Five Compelling Questions with Shawn

Five Compelling Questions with Shawn

By Shawn Reilly SimmonsArtsBooks
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Five Compelling Questions with Shawn episodes

  • EP 283: 5CQ for James Cleary, Author of Sanctuary

    In this engaging interview, author James Cleary discusses his novel 'Sanctuary,' exploring themes of climate catastrophe, social justice, and human morality. Discover the inspiration behind the story, the research process, and insights into writing a thriller that reflects current global anxieties.

    26 min
  • EP 282: 5CQ for Jayne Ann Phillips

    In this engaging interview, Pulitzer Prize-winning author Jayne Ann Phillips discusses her memoir 'Small Town Girls,' exploring themes of regional history, intergenerational stories, resilience, and the power of literature. She shares insights into her writing process, the significance of her regional roots, and her upcoming projects, offering valuable lessons for writers and readers alike.

    22 min
  • EP 281: 5CQ for Matt Witten, Author of 51%

    In this interview, author Matt Witten discusses his dystopian thriller '51%', exploring themes of corporate power, privatization, and resistance. He shares insights into character development, pacing, and the intersection of screenwriting and novel writing, offering a compelling look at his creative process and the book's societal implications.

    27 min
  • EP 280: 5CQ for Michael McLaughlin, Author of No Harm Intended

    In this engaging interview, author Michael McLaughlin discusses his journey from surgeon to thriller novelist, his latest book 'No Harm Intended' set in the Peruvian Amazon, and his writing process. Discover his insights into character creation, research, and balancing medical and fiction writing.

    34 min
  • EP 279: 5CQ for Christi Keating-Sumich, Author of Lafitte Lives

    In this engaging interview, author and historian Christi Keating Sumich shares her journey from academic research to writing historical mysteries rooted in New Orleans history. Discover how her family heritage, extensive research, and love for the city inspire her novels, including 'Lafitte Lives' and upcoming projects. Learn writing tips, the magic of New Orleans as a storytelling backdrop, and fascinating stories about the pirate Jean Lafitte.

    23 min
  • EP 278: 5CQ for Joseph S. Walker, Author of Crime Scenes

    In this engaging interview, author Joseph S. Walker shares his journey into short fiction, discusses his latest collection 'Crime Scenes,' and explores his passion for baseball and writing. Discover insights on crafting short stories, the importance of community, and tips for aspiring writers.

    31 min
  • EP 277: 5CQ for Eleanor Anstruther, Author of Fallout

    In this engaging interview, author Eleanor Anstruther discusses her upcoming novel 'Fallout,' her writing journey, and insights into the Greenham Common protest. Discover her creative process, advice for writers, and her unique approach to storytelling.

    40 min
  • EP 276: 5CQ for Ken Linn, Author of Dwellings

    In this engaging interview, author Ken Lin discusses his journey from a math teacher to a mystery novelist, the evolution of his character Pete Barrow, and the creative process behind his latest book 'Dwellings'. Discover insights into writing, setting, and the unique blend of math and mystery in his stories.

    16 min
  • EP 275: 5CQ for Charlotte Wood, Author of The Natural Way of Things

    In this engaging interview, acclaimed author Charlotte Wood discusses her award-winning novel 'The Natural Way of Things,' its themes of misogyny, rage, and resilience, and the impact of revisiting her work a decade later. She shares insights into her creative process, the emotional intensity of her writing, and the importance of storytelling in addressing social issues.

    29 min

About Five Compelling Questions with Shawn

From the publisher's feed

Award-Winning Author and Editor Shawn Reilly Simmons gets to know her guests by asking Five Compelling Questions (plus a few bonus ones) about the writing life. Topics include finding inspiration,…