KN Magazine: Articles
Making History Relevant to Story without Slowing the Pace
In this craft article, Tori Eldridge explores how writers can seamlessly integrate historical and cultural detail into fiction without slowing the pace. Through practical techniques like embedding history in character genealogy and revealing information at impactful moments, she demonstrates how to enrich storytelling while maintaining momentum and reader engagement.
There’s No One Right (or Write) Way
In “There’s No One Right (or Write) Way,” bestselling author Lois Winston reflects on the overwhelming flood of writing advice that authors encounter online and in the publishing industry. From contradictory craft rules to questionable experts, Winston reminds writers that every author develops their own process over time. Through humor, personal experience, and practical insight, she encourages writers to think critically about advice, trust their instincts, and remember that there is no universal formula for success.
LIMITS
In “Limits,” Clay Stafford reflects on the lifelong belief that success requires pushing through every obstacle and never admitting weakness. Over time, however, he realized that ignoring personal limits can lead to exhaustion, frustration, and a narrowing of curiosity and creativity. Rather than being barriers, limits can act as guides—helping us focus our energy on what truly matters and preserving the clarity, purpose, and depth that meaningful work requires.
Between Pen and Paper: Flaneuring Through a Writer’s Mind – Writing at the Speed of a Melting Popsicle
Stream-of-consciousness writing captures thoughts in their raw, unfiltered form. In this essay, Andi Kopek reflects on memory, history, morality, and creativity—beginning with something as simple as a melting popsicle.
Between Pen and Paper: Flaneuring Through a Writer’s Mind – Writing on My Own Spectrum
Spring offers more than renewal—it’s a reminder that creativity, like nature, follows its own rhythm. In this post, I explore the writer's path as a spectrum of styles, from planners to pantsers and everything in between, and encourage you to honor your unique creative process.
The Importance of Honest Feedback
Writers can’t improve in isolation. This blog explores the importance of honest feedback—critiques, alpha and beta readers, and professional editing—offering a roadmap for refining your manuscript and growing as an author.
What if?: A Most Important Question
Every author is asked where they get their ideas. This post explores how an idea transforms into a full story, starting with the crucial question: What if? It’s the foundation of every gripping narrative.
Between Pen and Paper: Flaneuring Through a Writer’s Mind – Finding Inspiration
Inspiration is a mysterious force that drives writers. In this column, we explore how to find inspiration in everyday life, personal experiences, and nature, and how these moments fuel our creativity and storytelling.
Writing Fiction, or Non-fiction, Research is Key
Research is essential for both fiction and non-fiction writing. In this post, I share how research shaped my historical fiction, including uncovering surprising facts about Thomas Edison, Josephine Baker, and the antisemitism of Henry Ford and Charles Lindbergh. The value of thorough research extends to non-fiction too, as I reflect on the extensive research behind my true crime book American Ripper.
Crafting Killer Back Cover Copy
Back cover copy can make or break a book's chance of being bought. Learn how to craft compelling back cover copy that hooks readers and drives sales with these simple steps, using GMC—goal, motivation, and conflict.
Partners in Crime (Writing)
Writing with a partner can be a rewarding experience, but it requires mutual respect, shared work ethic, and a sense of humor. Learn how collaboration in writing can take your projects to new heights, even with differing styles.
Ten Medical and Forensic Mistakes Writers Should Never Make
Writers often make medical and forensic mistakes that can undermine the credibility of their stories. From the "quick death" to the "instant athlete," this guide outlines common errors in crime writing and how to avoid them.
Never Make Your Critique Partner Cry!
Giving feedback is an art, especially in critique partnerships. Learn how to offer constructive criticism that encourages, not discourages, while keeping your critique partner’s feelings in mind. It’s all about balance, communication, and a shared commitment to growth.
The Writer’s Playbook: Interview Your Characters
Struggling with writer's block? Try the "Kohl method" of interviewing your characters with unexpected questions to discover new aspects of their personality and move your story forward.
When the Words Won’t Come
Lois Winston reflects on the moments when words fail, from awkward public speaking situations to the unpredictable nature of writing humor, and the importance of preparation in overcoming Brain Block.
The Art of Writing Fast (Part II)
In Part II of The Art of Writing Fast series, we move from the “why” to the “how.” Discover how planning, tracking, scheduling, and self-care can help you fast-draft your novel without burning out—or losing your mind.
The Art of Writing Fast (Part I)
Writing fast isn’t magic—it’s mindset. In this first part of her new series, Chrissy Hicks dismantles the myth of a secret formula and explores why fast writing can fuel creativity, increase productivity, and defeat the dreaded blank page.
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.
Productivity
Writing one book is hard. Writing many is obsession. But if you want to succeed as an author, productivity isn’t just about typing faster—it’s about building systems, cultivating habits, and embracing the creative grind. Whether you're a plotter, a pantser, or somewhere in between, this piece explores practical, personal, and inspiring ways to keep the words flowing and the books stacking up.
The Scene Of The Crime
Setting isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a living, breathing element that shapes your story. Whether you're crafting a cozy small town or a treacherous wilderness, location can deepen mood, drive plot, and become a character all its own. Explore how the right setting can transform your mystery into something unforgettable.
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: