Killer Prose

In the episode, I talk to author Brad Ricks about his series, The Night Crew. We chat about what it's like to write a series vs. a stand-alone, writing a monster/case of the week format while weaving in overarching plot points, and the importance of strong, relatable characters.

Connect with Brad and his books at

• https://bradricks.com
• https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GX2YGMYG?lv=shuf&channelId=500&plpRedirect=mhFallback
• Join Bra...

Word selection in fiction writing profoundly influences the narrative's tone and atmosphere, guiding the reader's emotional experience. Specificity in language allows for deeper insights into character. In this episode, I dig into word choice and how it can help you craft vivid worlds that keep your readers connected.

Connect with me:

• Join the Discord Community for live Writing Sprints: https://discord.gg/xkm9TPMzzb
• Killer Prose P...

In this episode, I talk about the crucial role coaching has played in my voice acting and audiobook narration journey, and the importance of investing in the same professional guidance for writing. I look back on my six-year journey as a writer and how my initial focus on craft (while important) didn't help me with the business side of publishing, which is essential for success.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Voice Acting A...

In this episode, Tanner talks about how seeking out feedback has helped him bcome a better writer and audiobook narrator.

Connect with the show at https://www.killerprose.com

Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/9ZnxYbJj

Email me at killerpenbooks@gmail.com

Follow my work at https://www.tannerrutledgebooks.com

Holly's Writing Classes: https://www.hollyswritingclasses.com/

Autocrit: https://www.autocrit.com/

Pro Writing Aid: https://prow...

In this episode of Killer Prose, Tanner shares his one-year journey into audiobook narration. He details his initial struggles with recording quality and his gradual shift from podcasting to high-quality VO work. Tanner gets into the technical and financial aspects of setting up a professional recording environment, debunking myths about costly setups. He offers practical advice on equipment, room treatment, and skill development, ...

Wow, I really missed the mark on some of my 2025 goals. In this episode, I talk about what went wrong, what went right, and what I learned along the way.

00:00 Intro

00:54 Goals and Challenges: A Year in Review

01:42 Rewriting and Retitling: The Creative Process

03:27 Lessons Learned from Podcasting and Writing

07:14 Looking Ahead: Goals for 2026

09:42 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Connect with the Killer Prose at: https://www.killerpr...

In this episode, Tanner discusses how dictation has significantly improved his writing speed, doubling or tripling his output in the first draft stage. He shares his initial challenges and the benefits he discovered, such as increased productivity and more effective use of liminal times. He provides practical tips for getting started with dictation using simple tools like a smartphone and earbuds, and highlights the pros and cons o...

In this episode of Killer Prose, Tanner sits down with John Ward, author of the Scareville series, to discuss the nuances of writing middle-grade and adult horror. John shares his journey into writing, including early influences like Goosebumps, his writing process, and how he approaches crafting horror stories for younger audiences. They get into the challenges of transitioning between middle-grade and adult horror, the importance...

In this episode of Killer Prose, Tanner sits down with author R.M. Galardo to discuss her latest book, 'Traveler,' and its development from her initial work, 'Sister.' They talk about the complexities of series writing, exploring how 'Heirloom' evolved into 'Traveler' and the lessons learned during the writing journey. The conversation also highlights the importance of writing courses and communities, particularly Holly's Writing C...

In this episode of the Killer Pros podcast, Tanner updates listeners on his list of resources for writers in 2025. Tanner discusses valuable tools and platforms he uses for every stage of the writing process, from learning and drafting to editing and marketing. The episode includes his go-to classes, writing communities, and podcasts, as well as essential software and services for writing and publishing, such as Scrivener, AutoCrit...

In this episode of the Killer Pros podcast, Tanner provides an update on his time management strategies, leading to significant progress in his writing and author brand development. Tanner discusses his upcoming debut novel, the transition from writing 'Hant' to focusing on the 'Whisper Hollow Mystery' series, and the essential steps in setting up his author brand and publishing business. He touches on the complexities of ISBN acqu...

In this episode of the Killer Podcast, Tanner shares insights on how writers can take control of their time to enhance productivity and achieve their long-term goals. Tanner discusses his personal experience with time management, including how his chaotic day job and family life led him to conduct a time audit. He explains three powerful strategies: time audits to track where your time is going, time blocking to schedule important ...

In this episode of The Killer Prose Podcast, Tanner takes you into the world of audio productions, focusing on turning written stories into audiobooks, podcasts, or YouTube content. Tanner discusses the value and benefits of audiobooks, the process, and expenses involved, and details the equipment and setup needed for professional narration. He explains the difference between dynamic and condenser microphones, the importance of a s...

In this episode of Killer Pros, Tanner chats with cover designer Ruth Anna Evans about all aspects of cover design. They discuss Ruth's career, her approach to designing book covers, and the intricacies of working with a cover designer, including licensing. Ruth shares her journey from designing covers for her own books due to budget constraints to becoming a professional cover designer. The conversation also covers the importance ...

In this solo episode of the Killer Pros podcast, Tanner discusses recent changes in his revision process, particularly shifting back to using notecards for outlining and revisions. He also shares personal updates, including recovering from a fractured arm which has impacted his writing and podcasting activities. Tanner highlights his ongoing projects, such as working on the revision of his book 'The Haint' and launching his voiceov...

In this episode of the Killer Pros podcast, host Tanner interviews Meriah Gutterson, an experienced editor from Marked Up Editing. They discuss the editing process, the importance of maintaining story continuity, and the common mistakes new authors make. Mariah shares valuable insights on how to work with an editor and the benefits of early consultation. She also provides tips for character development, maintaining an author's voic...

In this solo episode of the Killer Pros podcast, I discusses my writing process, recent projects, and how I developed my unique voice and style as a horror thriller writer. I share insights on genre blending, my evolving writing style, and the outline process for my latest works, including 'The Hant.'

00:28 Introduction

01:02 Current Writing Projects

01:42 Exploring Genre Blends

04:07 Finding My Writing Voice

11:53 Developing 'The Hain...

In this episode of the Killer Pros, Tanner interviews author Brad Ricks about his new series, 'The Night Crew.' They discuss the intricacies of blending horror with action thriller elements, the evolution of writing styles, and the challenges of creating authentic and engaging stories. Brad shares insights into his writing process, character development, and the motivation behind his vampire lore, while also touching on the importa...

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

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