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 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 Eric LaRocca on “Writing Transgressive Literature Without Apology”
In this candid conversation, horror author Eric LaRocca explores the power and purpose of transgressive literature, discussing how pushing boundaries creates emotional truth and empathy in unsettling storytelling. From influences like Clive Barker to navigating backlash, LaRocca shares his uncompromising vision and why provoking readers is central to his craft.
Clay Stafford talks with Thomas Perry “On Crafting Unforgettable Characters”
Bestselling author Thomas Perry shares insights with Clay Stafford on writing emotionally layered, fiercely self-reliant characters—like Jane Whitefield—while avoiding info dumps, writing sharp dialogue, and building unforgettable protagonists that feel real from the first page.
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 Cal Newport on “Building a Meaningful Career”
Cal Newport, bestselling author and professor, challenges the “follow your passion” narrative by offering a compelling alternative: build rare and valuable skills to gain career capital. In this candid interview with Clay Stafford, Newport discusses how focused, deep work—not social media or instant gratification—leads to a meaningful and sustainable writing career.
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 Heather Graham on “The Business of Writing”
Heather Graham joins Clay Stafford for a candid conversation about the business side of writing—from handling finances and choosing representation to navigating social media and protecting rights. With wit and wisdom, Heather shares lessons learned across her prolific career and offers invaluable advice to emerging writers.
Clay Stafford talks with Abbott Kahler “Advice for Writing True Crime”
Bestselling author Abbott Kahler joins Clay Stafford to discuss the intense research and writing process behind her new true crime book Eden Undone, sharing practical advice for writers of nonfiction and fiction alike—including the role of Scrivener, outlining, and writing techniques that bring history to life.
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.
Clay Stafford talks with Andrews & Wilson “On Collaborating”
Bestselling thriller authors Brian Andrews and Jeffrey Wilson—known collectively as Andrews & Wilson—discuss their journey from solo careers to a powerhouse writing team. In this candid conversation, they reveal their creative process, how they manage co-authoring, and advice for writers considering collaboration.
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.
Clay Stafford Interviews Cindy Dees: “You Can Write Espionage”
Clay Stafford talks with former spy and bestselling author Cindy Dees about writing realistic espionage thrillers. From Cold War tactics to modern HUMINT challenges, Dees shares her firsthand insights, favorite tropes, research strategies, and advice for writers who want to bring authentic spycraft to the page.
Clay Stafford Interviews Reviewer Maureen Corrigan: “I Want Good Books”
Clay Stafford interviews NPR's Fresh Air book critic Maureen Corrigan on how writers can stay true to their voice, why reading widely matters, what makes a book transcend, and why she still believes in the power of great literature. From pre-writing pitfalls to her enduring love of Gatsby, this conversation is a masterclass in what makes writing—and reviewing—matter.
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.
“Dean Koontz: The Secret of Selling 500 Million Books”
Bestselling author Dean Koontz opens up about writing habits, character development, ditching outlines, and what it really takes to sell 500 million books. From 60-hour weeks to honoring eccentricity, Koontz shares advice every aspiring writer should hear.
“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.
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