A lot of people say they want to write a book, but what they really mean is they want to have written one. We get honest about the gap between those two things, and why the difference is almost never talent. It’s grit, craft, and the decision not to quit when the work turns into a long, hot march.

We talk with the author behind the Gunny Mac historical fiction series, a storyteller shaped by the Marine Corps, deep reading, and a love of character-driven plots. He shares the simple mindset shift that helped him stop romanticizing the process and start finishing pages, plus the surprisingly powerful lesson he picked up at a small writers conference: nail your concept and premise, then let character logic do the heavy lifting. If you’ve ever felt stuck, this will give you a practical way forward without gimmicks.

From there, we dig into what makes historical fiction feel alive. He explains how research becomes story texture, why humor belongs even in hard times, and why shock-value violence can’t replace real character development. We also get into the themes that run through his books: duty, honor, service, faith, redemption, and the kind of loyalty that turns strangers into family. You’ll hear how Gunny Mac is built as a tough Marine with a bruised heart, and why flawed people trying to do the right thing can be the most compelling heroes.

If you love WWII-era history, Marine Corps stories, character-driven novels, and no-nonsense writing advice, you’ll get a lot out of this conversation. Subscribe for more author interviews, share this with a writer friend who’s been stalling, and leave a review so more readers and storytellers can find the show. Grab the series here: https://amzn.to/4uI0ux1

Support the show

Elsa's AMAZON STORE
Elsa's FAITH & FREEDOM MERCH STORE

Elsa's BOOKS
Elsa Kurt: You may know her for her uncanny, viral Kamala Harris impressions & conservative comedy skits, but she’s also a lifelong Patriot & longtime Police Wife. She has channeled her fierce love and passion for God, family, country, and those who serve as the creator, Executive Producer & Host of the Elsa Kurt Show with Clay Novak. Her show discusses today’s topics & news from a middle class/blue collar family & conservative perspective. The vocal LEOW’s career began as a multi-genre author who has penned over 25 books, including twelve contemporary women’s novels.

Clay Novak: Clay Novak was commissioned in 1995 as a Second Lieutenant of Infantry and served as an officer for twenty four years in Mechanized Infantry, Airborne Infantry, and Cavalry units . He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in 2019. Clay is a graduate of the U.S. Army Ranger School and is a Master Rated Parachutist, serving for more tha...