KN Magazine: Articles
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.
Keywords, Descriptions, Jacket Copy
Learn the importance of keywords, descriptions, and jacket copy when publishing your book. Discover how to optimize your book for search engines and write compelling descriptions that hook potential readers.
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.
This Crazy Writing Life: Defining Irony In The Time Of Covid
In this month's edition of This Crazy Writing Life, the author reflects on the irony of missing major mystery conferences due to a Covid diagnosis while also diving into the technical challenges of indie publishing print books.
Set to Sell: How to Effectively Market Your Finished Manuscript to Agents and Publishers
Learn how to effectively market your manuscript to agents and publishers with strategies that include perfecting your pitch, understanding your audience, and leveraging your connections.
Gotta Go Through It
Reflecting on the obstacles writers face, Chrissy explores how perseverance in the writing journey mirrors the message of “Going on a Bear Hunt”—you can’t go over it, can’t go under it, you’ve got to go through it.
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 Indie Pubbing Journey Continues—Part Four: Navigating The Distribution Maze
You’ve written and polished your book—now what? This installment of This Crazy Writing Life explores the wild world of eBook distribution, weighing the pros and cons of going wide vs. going exclusive with Kindle Select. A must-read for indie authors navigating the modern publishing maze.
The Myth of the Five Senses
Should writers really cram all five senses into every page? In this sharp rebuttal to bad writing advice, bestselling author Lois Winston breaks down why less is often more when it comes to sensory detail. Learn how to use the senses effectively—and avoid killing your story’s pacing.
The Indie Pubbing Journey Continues—Part Three: The Learning Curve
From engine rebuilds to eBook formatting—indie publishing is a hands-on adventure. In this third installment, Steven Womack shares the hard-won lessons of navigating the indie tech stack, from Jutoh to Atticus, and why learning curves are worth the climb.
Covers
A great book cover is your first, and sometimes only, chance to make a professional impression. In this guide, Dale T. Phillips explores what makes a cover work, what can doom your book to obscurity, and how Indie authors can compete with the big publishers on visual appeal—and win.
Prepping for Killer Nashville: Top Tips for Attendees
Prepare for Killer Nashville with these top tips for attendees, from setting goals and creating your schedule to making lasting connections with industry professionals. Whether you're a first-time attendee or a seasoned author, these tips will help you maximize your experience.
The Art of Paragraphing
In this article, Melissa Koslin explores the importance of paragraphing in writing, demonstrating how it influences pace, tone, and the reader’s subconscious experience. With examples from her own writing, she offers practical tips on how to use paragraphing to enhance narrative flow and intensity.
No One Wants You to Fail
The deadline is looming, and you’re wondering whether to apply for a Killer Nashville panel spot. Should you submit your application or back out? Remember, no one wants you to fail. Everyone has been where you are, and the only real failure is never trying.
The Art of Writing Fast (Part III)
In the final part of my three-part series on the Art of Writing Fast, I dive into the crucial aspects of when and where to fast write. Learn how to manage your time, create a productive writing environment, and develop the mindset necessary to write quickly and effectively.
Getting Started In Indie Pubbing — Part Two – The First Few Choices
In part two of my series on independent publishing, I discuss the first critical choices you’ll need to make when deciding how to publish your book. From selecting the format—hardcover, paperback, or eBook—to considering production quality and distribution, these decisions will shape your indie-pubbing journey.
The Writer’s Playbook: A Lesson in Spray Hitting
Former pro sports exec turned writer shares a lesson from baseball legend Al Avila about the value of specificity—on the field and in your writing career. Discover how the concept of spray hitting applies to asking targeted questions, networking at writer’s conferences, and building meaningful professional connections.
Three Rules for Creating Cozies that Stand Out in the Crowd
Bestselling author Lois Winston shares three essential rules for writing cozy mysteries that break the mold. From crafting a fresh setting to building long-term character arcs, learn how to make your cozy mystery series stand out in a crowded market.
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.
Getting Started In Indie Pubbing (or Good God, what have I gotten myself into?)
Thinking of self-publishing but overwhelmed by the noise? Whether you’re new to the game or a veteran author rethinking your strategy, this guide offers a grounded starting point to navigate the indie pubbing world—without blowing a fuse.
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