The Author's Mind

A reader bought ALL SIX of Danielle Orsino's audiobooks — then told her she'd sell more if she were a man. Here's what that reveals about the brutal reality of being a female fantasy author today.Danielle Orsino (author of The Legacies of Light and Dark series, Hall of Fame martial artist, and former nurse) joins The Author's Mind to talk craft, combat, and the industry bias no one wants to admit exists.In this episode:🥋 The martial arts secret behind her fight scenes — Danielle holds black belts in ITF Taekwondo, Kung Fu, Wushu, MMA, and boxing. She physically films her fight scenes from multiple angles on her phone before writing a single word — and it shows. She even worked on a WWF Super Bowl commercial with The Rock.✍️ She's a "chaos writer" — no outlines, no plotting — and yet she's delivered 6 books in a complex mythic dark fantasy world. Her martial arts discipline is what keeps the chaos structured.⚔️ How to write realistic fight scenes — why she never puts more than 4 people in a fight (because she's actually done group sparring), how to write from both attacker and victim perspectives, and the body mechanics most writers get completely wrong.⭐ How to survive bad reviews — the "yearbook picture" mindset, the Henry Cavill method, and why Goodreads is not always an author's friend.🚹 The gender bias in fantasy publishing — why female Fae writers get automatically lumped into "romantasy" and "smut," what it costs in sales, and whether writing as D.M. Orsino would have changed the trajectory of her career.🌍 Building worlds readers can't leave — why her books aren't "fast fantasy," how she compares to old-school Dune and Brandon Sanderson (not Sarah J. Maas), and how she uses maps, artwork, and playlists to deepen immersion.💌 Building a loyal reader community — how a cozy mystery author sending 10,000 birthday cards changed how Danielle thinks about newsletters (including her puppies Carlos and Penelope, who now have their own fan base and character cameos).🏥 Going public with a health crisis — how myasthenia gravis and early onset inclusion body myositis forced Danielle to step back from appearances, and why she eventually chose to share it with readers.New release: 📖 A Fool's Journey (Volume Two of The Legacies of Light and Dark) — available now.📚 Find Danielle Orsino's Books: Amazon | Barnes & Noble |Bookshop.org🔗 Connect with Danielle:Instagram:@DMOrsinoAuthorTikTok:@DMOrsinoAuthorWebsite & Newsletter:dmorsino.com✉️ Suggest a guest or topic: [email protected] Author's Mind — No theory. No workshopping. Just the real craft and process of working authors.

Book marketing for authors doesn't have to be a guessing game — and AuthorsXP might be the most underrated tool in your author marketing arsenal. In this video, Shilo Creed (42 novels, 1.4M copies sold) gives you an honest, experience-based breakdown of how it actually works.In this video: ✅ How AuthorsXP helps you build a targeted reader email list ✅ Getting genuine book reviews without chasing readers down ✅ The author marketing tips and tricks that professional authors use to sell more books ✅ Whether AuthorsXP is worth your time and money — no fluff, just real resultsf you're figuring out how to market a book — whether you're indie or traditionally published — this is the hands-on breakdown most writing channels won't give you. No theory. Just what works.🔗 Learn more about AuthorsXP: https://www.authorsxp.com📌 New here? Subscribe for direct access to the thinking, process, and craft of today's professional authors.

What if the biggest obstacle between you and a finished novel isn’t your plot, your characters, or your writing skills—but your own mindset?In this episode of The Author’s Mind, I’m talking with award-winning suspense author S.R. Fabrico about the real inner game of writing fiction. Stacey went from secretly printing her first 80,000-word manuscript on a copy machine as a Christmas gift for her husband… to becoming a multi-published author. She’s sharing the mindset shifts, habits, and hard-won truths that helped her keep writing when fear, doubt, and perfectionism told her to stop.In this conversation, you’ll discover:·        The counterintuitive secret to finishing your first draft (why your first draft is supposed to be “crap”)·        How to write suspense and build tension that keeps readers turning pages·        Why even experienced authors still struggle with perfectionism—and practical ways to push through it·        How to separate your self-worth from your writing so critiques don’t destroy your confidence·        What to do when you feel like quitting your novel, and how to give yourself a real chance to succeedTimestamps:00:00 – Intro02:30 – How S.R. Fabrico accidentally became a novelist08:45 – “Your first product is going to be crap”: the truth about first drafts15:20 – Using dance and choreography principles to build suspense on the page22:10 – Perfectionism, failure, and why not finishing is the only guaranteed loss28:00 – “What you do is what you do. It’s not who you are”: protecting your self-worth32:45 – Practical mindset tools to keep writing when you’re scared38:00 – Final advice for writers who are afraid to start—or finish—their bookIf you’re a fiction writer who wants to finish your novel, grow your confidence, and develop a resilient author mindset, this episode is for you.Connect with S.R. Fabrico:Website: SRFabrico.comSocial: @SRFabrico_authorSubscribe to The Author’s Mind for more real conversations with working authors about author mindset, novel writing, fiction writing tips, suspense writing, and the craft of telling powerful stories.#AuthorMindset #NovelWriting #FictionWritingTips #FinishYourNovel #WritingTips #SuspenseWriting #OvercomingPerfectionism #WritingMindset #FirstDraft #WritingCommunityFind Shilo's books here:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DFV59FRQ?binding=kindle_edition&qid=1771886025&sr=1-1&refLooking for her other pen names? Check them out!Elysian Hunt ~ Clean Rom Comshttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DFZ4P281?binding=kindle_edition&refQuinn Knightly ~ Medieval action adventurehttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT4YMGZL?binding=kindle_edition&qid=1771885958&sr=8-1&refC.R. Fulton ~ Middle grade chapter books that are wholesome:https://bakkenbooks.com/collections/the-campground-kids-collection

She published her first book at 12 years old — by accident. Now she's 22 books in, working on book #39, and writing 1,000 words every single day.Shanti Hershenson is a teenage YA author whose prolific output challenges every excuse writers make about time, age, and readiness. In this conversation, she breaks down exactly how she does it — the daily writing habit, the discipline behind self-publishing on KDP, the risk of writing an 800-page young adult novel, and why she writes her books to be timeless rather than trend-chasing.What you'll learn:How to build a daily writing habit that actually sticks (1,000 words, no exceptions)The self-publishing path that's open to writers of any age — right nowWhy writing long, ambitious books doesn't have to kill your audienceHow she uses TikTok to market her books without compromising her voiceThe emotional truth behind putting vulnerable writing into the worldWhether you're a young writer figuring out where to start, or an experienced author looking to rethink your process — Shanti's story is proof that discipline beats talent, and publishing is more accessible than you think.🔔 Subscribe for direct access to the thinking and process of professional writers.Connect with Shanti: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Shanti-Hershenson/author/B08QRF5LP4?refAnd Here: https://www.shantihershenson.com/Find Shilo's books here:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DFV59FRQ?binding=kindle_edition&qid=1771886025&sr=1-1&refLooking for her other pen names? Check them out!Elysian Hunt ~ Clean Rom Comshttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DFZ4P281?binding=kindle_edition&refQuinn Knightly ~ Medieval action adventurehttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT4YMGZL?binding=kindle_edition&qid=1771885958&sr=8-1&refC.R. Fulton ~ Middle grade chapter books that are wholesome:https://bakkenbooks.com/collections/the-campground-kids-collection#WritingTips #CharacterDevelopment #HowToWriteAVillain #FictionWriting #StoryStructure #WritingTips

"Every hero needs a villain to vanquish." — Steven SpielbergCrime thriller author Terry Weaver reveals how to write a villain readers can't look away from — and why damaged characters are the real secret to unforgettable fiction.Terry Weaver is the author of three tightly-paced Texas crime thrillers (A Dark Day in Texas, Whitewashed Tomb, A Long Night Cry) and the filmmaker behind The Beast of Trinity, Texas. In this episode, he shares the practical craft behind writing morally complex characters — including how he builds his protagonist Eli Ridge and the villains who push him to the edge.In this episode, you'll learn: ✅ How to write a villain readers understand — even when they shouldn't ✅ Why damaged characters need "just enough justification" to earn empathy ✅ The Robert McKee principle behind every great thriller: "The only way to move a story forward is through conflict" ✅ How short, choppy chapters create unbreakable tension ✅ Why every crime writer needs a subject matter expert (Terry used a homicide detective) ✅ What writing and directing have in common — and where they split apartWhether you're writing crime fiction, psychological thrillers, or any genre with moral complexity, this conversation delivers real villain-writing technique from someone who's lived both sides of the camera.📚 RESOURCES MENTIONEDStory by Robert McKeeOn Writing by Stephen KingNo Country for Old Men — Anton Chigurh as villain studyThe Beast of Trinity, Texas — Terry Weaver's filmEli Ridge series: A Dark Day in Texas · Whitewashed Tomb · A Long Night Cry🎙️ ABOUT THE AUTHOR'S MIND Want to write better fiction? We give you direct access to the thinking, process, and craft of today's professional authors. No theory — just real experience.#WritingVillains #CharacterDevelopment #HowToWriteAVillain #CrimeFiction #ThrillerWriting #FictionWriting #StoryStructure #WritingTipsConnect with Terry: https://terryweaver.substack.com/Get his books: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09B6BDM8S?binding=paperback&qid=1775319574&sr=8-1&refFind Shilo's books here:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DFV59FRQ?binding=kindle_edition&qid=1771886025&sr=1-1&refLooking for her other pen names? Check them out!Elysian Hunt ~ Clean Rom Comshttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DFZ4P281?binding=kindle_edition&refQuinn Knightly ~ Medieval action adventurehttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT4YMGZL?binding=kindle_edition&qid=1771885958&sr=8-1&refC.R. Fulton ~ Middle grade chapter books that are wholesome:https://bakkenbooks.com/collections/the-campground-kids-collection

Want to know what actually gets a novel published? Not a better query letter. Not more connections. Not a bigger social media following.Just skill.In this episode, Kern Carter — an indie author who signed deals with Penguin and Scholastic and sold 15,000 books in the past year without being social media famous — breaks down the craft decisions that changed his career. He built a loyal readership through the quality of his work alone, and he's here to tell you exactly how.Whether you're trying to figure out how to write a novel that gets noticed, how to get a book deal, or how to move from self-publishing to traditional publishing, Kern gives you the real experience — not theory.In this episode:How Kern went from indie self-publisher to Penguin & Scholastic authorWhy your opening pages are the only thing that mattersThe 8-month novel writing course that changed everything (even after he was already published)How he writes authentic relationships without losing readersWhy sentence rhythm matters more than grammarThe truth about building a readership without social media🎙️ Guest: Kern Carter — traditionally published with Penguin & Scholastic, 15,000+ books soldThe Author's Mind gives you direct access to the thinking, process, and craft of today's professional writers. No theory — just real experience.Find Kern at kerncarter.comFind Shilo's books here:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DFV59FRQ?binding=kindle_edition&qid=1771886025&sr=1-1&refLooking for her other pen names? Check them out!Elysian Hunt ~ Clean Rom Comshttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DFZ4P281?binding=kindle_edition&refQuinn Knightly ~ Medieval action adventurehttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT4YMGZL?binding=kindle_edition&qid=1771885958&sr=8-1&refC.R. Fulton ~ Middle grade chapter books that are wholesome:https://bakkenbooks.com/collections/the-campground-kids-collection

Should you trust AI to narrate your book — or hire a human? Audiobook narrator Liza Jacobs (30+ titles, 10 accents) gives authors the unfiltered truth about audiobook production, costs, casting, and why the human voice still wins.In this episode of The Author's Mind, Liza breaks down everything authors need to know before turning their book into an audiobook — from how much it actually costs, to the one casting mistake that ruins listener experience.🎧 What you'll learn:Why 99.9% of fiction is perfect for audio (and what's not)The REAL cost of audiobook production (hint: an 8.5-hour audiobook starts at $2,000+)How to find and hire the right audiobook narrator for YOUR bookAI narration vs. human narration — why AI still can't replace emotional depthThe difference between dual, duet, and multicast narration (and which to choose)How to pick the right retail sample to maximize listener conversionsWhat narrators WISH authors knew before submitting a manuscriptShould you start your series audiobook with Book 1 or your most popular title?👤 About Liza Jacobs: Liza Jacobs is a professional audiobook narrator with over 30 titles and 10 accents, specializing in cozy mysteries, romance, and fantasy. Find her resources for independent authors — including a free downloadable guide — at her website. 🔗 LizaJacobs.com📌 Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to Liza Jacobs 02:00 – How Liza got into audiobook narration 06:00 – Is your book right for audio? 10:00 – How much does an audiobook cost? 16:00 – AI narration vs. human narrators 22:00 – How to hire and cast the right narrator 30:00 – Dual, duet & multicast narration explained 38:00 – Choosing your retail sample strategically 44:00 – Tips for authors submitting manuscripts 50:00 – Where to find Liza & her free author guide🔎 Whether you're self-publishing your first novel or building a backlist, this episode gives you the roadmap for audiobook production done right.👉 Subscribe for more craft and career insights from professional authors#audiobook #audiobooknarrator #selfpublishing #writingtips #indieauthor #audiobookproduction #howtowriteabook #selfpublishingadvice #fiction #authorlifeFind Shilo's books here:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DFV59FRQ?binding=kindle_edition&qid=1771886025&sr=1-1&refLooking for her other pen names? Check them out!Elysian Hunt ~ Clean Rom Comshttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DFZ4P281?binding=kindle_edition&refQuinn Knightly ~ Medieval action adventurehttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT4YMGZL?binding=kindle_edition&qid=1771885958&sr=8-1&refC.R. Fulton ~ Middle grade chapter books that are wholesome:https://bakkenbooks.com/collections/the-campground-kids-collection

How to get a book published — and what most writers get wrong before they even start. In this episode, W. Terry Whalin — a veteran editor, literary agent, and author of over 60 books — reveals the insider secrets of the book publishing process that most aspiring authors never learn. From writing a book proposal that actually sells to building the author platform publishers want to see, Terry shares decades of real-world experience working with publishers like Simon & Schuster, Morgan James, and more. Whether you're pursuing traditional publishing or self-publishing, this conversation will change how you think about getting your book into the world. 🔑 In This Episode: • Why your book proposal matters more than your manuscript • How to publish a book through traditional publishing vs self-publishing • What literary agents and editors actually look for • The #1 mistake writers make when pitching publishers • How to build an author platform that gets you a book deal • Writing advice from someone who's been on every side of the industry 📚 Resources & Links Mentioned: ➤ Free ebook – "Book Proposals That Sell": http://bookproposals.ws ➤ "10 Publishing Myths" ($10 with free shipping): http://publishingoffer.com ➤ Terry Whalin's website: http://terrywhalin.com ➤ Submit to Morgan James Publishing: [email protected] ➤ "The Success Principles" by Jack Canfield ➤ "101 Ways to Market Your Book" by John Kramer 📖 ] #HowToGetABookPublished #BookPublishing #WritingAdvice #BookProposal #TraditionalPublishing #LiteraryAgent #AuthorTube #WritingABook #BookPublishingProcess #PublishingIndustryFind Shilo's books here:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DFV59FRQ?binding=kindle_edition&qid=1771886025&sr=1-1&refLooking for her other pen names? Check them out!Elysian Hunt ~ Clean Rom Comshttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DFZ4P281?binding=kindle_edition&refQuinn Knightly ~ Medieval action adventurehttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT4YMGZL?binding=kindle_edition&qid=1771885958&sr=8-1&refC.R. Fulton ~ Middle grade chapter books that are wholesome:https://bakkenbooks.com/collections/the-campground-kids-collection

What happens when a retired Air Force veteran gets a cancer diagnosis, prays for more time, and then feels called to write a 10-book fantasy series? In this episode of The Author’s Mind, Terrence L. Rotering shares how a cancer scare, “Godwinks,” and military discipline led him to create a sweeping, clean fantasy saga—and how he wrote 8 of those books in a single year.If you’re an aspiring author wondering how to actually finish your book, build a series, or stay productive while juggling real life, this conversation is packed with practical insights and an unforgettable story.In this episode, you’ll learn:How a cancer diagnosis became the catalyst for a complete creative breakthroughThe “Godwinks” (divine coincidences) that confirmed Terrence was on the right storyHow his Air Force background shaped his plotting, organization, and disciplineThe dictation-based writing process he used while walking and drivingHow he wrote 8 books in one year without burning outWhy he chose to write clean, hope-filled fantasy in a dark, violent genreThe mindset shift from “trying to write” to “reporting on the story”If you’re searching for how to improve your writing process, how to write a book or novel, or how to stay motivated through hard seasons, this episode will give you both craft tools and serious encouragement.Hit subscribe for more weekly conversations with working authors about fiction writing, story structure, character development, and the realities of a long-term writing career.Resources & Links:Check out Terrence L. Rotering’s books and learn more about his work: https://chroniclesoftrinian.com/Find Shilo's books here:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DFV59FRQ?binding=kindle_edition&qid=1771886025&sr=1-1&refLooking for her other pen names? Check them out!Elysian Hunt ~ Clean Rom Comshttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DFZ4P281?binding=kindle_edition&refQuinn Knightly ~ Medieval action adventurehttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT4YMGZL?binding=kindle_edition&qid=1771885958&sr=8-1&refC.R. Fulton ~ Middle grade chapter books that are wholesome:https://bakkenbooks.com/collections/the-campground-kids-collection

Can an 18-year cop teach you how to write a better mystery novel? In this episode of The Author’s Mind, Rodney Carpentier breaks down exactly how he turns real police experience into small-town crime fiction set in the Catskills.You’ll learn how he structures his Overlook trilogy, why “cops are natural storytellers,” and how the save the cat method helped him finally finish his books instead of fizzling out at the halfway point.If you’re trying to figure out how to write a mystery novel , build suspense, or use real-world law enforcement details without overwhelming the story, this conversation is for you.TIMESTAMPS:00:00 – Meet Rodney Carpentier and the Overlook trilogy04:12 – Why cops are natural storytellers09:30 – From character-only drafts to real plot structure15:05 – Using Save the Cat to plot mystery and crime fiction22:48 – “Finish the book first, edit later” writing advice29:10 – Making the Catskills a living, breathing character36:40 – Taking one creative risk per book43:55 – The hard truth about indie author marketing51:20 – Final advice for aspiring mystery writers🔍 What you’ll learn:• How an 18-year law enforcement veteran thinks about story, character, and tension• Practical mystery writing tips you can apply to your own novel• Why structure matters, and how Save the Cat can rescue “stalled” drafts• How to use real police work in fiction without turning your book into a procedural manual• Mindset shifts for finishing your book and taking smart risks as a writer📚 Find Rodney Carpentier online: https://www.rlcarpentierwriter.com/Find Shilo's books here:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DFV59FRQ?binding=kindle_edition&qid=1771886025&sr=1-1&refLooking for her other pen names? Check them out!Elysian Hunt ~ Clean Rom Comshttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DFZ4P281?binding=kindle_edition&refQuinn Knightly ~ Medieval action adventurehttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT4YMGZL?binding=kindle_edition&qid=1771885958&sr=8-1&refC.R. Fulton ~ Middle grade chapter books that are wholesome:https://bakkenbooks.com/collections/the-campground-kids-collection

Do you really know your characters, or are you just moving them around the page?Real character depth doesn't come from a bio sheet—it comes from treating your characters like real people and finding their breaking point.In this episode of The Author's Mind, I sit down with Dr. Rod Berger to discuss how to "interview" your characters to find their hidden truths. We explore the critical technique of establishing a character's "normal" specifically to shatter it, and the mindset shift every author needs to build confidence and survive the editing process.Inside this episode:The Interview Method: Why you should stop writing descriptions and start asking your characters questions.Breaking Normal: How to establish a character's reality just to break it for maximum tension.Writer Resilience: How to develop the "thick skin" required to handle brutal feedback and keep writing.Special Guest: Dr. Rod Berger Communication expert and author of The Narrative Edge, Rod has conducted over 4,000 interviews with global leaders and storytellers.Connect with Rod Burger here: https://www.drrodberger.com/bookFind Shilo's books here:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DFV59FRQ?binding=kindle_edition&qid=1771886025&sr=1-1&refLooking for her other pen names? Check them out!Elysian Hunt ~ Clean Rom Comshttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DFZ4P281?binding=kindle_edition&refQuinn Knightly ~ Medieval action adventurehttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT4YMGZL?binding=kindle_edition&qid=1771885958&sr=8-1&refC.R. Fulton ~ Middle grade chapter books that are wholesome:https://bakkenbooks.com/collections/the-campground-kids-collection

Want to write page-turning thrillers that feel too real—the kind readers binge like Dan Brown or Robert Ludlum?In this episode of The Author’s Mind, Shilo Creed interviews Guy Morris— the award-winning author behind the SNOW Chronicles.Find more about Guy Morris here: https://www.guymorrisbooks.com/Find Shilo's books here:https://storyoriginapp.com/universalb...Looking for her other pen names? Check them out!Elysian Hunt ~ Clean Rom Comshttps://www.amazon.com/stores/Elysian...Quinn Knightly ~ Medieval action adventurehttps://www.amazon.com/stores/Quinn-K...C.R. Fulton ~ Middle grade chapter books that are wholesomehttps://www.amazon.com/stores/C.-R.-F...

In this episode of The Author’s Mind, bestselling author Shilo Creed interviews award-winning novelist Laura Hunter, author of Beloved Mother—winner of the Indie Book Awards Best Fictional Book of the Year and a novel with over 800 Amazon reviews.Laura shares one of the most unique writing processes you’ll ever hear: she does the majority of her writing in her head before she ever touches the keyboard. Characters, scenes, and story turns live in her imagination first—until they demand to be written down.Then Laura reveals the surprising craft tool that keeps her writing sharp: short stories, including extreme word-count challenges like 53-word fiction. She explains how short story constraints force writers to choose stronger verbs, cut filler, and write cleaner, tighter prose—skills that directly strengthen novels.This episode is packed with craft lessons for fiction writers, including:How to write stories “mentally” before draftingWhy characters sometimes take over (and what that means for your scenes)How short stories train you to write tighter, stronger sentencesWhy structure is the #1 lesson Laura wishes she learned earlierHow music can shape pacing, rhythm, and emotional tone while writingEncouragement for writers at every stage: make time, don’t quit, keep goingIf you’re a fiction writer looking for a better process, stronger prose, and practical craft tools you can apply immediately, this episode will give you both inspiration and real techniques.Want to read Laura's books? Find them here... https://www.amazon.com/stores/Laura-Hunter/author/B07PDZ2S12?refFind Shilo's books here:https://storyoriginapp.com/universalbooklinks/2f53e61a-dc1c-11f0-956f-5b035d8faa6fLooking for her other pen names? Check them out!Elysian Hunt ~ Clean Rom Comshttps://www.amazon.com/stores/Elysian-Hunt/author/B0DGJ9V3TD?refQuinn Knightly ~ Medival action adventurehttps://www.amazon.com/stores/Quinn-Knightly/author/B0DTJ7LSKC?refC.R. Fulton ~ Middle grade chapter books that are wholesomehttps://www.amazon.com/stores/C.-R.-Fulton/author/B01LGEO81K?refA Book's Journey is an easy 71 minute course that will prep you to publish your first book! Find it here...https://www.tactical-press.com/a-book-s-journey--d8fc0#fictionwriting #authorinterviews #writingcraft #storytelling #writingpodcast

Want practical writing advice for fiction authors—especially if you’re writing a mystery novel or thriller and want readers to say “I couldn’t put it down”?In this episode of The Author’s Mind, K.A. Oliver shares hard-won craft lessons from her career in radio, TV, film, and screenwriting—and what she had to unlearn to gain full creative freedom as a novelist.We dive into:Writing strong female characters with intelligence, flaws, and heartTranslating screenwriting skills into page-turning fictionCrafting believable character dynamicsKeeping stories fast-paced without losing emotional depthWhy creative freedom matters for long-term author growthIf you’re a fiction writer looking to improve your story openings, pacing, character development, or mystery structure, this conversation is packed with insight you can apply immediately.Connect with Kay at https://kayaoliver.com/📌 Subscribe for new episodes of The Author’s Mind🌐 Connect with Shilo: https://shilocreed.com📩 Guest inquiries & questions: [email protected]📚 Find Shilo’s BooksUniversal reader link:https://storyoriginapp.com/universalb...✍️ Shilo’s Pen NamesElysian Hunt – Clean Romantic Comedieshttps://www.amazon.com/stores/Elysian...Quinn Knightly – Medieval Action Adventurehttps://www.amazon.com/stores/Quinn-K...C.R. Fulton – Wholesome Middle Grade Fictionhttps://www.amazon.com/stores/C.-R.-F...🎓 New Authors: Start HereA Book’s Journey is a clear, 71-minute course designed to prepare you to publish your first book with confidence:https://www.tactical-press.com/a-book

What makes readers fall in love with a story—and stay with it long after the final page?In this episode of The Author’s Mind, Teri M Brown shares a deeply honest look at character-driven fiction, the creative writing process, and why trusting your way of writing matters more than following every rule.Known for emotionally rich historical novels with tight timelines, high stakes, and unforgettable characters, Teri breaks down how her characters are born, why she lets them lead the story, and how real emotional experiences—love, anger, fear, hunger, resilience—become powerful fiction on the page.We talk about:How to write characters that feel realCharacter vs plot—and why character usually winsPantsing vs plotting (and why neither is “wrong”)Why first drafts are supposed to be messyThe creative mind vs the intellectual mind in writingEditing as discovery, not punishmentHow confidence accelerates your writing careerThis conversation is essential listening for fiction writers who want to:Write deeper, more human storiesStop second-guessing their processBuild stronger emotional connection with readersCreate novels that feel lived in, not manufacturedIf you love character development, writing craft, and honest conversations about how novels are actually made—this episode will feel like sitting down for coffee with a professional author who tells the truth.🎧 Listen now and rediscover why character-driven storytelling works.Find Teri at https://www.terimbrown.com/Connect with Shilo at https://www.shilocreed.com Sign up for her newsletter to get the first chapter of Plunged for free, along with her award winning short story, Soul of a Griffin!

In this episode of The Author’s Mind, Amy Vansant and Shilo Creed break down how to build a thriving fiction career with 40+ books, long-running cozy mystery series, and a business model powered by Kindle Unlimited.We dive deep into how Amy created and sustained the 26-book Pineapple Port cozy mystery series, how she connects multiple series into a shared author universe, and why writing in series is one of the most effective ways for authors to grow readership and income. She also shares how she balances plotting vs pantsing, writes faster without burning out, and decides what to write based on both passion and market demand.This episode is packed with practical writing advice for authors who want to:Understand how Kindle Unlimited actually worksBuild a long-running fiction seriesWrite across genres while keeping voice consistentIncrease writing speed and productivityTurn readers into loyal fans book after bookWhether you’re writing your first novel or managing a growing backlist, this conversation offers real, tested insight from an author who’s done it—consistently, profitably, and creatively.🎧 Listen now to learn how to build a sustainable author career—one series at a time.

How do you build a fantasy world that actually works—one readers believe in, even when you don’t explain everything?In this episode of The Author’s Mind, I sit down with Peter Last, author of the Shadow for Hire series, to explore worldbuilding, character design, and story craft through a uniquely analytical lens. With a background in engineering and over two decades of writing experience, Peter breaks down how great stories are built from the inside out—much like a well-designed structure.We discuss:Worldbuilding as a foundation, not expositionThe “iceberg rule” of storytelling and why less explanation creates stronger immersionHow engineers and analytical thinkers approach fantasy writingWhy short stories sharpen novel-writing skillsHow critical book reviews can dramatically improve your craftWriting blurbs that sell the truth of your storyWhen to accept critique—and when to protect your voiceWhy new writers should avoid starting with their “big epic series”This is a deep, thoughtful conversation for fiction writers who care about structure, consistency, theme, and long-term craft growth—especially those working in fantasy, sci-fi, or complex story worlds.If you want your stories to feel solid, immersive, and intentional—without info-dumping—this episode will change how you think about writing.🎧 Listen now and step inside The Author’s Mind.📌 Subscribe for more conversations with professional fiction authors on craft, mindset, and storytelling mechanics.Find Peter Last at : https://peterlast.com/Grab his books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Peter-Last/author/B00L4KJJY8?refGrab Shilo's: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Shilo-Creed/author/B0DFV7LZ9G?refShilo's other pen names:Elysian Hunt (clean rom com's): https://www.amazon.com/stores/Elysian-Hunt/author/B0DGJ9V3TD?refQuinn Knightly (medieval action adventure): https://www.amazon.com/stores/Quinn-Knightly/author/B0DTJ7LSKC?refC.R. Fulton (middle grade chapter books): https://www.amazon.com/stores/C.-R.-Fulton/author/B01LGEO81K?ref

What does it take to write with speed and heart—without burning out?In this episode of The Author’s Mind, I’m joined by Aaron Ryan, a bestselling sci-fi author whose work spans alien-invasion survival, post-apocalyptic dystopian fiction, and high-concept sci-fi thrillers. Aaron is best known for the Dissonance alien invasion saga and The End Christian dystopian end-times series, and he’s also written thrillers like Forecast and The Slide (plus more).We talk about what fuels Aaron’s creative momentum—how he keeps his storytelling pace high, how passion drives the work forward, and how to harness “creative energy” in a way that actually leads to finished books. Along the way, we dive into the mindset behind prolific output, staying emotionally connected to the page, and building stories that blend big sci-fi concepts with human stakes.If you’re a fiction writer who wants to write faster, stay inspired longer, and keep your creativity alive across multiple projects—you need this conversation.Mentioned / featured work includes:Dissonance (alien invasion / post-apocalyptic saga)The End (dystopian Christian end-times series)Forecast and The Slide (sci-fi thrillers)📌 Subscribe for more conversations with professional fiction authors about craft, mindset, and the real thinking behind great stories.Want the books? Here are links to Aaron Ryan and Shilo Creed's works.Grab Aaron Ryan's books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0CRC2775Q?tag=ustxtaddt-20&ccs_id=147c0a34-bcda-4f1f-a295-65194f9a42e3Grab Shilo's: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Shilo-Creed/author/B0DFV7LZ9G?refShilo's other pen names:Elysian Hunt (clean rom com's): https://www.amazon.com/stores/Elysian-Hunt/author/B0DGJ9V3TD?refQuinn Knightly (medieval action adventure): https://www.amazon.com/stores/Quinn-Knightly/author/B0DTJ7LSKC?refC.R. Fulton (middle grade chapter books): https://www.amazon.com/stores/C.-R.-Fulton/author/B01LGEO81K?ref

Learn fiction writing from professional authors. The Author’s Mind explores the craft, mindset, and creative process behind today’s best fiction—so you can gain skill, inspiration, and practical tools for your own writing.The Author’s Mind is a podcast for writers and readers who want to understand how stories are really made. Each episode features honest, in-depth conversations with professional fiction authors about story structure, character creation, creativity, consistency, and the thinking behind great storytelling.On this channel, you’ll learn:How professional authors develop and structure their storiesTechniques for creating compelling characters and plotsHow writers stay inspired and finish booksWhat separates strong fiction from forgettable storiesReal insights from authors producing today’s best fictionGuests include published fiction authors across genres, sharing real experience—not theory.📌 Subscribe for new episodes and connect with Shilo at shilocreed.com📩 Guest inquiries & questions: [email protected] Shilo's books here:https://storyoriginapp.com/universalbooklinks/2f53e61a-dc1c-11f0-956f-5b035d8faa6fLooking for her other pen names? Check them out!Elysian Hunt ~ Clean Rom Comshttps://www.amazon.com/stores/Elysian-Hunt/author/B0DGJ9V3TD?refQuinn Knightly ~ Medival action adventurehttps://www.amazon.com/stores/Quinn-Knightly/author/B0DTJ7LSKC?refC.R. Fulton ~ Middle grade chapter books that are wholesomehttps://www.amazon.com/stores/C.-R.-Fulton/author/B01LGEO81K?refA Book's Journey is an easy 71 minute course that will prep you to publish your first book! Find it here...https://www.tactical-press.com/a-book-s-journey--d8fc0#fictionwriting #authorinterviews #writingcraft #storytelling #writingpodcast