Killer Prose

Tanner Rutledge
  • 4.8 (6)
  • BOOKS
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY
Killer Prose

Killer Prose is the podcast dedicated to the art of crafting mystery and horror fiction, hosted by author Tanner Rutledge. Join Tanner bi-weekly as he delves into the secrets of suspenseful storytelling, featuring interviews with authors, editors, and publishers who specialize in keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Whether you’re weaving intricate mysteries or conjuring spine-tingling horror, Killer Prose offers practical advice on finishing your manuscript and getting it in front of readers. From plot twists to terrifying atmospheres, this show equips you with the skills and inspiration to captivate your audience and expand your readership. Tune in and discover how to create gripping, unforgettable stories in the worlds of mystery and horror.

  1. Plot Twists & Navigating Publishing Choices

    APR 2

    Plot Twists & Navigating Publishing Choices

    In this episode I discusses updates on my upcoming mystery book 'Fools & Corpses' and details on setting up a home studio for audiobooks. I also reflects on the challenges of deciding between Amazon's KU and Kobo Select for distribution. In the meat of the episode, I take a look at different types of plot twists in storytelling, focusing the importance of foreshadowing and avoiding overuse. 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Updates 00:55 Exciting News: First Book Release 01:23 Navigating the Audiobook Journey 02:15 Debating Amazon Exclusivity 04:56 Exploring Plot Twists in Writing 07:05 Types of Plot Twists 15:04 Common Pitfalls in Plot Twists 18:43 Conclusion and Upcoming Events Connect with the show at: https://www.killerprose.com/voicemail/ Intro & Outro music: Super Strange Synths by YellowTree -- https://freesound.org/s/482961/ -- License: Attribution 4.0 Connect with me on FB at: https://www.facebook.com/writingfright

    20 min
  2. Overcoming Writer's Block and Managing Stress

    FEB 9

    Overcoming Writer's Block and Managing Stress

    In this episode of Killer Prose, Tanner discusses strategies for dealing with writer's block and managing stress. He offers personal insights into his own practices for de-stressing and staying focused, such as prioritizing workouts and meditation, observing the world for inspiration, and experimenting with his writing process. Tanner also provides updates on his current projects, including 'Fools and Corpses' and 'The Haint,' sharing lessons learned from revisions and character development. Additionally, he highlights the importance of keeping oneself open to inspiration and adjusting writing habits to overcome creative blocks. 00:00 Introduction to Writing During Stressful Times 01:45 Current Projects and Revisions 04:40 Deep Dive into 'Haint' 12:20 Strategies to Overcome Writer's Block 17:26 Experimenting with Writing Processes 21:47 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Connect with the show at: https://www.killerprose.com/ Intro & Outro music: Super Strange Synths by YellowTree -- https://freesound.org/s/482961/ -- License: Attribution 4.0

    22 min
  3. J.D. Barker on Co-authoring, Career Insights, and Publishing Trends

    JAN 16

    J.D. Barker on Co-authoring, Career Insights, and Publishing Trends

    In this episode of Killer Prose, I interview J.D. Barker, an international and New York Times bestselling author known for titles like 'The Fourth Monkey,' 'Dracul,' and his upcoming novel, 'We Don't Talk About Emma.' J.D. discusses his new book, his co-authoring process, and his unique deal with Simon & Schuster. He shares insights into his writing and publishing journey, the changes in the industry, and his approach to mentoring new authors. The conversation also touches on innovative marketing strategies, including a one-of-a-kind giveaway for his upcoming book, 'Something I Keep Upstairs.' J.D. emphasizes the importance of consistent writing, taking risks, and adapting to changes in the publishing world. 00:00 Intro 00:50 JD Barker's Upcoming Thriller: We Don't Talk About Emma 01:23 The Co-Authoring Process 01:51 From Book Doctor to Imprint Owner 03:23 Navigating the Changing Publishing Industry 04:35 The Hybrid Publishing Model 08:05 Marketing Strategies and Breakthroughs 15:09 Writing Process and Collaboration with James Patterson 17:49 Managing Multiple Projects and Trusting the Process 20:30 Bookstore Dynamics and Indie Authors 21:58 Genre Blending and Audience Expansion 24:17 Learning from the Masters 26:16 The Importance of Author Branding 30:33 Mentoring and Collaborative Writing 31:23 The Role of Technology in Writing 38:04 Advice for Aspiring Authors 38:50 Final thoughts and Contact Information Connect with JD at: https://jdbarker.com/ Enter the giveaway for a chance to stay at the house that inspired Something I Keep in the Attic checkout: https://woobox.com/vcevs2 Connect with the show at: https://www.killerprose.com/ find The Anatomy of Genres by John Truby at: https://www.amazon.com/Anatomy-Genres-Story-Forms-Explain/dp/0374539227

    41 min
  4. New Beginnings: Ditching the Pen Name and Setting Goals for 2025

    JAN 1

    New Beginnings: Ditching the Pen Name and Setting Goals for 2025

    In this episode of the Killer Prose Podcast, host Tanner Rutledge wishes listeners a happy New Year and invites them to share their upcoming projects for 2025. Tanner discusses his decision to merge his mystery and horror writings under his own name, eliminating the need for a pen name to reduce marketing expenses. He reflects on the professional changes in 2024, including transitioning to commission sales to fund his book projects. Looking ahead, he anticipates releasing his first mystery novel 'Fools and Corpses' by June 2025, followed by a horror novel and another book in the Ted and Darcy series. Tanner emphasizes the importance of writing consistently and sets a goal to write 1,000 words a day. He also invites listeners to join his live writing sessions and to suggest topics and guest authors for future episodes. 00:00 Welcome and New Year's Greetings 00:45 Reflecting on 2024: Professional Changes 01:40 Upcoming Book Releases 03:02 The Pen Name Dilemma 08:02 Writing Routine and Productivity Tips 11:14 Goals for 2025 and Beyond 13:09 Podcasting and Community Engagement 13:44 Final Thoughts and Listener Engagement Connect with the show and find links to all our social media profiles at https://www.killerprose.com/ Find Tanner's author Page on FB at https://www.facebook.com/tannerrutledgeauthor/ Follow us on YouTube for live writing sessions at https://www.youtube.com/@KillerProse6645 Intro Music: Super Strange Synths by YellowTree -- https://freesound.org/s/482961/ -- License: Attribution 4.0

    14 min
  5. Cassandra O’Sullivan Sachar on Finding Balance and Writing Craft

    12/02/2024

    Cassandra O’Sullivan Sachar on Finding Balance and Writing Craft

    In this episode of Killer Prose Podcast, Tanner is joined by Cassandra O’Sullivan Sachar, an accomplished writer and associate English professor in Pennsylvania. With her work featured in over forty creative publications, including The Horror Zine, Wyldblood Magazine, and Tales from the Moonlit Path, Cassandra brings a wealth of experience to the table. We discuss the craft of writing, teaching horror fiction at the university level, and the art of using scenery to convey a variety of information to your readers. Cassandra also shares insights into her works: her dark suspense novel, Darkness There but Something More (Wicked House Publishing, March 2024), and her short horror story collection, Keeper of Corpses and Other Dark Tales (Velox Books, September 2024). Join us for a compelling conversation about the intersection of education, creativity, and the macabre. Connect with Cassandra at https://cassandraosullivansachar.com/ Connect with the show and sign up for the newsletter at https://killerprose.com  Follow me on Youtube and Twitch @KillerProsePodcast Connect with my author page on Facebook @Tanner Rutledge-Author

    1h 38m
  6. Lee Mountford on Writing Full Time

    11/24/2024

    Lee Mountford on Writing Full Time

    In this episode of Killer Prose, we’re joined by Lee Mountford, the bestselling author behind the Haunted and Darkfall series. Lee shares his journey to becoming a full-time indie author, offering insights into planning and writing series, collaborating with editors, and crafting haunted house stories and genre blends. Whether you’re a writer seeking inspiration or a horror fan curious about what goes into creating spine-chilling fiction, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Don’t forget to connect with us at killerprose.com, where you’ll find all our social media links and details on our live writing sessions every Monday through Friday morning at 5:30am. See you there! Connect with Lee Web: https://leemountford.com FB: https://facebook.com/LeeMountfordAuthor Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Lee-Mountford/author/B0716HDW6C Intro and outro music provided by Super Strange Synths by YellowTree -- https://freesound.org/s/482961/ -- License: Attribution 4.0

    1h 6m

  7. 11/17/2024

    November Update

    We have some new episodes coming. I'll also be taking the show to once a month for a while so we can stay consistent while work, life, and writing are so hectic right now.  Intro and outro music provided by Super Strange Synths by YellowTree -- https://freesound.org/s/482961/ -- License: Attribution 4.0

    4 min

  8. 09/08/2024

    Ivy Tholen on being an Indie Author

    Ivy Tholen is the author of “Tastes Like Candy," “Maul Rats,” and the upcoming "Mother Dear." She lives in Los Angeles. Don’t mention “A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors” to her, or she will never shut up. In this episode, we delve into the world of indie authorship. Whether you're curious about carving out time to write, mastering the craft of horror, knowing the right moment to seek feedback, or getting a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the indie author life, this episode has you covered. Stay tuned for insights, tips, and real-world experiences that every aspiring indie author should hear! Connect with Ivy and check out her books! Website: https://www.ivytholen.com/ Instagram Link: https://www.instagram.com/ivy_tholen/  Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/author/ivy-tholen Connect with the show at: Website: https://www.killerprose.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/writingfright/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@KillerProse6645 Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/killerprosepodcast Intro and outro music provided by Super Strange Synths by YellowTree -- https://freesound.org/s/482961/ -- License: Attribution 4.0

    1h 25m
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Ratings & Reviews

4.8
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Killer Prose is the podcast dedicated to the art of crafting mystery and horror fiction, hosted by author Tanner Rutledge. Join Tanner bi-weekly as he delves into the secrets of suspenseful storytelling, featuring interviews with authors, editors, and publishers who specialize in keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Whether you’re weaving intricate mysteries or conjuring spine-tingling horror, Killer Prose offers practical advice on finishing your manuscript and getting it in front of readers. From plot twists to terrifying atmospheres, this show equips you with the skills and inspiration to captivate your audience and expand your readership. Tune in and discover how to create gripping, unforgettable stories in the worlds of mystery and horror.

Information

  • Creator
    Tanner Rutledge
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    48
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2024
  • Show Website
    Killer Prose

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