Mitchell S Karnes Podcast

Episode OverviewIn this episode of the Mitchell S. Karnes Podcast, Mitchell dives into the unique positioning of the Abbey Rhodes series—a crime mystery rooted in faith but unafraid to explore real-life darkness.Rather than leaning into overly sanitized “neatly wrapped” Christian storytelling or the excessive grit of secular thrillers, Mitchell discusses his intentional effort to reach the middle market—readers who want compelling storytelling without unnecessary profanity, but who still crave realism.The conversation also includes major updates on the streaming adaptation of the Abbey Rhodes Mysteries, upcoming casting interviews, and insights for aspiring authors navigating publishing, criticism, and marketing.Key Topics Covered🎯 Finding the “In-Between” AudienceMitchell explains the challenge of writing in a space that:Isn’t overly polished or cliché Christian fictionAvoids excessive language and graphic content common in secular thrillersStill addresses real trauma, moral struggle, and redemptionInterestingly, non-Christian readers have expressed appreciation that the books avoid unnecessary profanity—validating that this “middle ground” audience truly exists.This niche may be smaller at first glance… but it’s fiercely loyal.🎬 Streaming Series UpdateThe production team is aiming high.The Abbey Rhodes series is currently being filmed to meet the production standards required by:NetflixAmazon Prime VideoThe goal is clear: pitch to Netflix first.Mitchell discusses shooting quality requirements and positioning the show for major platform consideration. If Netflix lands it? Game changer.No guarantees yet — but the team is building for the biggest stage possible.📚 Advice for Aspiring AuthorsMitchell shares practical and grounded advice:Don’t quit.Write what you are called to write — not what trends dictate.Accept critique. Grow from it.Avoid surrounding yourself with “yes” people.Find partners who complement your weaknesses (like PR and marketing support).He references encouragement from fellow children’s author Sandra Magson, who reinforced the importance of perseverance in publishing.Publishing isn’t overnight success.It’s pavement pounding.🎙 Expanding the Mitchell S. Karnes PodcastBig development here.Mitchell is now stepping into the interviewer’s chair himself. Upcoming guests include:His literary agent (who is also an author)Actress Kristen Owenby (playing Abbey in the streaming adaptation)These interviews will go deeper into:The agent-author relationshipPreparing for emotionally layered rolesNavigating faith themes in mainstream mediaThe podcast is evolving beyond updates — it’s becoming a creative hub for writers and creatives walking similar paths.📈 Marketing Reality TalkMitchell and Neil discuss something many authors misunderstand:Marketing ≠ sales.Marketing = attention.Attention + trust + in-person connection = sales.Mitchell emphasizes the power of live book events, mingling, conversations, and human connection — similar to how musicians build audiences through concerts before digital streams take off.Online presence matters.But handshake marketing still wins.Where to Get the BooksSigned copies are available directly through Mitchell’s website:👉 MitchellSKarnesAuthor.com👉 Join the email list👉 Leave a review

 Episode Description

In this episode of The Mitchell S. Karnes Podcast (simulcast with The Neil Haley Show), Mitchell shares the excitement from a packed book event at Landmark Booksellers, reflects on the growing momentum behind the Abbey Rhodes series, and gives a powerful preview of what’s coming next in Book Four.

From record sales at live events to deeper suspense and higher emotional stakes in the upcoming installment, this episode highlights how the series continues to evolve—and how the audience is growing right alongside it.

• Sold 34 books at Landmark Booksellers.

• The store was packed, creating an energetic and interactive atmosphere.

• Instead of speaking from a table, Mitchell chose to walk the room and engage directly with readers.

• Special guests in attendance:

  • Kristen Owenby (actress cast as Abbey Rhodes)

  • The homicide detective and lieutenant who serve as consultants for authenticity

• Attendees had the opportunity to ask real law enforcement professionals questions about the procedural elements in the books.

This format—conversational rather than lecture-style—proved far more impactful and personal.

Feedback continues to trend upward:

• Readers who loved Watergrave said The Least of These was even better.

• Readers who loved Book Two now say The Cleansing is the strongest yet.

Mitchell acknowledges the pressure of improving with each installment—but embraces the challenge.

Book Four shifts the tone from investigative mystery to high-stakes suspense.

Premise elements include:

• A ticking-clock scenario

• Seven individuals targeted

• Seven days to save them

• A deadly device placed on each victim

• Clues hidden in the lyrics of the Beatles album Abbey Road

Unlike earlier books where danger was more external, this installment brings the threat directly into Abby’s inner circle. The emotional stakes are significantly higher.

Mitchell shares key lessons for writers:

• Find your own voice—don’t imitate others.

• Focus on your niche and stay consistent.

• Expect setbacks and slow growth.

• Failure only happens when you quit.

He emphasizes the importance of perseverance and patience—especially in building a series over time.

• Strong female readership (primarily ages 20–50)

• Readers deeply connect with Abby’s struggles with faith, trauma, and church-related hurt

• Word-of-mouth remains one of the strongest drivers of growth

• Signed copies of all three books are now available through the website

Mitchell also encourages churches, pastors, and ministry leaders to engage with the series, as it speaks directly to those wounded by institutional faith experiences.

“Failure only happens when you quit. As long as you keep going, you’re still in the fight.”

 Episode Highlights Landmark Book Event Success Reader Response to The Cleansing Book Four Preview (No Spoilers) Advice for Aspiring Authors Growing Audience & Strategy Key Quote from the Episode

 Episode Description

In this episode of The Mitchell S. Karnes Podcast, Mitchell dives deep into The Cleansing, the third book in the Abbey Rhodes Mysteries, and explores why this installment marks a major shift for both the series and its protagonist. As winter weather disrupts logistics, the work continues—book signings are approaching, readers are responding, and Abby faces her first true serial killer.

This conversation unpacks the spiritual, psychological, and investigative layers behind The Cleansing, revealing how themes of the heart versus the literal drive both the antagonist’s actions and Abby’s personal growth.

• The Cleansing is the first book in the series to feature:

  • Multiple victims

  • A connected killing spree

  • A race to stop the next murder rather than solve a single crime

• Abby and law enforcement uncover the killer’s identity earlier than expected—shifting the tension from who to how do we stop her?

• The central theme of The Cleansing contrasts:

  • Literal obedience without love

  • Imperfect action driven by compassion and humility

• The antagonist believes she hears God directly and sees herself as a prophetic agent of “cleansing.”

• Mitchell draws from real-life cases where perpetrators justified violence through distorted interpretations of faith.

• Abby’s internal struggle mirrors this conflict:

  • Her upbringing under a rigid, judgmental version of God

  • Versus the lived example of grace and love shown by figures like Susan and Dallas

“God looks to the heart, not the checklist.”

• Unlike previous books, The Cleansing becomes a psychological chess match.

• The killer sees herself as Abby’s equal—her opposite force.

• Abby must:

  • Understand the killer’s mindset

  • Predict future targets

  • Prevent further deaths while managing emotional and moral pressure

• Mitchell shares insight from conversations with a retired criminal pathologist who performed over 5,000 autopsies and now struggles with PTSD.

• This real-world experience shapes Abby’s journey:

  • How to empathize without breaking

  • How to disconnect from trauma without losing humanity

• Abby’s challenge becomes not just solving crimes—but surviving them emotionally.

• Early feedback from readers and book clubs has been strong.

• Watergrave continues to gain momentum through word-of-mouth.

• Mitchell encourages readers to leave reviews on Goodreads and Amazon to help build visibility.

• February 7 – Book signing (weather permitting)

• Franklin, TN – February

• Johnson City, TN – Late February

• Carterville, IL – March

• A Kentucky library event currently in discussion

• Virtual book signings and book club visits are expanding

• Mitchell is already 120 pages into Book Four, writing whenever time allows amid:

  • Land development in Alabama

  • A full-time job

  • Book promotion

  • Series planning

• Lessons from in-person signings:

  • One-on-one conversations resonate more than formal presentations

  • Immediate dialogue builds deeper reader connection

• Watergrave filming remains scheduled for July.

• Legal and investment groundwork continues.

• Film production plans are still moving forward alongside the book series.

“How do you do your job, connect deeply, and not destroy yourself in the process? That’s the question Abby is facing now—and it’s one a lot of real people face every day.”

• Website & Newsletter: https://mitchellskarnesauthor.com

• Books Available: Watergrave, The Least of These, The Cleansing

• Signed Copies & Events: Available through the website

 Sign up for the email list to receive event updates, signed book 

 Episode Highlights The Cleansing: A New Kind of Threat The Heart vs. the Literal Psychological Warfare Trauma and the Cost of the Job Reader Feedback & Book Clubs Upcoming Events Writing While It All Happens Film Series Update Key Quote from the Episode Connect with Mitchell S. Karnes

Episode OverviewIn this powerful and deeply personal episode of the Mitchell S. Karnes Podcast, Mitchell sits down with actress Kristen Sweeney, who will portray Abbey Rhodes in the upcoming film adaptation of the Abbey Rhodes Mystery Series.This is more than a casting conversation. It’s an inside look at the heart behind the character, the discipline behind the craft, and the faith that anchors it all.From theater roots to Ninja Warrior obstacles, from motherhood to method acting, Kristen shares what it truly means to step into the role of Abbey Rhodes — a complex detective carrying trauma, strength, grit, and redemption.What You’ll Hear in This Episode🎭 Kristen’s Acting JourneyHow childhood creativity and quoting commercials led to a theater elective that changed everything.Her first major stage role as Hava in Fiddler on the Roof.The difference between stage acting and film acting.Handling script revisions and staying adaptable on set.Why memorization feels different in theater versus film.Kristen reflects on the discipline of theater and the flexibility of film, explaining how both shape her approach to portraying layered characters.🎬 Preparing to Play Abbey RhodesKristen discusses how seriously she takes the responsibility of playing Abbey.Preparation includes:Consulting with real female detectives in Nashville.Learning accurate police procedures.Studying the difference between Hollywood portrayals and real-life investigations.Understanding the emotional weight of abuse, trauma, and recovery.Diving deeply into Abbey’s internal world through Mitchell’s first-person writing style.She emphasizes the importance of portraying victims and survivors authentically — not as stereotypes, but as whole people navigating pain and healing.💪 From Non-Athlete to Ninja WarriorOne of the most surprising parts of the conversation is Kristen’s journey into American Ninja-style training.She wasn’t athletic growing up.Couldn’t do a single pull-up when she started.Now trains daily and performs advanced obstacles like “Devil Steps” and TikToks.Plans to try out for American Ninja Warrior.Her message? You can dream new dreams at any age. Strength is built — physically and spiritually.👩‍👧‍👦 Balancing Motherhood, Marriage, and CallingKristen shares how she balances:ActingNinja Warrior trainingRaising two young childrenFamily lifeFaith commitmentsShe credits her husband and children for being her support system and shares how pursuing her dreams models perseverance for her kids.✝️ Faith at the CenterFaith is not a side note in this episode — it’s foundational.Kristen speaks candidly about:How her relationship with God gives her peace in discouraging moments.How faith shapes her role selection and personal boundaries.The responsibility actors carry when building a legacy through their work.The importance of redemption in storytelling.Mitchell echoes this sentiment, sharing how the Abbey Rhodes series was written with purpose — to reach those hurt by the church and struggling with reconciliation.🎥 If Abbey Rhodes Becomes a Series…When asked what it would mean to portray Abbey long-term, Kristen responds with humility:It would be an honor to represent survivors, to show healing, and to give people someone they can relate to in their own journey.The conversation shifts into a broader discussion about perseverance in creative careers. Both Mitchell and Kristen reflect on rejection, delayed dreams, and the necessity of thick skin in the arts.Mitchell shares how his writing journey didn’t unfold in his twenties as planned — but faithfulness over time opened doors.Connect with Mitchell📚 Learn more about the Abbey Rhodes Mystery Series🎙 Subscribe to the Mitchell S. Karnes Podcast🌐 Visit: MitchellSKarnesAuthor.com

 Big News: The Cleansing Is Officially Out

In this episode, Mitchell S. Karnes celebrates the early release of The Cleansing, the third novel in the Abbey Rhodes Mystery Series.

Originally scheduled for release later in the month, the book arrived early — and readers wasted no time diving in. E-book downloads began immediately, with early readers determined to finish the story in a single sitting.

Unlike the first two novels, The Cleansing introduces:

• A true serial killer storyline

• A chilling murder pattern forming a symbolic “X”

• A ritualistic element suggesting sacrifice

• A killer whose identity is revealed midway through the book

From that point on, the suspense shifts from who the killer is to:

Can Abbey stop the next murder before it happens?

As the case escalates:

• Abbey’s instincts clash with the homicide unit’s conclusions

• A powerful antagonist manipulates events from the shadows

• Abbey herself becomes a person of interest

• She is removed from the investigation she’s closest to solving

Forced to choose between protocol and intuition, Abbey’s decisions drive the story into a high-stakes cat-and-mouse game that will continue through future books in the series.

While The Cleansing can stand alone, readers will benefit from starting with:

1. Watergrave

2. The Least of These

Reading in order deepens:

• Character relationships

• Emotional context

• Long-term narrative tension

Karnes shares that The Cleansing was his most demanding book to date:

• Extensive law enforcement procedural revisions

• Guidance from active homicide consultants

• Multiple rewrites to maintain realism

• Final manuscript expanded to 330 pages

Despite the challenge, early feedback suggests readers feel the growth:

“Each book is better than the last.”

Momentum continues beyond publishing:

• Lead actors were hand-selected by the director

• A professional photo shoot was completed

• Full casting begins May 2026

• Promotional materials are already in development

 February 7, 2026
 Landmark Booksellers — Franklin, TN
 6:00–8:00 PM

 Late February 2026
 Barnes & Noble — Johnson City, TN

 March 2026
 Library Event — Illinois (details coming soon)

• Signed copies available through the author website

• Mitchell is available for in-person or virtual book clubs

• Libraries and bookstores welcome appearances

• Virtual book club sessions will be posted to YouTube soon

 MitchellSKarnesAuthor.com

 What Makes The Cleansing Different Abbey Rhodes Under Fire Do Readers Need to Start at Book One? Behind the Scenes: Writing Challenges Film Adaptation Update Upcoming Book Signings Autographed Copies & Book Clubs Official Website

 Six Days to Release: The Cleansing

In this episode, Mitchell S. Karnes joins Neil Haley to count down the final days before the release of The Cleansing, the third installment in the Abbey Rhodes Mystery Series.

With the cover now revealed and the release date locked for January 22, excitement is building fast as readers prepare for the darkest and most psychologically intense book in the series so far.

The Cleansing marks a major tonal shift for the series:

• Introduces a serial killer

• Features ritualistic murders designed as a taunt and challenge to Abbey Rhodes

• Forces Abbey into a deadly game of prediction, psychology, and pursuit

• Elevates the stakes beyond a single crime scene

Mitchell explains that serial killers operate from a mindset lacking empathy — a chilling reality that makes them both dangerous and difficult to stop.

“To catch them, you have to get into their mind. And that’s a dangerous place to be.”

Karnes discusses why serial killers remain one of the most compelling figures in crime fiction:

• Psychological depth

• Power and control dynamics

• Fear as a motivator

• The mental duel between detective and killer

Drawing inspiration from shows like Criminal Minds, Mitchell crafts an antagonist whose twisted logic clashes directly with Abbey’s evolving worldview.

One of the most compelling tensions in The Cleansing is the contrast between:

• Genuine faith rooted in grace and love

• Religious fanaticism rooted in control and judgment

As Abbey begins to rediscover healthy expressions of faith, she faces a killer who believes their actions are righteous — a mirror image of the spiritual abuse she endured as a child.

This episode dives deeper into Abbey’s psychological makeup:

• PTSD stemming from abuse, exile, and survival

• Her need for control through law enforcement

• The illusion of safety through structure

• Why policing felt like the furthest escape from her past

The serial killer’s actions force Abbey to confront unresolved trauma — not just professionally, but personally.

Mitchell shares how The Cleansing required:

• Extensive rewrites

• Procedural corrections from law enforcement consultants

• Maintaining first-person perspective while entering the antagonist’s mindset

• Balancing realism with emotional intensity

This book pushed him creatively more than any prior installment.

 February 7, 2026
 Landmark Booksellers — Franklin, TN
 6:00 PM

 February 21, 2026
 Barnes & Noble — Johnson City, TN
 2:00–5:00 PM

 Early March 2026
 Illinois Library Event (details forthcoming)

 A New Direction: Serial Killer Territory Why Serial Killers Fascinate Readers Faith vs. Fanaticism Abbey Rhodes: Trauma, Control, and Identity Writing Challenges & Growth Upcoming Book Signings

 Episode Overview

In this episode, Mitchell S. Karnes joins Neil Haley to discuss the upcoming release of The Cleansing, the third novel in the Abbey Rhodes Mystery Series.

Set for release in late January, The Cleansing marks a turning point in the series — introducing a full serial-killer arc, heightened psychological tension, and deeper personal stakes for lead detective Abbey Rhodes.

Originally titled The Curse, the novel evolved as Karnes wrote — revealing a deeper thematic truth:

“It became clear this wasn’t a curse… it was a cleansing.”

Key elements include:

• A serial killer operating across Nashville

• A mastermind antagonist hinted at in Book Two

• A secondary operative carrying out the killings

• A chilling ideology aimed at “cleansing” the city

• Abbey racing to stop murders before they happen

Unlike earlier entries, readers do not know who the killer is, only when the next death may occur — creating relentless suspense.

In The Cleansing, Abbey:

• Battles PTSD from past cases

• Trusts her instincts against departmental pressure

• Clashes with her homicide team’s conclusions

• Risks her career by following her gut

As one of only two women in the homicide unit, Abbey continues to fight both external danger and internal conflict, deepening her character arc in powerful ways.

While The Cleansing can stand alone, Karnes strongly recommends reading:

1. Watergrave

2. The Least of These

Reading in order enhances:

• Character depth

• Emotional payoff

• Long-term narrative tension

Karnes is carving out a bold space between:

• Clean Christian storytelling

• Authentic crime realism

• Psychological depth

• Faith under pressure

Unlike traditional “tidy” Christian fiction or explicit secular thrillers, the Abbey Rhodes series:

• Tackles dark, real-world issues

• Avoids gratuitous violence or language

• Shows faith as presence, not preaching

This approach has earned Karnes recognition as one of Brave Authors 2026, a group of Christian writers addressing difficult themes with integrity.

 Release Date: Late January 2026
 Autographed Copies: Available via author website
 Pre-Orders: Launching soon with signed editions

 Official Website:
 MitchellSKarnesAuthor.com

 What Is The Cleansing About? Abbey Rhodes Faces Her Greatest Challenge Yet Do You Need to Read the Series in Order? A Unique Niche in Christian Fiction Release & Pre-Order Information

In this year-end episode of The Mitchell S. Karnes Podcast (simulcast with The Neil Haley Show), Mitchell reflects on the momentum of 2025 and looks ahead to an ambitious and meaningful 2026. With The Cleansing set to release at the end of January, film production for Watergrave scheduled for July, and a full slate of events already on the calendar, Mitchell shares what it takes to balance writing, promotion, ministry, and patience as an author building something long-term.

This episode offers insight into book sales realities, audience growth, film preparation, and the deeper mission behind the Abbey Rhodes Mysteries.

• The Cleansing is scheduled for late January 2026.

• Mitchell expects his book to release in the third or fourth week of January, following another WordCrafts title earlier in the month.

• Book signings begin in February, including:

  • East Tennessee

  • Middle Tennessee

  • Illinois (March)

• Book clubs are already scheduled:

  • One virtual

  • One in-person

• Mitchell invites additional book clubs to participate either live or via Zoom.

• Mitchell met with:

  • The lead actors

  • Director

  • Cinematographer

  • Sound coordinator

  • Stunt coordinator

• The team visited Valley View Church, where Mitchell once pastored, now a potential primary filming location.

• The sanctuary and baptistry—central to Watergrave—were evaluated for filming.

• Behind-the-scenes coordination, scheduling, and equipment planning are now underway.

Filming remains scheduled for July, with legal and fundraising steps currently in progress.

• Mitchell will appear onscreen as Susan Ripley’s father.

• His role appears briefly at the end of Watergrave and expands in later installments if the series continues.

• Susan is the widow of the pastor whose murder opens the story.

• Watergrave is approaching 500 copies sold.

• The Least of These (Book Two) has surpassed 200 copies sold.

• Mitchell admits impatience with growth—but both his publisher and agent emphasize:

  • The series is still new

  • Word-of-mouth is strong

  • Reviews are consistently 4- and 5-star

• Mitchell has ranked as high as #34–45 in category, qualifying him as an Amazon Bestselling Author.

• Primary audience:

  • Women

  • Ages 20–50

  • Faith-based readers who appreciate realism

• Secondary audience expands upward in age and includes readers outside the church.

• Readers consistently praise:

  • Strong character development

  • Realistic secondary characters

  • Abby’s struggle with faith, trauma, and the church

• Many readers identify with Abby because they’ve been hurt by the church and are drawn to her journey toward reconciliation.

• Mitchell shares that one of his main goals for 2026 is to lean deeper into the ministry aspect of his writing.

• He wants to reach people who’ve been hurt or alienated by church experiences and show:

  • Hurtful individuals don’t represent the whole church

  • They don’t represent God authentically

• He candidly reflects on personal experiences—including how church conflict impacted his own family.

• At least two events per month scheduled through June

• Continued book club appearances (virtual and live)

• Expansion of The Mitchell S. Karnes Podcast into interview-driven episodes, produced by Media Giant Productions

• Acceptance into Brave Authors (2026) — a collective of Christian authors who address difficult, real-world issues

“I know I’m in that in-between space—too gritty for some Christian markets and too Christian for some secular ones. But I believe that space is bigger than either side.” — Mitchell S. Karnes

• Website & Newsletter: https://mitchellskarnesauthor.com

• Books Available: Watergrave, The Least of These

• Upcoming Release: The Cleansing — January 2026

• Book Clubs & Events: In-person and virtual appearances available

👉 Sign up for the email list to receive release updates, film news, signed-copy announcements, and behind-the-scenes insights.

🎧 Subscribe to The Mitchell S. Karnes Podcast for ongoing conversations about writing, faith, trauma, healing, and the journey of bringing the Abbey Rhodes Mysteries from page to screen.

In this forward-looking episode of The Mitchell S. Karnes Podcast, Mitchell shares major updates as he prepares for an exciting 2026. From the January release of The Cleansing (Book Three in the Abbey Rhodes Mysteries) to an expanding slate of book signings, book clubs, and continued momentum toward the Watergrave film adaptation, this episode offers listeners a candid look at what’s next—and what it takes to keep a long-form series moving forward.

Mitchell also opens up about the emotional and psychological depth of Book Three, the challenges of writing through injury, and how real-life experiences continue to shape Abby Rhodes’ journey.

• The Cleansing is set for release at the end of January 2026.

• Book signings scheduled to begin in February, including:

  • East Tennessee

  • Middle Tennessee

  • Illinois (March)

• Two book clubs already scheduled:

  • One in-person

  • One virtual

• Mitchell invites additional book clubs to participate, either live or via Zoom.

• Film production remains scheduled for July.

• Legal groundwork is currently underway, followed by fundraising and expanded casting.

• Casting director has an impressive résumé, including work on:

  • The Help

  • The Green Mile

• Initial plan includes:

  • A theatrical pilot screening

  • Local previews

  • Continued development based on audience response

• Long-term release window anticipated for 2026–2027, depending on distribution.

• Book Three shifts from isolated murders to a killing spree, raising the stakes dramatically.

• The antagonist positions themselves as Abby’s equal and opposite—a “Moriarty to her Sherlock.”

• Abby must not only solve crimes but prevent the next one from happening.

• The danger moves closer to her personal life, forcing Abby to confront:

  • Emotional vulnerability

  • The risk to people she’s beginning to care about

  • Whether to retreat behind walls or continue fully engaged in life and work

• Mitchell draws from real conversations with a retired criminal pathologist who performed over 5,000 autopsies and now struggles with PTSD.

• Explores how professionals in law enforcement and forensic fields cope—or fail to cope—with accumulated trauma.

• This reality deeply informs Abby’s character:

  • How to empathize without self-destruction

  • How to separate work from personal life

  • How to remain human in the face of repeated tragedy

• The Cleansing marks a major turning point for Abby Rhodes.

• Mitchell reiterates why the series was designed as a six-book arc:

  • Trauma, faith, and healing cannot be resolved quickly or neatly.

  • Abby’s transformation unfolds gradually, book by book.

• Mitchell shares a personal update:

  • Two spinal fractures (one hairline, one compression fracture)

  • Recovery expected in 4–6 weeks

• Writing has continued despite pain and limited focus.

• Pain medication has made concentration more difficult, slowing progress on Book Four.

• As Book Four progresses, Mitchell increasingly visualizes scenes cinematically.

• Now writing with the real actors in mind—particularly:

  • Kristen Owenby as Abby

  • Phil Vassar as Sam

• Sam’s musical outlet in the film (using Phil’s songwriting talent) may now be incorporated into the novels as part of his character’s emotional release.

“How do you do your job, connect deeply, and still survive emotionally? That’s the question Abby is facing now—and it’s one a lot of real people face every day.”

• Website & Newsletter: https://mitchellskarnesauthor.com

• Books Available: Watergrave, The Least of These

• Upcoming Release: The Cleansing – January 2026

• Book Clubs & Events: In-person and virtual appearances available

👉 Sign up for the email list to receive updates on book releases, signings, film news, and behind-the-scenes content.

🎧 Subscribe to The Mitchell S. Karnes Podcast for ongoing conversations about writing, faith, trauma, healing, and the journey of bringing the Abbey Rhodes Mysteries from page to screen.

In this milestone episode of The Mitchell S. Karnes Podcast (simulcast with The Neil Haley Show), Mitchell shares official casting news for the upcoming Watergrave film and streaming series. After months of behind-the-scenes development, meetings, and planning, the lead roles are now confirmed—and production is moving fast.

Mitchell reveals who will portray Abbey Rhodes and Sam, discusses upcoming filming timelines, and gives listeners an inside look at how the story is being adapted from page to screen while staying true to the heart of the books.

• Kristen Owenby cast as Abbey Rhodes

  • First major lead role in film

  • Background in stage and theater

  • Chosen for her emotional depth and ability to portray restraint, trauma, and growth

• Phil Vassar cast as Sam

  • Singer-songwriter familiar to Nashville audiences

  • Playing Abby’s partner, mentor, and emotional anchor

  • Bringing musical talent into the project for future creative elements

• Filming scheduled for mid-January

• Estimated 15–18 days of shooting

• Project will be produced as:

  • A larger pilot episode

  • Followed by 2–3 additional episodes for Watergrave

• Total cast size: 70+ speaking roles, plus background extras

• Casting company handling remaining roles

• Director has worked with Kristen Owenby previously and understands her range

• Mitchell met with both leads to:

  • Explain character backstories

  • Discuss emotional triggers and growth arcs

  • Share where each character goes over the course of the series

• Kristen will also meet with a real female homicide detective (one of Mitchell’s advisors) to prepare for authenticity

• Director has committed to honoring the core essence of the novels

• Flashbacks will be visually portrayed instead of referenced

• Emotional arcs—especially Abby’s trauma and healing—will be central to the adaptation

• Viewers are encouraged to read the books first to experience the story before the screen version

• Mitchell continues writing Book Four while production ramps up

• Writing schedule: 1–2 hours per day, fitting sessions into available downtime

• Now writing with real actors in mind, subtly shaping character descriptions and interactions

• Nashville theatrical pilot premiere planned

• Streaming release to follow

• If Season One succeeds, production will move into Books Two and Three

• Mitchell and Neil discuss future:

  • Red carpet events

  • Podcasting on the road

  • Travel-based interviews and coverage

• Mitchell shares plans for a future writing studio in Alabama

• Property development underway, with a long-term vision for a creative retreat space

“You dream about things like this, but you never know if they’ll really happen. Now it’s real—and it’s moving forward.” — Mitchell S. Karnes

• Website & Newsletter: https://mitchellskarnesauthor.com

• Books Available: Watergrave and The Least of These

• Podcast: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms

👉 Sign up for the email list to receive casting updates, filming news, release dates, signed editions, and behind-the-scenes content.

Follow The Mitchell S. Karnes Podcast for continued updates on the Abbey Rhodes Mysteries, the transition from book to screen, and conversations about writing, faith, creativity, and perseverance.

🔑 Episode Highlights🎬 Major Casting Announcements🎥 Production Timeline🎭 Why These Actors Were Chosen📚 Staying True to the Books✍️ Writing While Filming Prep Continues🛣️ Looking Ahead🏡 Personal Update🌟 Key Quote from the Episode🌐 Connect with Mitchell S. Karnes🎧 Subscribe & Follow