WriterCon

Bestselling authors William Bernhardt and Rene Gutteridge discuss the latest news from the book world, offer writing tips, and interview James Scott Bell, a former WriterCon keynote speaker, winner of the International Thriller Writers Award, and the author of Plot & Structure. He served as fiction columnist for Writer's Digest magazine and has written many bestselling craft books, including Conflict & Suspense, How to Write Dazzling Dialogue, and Write Your Novel From the Middle. A former trial lawyer, Jim lives and writes in Los Angeles. Chapter 1: IntroductionAre you ready for the holidays?Chapter 2: News1) Spotify's Audiobook Plan Hits a Snag2) BDMI Invests in Book.io, the First NFT Ebook Platform3) Adnan Syed Released from Prison Due to PodcastChapter 3: Interview with James Scott BellIn this interview, bestselling author Bell discusses:1) Why a Page Quota Will Make You a Happier Writer;2) Why He Invented Zombie Legal Thrillers3) Why He Lives in Hollywood4) His New Interactive Phone App for Writers5) Conducting Historical Research, and6) Developing Eccentric CharactersChapter 4: Parting WordsIf you haven’t joined the WriterCon Facebook Group yet, do it now and join this wonderful community of writers. https://www.facebook.com/groups/113141678727273To subscribe to the free WriterCon e-newsletter, send an email or sign up at my website: willbern@gmail.com and www.williambernhardt.comIf you’re enjoying this podcast, please subscribe, then rate or review it wherever you get podcasts. It makes it easier for new listeners to discover us. You can find the video version of these podcasts on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@writerconpodcast1307Until next time, Keep writing, and remember: You cannot fail, if you refuse to quit.William Bernhardtwww.williambernhardt.comwww.writercon.com

Note: This episode was delayed due to technical recording issues (hence the references to Thanksgiving), but rather than cheat you out of hearing Katie Side's wise words, we've decided to release it as is. Apologies for the audio squeak. We'll return to our usual audio standards next time and, as a special Christmas gift, we will present three more episodes this month, one every week during the holiday season.Chapter 1: IntroductionChapter 2: News1) Self-Publishing Equals "Another Random House" in Sales2) Colleen Hoover is America's Bestselling AuthorChapter 3: InterviewKatie Sise is the bestselling author of six novels. Her books have been included on best-of lists by Good Morning America, The New York Post and Parade Magazine. Her current novel, The Break, is a Zibby's Book Club pick for November. She’s a former TV host and jewelry designer, and lives outside of New York City with her husband, four children, and a golden retriever. In this interview, she discusses:1) how she integrates serious issues into thrillers;2) the middle road between planning and pantsing;3) how her writing process has evolved over time; and4) writing tips she's learned along the way.Chapter 4: Parting WordsIf you haven’t joined the WriterCon Facebook Group yet, do it now! Do it today and join this wonderful community of writers. https://www.facebook.com/groups/113141678727273If you’re enjoying this podcast, please subscribe, then rate or review it wherever you get podcasts. You can find the video version of these podcasts on YouTube. Keep writing, and remember: You cannot fail, if you refuse to quit.William Bernhardtwww.williambernhardt.comwww.writercon.comTo subscribe to the WriterCon Newsletter, email willbern@gmail.com

Bestselling authors William Bernhardt and Rene Gutteridge discuss the latest news from the book world, offer writing tips, and interview Cory Edwards, a screenplay writer and filmmaker who has many impressive credits, including Hoodwinked, Escape from Planet Earth, and many Veggie Tales episodes. Chapter 1: IntroductionChapter 2: News1) Penguin Random House & TikTok Partner Up2) Draft2Digital Expands International Print SupportChapter 3: Interview with Cory EdwardsIn this interview, Edwards discusses:1) the challenge of writing comedy;2) the challenge of writing for film;3) the writing process;4) what to do when you feel stuck; and5) advice for those hoping to break into film.Chapter 4: Parting WordsWe’re still taking registrations for the WriterCon Cruise, which will sail on April 9 from Galveston and hit several Western Caribbean ports like Cozumel and Honduras. And we’ll provide more than 20 hours of instruction in between ports of call, some group instruction, some small-group, and some one-on-one, instruction specifically tailored to the people in our group, providing what you need most to advance your writing aspirations. If you’d like to learn more about it, please visit our website: www.writercon.com.Until next time, keep writing, and remember: You cannot fail, if you refuse to quit.William Bernhardtwww.williambernhardt.comwww.writercon.comJoin the WriterCon Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/113141678727273To subscribe to the WriterCon Newsletter, visit www.williambernhardt.com

Bestselling authors William Bernhardt and Rene Gutteridge discuss the latest news from the book world, offer writing tips, and interview Leslie S. Klinger, editor of THE NEW ANNOTATED STRANGE CASE OF JEKYLL & HYDE, just released last week. This new edition gives the classic tale its most complete and illuminating presentation yet, heavily illustrated with over a hundred and fifty full color images―including reproductions of rare books, film stills, theatrical posters, and the true-life people associated with the adventure―extensively annotated by this Edgar Award winning author and editor. Publishers Weekly said, “this will instantly become the definitive edition of this complex and influential piece of literature." Chapter 1: IntroductionWhat are you doing for Halloween?Chapter 2: News1) Amazon Changes eBook Return Policy2) Spotify Acquires Findaway Voices—and its AudiobooksChapter 3: Interview with Leslie KlingerIn this interview, Leslie discusses:1) why he writes books about books;2) how he researches his books;3) the idea at the core of Jekyll & Hyde;4) the truth about Dracula & Frankenstein; 5) updating Sherlock Holmes; and6) how to find your passion project.Chapter 4: Parting WordsWe’re still taking registration for the WriterCon Cruise, which will sail on April 9 from Galveston and hit several Western Caribbean ports like Cozumel and Honduras. And we’ll provide more than 20 hours of instruction in between ports of call, some group, some small-group, and some one-on-one instruction specifically tailored to the people in our group, providing what you need most to advance your writing aspirations. If you’d like to learn more about it, please visit our website: www.writercon.com.If you haven’t joined the WriterCon Facebook Group yet, do it now and join this wonderful community of writers. https://www.facebook.com/groups/113141678727273Until next time, keep writing, and remember: You cannot fail, if you refuse to quit.William Bernhardtwww.williambernhardt.comwww.writercon.comTo subscribe to the WriterCon Newsletter, email willbern@gmail.com

Bestselling authors William Bernhardt and Rene Gutteridge discuss the latest news from the book world, offer writing tips, and interview Cai Emmons, author of two new books this month, Livid and Unleashed.IntroductionReminiscing about WriterCon 2022The WriterCon Cruise sets sail April 9-16, 2023. Would you like to join us? Learn more here: www.writercon.comNews1) Rakuten Kobo announces an eco-friendly e-reader, and2) JK Rowling's new mystery seems inspired by her online woes.Interview with Cai EmmonsOn February 4 last year, Cai Emmons received some shattering news. She was diagnosed with bulbar-onset ALS accompanied with a complete loss of voice, which is why she’s speaking through a voice synthesizer. But instead of letting this interrupt her work, she pushed hard to get both novels finished while she could. She has also published a blog documenting her experience.In this interview, Cai Emmons discusses:1) the importance of a regular writing habit;2) why writing is an act of courage;3) her writing process;4) why she tackles important topics; and5) what she sees in her future.Parting WordsJoin us for the WriterCon Cruise! www.writercon.comAnd if you haven’t joined the WriterCon Facebook Group yet, join this wonderful community of writers. If you’re enjoying this podcast, please subscribe, then rate or review it wherever you get podcasts. It does make it easier for new listeners to discover us. And you can find the video version of these podcasts on YouTube. William Bernhardtwww.williambernhardt.comwww.writercon.comJoin the WriterCon Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/113141678727273To subscribe to the WriterCon Newsletter, email willbern@gmail.com

Bestselling authors William Bernhardt and Rene Gutteridge discuss the latest news from the book world, offer writing tips, and interview Robert Dugoni, whose latest novel is What She Found (Tracy Crosswhite #9), and Yasmin Angoe, whose new book is They Come at Knight.IntroductionWe're recording this episode before a live audience at WriterCon 2022, where over 200 people have gathered to obtain the knowledge they need about writing and marketing books.www.writercon.comNews1) New Sales Report from AAP2) Walmart launches its own Book Club3) Amazon's orders from traditional publishers drop dramatically—and no one knows why.InterviewBestselling authors Robert Dugoni and Yasmin Angoe discuss their books and their craft, including:1) why you should follow your dreams, not money2) panthers being rebranded as "organic writers"3) finding writing time despite children and day jobs4) the advantages and disadvantages of series books, and5) what they thought about WriterConParting WordsIf you missed WriterCon this year, register for WriterCon 2023, which will take place in Oklahoma City over Labor Day weekend, September 1-4, 2023.William Bernhardtwww.williambernhardt.comwww.writercon.comJoin the WriterCon Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/113141678727273To subscribe to the WriterCon Newsletter, email willbern@gmail.com

Bestselling authors William Bernhardt and Rene Gutteridge discuss the latest news from the book world, offer writing tips, and interview Bob Saenz, award-winning screenplay author.IntroductionFIVE DAYS TILL WRITERCON! But it's not too late for you to join us and over 60 authors, editors, agents, publishers, and PR experts in more than 70 breakout sessions and keynotes. Everything you need to succeed int he modern writing world, all in one location. Come to Oklahoma City on September 2-5, or watch the sessions after the conference online. www.writercon.comNews1) The Congressional investigation into a proposed Big Five merger reveals new details about "glam clauses" and the threat posed to traditional publishing by self-publishing.2) Subscription models soon may replace bookstores, according to some.3) Podium Audio acquires Bookstat, looking for more accurate sales data.InterviewDuring the interview, Bob Saenz discusses:1) how to break into the tv/movie world;2) how to create a marketable screenplay;3) tricks for making characters work onscreen;4) the importance of persistence, and5) why Bob loves WriterCon.Parting WordsIt's not too late to do yourself a big favor. Join us at WriterCon and take your career to the next level! www.writercon.comWilliam Bernhardtwww.williambernhardt.comwww.writercon.comJoin the WriterCon Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/113141678727273To subscribe to the WriterCon Newsletter, email willbern@gmail.com

Bestselling authors William Bernhardt and Rene Gutteridge discuss the latest news from the book world, offer writing tips, and interview mystery writer Mary Coley, romance author Callie Hutton, audiobook narrator Sierra Presada, and science fiction author RJ Johnson.IntroductionThere's still time to register for WriterCon. Do yourself a big favor. Make your writing dreams real. We have over 60 authors, agents, editors, book marketers, and author assistants, in over 70 sessions, and many chances for you to meet people, network, and get the connections and knowledge you need to build your writing career. www.writercon.comNews1) The congressional investigation into the Big Five merger continues, with some startling admissions from traditional publishing.2) Tom Doherty broadens its line.3) New scams are targeting authors. Beware!InterviewWe brought four WriterCon stars together to give you a taste of the experience and brilliance waiting for you at WriterCon. (Note: RJ Johnson had to leave early, and Sierra Presada had technical issues that resulted in some of her comments being edited.) You will learn:1) who plans and who "pants;"2) what an outline does for you;3) the challenge of hopping genres;4) the best way to research your settings and characters; and5) why audiobook represent the new frontier for publishing.ClosingWhat else are we going to say? Come to WriterCon and join the fun, the family, and the writers on the path to success! www.writercon.comWilliam Bernhardtwww.williambernhardt.comwww.writercon.comJoin the WriterCon Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/113141678727273To subscribe to the WriterCon Newsletter, email willbern@gmail.com

Bestselling authors William Bernhardt and Rene Gutteridge discuss the latest news from the world of books, offer writing tips, and interview Steven James, bestselling thriller author and renowned writing instructor.IntroductionJoin us at WriterCon, our annual writers conference featuring more than 60 presenters in more than 70 breakout sessions, workshops, masterclasses, and roundtables. Enter contests! Pitch agents! Take your writing to the next level with keynote speaker Robert Dugoni and many other experts in their fields. If you can't come in person, online viewing is also available. www.writercon.comNews1) Crypto and Early Investment: A New Publishing Model?2) More Alternate Publishing Models: Writers Score Big with KickstarterInterviewSteven James, keynote speaker at WriterCon 2022, discusses:1) finding the pivot point in your fiction;2) keeping your plots fresh and exciting;3) the need for environmental research;4) why story trumps structure; and5) why he loves teaching writing.Parting WordsDid we mention that WriterCon is just around the corner? But it's not too late to register. Visit the website and see if this isn't exactly what you need to juice your writing life. www.writercon.comWilliam Bernhardt's new novel, Plot/Counterplot, is now on sale! What's it about? Dylan Taggert, thriller author, writes gunfights and ticking time bombs. But when he’s kidnapped and forced to plan a real-world crime, every plot twist will be explosive…Join the WriterCon Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/113141678727273To subscribe to the WriterCon Newsletter, email willbern@gmail.comWilliam Bernhardtwww.williambernhardt.comwww.writercon.comwillbern@gmail.com

Bestselling authors William Bernhardt and Rene Gutteridge discuss the latest news from the world of books, offer writing tips, and interview Dean Koontz, mega-bestselling author of The Big Dark Sky and many other fine novels.IntroductionWe are now the WriterCon podcast. New name, same great content. And the multi-talented author Rene Gutteridge joins as co-host.WriterCon is Labor Day weekend, September 2-5, and it is not too late to register. Learn what you need to know from over 60 writers and other industry experts. Pitch agents and publishers. Enter contests. Plan your novel and your marketing plan. Achieve your writing dreams. Learn more at www.writercon.com.News1) The government considers whether Random House should be permitted to acquire Simon & Schuster.2) A TikTok sensation scores a major traditional publishing contract by "building a community."InterviewDean Koontz, the master of imaginative fiction discusses:1) Why he is a pantser, not a planner;2) How to shape characters who will attract readers;3) The challenges he still faces when writing;4) The key role of his dogs in his life; and 5) When to listen to writing advice—and when to ignore it.Parting WordsBernhardt has a new novel out, Plot/Counterplot, a standalone thriller and, if the reviews can be believed, the best thing I’ve written in years. The story: a thriller writer is captured by someone who wants to use his ingenious plotting skills to help them steal an "unobtainable" weapon that could permanently change the balance of world power. Check it out! https://amazon.com/Plot-Counterplot-William-Bernhardt-ebook/dp/B0B53P4LNF/Don't forget to register for WriterCon. We have authors, agents, editors, book marketers, author assistants, over 70 sessions, and many chances for you to meet people, network, and get the connections and knowledge you need to build your writing career. www.writercon.comWilliam Bernhardtwww.williambernhardt.comRene Gutteridgewww.renegutteridge.comJoin our Facebook page!www.facebook.com/groups/113141678727273