Five Compelling Questions with Shawn

In this engaging interview, author Cindy Goyette shares her journey from probation officer to successful novelist, discusses her series' evolution, and offers insights into writing dark and cozy mysteries, character development, and the importance of perseverance in writing.

In this engaging interview, author Johnny Compton discusses his fascination with horror and mystery, his creative process, regional influences, and insights for aspiring writers. Discover how he crafts compelling characters, blends genres, and draws inspiration from Southern folklore and personal experiences.

In this engaging interview, author Mary Karnes shares her journey to becoming a cozy mystery writer, the evolution of her characters, and her tips for aspiring writers. Discover how her background as a wedding planner influences her storytelling and gain insights into maintaining creativity and confidence in writing.

In this engaging interview, Shawn speaks with bestselling author Mark Greaney, who offers a compelling look into his creative process, revealing how he crafts his stories, conducts in-depth research, and draws inspiration from current global events. He takes readers behind the scenes of his latest novel, The Hard Line , shares insights from his experiences with film adaptations, and provides thoug...

In this engaging interview, author Clea Simon explores her Witch Cats of Cambridge series, sharing how cats’ mystical qualities inspired her stories. She reflects on her writing journey, offers advice for aspiring authors, and reveals how her passion for both cats and literature has shaped her distinctive mysteries—while providing a glimpse into her creative process.

In this engaging interview, author Christopher Farnsworth discusses his Jesse Stone novels, character development, the influence of real-world events on fiction, and his writing process. Discover insights into creating compelling characters, maintaining legacy characters, and the importance of rules in society.

In this episode of Five Compelling Questions, host Shawn Simmons interviews writer and educator Chris Chan about his latest book, 'Absolute Justice,' which delves into the history and legacy of Agatha Christie's 'And Then There Were None.' The conversation explores Chan's deep appreciation for Christie's work, the structure of his book, and the enduring appeal of Christie's mysteries. They discuss...

In this engaging interview, bestselling author Brian Freeman discusses his prolific writing career, the themes of memory and identity in his thrillers, and insights into his process for creating compelling characters and timely plots. Discover how he balances series and standalone novels, and get a sneak peek into his upcoming projects, including the latest Jason Bourne novel.

In this engaging interview, DonnaRae Menard shares her journey from a childhood filled with animals and family responsibilities to becoming a prolific author across multiple genres. She discusses her inspiration for writing pig-themed mysteries, her unique writing process, and valuable advice for aspiring writers.

In this episode of Five Compelling Questions, host Shawn Simmons interviews Eliot Kleinberg, a Florida native and seasoned journalist, about his new novel 'Hypocrite's Row', which explores the impact of Prohibition in Florida during the Roaring 20's. Kleinberg shares insights into his writing process, the transition from nonfiction to fiction, and the unique aspects of Florida'...

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Robin Cook discusses his journey as a medical thriller author, the inspiration behind his latest book 'Spasm', and the importance of using fiction to influence public policy. He reflects on his writing process, character development, and the impact of personal experiences on his storytelling. The discussion also touches on the healthcare system and the role of re...

In this engaging conversation, Shawn Simmons interviews bestselling author Brett Battles, who shares insights into his writing journey, the creative process behind his latest book, 'Blown Away', and the importance of humor in storytelling. Brett discusses his experiences across various genres and offers valuable advice to aspiring writers. The discussion highlights the challenges and joys...

In this episode of Five Compelling Questions, host Shawn Simmons interviews author Nancy Cole Silverman about her latest book, ' A Spy in Saigon.' They discuss the inspiration behind the book, the impact of the Vietnam War on women, and the character development of Kat Lawson. Nancy shares her research insights, the challenges of writing, and offers advice for aspiring writers. The convers...

In this conversation, authors Brian Andrews and Jeffrey Wilson discuss their latest book, 'Executive Power,' set in the Clancy universe. They delve into character development, particularly the introduction of Kyle Ryan, and share insights on balancing their writing with film projects. The authors also provide valuable advice for aspiring writers.

In this engaging conversation, Shawn Simmons interviews Amy K. Green, a contemporary author whose journey from accounting to writing is both unconventional and inspiring. They discuss her latest novel, 'Haven't Killed in Years,' which explores the life of a woman grappling with her identity as the daughter of a notorious serial killer. The discussion delves into the influence of true c...

In this episode of Five Compelling Questions, host Shawn Simmons interviews Vanessa Lillie, a citizen of the Cherokee Nation and author of the bestselling novel Blood Sisters. They discuss her latest book, The Bone Thief, which explores themes of colonialism, archaeology, and Indigenous history. Vanessa shares her writing process, the importance of telling Indigenous stories, and the surprising di...

In this engaging conversation, Shawn Simmons interviews Patrick Moore, a crime fiction author and former investigator. They discuss Moore's Nick Crane trilogy, the evolution of crime fiction, the significance of Los Angeles as a setting, and the power of words in writing. Moore shares insights on character development, offers advice for aspiring writers, and reveals his future projects, including...

In this episode of Five Compelling Questions, host Shawn Simmons interviews author MP Woodward about his latest novels, Terminal Velocity and Red Tide. They discuss the themes and research behind Terminal Velocity, the challenges of writing within the Clancy universe, and the importance of collaboration with editors. Woodward shares valuable insights for aspiring writers and promotes his upcoming...

In this episode of Five Compelling Questions, host Shawn Simmons interviews Eden Collinsworth, a former media executive and author of 'The Improbable Victoria Woodhull.' The conversation explores the multifaceted life of Victoria Woodhull, her rise to prominence, the challenges she faced, and the writing process behind Collinsworth's book. The discussion also touches on the importance...

In this engaging conversation, Brian Freeman discusses his latest works, including his new Jason Bourne novel and the upcoming book 'Photograph'. He shares insights into his writing process, particularly his approach to developing strong female characters, and reflects on the influence of current events on his storytelling. Freeman also offers advice for aspiring writers and hints at futur...

In this episode of "Five Compelling Questions," host Shawn Simmons engages with Jennifer Trevelyan, a writer from New Zealand, discussing her journey into writing and her debut novel, "A Beautiful Family." The conversation begins with a light-hearted exchange about New Zealand's beauty and culture, leading into Jennifer's background in photography and children's publishing. She shares her experien...

In this engaging conversation, Shawn Simmons interviews Valerie Burns, an acclaimed mystery writer, about her latest book 'Icing on the Murder.' They discuss the protagonist Maddie's journey, the culinary cozy mystery genre, character development, and the challenges of writing within this genre. Valerie shares insights into her writing process, her advice for aspiring authors, and where listeners...

In this engaging conversation, Shawn Simmons interviews author Jane Loeb Rubin about her latest historical novel 'Over There,' which explores the lives of medical professionals during World War I. They discuss the characters, themes, and the impact of war on society and medicine, as well as the importance of family dynamics and the lessons history teaches us. Jane shares her personal connection to...

In this episode of Five Compelling Questions, host Shawn Simmons welcomes back author Rob Hart to discuss his latest book, The Medusa Protocol, a sequel to Assassin's Anonymous. They delve into the challenges of writing sequels, the importance of character development, and the unique perspective of writing from different points of view. Rob shares insights on the balance of humor and brutality in...

In this episode of Five Compelling Questions, host Shawn Simmons interviews bestselling author Brett Battles about his latest book, 'Finders Keepers.' They discuss the intricacies of writing in the style of the late Stuart Woods, the challenges and joys of creating layered characters, and the writing process behind producing multiple books a year. Brett shares valuable writing advice and p...