Today’s special guest is short story writer Bentley Turner. We’re chatting about his new collection of shorts, The Prize Winners and Other Stories.
Bio:
Bentley Turner has written short stories and numerous poems for literary journals and anthologies. He wrote the mystery “The File on Thomas Marks,” which was published by the Global Publishing Group in 2021.
What do you enjoy most about writing short stories?
I enjoy trying to write a short story that features a few characters and a plot. The latter is not that easy to do―at least, it isn’t for me.
Can you give us a little insight into a few of your short stories – perhaps some of your favorites?
One of the stories in this collection is rather long and concerns two detectives who investigate the murders of two women. Although the detectives think they have the murderer, they learn later that he is innocent. The story should be of interest to readers who enjoy detective fiction. Another story concerns a young man in his twenties who meets a young woman and persuades her to go with him across the country. Although he explains the reason for the trip, she learns later the real reason, which causes them to be hunted by the authorities. Other stories concern young people who have to deal with intolerant teachers, fickle girlfriends, and unusual pets. Other stories feature adults who have to face loneliness, mental illness, and rejection, to mention a few issues.
What genre are you inspired to write in the most? Why?
I enjoy writing mysteries primarily because of the twists and turns in the plots. In other words, in order to entertain readers, the plots must contain twists and turns in these novels. Otherwise, readers will more than likely put the novels aside.
What exciting story are you working on next?
I have submitted two lengthy novels. One is a mystery about the murder of a prominent businessman that includes the trial of the accused. The other concerns an agent with the Central Intelligence Agency. This agent becomes the head of a small department that investigates Unidentified Flying Objects. However, in addition to learning about UFOs, he learns that another agent is not who he’s supposed to be.
When did you first consider yourself a writer?
When a short story was actually accepted for publication. This was a long time ago, by the way.
How do you research markets for your work, perhaps as some advice for writers?
For publishers, I do most of my searches online. There are several sites that list numerous publishers for books, which is what I mostly write. I also check the sites of “The Writer” and “Writer’s Digest.” Of course, there are other sites that list various publishers.
What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
I try to keep to a schedule, no matter what I’m writing.
As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Believe it or not I wanted to be a writer.
Anything additional you want to share with the readers?
If they order a copy of my latest book, I hope they enjoy reading the stories as much as I enjoyed writing them.
Links:
Amazon Author Page | Goodreads Author Page
Thanks for being here today.