The Lexicon by A W KellermanThe Lexicon by A W Kellerman
J Hirtle The Last Storyteller
A.W. Kellerman discusses turning a short story into 'The Lexicon', a horror novel, sharing insights on writing, editing, and self-publishing.
34:38•13 Jan 2026
From Short Story to Horror Novel: A.W. Kellerman's Journey
Episode Overview
- A.W. Kellerman expanded a short story into a full-length horror novel.
- Character development required significant rewriting for depth.
- Daily writing goals helped maintain discipline during the process.
- Fresh eyes are crucial for effective self-editing.
- Feedback from beta readers is invaluable for refining a manuscript.
“"There were points in writing this book that actually made me sick... even scared to turn the lights off."”
Curious about how a horror novel comes to life? This episode features an engaging chat with A.W. Kellerman, the author of 'The Lexicon', a gripping tale that started as a short story and evolved into a full-length novel. Kellerman shares his journey from writing short stories at 17 to crafting a chilling horror narrative. He reveals the challenges of character development and the discipline needed to expand a story organically.
Host J Hirtle, himself a seasoned storyteller, draws parallels between Kellerman's process and that of legendary writers like Stephen King. The conversation delves into the importance of fresh eyes in editing and the trials of self-publishing, offering budding writers practical insights. Kellerman's passion for horror and fantasy shines through as he discusses his writing influences and future projects. Whether you're an aspiring writer or a horror aficionado, this episode promises to be both informative and inspiring.
As you ponder the power of words to evoke fear and emotion, ask yourself: What story could you bring to life?
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