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 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 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 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 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.
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