The Ecology of Story: James Wade on Place, Character, and Conflict

The Ecology of Story: James Wade on Place, Character, and Conflict

In this episode of West of the Page, award-winning Western and Southern fiction author James Wade joins us for a deep conversation on craft, character, and the power of place. From his latest short story “The Harvest” in the anthology Rough Country—written in support of the U.S. Marshals—to his broader body of work, Wade unpacks how setting becomes a living force, how moral lines blur under pressure, and why writing can serve as a form of self-therapy. Drawing from works like Narrow the Road, All Things Left Wild, and Beasts of the Earth, he humbly reflects on a career marked by major recognition, including multiple Spur Awards and the 2026 Western Heritage Award. The conversation moves through the influence of East Texas on his Southern Gothic tone, the idea that “criminals” and “cops” are often shaped more by circumstance than character, and why he believes reading is a kind of sacred collaboration between writer and reader. He also shares the early influences and mentors that shaped his path—and why the writing community remains one of the most supportive creative spaces. This is a conversation about storytelling—but also about humanity, imagination, and the choices that define us.

How Craig Johnson Created Walt Longmire : Writing Secrets, Rough Country & New Book

Bestselling author Craig Johnson, the mind behind the iconic Walt Longmire series, sits down for an in-depth interview exploring his latest work in the Rough Country anthology. Discover the fascinating true story behind “The Perfect A,” inspired by a 1930s Wyoming sheep herder’s unexpected connection to the New York Philharmonic, and get a rare look into Johnson’s creative process, storytelling techniques, and writing rituals. From his 22-year Christmas tradition of gifting free short stories to fans to behind-the-scenes insights as a creative consultant on the hit TV adaptation Longmire, Johnson shares humor, wisdom, and hard-earned experience. Hear how Wyoming’s vast landscapes shape his themes, why technology often takes a backseat to nature in his stories, and how music—from jazz to film scores—fuels his writing sessions. This is a must-watch for fans of mystery, Western fiction, and aspiring writers looking for inspiration from one of today’s most beloved storytellers.

From Regency Era to Ice Age: Lysandra James Talks Truthtaker

Lysandra James talks about her fantasy novel Truthtaker—a genre-bending story that blends historical fiction, time displacement, and magic. In this episode, we explore the world of Truthtaker, where characters from the Regency era are mysteriously transported to the Ice Age and form a powerful matriarchal society known as “New London.” With magic that shifts the balance of power, the story dives into survival, control, and the growing divide between those who want to return home and those determined to build a new future. Along the way, a slow-burn romance unfolds, adding emotional depth to an already high-stakes world. Lysandra James also shares insight into her writing process, including how the idea came to her during the pandemic and how she blends structured plotting with intuitive storytelling. She discusses the tools and frameworks that shape her work, as well as the creative instincts that bring her characters to life. The conversation also highlights her personal journey as a breast cancer survivor and how that experience has influenced her storytelling, particularly in her upcoming project, Freeing the Muse. She also reveals plans for a larger “displaced universe,” with multiple books spanning different time periods, from ancient civilizations to more modern eras.

Write Like Everyone’s Dead: Joe R. Lansdale on Craft, Grit, and Story

From comic books to cult classics—here’s how Joe R. Lansdale became one of the most original voices in modern storytelling. Lansdale dives into his wild, genre-bending career, from crime and horror to westerns packed with grit and myth. He talks about his story “Under the Moon of Arizona” from the Rough Country anthology, where he reimagines real-life Black cowboy Nat Love and brings overlooked history back into the spotlight. The anthology also supports the U.S. Marshals Survivors Benefit Fund, adding a meaningful real-world impact to the work. You’ll also hear about his “seat of the pants” writing style—no outlines, just instinct—why he writes for himself instead of chasing the market, how decades of martial arts experience shape his visceral fight scenes, and the discipline behind showing up to write every single day. Whether you’re a writer, reader, or just love a good story—this is packed with insight and inspiration.

Blending Science, Romance, and Fantasy with Mary Shotwell

Dive into storytelling, science, and second chances in this episode of West of the Page! Hosts Lindsay Flanagan and Staci sit down with author Mary Shotwell to explore her unique journey from biostatistics to bestselling fiction. From dolphin research to whale-watching rivals, Mary shares how her scientific background shapes her unforgettable stories. We talk about her Maiden’s Bay romance series, her fantasy Soulquake world, and a brand-new sci-fi romcom you won’t want to miss ! Plus: Why “second chances” are at the heart of her books, her surprising favorite part of writing (hint: it’s editing!), the real-life inspiration behind Romancing Rivals, and the TV couple that influenced her romance style (fans of Brooklyn Nine-Nine will love this)!