative process behind prolific writing.

In this episode, author Matt Cost discusses his latest Max Creed novel, 'Everything Versus Max Creed,' exploring themes of social media influence, privacy, and justice. He shares insights into his writing process, the evolution of his series, and the importance of perseverance in writing.

In this episode, we explore the creative journey of Catherine Kurtz, a painter, food writer, and debut novelist. She shares insights into her artistic process, the inspiration behind her novel 'Feast,' and her unique connection to food and sensory experience.

In this episode, author Lawrence Kelter shares his journey through the world of writing, his passion for music, and the inspiration behind his latest novel 'Freefall.' Discover insights into the creative process, the influence of music on storytelling, and tips for aspiring writers.

In this episode, author Meredith Doench discusses her novel 'Never Say Die,' her inspiration from real-life crime stories, and her journey as a writer of standalone novels and series. She shares insights into character development, writing process, and the importance of community among writers.

In this episode, Shawn Simmons interviews author Graham Brown about his journey from diverse careers to successful writing, his experience co-writing with Clive Cussler, and insights into crafting compelling thrillers. They explore the importance of research, storytelling techniques, and the future of AI in fiction.

In this episode, author Liza Tully discusses her new mystery novel 'The Forty-Year Grudge,' her writing process, character development, and insights into the craft of mystery writing. She shares her inspiration, the importance of titles, and her journey as a writer, offering valuable advice for aspiring authors.

Explore the life and legacy of George Washington through H.W. Brands' comprehensive biography, delving into his leadership, decision-making, and the evolution of American democracy.

Discover the unique journey of Ryan Pote, a former Navy pilot turned author. Learn how his diverse experiences shaped his writing and the inspirations behind his latest book, "The Ghost City."

In this engaging interview, author Gregory Stout discusses his writing process, series development, and insights into his latest novel, 'Goodbye is Forever.' Discover how he crafts compelling characters, manages long-running series, and draws inspiration from music and personal experiences.

In this engaging interview, author Matt Lavoie discusses his debut novel, 'Main Street Fringe,' exploring themes of conspiracy, radicalization, and the influence of government and social media. Matt shares insights into character development, the inspiration behind his book, and practical advice for aspiring writers navigating the publishing world.

In this engaging interview, author Ward Larsen shares his journey from fighter pilot to bestselling author, discusses his work on the Tom Clancy universe, and offers insights into writing military thrillers, character development, and maintaining a disciplined writing schedule.

Explore the intriguing story behind Peter Clenott's novel about Hitler's murder investigation, uncovering lesser-known historical facts and the power of historical fiction to teach and entertain.

In this engaging interview, author James Cleary discusses his novel 'Sanctuary,' exploring themes of climate catastrophe, social justice, and human morality. Discover the inspiration behind the story, the research process, and insights into writing a thriller that reflects current global anxieties.

In this engaging interview, Pulitzer Prize-winning author Jayne Ann Phillips discusses her memoir 'Small Town Girls,' exploring themes of regional history, intergenerational stories, resilience, and the power of literature. She shares insights into her writing process, the significance of her regional roots, and her upcoming projects, offering valuable lessons for writers and readers alike...

In this interview, author Matt Witten discusses his dystopian thriller '51%', exploring themes of corporate power, privatization, and resistance. He shares insights into character development, pacing, and the intersection of screenwriting and novel writing, offering a compelling look at his creative process and the book's societal implications.

In this engaging interview, author Michael McLaughlin discusses his journey from surgeon to thriller novelist, his latest book 'No Harm Intended' set in the Peruvian Amazon, and his writing process. Discover his insights into character creation, research, and balancing medical and fiction writing.

In this engaging interview, author and historian Christi Keating Sumich shares her journey from academic research to writing historical mysteries rooted in New Orleans history. Discover how her family heritage, extensive research, and love for the city inspire her novels, including 'Lafitte Lives' and upcoming projects. Learn writing tips, the magic of New Orleans as a storytelling backdrop, and f...

In this engaging interview, author Joseph S. Walker shares his journey into short fiction, discusses his latest collection 'Crime Scenes,' and explores his passion for baseball and writing. Discover insights on crafting short stories, the importance of community, and tips for aspiring writers.

In this engaging interview, author Eleanor Anstruther discusses her upcoming novel 'Fallout,' her writing journey, and insights into the Greenham Common protest. Discover her creative process, advice for writers, and her unique approach to storytelling.

In this engaging interview, author Ken Lin discusses his journey from a math teacher to a mystery novelist, the evolution of his character Pete Barrow, and the creative process behind his latest book 'Dwellings'. Discover insights into writing, setting, and the unique blend of math and mystery in his stories.

In this engaging interview, acclaimed author Charlotte Wood discusses her award-winning novel 'The Natural Way of Things,' its themes of misogyny, rage, and resilience, and the impact of revisiting her work a decade later. She shares insights into her creative process, the emotional intensity of her writing, and the importance of storytelling in addressing social issues.