Bestselling authors William Bernhardt and Rene Gutteridge discuss the latest news from the world of books, offer writing tips, and interview Dean Koontz, mega-bestselling author of The Big Dark Sky and many other fine novels.

Introduction
We are now the WriterCon podcast. New name, same great content. And the multi-talented author Rene Gutteridge joins as co-host.

WriterCon is Labor Day weekend, September 2-5, and it is not too late to register. Learn what you need to know from over 60 writers and other industry experts. Pitch agents and publishers. Enter contests. Plan your novel and your marketing plan. Achieve your writing dreams. Learn more at www.writercon.com.

News
1) The government considers whether Random House should be permitted to acquire Simon & Schuster.
2) A TikTok sensation scores a major traditional publishing contract by "building a community."

Interview
Dean Koontz, the master of imaginative fiction discusses:
1) Why he is a pantser, not a planner;
2) How to shape characters who will attract readers;
3) The challenges he still faces when writing;
4) The key role of his dogs in his life; and
5) When to listen to writing advice—and when to ignore it.

Parting Words
Bernhardt has a new novel out, Plot/Counterplot, a standalone thriller and, if the reviews can be believed, the best thing I’ve written in years. The story: a thriller writer is captured by someone who wants to use his ingenious plotting skills to help them steal an "unobtainable" weapon that could permanently change the balance of world power. Check it out! https://amazon.com/Plot-Counterplot-William-Bernhardt-ebook/dp/B0B53P4LNF/

Don't forget to register for WriterCon. We have authors, agents, editors, book marketers, author assistants, over 70 sessions, and many chances for you to meet people, network, and get the connections and knowledge you need to build your writing career. www.writercon.com

William Bernhardt
www.williambernhardt.com

Rene Gutteridge
www.renegutteridge.com

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