In this episode of Bound for Bestseller, Valerie Morris sits down with author Jeff Kildow to dive deep into the fascinating world of alternative history fiction. Jeff Kildow shares his unique approach to reimagining 20th-century history, the intricate research that fuels his stories, and how his military and engineering background infuses authenticity into his novels.

Jeff Kildow discusses his hit series, starting with Nazi Menace, which explores World War II and asks “What if?” at a critical turning point in history. He explains how his books blend real events with imaginative departures, all while sticking firmly to the technological and societal realities of each era. The conversation also covers his creative process, the importance of detailed research, and the creative habits that help him bring authentic - and sometimes obscure- details into his fiction.

Listeners will hear about Jeff Kildow’s inspirations, his favorite techniques for building compelling characters, the challenges of killing off beloved creations, and his advice for aspiring writers of fiction, especially in the alternative history genre. Plus, discover how real-life experiences and travel inspire his stories, and why authenticity is essential in an AI-driven world.

• What alternative history fiction really is and how Jeff Kildow creates believable “what if?” scenarios
• The landmark moments behind his WWII thriller Nazi Menace and its sequels set during the Korean War and Suez Crisis
• How a military and engineering career translates into gripping, authentic storytelling
• The importance of research, from historical accuracy to oddball airplane “Easter eggs” in books
• Writing habits: capturing inspiration, making notes everywhere, and balancing technical detail with engaging narrative
• Crafting memorable characters, their arcs, and the emotional challenge of “killing your darlings”
• Advice for new and aspiring fiction writers, including the value of accurate history, avoiding clichés, and leveraging your own unique experiences
• The crucial role of authenticity and trust for writers in today’s content landscape

• Visit Jeff’s website: jeffkildow.com for books, updates, and more!

Whether you’re a military history buff, a fiction writer, or just love a good “what if” scenario, this episode is packed with practical advice, entertaining anecdotes, and encouragement to embrace both your left and right brain!