KN Magazine: Articles
This Crazy Writing Life: When Publishing Throws You A Curve Ball—Again—And The Scammers Circle Above
Publishing is a people business—until it isn’t. In this installment of This Crazy Writing Life, Steven Womack shares the rollercoaster saga of his novel Pearson Place, from near-acquisition heartbreak to unexpected second chances. But just as hope resurfaces, scammers swoop in with AI-generated flattery and too-good-to-be-true offers. This candid, sharp-edged craft essay offers hard-won wisdom about perseverance, publishing politics, and protecting yourself in a predatory literary landscape.
My Ten-Year Journey from Clueless to Getting a Clue
Bestselling author Lois Winston shares her honest, funny, and hard-won insights from a decade-long journey through the publishing world. From scams and setbacks to breakthroughs and bestseller lists, Winston reveals what it really takes to go from clueless beginner to seasoned professional—and how every writer can learn from the clues along the way.
Creating Your Personal and Business Road Map to Success as an Author! – Wrapping Up the Lessons Learned
In the final installment of her craft series, Pamela Ebel ties together the essential strategies for building a successful writing career—reminding us that writing is both an art and a business. From identifying your readership to managing contracts and sustaining long-term goals, this article provides a practical framework for mapping your personal and professional author journey.
This Crazy Writing Life: Some Random Reflections On The Reality of This Crazy Writing Life
In this candid and insightful column, Steven Womack dives deep into the overwhelming realities of the publishing world—from sobering statistics to the evolution of indie publishing. With wit and honesty, he unpacks the frustrations, surprises, and small victories that come with living this crazy writing life.
Creating Your Personal and Business Road Map to Success as an Author!
Becoming a successful author requires more than just writing—it demands a strategic, business-minded approach. This article explores how to define personal and professional goals, understand the publishing industry, and avoid the trap of believing there’s only one right path to success.
The Importance of Honest Feedback
Writing can be lonely, but getting honest feedback is essential to improving your craft. From critique groups to beta readers to professional editing, learn how each stage of input strengthens your manuscript and helps you grow as a writer.
If They'd Mentioned This in The Beginning…
A candid look back at two cops-turned-authors sharing coffee, early dreams, and the long road from writing craft to traditional publishing—complete with hard lessons, heartfelt reflections, and a touch of gallows humor.
Why Book Signings Aren’t What They Used To Be
Book signings used to be the crown jewel of an author’s life—but times have changed. Join me in the Wayback Machine for a nostalgic trip to the heyday of bookstore events, and a reflection on why today’s signings often don’t measure up.
The Writer’s Playbook: The Drummer Boy
From writing a Christmas musical that touched thousands to publishing suspense novels, this is the story of how one writer’s unexpected journey—from church skits to book deals—became a masterclass in creativity, calling, and perseverance.
Editors- You DO Need Them
Editors aren’t optional—they’re essential. Whether you're self-publishing or submitting to a publisher, investing in the right kind of editing at the right time is crucial to your success as a writer. Here's what you need to know.
The Writer’s Playbook: Michael Jordan, Me, and a Poster
Breaking into the writing world isn’t just about talent and hard work—it’s also about timing and luck. A backstage story from the 1988 NBA Slam Dunk contest offers surprising parallels to the writing life and what it really takes to break through.
Agents- You Don’t Need Them
The gatekeeping power of literary agents is fading. From query letter struggles to payment pitfalls, this piece explores why modern authors don’t necessarily need agents—and how to navigate the publishing world without them.
When “The End” is Just the Beginning
After navigating the highs and lows of traditional publishing—including two orphaned series—Judy Penz Sheluk took control of her writing career by launching her own imprint. In this personal and empowering post, she shares the lessons learned and how the end of one chapter became the beginning of a bold new journey into indie publishing.
Timing is Your Time’s Best Friend: Calendar Management for the Soon-To-Be-Published Author
The months before and after a book launch are a whirlwind for any author. Whether you’re traditionally published or going indie, the key to success is proactive calendar management. In this guide, authors Kim Conrey and Roger Johns break down the production and promotion timelines every soon-to-be-published writer should know to stay ahead of the game—and stay sane.
Submit Your Writing to KN Magazine
Want to have your writing included in Killer Nashville Magazine?
Fill out our submission form and upload your writing here: