On this episode of the Creative Writing Wizard Podcast, I’m joined by J.D. Barker - New York Times and internationally bestselling author, co-writer of Dracul with Dacre Stoker, and a former ghostwriter turned thriller master.We dive deep into:- Going from ghostwriter & “book doctor” to bestselling author- How writing with James Patterson changed his process- Pantsing vs. plotting (and how blurbs guide his novels)- Lessons from Dracul, The Noise, and Flatliners: Resurrection- The rise of rapid-release publishing and hybrid author models- Advice from Dean Koontz on blending genres with a common threadJ.D. shares his journey from finance and 60+ hour workweeks to taking an all-in gamble on writing, plus what he’s learned about sustaining a creative career, paying it forward, and finding co-authors with the “storyteller gene.”📚 Explore J.D. Barker’s books & updates: https://jdbarker.com🎥 Watch more from J.D. on YouTube: @jdbarker_author✨ Like this conversation? Subscribe for more interviews with authors and writers! 💡 Support the Creative Writing Wizard efforts & indie author community:https://www.patreon.com/c/CreativeWritingWizard📖 Discover more indie releases:https://creativewritingwizard.com/2024/11/18/indie-release-radarReferences & MentionsFlatliners: Resurrection – upcoming reboot & publishing buzz:https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/05/30/3091166/0/en/J-D-Barker-s-FLATLINERS-RESURRECTION-Complete-and-Expected-to-Generate-Major-Bidding-War.htmlDracul (with Dacre Stoker) – interview via LAPL:https://www.lapl.org/collections-resources/blogs/lapl/interview-author-dacre-stoker-jd-barkerEarly career as a Ghostwriter/Book Doctor – Meet the Thriller Author:https://get.thrillingreads.com/jd-barker-interview/#:~:text=cover%20when%20I%20was%20working,a%20book%20on%20my%20ownWriting with Autism & blurb-first approach – The Art of Autism interview:https://the-art-of-autism.com/new-york-times-international-bestselling-author-j-d-barkers-insight-on-writing-autism/#:~:text=16,between%20thriller%2C%20suspense%2C%20and%20horrorRolling Stone article on Pantsers vs. Plotters:https://www.rollingstone.com/culture-council/articles/great-writing-divide-inside-creative-battle-between-plotters-pantsers-1235275412/@thecreativepenn Podcast – casting a wider net:https://www.thecreativepenn.com/2025/06/09/casting-a-wider-net-jd-barker/🎵 Intro & outro music written & recorded by Glen WeatherheadKeywordsJ.D. Barker, Creative Writing, Thriller, Suspense, Horror, Writing Process, Outlining vs. Pantsing, James Patterson, Dean Koontz, Ghostwriter, Book Doctor, Dracul, Flatliners, Publishing Industry, Hybrid Author, Indie Publishing, Writing Tips, Storytelling, Character Development, Creative Career, Creative Writing Wizard Podcast

In this episode of the Creative Writing Wizard Podcast, we chat with thriller author Shaye Wick, who at just 24 has already published multiple books with another on the way! Shaye shares her rapid writing process (40,000 words in just two days!), navigating dark themes, and her journey from hobby writer to published author.We cover:- Transitioning from casual reading to rapid-fire writing- Crafting psychological thrillers from a villain's perspective- Balancing intense themes with engaging storytelling- The challenges and triumphs of self-publishing- Leveraging social media to build an audience📚 Connect with Shaye Wick:TikTok & Instagram: Follow Shaye for thriller content and updates!📚 Connect with Shaye Wick:TikTok & Instagram: Follow Shaye for thriller content and updates!

- https://www.tiktok.com/@shaye_wick

- https://www.instagram.com/shaye_wick/

- Book 1: The Realtor: Demi’s Misfortune https://a.co/d/9bJXJth

- Book 2: https://www.amazon.com/Realtor-Ellas-Execution-Book-ebook/dp/B0DZ3NNLQY?ref_=ast_author_dp

🔔 Enjoyed this episode? Like, comment your questions for Shaye, and subscribe for more author insights!✨ Support the podcast on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/c/CreativeWritingWizard

On this episode of the Creative Writing Wizard Podcast, I'm joined by author and BJJ Black Belt Drew Weatherhead to talk about his jump from philosophical nonfiction to epic fantasy fiction and how anime storytelling inspired his unique approach.

We dive deep into:

- How Attack on Titan influenced Drew’s epic fantasy debut

- Blending philosophical themes with gripping storytelling

- Creating morally complex scenarios inspired by real

-world history

Drew shares insights into his writing process, from tackling imposter syndrome to surviving tough edits. Plus, learn how he incorporates unique narrative elements from Japanese storytelling traditions into his novels.

Check out Drew’s epic debut novel, Fractures in Love, available now!https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F566GKWX

Connect with Drew Weatherhead:

Instagram (Author): https://www.instagram.com/drew.w.author

Instagram (Personal/Jiu-Jitsu): https://www.instagram.com/drew.weatherhead

Like this conversation? Subscribe for more interviews with indie authors and creative minds!

Support the Creative Writing Wizard efforts and the indie author community:https://www.patreon.com/c/CreativeWritingWizard

Discover more indie fantasy releases:https://creativewritingwizard.com/2024/11/18/indie-release-radar

Intro and outro music written & recorded by Glen Weatherhead (inspired by Attack on Titan)

Key Words: Drew Weatherhead, Creative Writing, Fiction, Philosophy, Attack on Titan, Epic Fantasy, Writing Process, Storytelling Techniques, Author Journey, Podcast, writing, editing, author journey, publication, storytelling, moral dilemmas, perspectives, creativity, inspiration, self-worth

In this episode of the Creative Writing Wizard Podcast, we sit down with fantasy author E. Scott Clevenger, co-founder of Sainan Books, to talk about how a lifelong Dungeons & Dragons Dungeon Master became a published novelist—and accidentally built a publishing house in the process.

We dive deep into:

- Co-writing War of Night

- The balance between plotting vs pantsing

- Crafting a queer normative world and layered magic systems

- Lessons from self-publishing, failures along the way, and building a community

- Lifting other indie authors along the way

If you’re a writer, fantasy reader, or indie author, this one’s for you.

💬 Got questions or thoughts? Drop them in the comments!

📚 Learn more about E. Scott and Sainan Books:

👉 https://sainanbooks.com/

📖 Check out War of Night

✨ Available now in its stunning second edition!

https://sainanbooks.com/books/

🔗 Follow E. Scott on Threads and Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/sainanbooks/

Like this interview? Subscribe for more!

Special Thanks to all the Wizards, join the effort to support indie authors and human creativity: https://www.patreon.com/c/CreativeWritingWizard

Looking for a new book to read? Check out these indie authors with recent releases!https://creativewritingwizard.com/2024/11/18/indie-release-radar/

Intro and Outro Themes written and recorded by Glen Weatherhead

Keywords:Fantasy author, self-publishing, creative writing, indie books, writing podcast, author interview, queer fantasy, plotter vs pantser, magic systems, DnD to author, stephen king

Join me as I chat with YA Fantasy author Ria Parisi about her debut novel Wolves and Stags! We dive into her writing journey—from fanfiction and roleplaying to publishing her first book. Ria shares insights on her unique magic system, plus-size representation in fantasy, her experiences with querying, and how her background in cosplay influences her stories.

Wolves and Stags releases soon—grab your copy here: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/208390290-of-wolves-and-stags

Connect with Ria Parisi:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riathewolfwrites/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@riathewolfwrites

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@riathewolfwrites

Web: https://www.riaparisi.com/

Like this interview? Follow for more!

Special Thanks to all the Wizards, join the effort to support indie authors and human creativity: https://www.patreon.com/c/CreativeWritingWizard

Looking for a new book to read? Check out these indie authors with recent releases!

https://creativewritingwizard.com/2024/11/18/indie-release-radar/

Intro and Outro Themes written and recorded by Glen Weatherhead

Keywords:Writing Community, YA Fantasy, Indie Author, Enemies To Lovers, BookTok, Fantasy Books, Romantasy, Debut Author, Author Interview, Publishing Journey, Bookish, High Fantasy, Magic System, Diversity In Books, Women Writers

In this episode of the Creative Writing Wizard podcast, Glen Weatherhead discusses with Courtney Collins, and Clark Collins their journey as co-authors, the writing process, and the challenges of publishing and marketing their fantasy novel. Character development, the importance of editing, and the dynamics of co-authoring are a few of the insights within. The conversation also touches on their inspirations, the experience of working with a small press, and the their upcoming projects.Like this interview? Subscribe for more!Connect with Courtney & Clarke Collins - Web: https://collinsauthors.com/- IG: https://www.instagram.com/collins_authors/ - Threads: https://www.threads.net/@collins_authors - BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/collinsauthors.bsky.social Special Thanks to all the Wizards, join the effort to support indie authors and human creativity: https://www.patreon.com/c/CreativeWritingWizard Looking for a new book to read? Check out these indie authors with recent releases!https://creativewritingwizard.com/2024/11/18/indie-release-radar/ Intro and Outro Themes written and recorded by Glen WeatherheadTimeline:03:28 Background and Early Influences06:35 The Journey to Co-Authorship09:33 The Dynamics of Writing Together12:29 Character Perspectives and Storytelling15:16 Publishing Experience and Challenges18:11 Marketing and Promotion Strategies28:41 Navigating the Social Media Landscape33:38 The Impact of Online Engagement36:04 Finding Your Audience in a Crowded Space41:10 Inspiration from Tolkien and Beyond49:20 Creating Unique Fantasy Elements55:35 Crafting Realism in Fantasy57:55 The Importance of Editing01:00:49 Embracing Criticism and Growth01:07:26 Progress on the Trilogy01:09:02 Anticipation for Book Two01:14:13 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude01:16:23 Special ThanksKeywords:creative writing, co-authors, fantasy books, writing process, publishing, marketing, author advice, character development, world-building, indie authors, Tolkien, Stephen King,

In this episode of the Creative Writing Wizard podcast, we talk to author K. Starling, who shares her journey from ghostwriting to publishing her own novels. K. discusses the challenges of self-publishing, the importance of character development, and her unique blend of fantasy and mystery set in the Regency era. She shares about the significance of strong female characters and the need for diverse stories in literature. The conversation also touches on the creative process, the role of humor in storytelling, and the impact of societal norms on character development.

Like this interview? Subscribe for more!

Connect with K. Starling

- https://www.threads.net/@authorkstarling

- https://bsky.app/profile/authorkstarling.bsky.social

- https://authorkstarling.substack.com/

- https://tomebooks.com/user/authorkstarling

Buy here new book here

- https://www.authorkstarling.com/merch

Special Thanks to all the Wizards, join the effort to support indie authors and human creativity: https://www.patreon.com/c/CreativeWritingWizard

Looking for a new book to read? Check out these indie authors with recent releases!

https://creativewritingwizard.com/2024/11/18/indie-release-radar/

Intro and Outro Themes written and recorded by Glen Weatherhead

References:

- https://www.harnessmagazine.com/k-starling/

- https://thepeopledissent.substack.com/ Timeline:

00:00 Introduction to Kay Starling

01:39 Navigating the Publishing World

04:10 Kay's Writing Journey and Ghostwriting Experience

10:12 The Freedom of Self-Publishing

14:55 Influences and Inspirations in Writing

17:32 Narrative Style and Humor

21:37 Incorporating Fantasy Elements

24:22 Fashion and Social Commentary

26:57 Gender Roles and Disguises

30:00 Mystery as a Central Theme

33:54 Cultural Nuances in Tea Drinking

35:01 The Importance of Content Warnings

37:15 Balancing Action and Cozy Vibes

40:50 Exploring Time Travel in Storytelling

47:13 Feminism and Historical Context in Literature

54:44 Empathy and Agency in Female Characters

01:00:11 Advice for Aspiring Authors

01:04:17 Future Plans and Series Development

Keywords:

Kay Starling, Creative Writing, Self-Publishing, Indie Authors, Ghostwriting, Regency Era, Fantasy, Feminism, Mystery, Book Launch, Jane Austen, Sherlock Holmes

In this episode of the Creative Writing Wizard podcast, we interview author Annie Bennett, who shares her journey as a self-published and traditionally published writer.

Annie discusses her love for writing (cozy romance and crime novels, so far!), her unique approach to writing, and the how she mentors other writers.

Annie also shares about her writing methods, including the 'don't look back' draft technique, and the inspiration behind her latest work, 'Somewhere New.' Like this interview? Subscribe for more! Special Thanks to all the Wizards, join the effort to support indie authors and human creativity: https://www.patreon.com/c/CreativeWritingWizard Looking for a new book to read? Check out these indie authors with recent releases! https://creativewritingwizard.com/2024/11/18/indie-release-radar/ Intro and Outro Themes written and recorded by Glen Weatherhead Connect with Annie Bennet - https://www.instagram.com/anniethebennet/ - buy her book https://anniebennet.co.uk/ References: - Rejection Diaries with Write Mentor https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ytm7U6P8nM&list=PLuKR1YmSlNO6GIW6z6s3_WNOL9-dHcafb - UK Crime Book Club https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7NHV81OvFZQ&list=PLuKR1YmSlNO6GIW6z6s3_WNOL9-dHcafb&index=2 - The Writing Community Chat Show https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Frx8DnBZSA&list=PLuKR1YmSlNO6GIW6z6s3_WNOL9-dHcafb&index=3 \ - Britton Book Geek https://www.youtube.com/@brittonbookgeek563 https://www.instagram.com/brittonbookgeek/ - The debut digest https://www.instagram.com/p/DD4dlyVM0P9/?img_index=3 - 'Drew a little picture and gave to artist' https://www.instagram.com/p/DDuHgTWgNkl/?img_index=1 Timeline 04:00 - The Role of Mentorship in Writing 06:08 - Navigating Feedback and Editing 08:51 - The Influence of Jane Austen 13:53 - Annie's Writing Journey 20:03 - The Process of Drafting and Editing 24:51 - Standalone vs. Series Writing 26:51 - Inspiration Behind 'Somewhere New' 33:13 - The Creative Process and Book Publishing 34:42 - Cover Design and Artistic Collaboration 38:49 - Writing from Different Perspectives 42:53 - The Challenge of Writing Diverse Characters 52:07 - Originality in Storytelling 56:47 - Romance Genres and Reader Expectations 01:01:03 - Content Warnings in Literature 01:11:44 - Crime Writing 01:16:29 - Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing Keywords Annie Bennett, creative writing, cozy romance, crime novels, mentoring, editing, Jane Austen, writing process, self-publishing, feedback, writing, perspectives, fan fiction, community, originality, romance, content warnings, emotional processing, publishing, indie authors, romantasy, fantasy romance, Anna Britton

E.S. Raye shares his multifaceted journey as a writer, editor, and screenwriter, discussing his current projects, including the Perseid Prophecies magazine and his upcoming novel, Gas Giant Gambit. He delves into the intricacies of screenwriting. Eric also shares his unique outlining method, his experiences with querying, and the influence of notable authors on his work. Like this interview? Subscribe for more! Special Thanks to all the Wizards, join the effort to support indie authors and human creativity: https://www.patreon.com/c/CreativeWritingWizard Looking for a new book to read? Check out these indie authors with recent releases! https://creativewritingwizard.com/2024/11/18/indie-release-radar/ Intro and Outro Themes written and recorded by Glen Weatherhead Connect with E.S. Raye - Threads https://www.threads.net/@e.s.raye - BlueSky https://bsky.app/profile/esraye.bsky.social - Web: https://esraye.com/ References: - SSID https://alexparkerpublishing.com/pages/ssid - https://perseidprophecies.ca/ - Todays Undead Forecast https://esraye.com/2024/12/10/todays-undead-forecast/ - https://esraye.com/2024/11/13/hope-fear-the-future/ Timeline: 00:00 Introduction 02:36 The Journey of Starting a Magazine 05:49 Transitioning from Marketing to Writing 08:39 Screenwriting and Film 11:30 Genre Choices in Writing 14:25 Editing vs. Writing 17:16 Political Themes in Writing 23:08 Navigating the Line Between Politics and Story 26:12 The Process of Writing a Novel 28:55 Outlining Strategies for Novel Writing 45:47 Growth as a Writer 49:57 Navigating the Querying Process 56:44 Inspiration, Influences, and Role Models 01:17:45 Outro and Special Thanks Keywords Eric Raye, writing, screenwriting, horror, sci-fi, Perseid Prophecies, querying, editing, storytelling, creative process, Writing Wizard podcast, indie author, science fiction, character development, world-building, inclusivity, writing process, horror, technology in fiction, start wars, The Expanse, Star Trek, Fire Fly, The Last of Us, TV Shows, Movies

Learn more about Sean M. Tirman as he discusses his Science Fiction book, Hounds Gaia! Like this interview? Check out these indie authors with recent releases! https://creativewritingwizard.com/2024/11/18/indie-release-radar/ Have an author you'd like me to interview? Let me know in the comments! 00:00 Introduction to Sean M. Tirman 01:47 The Journey of Becoming a Published Author09:50 Character Complexity and Moral Ambiguity 13:32 Creating a Unique Sci-Fi Universe 17:33 Humanity's Progression 21:24 Inclusivity and Representation in Storytelling 25:07 The Influence of Sean's Upbringing on his Writing 29:04 Music as a Creative Influence 32:48 Diverse Perspectives in Storytelling 47:51 Writing Process 51:37 Book Cover Evolution 55:19 Innovative Technology in Sci-Fi 01:07:42 Sneak Peek into the Next Book 01:12:26 Encouragement for Aspiring Writers 01:14:45 Exploring Horror and Emotion in Writing 01:24:21 Connecting with Characters and Themes References: https://literarytitan.com/tag/sean-tirman/ https://armedwithabook.com/hounds-of-gaia-book-excerpt https://www.infiniteworldsmagazine.com/infinite-horrors Keywords Sean M. Tirman, Writing Wizard podcast, indie author, science fiction, character development, world-building, inclusivity, writing process, horror, technology in fiction, start wars, The Expanse, Star Trek

In this conversation, we learn more about Amanda Madison as she discusses her recently released book, Program 38 Sparks. Guest Links: Amanda Madison - https://www.threads.net/@amanda_m_author Program 38: Sparks - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKTYB4BW/ref=tsm_1_fb_lk?dplnkId=0af3e64d-107a-4e45-aeed-215cfa694e01 Like this interview? Check out these indie authors with recent releases! https://creativewritingwizard.com/2024/11/18/indie-release-radar/ Have an author you'd like me to interview? Let me know in the comments! References: Interview with The Horror Connection - https://youtu.be/YIftAWRW_U8? si=UmWZrM3jvT2xxeoj Interview with holly.reading.books - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DCiVoqGRd6p/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Times Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Amanda Madison and 38 Sparks 03:03 Exploring Superheroes and Character Development 05:45 Inspiration and Writing Process14:32 Character Dynamics and Relationships20:36 Kelsey's Unique Powers26:42 Cover Art and Collaboration 29:22 Overview of Program 38's Story36:16 Balancing Realism and Fantasy in Storytelling47:56 The World of Viceroy: A New Adventure 55:08 World-Building Challenges and Writing Process 01:01:32 The Role of Social Media in Book Promotion01:18:11 Writing Techniques 01:20:40 Encouragement for Aspiring Writers01:32:42 The Importance of Mental Health Representation 01:38:10 Character Failures and Growth 01:41:24 Future Plans and Upcoming Projects Keywords Amanda Madison, Program 38 Sparks, writing process, superhero genre, character development, magical realism, personal experiences, cover art, color symbolism, writing, world-building, character development, social media, book promotion, anxiety, mental health, storytelling, independent authors, creative process