Writers, Ink: Your backstage pass to the world's most prolific authors

Alma Katsu, a former CIA and NSA intelligence agent turned bestselling author, dives into her fascinating transition from the spy world to storytelling. She shares insights about crafting complex female characters and the balance of reading fiction versus non-fiction for writers. Katsu discusses the nuances of blending genres, particularly her unique mix of spy thrillers and horror. Additionally, she provides a glimpse into her creative process, revealing how her real-life experiences shape her narrative techniques.

Sophia Efthimiatou, Head of Writer Relations at Substack, shares her journey from Athens to New York and her passion for helping writers succeed. She discusses the transformative potential of Substack for authors, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and owning one's audience. The conversation touches on the platform's unique monetization opportunities and the intimate connection it fosters between creators and readers. Additionally, Sophia highlights how writer struggles can enhance growth and the challenges posed by AI in the publishing landscape.

Brian McAuley, a screenwriter-turned-author known for his award-winning works, shares his journey from childhood inspirations to successful novels. He explores how outlining novels like screenplays can enhance character development and storytelling. The conversation dives into the unique challenges of transitioning from film to writing horror narratives, emphasizing the importance of structure and engaging scenes. McAuley also shares insights on balancing writing with teaching and offers valuable tips for aspiring writers in crafting compelling narratives.

Jeffrey James Higgins, a retired supervisory special agent turned bestselling author, shares his thrilling journey from counterterrorism to fiction writing. He recounts gripping tales of chasing terrorists and wrestling a suicide bomber, drawing inspiration for his novels like 'The Havana Syndrome.' The discussion also highlights the fast-paced world of publishing and the challenges of maintaining creative freedom under tight deadlines. Higgins emphasizes the importance of resilience in writing, reflecting on how his unique experiences shape his narrative style.

Lisa Gardner, a #1 New York Times bestselling thriller novelist, shares her journey from food service to bestselling author, citing her fascination with police procedures as her driving force. She discusses the challenges and joys of writing series, focusing on her character Frankie Elkin and the emotional depth of her stories. The conversation also touches on the impact of recent literary changes, including book bans and the digital shift in reviews. Lastly, Lisa highlights the invigorating role travel plays in her creative process.

Join hosts J.D. Barker, Christine Daigle, Jena Brown, and Kevin Tumlinson as they discuss the week's entertainment news, including stories about Bookshop.org, Read Dating, and Stephen King. Then, stick around for a chat with Karin Slaughter!Karin Slaughter is one of the world's most popular and acclaimed storytellers. She is the author of more than twenty instant New York Times bestselling novels, including the Edgar–nominated Cop Town and standalone novels Pretty Girls, The Good Daughter, and Pieces of Her. She is published in 120 countries with more than 40 million copies sold across the globe. Pieces of Her is a #1 Netflix original series starring Toni Collette, and WILL TRENT, based on her Will Trent series, is on ABC (and streaming on Hulu in the U.S. and Disney+ internationally). False Witness and The Good Daughter are in development for television. Slaughter is the founder of the Save the Libraries project—a nonprofit organization established to support libraries and library programming. A native of Georgia, she lives in Atlanta.

In this episode, horror author Ania Ahlborn shares her journey from self-publishing to becoming a bestselling writer known for her chilling narratives and psychological depth. She discusses how personal experiences with grief shape her storytelling, revealing how emotions can enhance or complicate her work. Ahlborn also reflects on the challenges of balancing writing with family life, offering insights into the unique struggles female authors face. Expect candid anecdotes and a deep dive into the art of crafting horror that resonates with readers.

JT Ellison, a New York Times bestselling author with over 30 psychological thrillers, shares her insights on the modern writing landscape. She discusses the pressures of social media and how it shapes an author's journey. The conversation touches on the balance between promotion and creativity, along with the nuances of writing series versus standalone novels. Ellison reflects on the emotional aspects of storytelling, exploring how personal experiences influence her craft, and the therapeutic nature of writing darker themes.

In this engaging discussion, Christina Dotson, the author of the thrilling 'Love You to Death,' shares her journey from social work to storytelling. She reveals the fun and chaos behind wedding-crashing best friends whose antics spiral into danger. The talk also explores the complexities of writing female characters, emphasizing the balance of flaws and backstories. Listeners are treated to humorous anecdotes about loyalty and toxic friendships, while gaining insights into narrative craft and embracing their unique writing journeys.

Tess Sharpe, a New York Times Bestselling author known for her young adult novels, chats about her latest work, 'No Body, No Crime.' She dives into the intricacies of non-linear storytelling, revealing the challenges of weaving multiple timelines. Tess shares her journey from a homeschooled writer to a successful author, highlighting the significance of personal identity in publishing. The conversation also touches on adapting narratives for television and the impact of flashbacks in character development, adding depth to her thrilling tales.