Issue 2

J.D. Barker’s journey from his childhood imaginings in Crystal Lake, Illinois, to the international stage as a bestselling author is inspiring. His works—ranging from solo masterpieces like The Fourth Monkey and Behind A Closed Door to collaborations with literary titans such as James Patterson and the Stoker family—have not only entertained but also set new benchmarks for fiction. Barker’s fearless blending of suspense, horror, and psychological intrigue creates stories that are unforgettable.  

In our exclusive interview, Barker shares fascinating insights into his creative process, professional journey, and serendipitous moments that shaped his career. Each anecdote—from ghostly tales in his youth to co-authoring Dracul with Bram Stoker’s family—brims with inspiration for aspiring writers and fans alike. Barker is not just a storyteller; he is a visionary who bridges the divide between commercial success and artistic integrity.  

In addition to J.D. Barker, Novelist Post is honored to have welcomed a roster of exceptional authors who have graced our pages and shared their unique experiences and perspectives. From bestselling sensations to emerging literary voices, these storytellers have enriched our community and fueled our love for the written word. We celebrate:  

Daniel Pink, Lucinda Brant, Sawyer Bennett, Annabel Joseph, Jamie Beck, Sarah McCoy, Rachel Van Dyken, Toni Anderson, Anjali Banerjee, L. P. Dover, Craig Ford, Tammy Gerhard, Diane Capogna, Joann Dickinson, Cheryl Williams, Michael Bailey, J. A. Newman, Shelia E. Bell, Molly Johnston, Laura Ball, Stephen Hecker, Francine Falk-Allen, Teresa Inge, Lynne Roberto, Marc Fetscherin, Shari Nichols, Ann Hunter, Brandon Moore, William J. Jackson, K.A. Griffin, Kirsten Pursell, and Jason Gabriel.  

Each of these authors has shared their inspiring stories, insights, and creative processes, bringing our readers closer to the heart of what makes storytelling so transformative. Their journeys are as diverse as their voices, yet their shared passion for the written word unites them—and us—in a vibrant literary community.  

In this issue, we also turned our attention to the wonderful visual art and media that complements the written word so beautifully. To make our pages more colorful and diverse, we featured work by brilliant artists, creating a richer experience for all our readers. Art and media are natural companions to literature, and they inspire every intellectual to expand their imagination. For these collaborations, we were delighted to partner with the teams at WOWwART Magazine and Mosaic Digest. Their contributions have infused this issue with vibrancy and creativity that extend beyond the written word. A heartfelt thank you to the editors of these magazines for their invaluable contributions.  

As you explore this issue, we invite you to discover the many facets of what makes novels, art, and media so transformative. From J.D. Barker’s life-changing pivots to the vivid creativity of authors and artists who fill these pages, this issue celebrates the sheer wonder of storytelling in all its forms. May these stories, interviews, and visuals inspire your imagination, whether you are an avid reader, a budding author, an art lover, or all three.  

Happy reading and storytelling!  

The Editorial Team at Novelist Post