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Five Compelling Questions with Shawn

Five Compelling Questions with Shawn

By: Shawn Reilly Simmons
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About this listen

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, staying motivated, writing as a career, staying sane during the creative process, and balancing fictional and real life.Shawn Reilly Simmons Art Literary History & Criticism
Episodes
  • EP 252: 5CQ for Patrick H. Moore, Author of Giant Steps
    Sep 22 2025

    In this engaging conversation, Shawn Simmons interviews Patrick Moore, a crime fiction author and former investigator. They discuss Moore's Nick Crane trilogy, the evolution of crime fiction, the significance of Los Angeles as a setting, and the power of words in writing. Moore shares insights on character development, offers advice for aspiring writers, and reveals his future projects, including a new suspense novel. The discussion highlights the importance of storytelling and the impact of current events on crime fiction.

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    44 mins
  • EP 254: 5CQ for Valerie Burns, Author of Icing on the Murder
    Jul 7 2025

    In this engaging conversation, Shawn Simmons interviews Valerie Burns, an acclaimed mystery writer, about her latest book 'Icing on the Murder.' They discuss the protagonist Maddie's journey, the culinary cozy mystery genre, character development, and the challenges of writing within this genre. Valerie shares insights into her writing process, her advice for aspiring authors, and where listeners can find her books.

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    23 mins
  • EP 252: 5CQ for Jane Loeb Rubin, Author of Over There
    Jun 13 2025

    In this engaging conversation, Shawn Simmons interviews author Jane Loeb Rubin about her latest historical novel 'Over There,' which explores the lives of medical professionals during World War I. They discuss the characters, themes, and the impact of war on society and medicine, as well as the importance of family dynamics and the lessons history teaches us. Jane shares her personal connection to the story and her ongoing writing journey, emphasizing the role of women in historical narratives and the significance of understanding our past to shape a better future.

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    27 mins
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