The Story Station

Hearken to the wisdom of Sian Ann Bessey, best-selling author of historical, suspense, and romance novels. https://www.sianannbessey.com/ 

Caleb Georgeson, author of The Shadow in the Night, talks about all things world building! https://calebgeorgeson.com/

Warning: this episode may make you hungry. Now that you are aware of the potential risks, enjoy what Ellie Lerum has to say on world building, characterization, and writing as a form of connection. 

Stephen McCranie, cartoonist and author of Space Boy, talks about story telling across many mediums. https://www.stephenmccranie.com/Here's the link to the fandub played in the episode: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLCZVZ6HQBjxi2B-5sn4Dn4jBJoEu4SIi2&si=B0QanIZgS5qQ0Q5O

I really wish this would have been episode 13, because Josh Allen is a professional in writing unsettling, chilling short stories. Not quite so shocking as his stories is the fact he writes unsettling, chilling short stories for children ages 9-12. Josh talks about considering specific audiences, twisting tropes to make them your own, and writing with momentum. "Hiding," from Once They See You: 13 Stories to Shiver and Shock 2024, Josh AllenRead by permission of Holiday House Publishing, Inc.

We have more writing royalty this week with Nikki Crown, the author of The Truth in the Tale. Nikki explores how to write fresh fairytale retellings with compelling, complex villains and realistic, relatable heroes. Also, get a sneak peek of her upcoming second book! https://nikkidcrown.com/ 

Ana talks about overcoming perfectionism, that great stumbling block of many an author. If you love something, just keep at it! Little by little, you will see your improvement.  Find Ana's books here

Kaitlyn King writes Christian Young Adult series, including More Than Conquerors.  It's like Narnia meets Ranger's Apprentice while on the way to Camelot to joust with Arthur. https://authorkaitlynking.com/

Not only does Dan Kenner write, he also hosts a podcast, works full-time, and runs a homestead with his wife and seven children! It may not seem possible, but his books are even more action-packed than his schedule. https://dankenner.com/

Fun fact, middle-grade fiction is not necessarily for middle-schoolers; it is aimed towards children ages 8-12. Morgan Beck's stories are anything but mid. Check out her Into the Lighthouse series!

Despite his name, Anthony Butler is not, in fact, a butler. Let's call him Anthony Author, shall we? https://www.anthonydbutler.com/ 

If you hate waiting for the next book in a series, Jeff Wheeler is the author for you! On average, Jeff writes a series a year. How, you might ask? Maybe it's magic, just like his books. https://jeff-wheeler.com/ 

Poet Mark Bennion talks about "capturing the ineffable" through writing and wordplay. 

Joe IDAHO, author and archeologist, shares how he digs up great stories. https://www.joeidaho.com/ 

Craig and Jaleesa Snow discuss writing as a team, heightening tension in conflict, and developing magic and technology in a steampunk setting. Their debut novel, Everblade, is a clean, thrilling adventure that will keep you at the edge of your seat! https://www.craigandjaleesasnow.com/ 

Reading is an adventure, and so is writing! Carla Crane Osborn talks about the magic of writing children's books. https://www.gonasreadingranch.com/

As a writer, Patricia Marcantonio wears several hats, including a chef's hat with her latest novel, Trini's Magic Kitchen. Sample Patricia's hors d'oeuvres of writing tips in a variety of flavors, including mystery and YA fiction.https://patriciamarcantonio.com/

Janine Gilbert talks about all things screenwriting! Maybe this episode should be called "Scene V," instead of "Chapter 5." 

Welcome to the Story Station! 

Bethany Schultz Hurst, author of award-winning poetry books Blueprint and Ruin and Miss Lost Nation, shares her writing process and some of her favorite forms of poetry.https://www.bethanyschultzhurst.com/

Colleen M. Story talks the challenges and charms of merging history and mythology in fiction. (And yes, I asked. Story is her real last name). https://colleenmstory.com/story/ 

Melissa Greenhalgh, my co-host on The Riverbend Awareness Project, shares some creative nonfiction. 

Matthew James Babcock, poet extraordinaire, shares why he writes along with some of his delightful pieces.