Five Compelling Questions with Shawn

In this engaging conversation, Shawn Simmons interviews Eloise Corvo, a debut novelist who writes cozy crime fiction. They discuss Eloise's journey from a background in marine biology and environmental policy to becoming a writer, the inspiration behind her debut novel 'Off the Beaten Path', and the importance of setting in her work. Eloise shares insights into her character development process, t...

In this engaging conversation, Shawn Simmons interviews author and editor Victoria Zachheim about her writing journey, particularly focusing on her novel 'The Curtain Falls in Paris.' They discuss the creative process, the challenges of writing and editing, and the importance of having a structured outline. Victoria shares insights into her characters and the themes of her book, as well as her exp...

In this engaging conversation, Shawn Simmons interviews accomplished entertainment finance attorney and novelist, Jeffrey Konvitz, about his latest book, 'Circus of Satan'. The discussion delves into the historical context of the Irish mob, the evolution of publishing, and the importance of thorough research in writing. Konvitz shares insights on the differences between writing novels and screenpl...

In this engaging conversation, Shawn Simmons interviews Liza Tully, a multifaceted author who discusses her latest book, 'The World's Greatest Detective and Her Just Okay Assistant.' Liza shares her journey from editing and teaching to writing fiction, her love for the Golden Age of detective fiction, and the importance of humor in her writing. The discussion also delves into character development...

In this engaging conversation, M.P. Woodward discusses his latest novel, 'Line of Demarcation', exploring themes of geopolitics, character development, and the intricacies of writing thrillers. He shares insights into how real-world events inspire his storytelling, the importance of creating relatable characters, and the balance between action and depth in his narratives. Woodward also off...

In this engaging conversation, Shawn Simmons interviews Joel E. Turner, author of Wildwood Exit. They discuss the intricacies of writing, the importance of setting in storytelling, and the balance of humor and crime in Turner's work. Turner shares insights into his writing process, the challenges he faced, and the influences that shaped his journey as a writer. He also hints at future projects...

In this episode of Five Compelling Questions, host Shawn Simmons interviews acclaimed author Victoria Helen Stone, discussing her latest novel, Bald-Faced Liar. The conversation delves into the main character of the book, Elizabeth May. It explores her complex relationship with truth and trust, shaped by childhood trauma and the emergence of a stalker who threatens to expose her lies.

In this episode of Five Compelling Questions, host Shawn Simmons interviews acclaimed author Laurie Roy, discussing her latest novel, The Final Episode. They explore the inspiration behind the book, the impact of accolades on Roy's writing career, and the themes of justice and fairness within her work. Roy shares insights into her research process and offers advice to aspiring writers, emphasi...

In this episode of Five Compelling Questions, host Shawn Simmons speaks with Betsy Armstrong about her memoir, 'The Mother of All Decisions.' Betsy shares her personal journey of motherhood, adoption, and the challenges of writing a memoir. She discusses the ambivalence she felt towards having children, the vulnerability required in sharing her story, and the importance of self-acceptance and body...

In this episode of Five Compelling Questions, host Shawn Simmons interviews award-winning author Lindy Ryan, discussing her latest books 'Another Fine Mess' and the 'Bless Your Heart' series. They explore themes of women's voices in horror, the influence of family on writing, and the importance of humor in the genre. Lindy shares her journey as a writer, her recommendations for women in horror, an...

In this episode of Five Compelling Questions, host Shawn Simmons interviews author Matt Cost, who shares his journey from various careers to becoming a writer. They discuss Cost's Max Creed novel, which draws inspiration from Robin Hood, and explore themes of justice, morality, and the impact of bookselling on writing. Cost reflects on his writing routine, character development, and the influence...

In this engaging conversation, Shawn Simmons interviews bestselling author Molly Harper, who discusses her transition into writing murder mysteries, her unique approach to blending humor with darker themes, and the importance of character development. Molly shares insights into her writing process, the influence of her favorite authors, and her excitement for future projects in the mystery genre.

In this episode of Five Compelling Questions, host Shawn Simmons interviews award-winning author Cynthia Pelayo about her latest book, 'Vanishing Daughters.' The conversation delves into themes of grief, the writing process, and the impact of personal experiences on storytelling. Cynthia shares her journey through loss, her love for horror, and the intricacies of writing poetry versus novels.

In this episode of Five Compelling Questions, host Shawn Simmons interviews award-winning author Bryan Gruley about his latest thriller, Bitter Frost. They discuss the unique blend of genres in the book, Gruley's inspiration drawn from real-life events in hockey, and the transition from journalism to fiction writing. Gruley shares insights on character development, the writing process, and offers...

In this engaging conversation, Shawn Simmons interviews Carol Bruce, author of 'The Pilgrim Road to Death.' They explore Carol's journey from a childhood fascination with history and archaeology to her career as a writer. The discussion delves into the themes of her novel, the influence of Agatha Christie, and the personal connections that shaped her characters. Carol also shares touch...

In this engaging podcast episode, host Shawn Simmons interviews Kathleen Marple Kalb, an accomplished author and journalist. They discuss Kathleen's journey into writing cozy mysteries, particularly her series 'The Stuff of Mayhem.' Kathleen shares insights into her character development, the importance of diversity in her stories, and how her background in journalism influences her wr...

In this engaging conversation, Shawn Simmons interviews Diane Fanning, a bestselling author known for her true crime books. They discuss Diane's latest work on Lizzie Borden, exploring the complexities of her character and the societal pressures faced by women in the 1890s. The discussion delves into the nature of sociopathy, the choice between fiction and nonfiction in storytelling, and the i...

bIn this engaging conversation, Shawn Simmons interviews memoirist Jennifer Griffith, who shares her journey of writing about motherhood, generational trauma, and the complexities of personal identity. They discuss the impact of societal pressures on women's choices, the role of shame in silencing voices, and the importance of sharing stories to break cycles of trauma.

In this engaging conversation, Shawn Simmons interviews Kristen Arnett, a queer Floridian author known for her humorous and insightful writing. They discuss Arnett's upcoming novel about a lesbian birthday party clown, the art of clowning, the challenges of writing humor, and the development of her main character, Cherry. Arnett shares her journey to becoming a writer, her writing process, and the...

In this engaging podcast episode, Shawn Simmons interviews author Joe Golemo, who discusses his journey from a career in engineering to writing fiction, particularly murder mysteries. Joe shares insights into his latest book, 'Ruby Red Flaws,' and the creative process behind it. He reflects on character development, the challenges of writing, and the role of AI in enhancing the writing process. Th...

In this engaging episode, Shawn Simmons welcomes back bestselling author Joe Souza to discuss his latest book, 'Cruel and Bitter Things.' The conversation delves into the writing process, character development, and the moral complexities of creating compelling antiheroes. Joe shares insights on the appeal of vigilante characters, the challenges of writing believable narratives in a technol...

In this engaging conversation, Erica Miner discusses her journey from a violinist at the Metropolitan Opera to an award-winning author. She shares insights into her latest book, 'Overture to Murder,' and the evolution of her main character, Julia. 

Shawn chats with Christopher Farnsworth about BURIED SECRETS, the 22nd book in Robert B. Parker's Jesse Stone series, journalism vs. novel writing, the enduring appeal of detective stories, the allure of vampires in literature, and valuable advice for aspiring writers.

Shawn chats with novelist Sean Tyler about his debut novel WHITE HELL, which explores the harrowing journey of the Donner Party through the lens of a love story, Sean's unique experiences as a writer, his influences, the challenges of the creative process, romance, historical fiction, Las Vegas, the end of days, turkey sandwiches, and the importance of remembering history in modern times.

Shawn chats with Charlotte Wood, the acclaimed Australian author, about the inspiration behind the latest novel, themes of goodness and forgiveness, how personal experiences shape writing, her journey through cancer and how it influenced her creative process, the importance of authenticity in storytelling, and the impact of literature and the joy of seeing her work adapted for the stage.