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.
Clay Stafford talks with Andrew Klavan “On Cinematic Storytelling”
Andrew Klavan shares how his love of classic cinema and storytelling discipline fuels his fast-paced thrillers, revealing how action, character, and inner life intertwine in his fiction.
Clay Stafford talks with Joyce Carol Oates “On Being Her Own Person”
In this conversation, Joyce Carol Oates reflects on her new collection Flint Kill Creek, the evolving political relevance of her historical novel Butcher, and her enduring drive to experiment across genres. With insight into her writing process, teaching philosophy, and thoughts on literary career-building, Oates offers rare wisdom for writers navigating both inspiration and discipline.
Clay Stafford talks with Author Tom Mead on “Writing Locked Room Mysteries”
Clay Stafford sits down with locked-room mystery author Tom Mead to discuss the intricacies of writing seemingly impossible crimes, the influence of stage magic and the Golden Age of detective fiction, and how modern readers can engage with this classic and complex genre.
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.
“A Casual Conversation with Susan Isaacs”
In this informal and delightful follow-up conversation with bestselling author Susan Isaacs, we chat about writing description, plotting mysteries, working with ADHD, and how building a fictional series can feel like creating a second family. A refreshing reminder of why writers write—and why conversations like this matter.
Author Amulya Malladi on “Research: Doing It, Loving It, Using It, and Leaving It Out”
In this informal and delightful follow-up conversation with bestselling author Susan Isaacs, we chat about writing description, plotting mysteries, working with ADHD, and how building a fictional series can feel like creating a second family. A refreshing reminder of why writers write—and why conversations like this matter.
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