Author Jonathan Robbins-Killer Bookends

Author Jonathan Robbins-Killer Bookends

How can compelling narratives motivate and inspire others? This conversation between host J Hirtle and debut author Jonathan Robbins leans into that question through the lens of dark fiction and the craft of writing.

You’ll hear Jonathan talk about balancing a demanding full‑time job in special education with late‑night writing sessions, and why “time is the most important thing in the process.” Working with autistic students in inclusive classrooms, he brings a grounded, human touch to the eerie tales found in his short story collection *Killer Bookends*—10 stories featuring vampires, hitmen, haunted objects, and plenty of twists.

Fans of *The Twilight Zone* and Stephen King’s *Night Shift* will feel right at home, as Jonathan shares how writers like Rod Serling and King shaped his love of short fiction. He and Jim chat about bending the classic “show, don’t tell” rule, how short stories demand ruthless brevity, and why sometimes giving readers a key detail quickly beats a page of description. There’s plenty here for aspiring writers too.

Jonathan explains how much research went into stories like “Descent Into Darkness”, his pride in finishing the book over a year and a half, and the decision to invest in professional cover design and formatting. They get honest about beta readers, the need to park your ego, and the growing problem of scammers targeting first‑time authors online.

All the while, Jim keeps things relaxed and funny, praising shock endings like “Well Preserved” and championing Jonathan’s character work, where side characters sometimes steal the show and reshape the story. If you’re drawn to dark tales, love short stories, or are toying with the idea of writing your own book one day, this chat might nudge you to put the phone down, pick up a book, and then start your own page.

So what would you be willing to give up for an hour of honest writing time?