KN Magazine: Interviews
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 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.
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: