What goes into a good cozy mystery novel
Mystery fiction generated approximately $1.2 billion in U.S. revenue in 2025 — and cozy mysteries are a big reason why. But writing a cozy that satisfies readers takes more than a dead body and a small town. USA Today bestselling authors Sara Rosett and Tonya Kappes break down the rules, rhythms, and secrets behind the genre's most beloved sub-genre.
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Why do we find (some) stories satisfying?
Why do some stories resonate with readers while other fall flat? Here's a peek behind the curtain of tropes and genre conventions.
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Myths, fantasy and dark anti-heroes
Romantasy author Scarlett St. Clair, author of NYT bestseller "A Touch of Chaos" on writing dark anti-heroes
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When authors pivot to a new genre
Wall Street Journal bestselling author Jeff Wheeler discusses switching from writing in the fantasy genre to writing action thrillers.
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How to incorporate your life into your novel’s characters
Authors Alessandra Torre and Mary Carroll Moore discuss how writers can incorporate themselves into their characters. Mary Carroll shares how she incorporated some of her own life experiences into her new book, "A Woman’s Guide to Search and Rescue."
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A memoirist steps through self-imposed barriers
Author Debbie Weiss shared her journey of overcoming self-imposed boundaries to write her memoir, "On Second Thought, Maybe I Can."
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What is creative nonfiction?
Lynne Golodner, an author, entrepreneur and writing coach, discusses the similarities & differences between creative nonfiction & fiction with Alessandra Torre.
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From screenwriter to published author
Author Jane L. Rosen joins Alessandra Torre to discuss her transition from screenwriter to novelist and how to apply screenwriting principles to novel writing.
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Brainstorm to book: Steps to publishing
Authors Alessandra Torre and Kathleen Fine discuss steps, advice, and tips on how first-time novel writers can get their book published.
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Plotting for pantsers: How to balance structure & creativity
Alessandra Torre and Sci-fi and fantasy author Lael Raphael discuss plotting for pantsers.
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Breaking down the types of editing for your novel
Author Kim Catanzarite discusses the many phases of the editorial process—from the first draft to proofreading and everything in between.
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Novel research: How much is too much?
April White discusses how to write and research in an age when representation and diversity are so important in our stories.
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