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In this special simulcast of The Neil Haley Show and the Mitchell S. Karnes Podcast, Mitchell shares exciting news about the release of his audiobook version of Watergrave and the upcoming launch of the second book in the Abbey Rhodes mystery series, The Least of These. Mitchell and Neil discuss the rewarding process of earning audiobook rights, the realities of author promotion, the creative inspirations behind his latest novel, and valuable insights gained through reader feedback at events. Mitchell also gives listeners a sneak peek into Abby's ongoing journey and reveals the overarching theme driving this captivating series.
Celebrating the Audiobook Release:
Mitchell announces that the audiobook version of Watergrave is now available on Audible, Amazon, and Apple, thanks to strong initial sales.
He discusses the pleasant surprise of learning his sales had justified the audiobook investment and praises the audiobook narrator’s portrayal of Abbey Rhodes.
The Importance of Hard Work and Promotion:
Mitchell emphasizes the crucial role promotion plays in an author’s success, highlighting the importance of celebrating milestones such as audiobook availability.
Shares how embracing promotional activities, though challenging, significantly boosts visibility and readership.
Preview of Upcoming Novel: The Least of These:
Mitchell previews his second Abbey Rhodes mystery, releasing July 16, highlighting its engaging storyline involving two contrasting murders on opposite sides of the river in Nashville.
Reveals the powerful social commentary embedded in the narrative, exploring themes of inequality and injustice between wealthy communities and homeless populations.
Inspiration Behind the Story:
Mitchell explains how real-life observations of Nashville’s homeless communities and urban development inspired the novel’s compelling narrative.
Discusses the emotional and moral dilemmas faced by Abbey Rhodes as she navigates conflicting pressures from city leadership.
Reader Feedback and Character Development:
Mitchell shares the enthusiastic feedback from readers who are connecting deeply with Abbey Rhodes, especially her blend of strength and vulnerability.
Discusses how readers’ responses at events inform his ongoing writing and character development.
The Abbey Rhodes Series Story Arc:
Clarifies how each book in the Abbey Rhodes series solves an individual mystery while progressively unveiling Abbey’s complex past.
Introduces the overarching series theme: "Own the Truth or the Truth Will Own You."
Behind-the-Scenes Writing Insights:
Mitchell provides personal insights into his writing habits and workspace, revealing how he manages deadlines and balances writing with everyday life.
Shares details of his collaborative research process with real-life police officers and forensic experts to maintain authenticity.
Upcoming Events and Opportunities:
Announces upcoming book signings scheduled for August and September, following the July release of The Least of These.
Encourages listeners to engage directly through events, email, and his website.
Website: mitchellskarnesauthor.com
Email: [email protected]
Audiobook & Novels: Available on Audible, Amazon, Apple, and wherever books are sold.
Episode Highlights:Connect with Mitchell:
In this special simulcast episode of The Neil Haley Show and the Mitchell S. Karnes Podcast, Mitchell reflects on the successful launch of his podcast and the journey behind building his author brand. Mitchell and Neil discuss insightful fan interactions, strategies for keeping a mystery series engaging, and the importance of branding and marketing for authors. Mitchell also reveals details about upcoming book events, ongoing series developments, and shares invaluable advice for aspiring writers about patience, perseverance, and genuinely enjoying the writing process.
Exciting Podcast Launch:
Mitchell celebrates the official launch of the Mitchell S. Karnes Podcast, now available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.
Highlights how the podcast provides fans with deeper insights into his books, characters, and writing process.
Fan Engagement and Story Development:
Mitchell shares his experiences from recent fan interactions, discussing how reader feedback actively influences the direction of his Abbey Rhodes mystery series.
Emphasizes the challenge of balancing a satisfying conclusion in each book while maintaining intriguing hooks for future installments.
Crafting the Abbey Rhodes Character Arc:
Details his strategic approach to developing Abbey Rhodes, balancing her strengths as a detective with her vulnerabilities and emotional struggles.
Explains how each novel gradually reveals more of Abbey’s past, making her relatable and compelling.
Memorable Moments from Book Events:
Reflects on humorous interactions with fans, including questions like "Are you a real author?" highlighting the importance of community events and personal connections in building reader loyalty.
Discusses successful book signing events in Johnson City and how readers connect deeply with local settings and relatable characters.
Branding and Marketing Insights:
Neil and Mitchell delve into the critical role branding plays in author success, stressing that strong branding sets Mitchell apart from other independent authors.
Mitchell shares his realization about leveraging specialized skills from professional marketers, allowing him to focus on writing and personal engagement.
Advice for Aspiring Authors:
Mitchell emphasizes the myth of overnight success, sharing the realities of consistent effort, patience, and long-term strategy.
Advises new writers to test their books' marketability early, gather reader feedback, and invest wisely in marketing to build a sustainable audience.
Mitchell’s Vision and Long-Term Goals:
Discusses how the Abbey Rhodes series fits into his retirement plan, highlighting his commitment to writing and ongoing audience building.
Shares exciting possibilities for movie and streaming adaptations of his books, looking forward to future growth and creative exploration.
A Powerful Quote for Writers:
Mitchell recalls advice from a writing professor:
"If you don't enjoy writing it, why do you expect someone to enjoy reading it?"
Reinforces the importance of genuine passion in writing as the foundation for reader enjoyment.
Website: mitchellskarnesauthor.com
Books Available: Amazon Author Page
Episode Highlights:Connect with Mitchell:
Welcome to the Mitchell S. Karnes Podcast—where stories aren't just told, they're lived, unpacked, and redeemed. In this introductory trailer, author and speaker Mitchell S. Karnes invites you into a podcast designed for deeper conversations about faith, mystery, purpose, pain, and healing. Each week, Mitchell shares behind-the-scenes insights into his books, personal reflections from his life experiences, and candid discussions with special guests. Whether you’re already a fan of Mitchell’s Abbey Rhodes mystery series or you've just discovered this podcast, there's something meaningful here for you. Subscribe now and join Mitchell on a journey filled with truth, grace, and stories that speak to the soul.
From the publisher's feed