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

The Real-Life Case That Inspired Betsy Randolph's Powerful Story

Retired Oklahoma State Trooper and author Betsy Randolph joins us to discuss her powerful contribution to the Rough Country anthology, If Only: A Policewoman’s Heartache. Drawing inspiration from a traumatic real-life case she encountered during her 27-year law enforcement career, Randolph explores the emotional toll of policing, the cumulative impact of trauma on first responders, and the importance of mental health support, honesty, and vulnerability. In this interview, Betsy shares the story behind her strong female protagonist, Linda—a former law enforcement officer who transitions into journalism before ultimately returning to serve as a U.S. Marshal—and how her own experiences in journalism, military service, and policing shaped the narrative. Rough Country is more than a collection of western stories—it's a charitable anthology supporting the U.S. Marshals Museum and survivors of U.S. Marshals. Watch the full interview to hear the story behind the story. #BetsyRandolph #RoughCountry #WesternFiction #USMarshals #LawEnforcement #FirstResponders #AuthorInterview #Anthology #WritingCommunity #ContemporaryWestern #MentalHealthAwareness

Phillip Thompson on Storytelling, Noir, and the Writing Life

Crime fiction author Phillip Thompson joins us to discuss his short story "Get Out of Denver," featured in the Hard Country anthology. Thompson shares the inspiration behind the story, the challenges of writing outside his usual Southern crime fiction settings, and what makes a compelling noir-inspired character. He also reflects on his journey from journalism and the Marine Corps to becoming an acclaimed crime writer, offering insights into his writing process, the importance of reading, and the discipline required to bring stories to life. Along the way, he discusses the influence of great authors, the value of strong editing, and why supporting the U.S. Marshals Museum through Hard Country is meaningful to him. Whether you're a fan of crime fiction, interested in the craft of writing, or curious about the stories behind the stories, this interview offers a fascinating look inside the mind of a working author.

Larry Sweazy on Writing, Revision, and the Stories That Stay With Us

What does it take to build a career spanning 19 novels, dozens of published short stories, and multiple award-winning mystery and Western series? In this fascinating conversation, author Larry Sweazy pulls back the curtain on his writing life, sharing hard-earned lessons about creativity, discipline, storytelling, and the unexpected ways great ideas take shape. From discovering characters on the page to crafting stories that resonate long after the final chapter, Larry offers insights that will inspire writers and readers alike. We also explore the tale behind "Rusted Birdcages," his short story that is featured in the Hard Country anthology, and the powerful themes that drove its creation. If you love books, storytelling, or hearing how accomplished authors approach their craft, you won't want to miss this conversation.

How Jefferson Glass Recreates the American West Using Real Historical Research

Award-winning author and historical researcher Jefferson Glass joins us for a fascinating conversation about the American West, historical fiction, Western mysteries, and the art of bringing history to life on the page. We explore Jefferson's unique research process, his passion for uncovering forgotten stories from the Northern Plains and Rocky Mountain West, and how real historical locations inspire his fiction. He also shares insights into character development, writing authentic Western settings, and the challenges of balancing historical accuracy with compelling storytelling. Along the way, we discuss the rich history of Kanab, Utah—known as "Little Hollywood"—the influence of legendary Western authors, and the importance of preserving the stories that shaped the American frontier. Whether you're a fan of Western fiction, historical mysteries, American history, writing craft, or independent authors, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the research, inspiration, and dedication that go into creating unforgettable stories.

Laura Buchwald Discusses Ghosts, Creativity, and Healing Through Fiction

Award-winning author Laura Buchwald joins West of the Page for a fascinating conversation about ghosts, grief, creativity, and the stories that connect us. Laura discusses her debut novel The Coat Check Girl — a finalist for the American Bookfest Awards in Best General Fiction — and takes us inside the supernatural world of Josie, a young woman learning to live with her ability to communicate with spirits. In this episode, we explore the inspiration behind her haunted and atmospheric settings in New York City and New Orleans, the real-life origins of the “Ghost Table” concept, and why restaurants became the perfect backdrop for stories about energy, emotion, and the afterlife. Laura also shares how themes of grief, healing, and human connection shape the trilogy, offers a preview of The Book of Reservations, out now in hardcover and paperback, and discusses the emotional direction of Book Three as Josie searches for purpose without her sixth sense. If you love literary fiction with supernatural elements, conversations about the creative process, and stories rooted in emotional truth, this episode is for you.