KN Magazine: Interviews
Clay Stafford talks with James Grippando on “Turning Complex Ideas Into Page-Turning Stories”
In this engaging conversation, Clay Stafford interviews bestselling author and trial lawyer James Grippando on the art of transforming complex legal concepts into compelling, page-turning fiction. From pacing and research to simplifying technical material without losing authenticity, Grippando shares practical insights for writers aiming to balance accuracy with storytelling momentum.
Clay Stafford talks with Don Bruns on “Editing, Momentum, and Keeping the Reader Hooked”
In this in-depth conversation, Clay Stafford interviews bestselling author and editor Don Bruns on the craft of storytelling, exploring momentum, character development, and the hidden pitfalls that weaken manuscripts. Drawing from decades of experience on both sides of the page, Bruns shares practical insights on sustaining tension, avoiding common mistakes, and keeping readers fully engaged from the first line to the last.
Clay Stafford talks with Charles Todd on “Character, Psychology, and the Craft of Story”
In this in-depth conversation, New York Times bestselling author Charles Todd joins Clay Stafford to explore the psychology behind enduring characters, the power of silence in storytelling, and how historical detail should reveal character rather than decorate a page. From Inspector Ian Rutledge’s moral complexity to Bess Crawford’s carefully built inner life, Todd shares insight into writing crime fiction rooted in emotional truth—and why finishing the book matters more than perfecting the research.
Clay Stafford talks with Otto Penzler on “What Truly Sustains a Long-Term Writing Career”
For more than fifty years, Otto Penzler has helped define what it means to build a lasting career in crime fiction. In this candid conversation with Clay Stafford, Penzler shares hard-earned insights on discipline, style, productivity, and professionalism—and why talent alone is never enough to sustain a writing life. From daily habits to editor–author relationships, this interview offers a masterclass in longevity from one of the genre’s most influential figures.
Clay Stafford talks with James Comey on “What Makes Stories Linger”
Clay Stafford interviews James Comey on writing stories that linger. Comey discusses character, truth in fiction, and why vivid scenes and authentic voices make stories unforgettable.
Clay Stafford talks with David Handler on “Character, Conscience, and Crime”
In this wide-ranging and thoughtful interview, Edgar Award-winning author David Handler joins Clay Stafford to discuss the craft of crime fiction, the role of character and conscience, and how to address social issues in fiction without sounding preachy. Full of wit, wisdom, and heart, Handler reminds us that the best crime stories are human stories.
Clay Stafford Interviews… Sara Paretsky: “Making A Difference”
Sara Paretsky, trailblazing creator of V.I. Warshawski and founder of Sisters in Crime, talks with Clay Stafford about writing with purpose, amplifying unheard voices, and navigating complex social issues without losing narrative power—or hope.
Paying it Forward
Author, editor, and publisher Judy Penz Sheluk talks with Charlie Kelso about fiction, short stories, anthologies, and her path from journalist to indie press founder. With insights on writing, editing, submitting, and publishing, Judy shares her experiences behind Larceny & Last Chances and her broader mission to pay it forward through storytelling.
“Robert Mangeot: Short Stories and the Big Honking Moment”
Mystery writer Robert Mangeot discusses the art and craft of writing short stories, including structure, compression, voice, and the elusive “big honking moment.” With credits in Alfred Hitchcock’s Mystery Magazine, MWA anthologies, and more, Mangeot explains what makes a short story resonate—and how writers can develop their own sense of story unity and emotional payoff.
“Bruce Robert Coffin: Using Your Life to Write a Police Procedural”
Bruce Robert Coffin, retired detective turned bestselling author, shares how real police work shapes compelling fiction. From emotional authenticity to procedural accuracy, Coffin reveals what it really takes to write a great police procedural—and how any writer can get it right.
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: