The Thriller Zone David Temple

On today’s 178th episode of The Thriller Zone, David Temple and Scott Carson, author of Lost Man's Lane, discusses his writing process and the importance of voice in storytelling. He shares his experience working with a private investigator and how it influenced his latest novel.
Carson also talks about the power of face-to-face interviews and the impact of feedback on the writing process.
Scott offers advice to aspiring writers, emphasizing the importance of reading widely and keeping goals close to the vest. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the magic of voice and the thrill of having respected authors read and praise your work.
Takeaways
Using a pen name can help differentiate between different genres and target specific readerships.Supernatural stories can be challenging to write well and appeal to skeptics, but the satisfaction of success is greater.Readers often have preferences for certain genres and may be more open to different types of stories within those genres.As a writer, it's important to challenge yourself and try new things to continue growing and producing your best work.Building a connection with readers is crucial, and they will follow you across genres if they enjoy your writing style and storytelling. The importance of having fun and taking risks in life and artThe power of voice in writing and the uniqueness each writer bringsThe value of reading widely to improve writing skillsThe benefits of keeping writing goals private and avoiding early feedbackSound Bites
"If people like your prose, be whatever flavor it is, they're going to follow you wherever you go.""The supernatural stories are by far the more difficult ones for me. But the satisfaction of sticking the landing is maybe a little bit greater.""I don't think you're ever going to get your best work by staying in the familiar. It's going out there and getting a little bit dangerous.""We only get one crack at this life. So why don't we just have fun with it?""The thing that makes your heart beat a little faster, whatever your emotional cues and triggers are, those are going to still be there no matter how different the story world might be.""Write the first draft with the door shut.”"Voice is the magic, the thing that makes it work.""Read widely because it's all grist for the mill.""Keep your goals close to the vest for as long as possible."Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Face-to-Face Interviews05:15 The Impact of Face-to-Face Interviews09:33 Advice for Aspiring Writers14:45 The Magic of Having Respected Authors Read Your Work

The Thriller Zone with David Temple is sponsored in part by Blackstone Publishing.

Welcome to the latest episode of The Thriller Zone with special guest, Christopher "Chris" Reich. In this episode, we dive deep into the world of Chris Reich, a renowned author known for his thrilling novels. The host, David, engages in a captivating conversation with Chris, exploring his journey as a writer and the inspiration behind his successful series and standalone novels.
Chris shares insights into his writing process, revealing how he transitioned from a corporate career to pursue his passion for writing. He discusses the challenges and triumphs he faced along the way, highlighting the importance of perseverance and never giving up on one's dreams.
The conversation delves into the intricacies of Chris's latest book, "Matterhorn," which promises to be a blockbuster hit. The host and guest discuss the characters, setting, and themes of the book, offering a glimpse into the thrilling world of espionage, action, and emotional depth that readers can expect.
Throughout the episode, the host and guest touch on various elements of storytelling, from crafting compelling characters to creating immersive settings. They also explore the evolving landscape of the publishing industry and the impact of technology on espionage and intelligence operations, drawing parallels between fiction and reality.
As the conversation unfolds, the host and guest share personal anecdotes, including a fascinating story about Stan Getz's iconic song "Desafinado" and its influence on their lives. The episode is filled with engaging discussions, literary insights, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the creative process of a successful author.
In the end, the episode leaves listeners intrigued and eager to explore Chris Reich's thrilling novels, offering a blend of action, suspense, and emotional depth that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Tune in to TheThrillerZone.com for a captivating journey into the world of storytelling with Chris Reich. And to learn more about our guest, visit: ChristopherReich.com
BEST CHRIS REICH QUOTES:
"I love what I do. So it beats working for a living." - 00:00:47"I got to write a book that is as exciting as The Bourne Identity. And that book became Rules of Deception." - 00:03:46"The days when the public unites around a central title, a central book that kind of captures the national interest, the zeitgeist. Very rare now, very rare." - 00:05:48"Social media is killing attention span, where people want that dopamine hit every 15 seconds, new page, new picture." - 00:06:38"I want to be part of this box theory where I keep a certain level, and then boom, you drop dead or something, you know, at age 85." - 00:10:23"Revenge is not a dish best served cold. Revenge is a dish best served hot and bloody right in your face." - 00:35:45"I don't know, revenge is not a dish best served cold. Revenge is a dish best served hot and bloody right in your face." - 00:35:45"Stan Getz is one of the greatest alto players ever. I mean, one of the greatest players of anything ever." - 00:42:18"I try to aim for a certain level of a skill level, let's say. So, you know, but thank you. I'm glad you like it." - 00:44:24BEST DAVE TEMPLE QUOTE:
"I put it [STAN GETZ} on the drive up from San Diego today so I could get in the mood, because whenever I feel if I'm too preoccupied or down, I put on Bossa Nova, or Stan Getz, and it just makes the world a better place." - 00:40:26



(00:00) - to the Thriller Zone: 00:00:00

(00:15) - Reich's Background and Writing Career: 00:05:30

(00:15) - on Book Series and Standalones: 00:07:40

(00:15) - Reich's Health and Longevity: 00:09:30

(00:15) - on Matterhorn and Climbing: 00:23:51

(00:15) - in Writing and Sense of Place: 00:28:19

(00:15) - and Conclusion of the Book: 00:35:45

(00:15) - of Music and Personal Anecdote: 00:40:26

The Thriller Zone with David Temple is sponsored in part by Blackstone Publishing.

On today's 176th episode of The Thriller Zone, host David Temple interviews Brian Andrews and Jeff Wilson, the authors of the book 'Four Minutes.' The conversation starts with some lighthearted banter having to do with "silly hats,' but soon delves into the authors' busy writing schedule and their upcoming projects. A highlight comes when they share their collaboration with Tom Clancy's estate and the research they conducted with the US Navy for their Clancy novels.
The authors also explain the concept behind their latest military thriller, Four Minutes, which involves a special operations team using advanced technology to predict future events.
The show wraps with a brief discussion about the challenges and limitations of time travel in the book, how it could be possible through the use of modular fusion reactors, as well as the potential benefits and risks of artificial intelligence in writing and warfare.
To learn more visit: Andrews-Wilson.com
Chapters00:00 Introduction and Show Updates08:06 Collaborating with Tom Clancy's Estate and the US Navy21:54 Creating Realistic Rules for Time Travel22:51 The Importance of Family Support and Military Dedication22:57 Exploring the Intersection of the Human Condition and Technology23:25 Time Travel through Modular Fusion Reactors24:24 Limitations and Consequences of Time Travel26:43 The Potential Benefits and Risks of Artificial Intelligence38:19 Gratitude for Opportunities in the Entertainment Industry
Some take-aways:
Brian Andrews and Jeff Wilson have a busy writing schedule, but they are grateful for the opportunities they have been given.The authors collaborated with Tom Clancy's estate and conducted extensive research with the US Navy for their Clancy novels.'Four Minutes' explores the concept of using advanced technology to predict future events and its implications for special operations teams.The authors wanted to create realistic rules and limitations for time travel in the book.The episode highlights the importance of family support and the dedication of military personnel. The hosts are interested in exploring the intersection of the human condition and technology.Time travel in their book is made possible through the use of modular fusion reactors.Time travel has limitations and unintended consequences.Artificial intelligence can be a valuable tool if humans are in control of it.The hosts are grateful for the opportunities they have in the entertainment industry.
The Thriller Zone with David Temple is sponsored in part by Blackstone Publishing.

On today’s 175th Episode of The Thriller Zone, now in our 6th Season, we’re happy to invite Don Winslow into our home for a face-to-face interview that, as you’ll quickly notice, is truly a one of a kind opportunity for this host, and for you as an audience member.

Don, as you may know, is a renowned thriller writer who has decades of experience as a seasoned writer, creating one hit after another. Today, Don discusses his journey as an author and the challenges he faced in the publishing industry. 

Despite initial rejections and being labeled a cult writer, Winslow persevered and eventually achieved success. He credits his partnership with agent Shane Salerno as a turning point in his career. Together, they started a rebellion against the limitations imposed by publishers and Hollywood. 

In our in-depth conversation, Winslow reflects on the impact of his mother, a librarian, who instilled in him a love for books and the belief that he could achieve anything. He also shares his thoughts on retirement and the future of the publishing industry. 

Digging deeper and opening up, Don reveals the evolution of storytelling and the impact of technology and AI on the industry. He emphasizes the authenticity of human communication and the importance of bringing heart and soul to writing. 

As our show begins to wrap, Don allows us an inside peek, as he shares advice for aspiring writers, encouraging them to never give up and set doable writing goals. He reflects on the emotional impact of his City Trilogy, which includes City On Fire, City Of Dreams and City In Ruins, as well as the upcoming film adaptation, and concludes by discussing his future plans, including his commitment to fighting against neo-fascism and—on a much lighter note—spending more time with his wife, Jean.

All in all, this will stand out as one of the very finest episodes of The Thriller Zone since I launched the podcast nearly three years ago. I’m your host, David Temple, now let’s meet the man of the hour, my friend Don Winslow here in TheThrillerZone.com
To learn more visit: DonWinslow.com and purchase his book #CityInRuins wherever you buy your books!
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Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
02:22 Early Days and Challenges
06:03 The Turning Point
09:25 Dealing with Rejection
13:19 Meeting Shane Salerno
22:57 The Moment of Confidence
26:41 Retirement and Future Plans
32:13 The Publishing Industry Today
35:13 The Evolution of Storytelling
36:10 The Impact of Technology and AI
37:31 The Authenticity of Human Communication
38:29 Advice for Aspiring Writers
40:57 Setting Doable Writing Goals
45:12 The Emotional Impact of the City Trilogy
47:09 Film Adaptation of the City Trilogy
49:32 Austin Butler as Danny in the Film Adaptation
52:51 Overview of the City Trilogy
56:13 The Emotional Impact of the Epilogue
59:05 Reflecting on Gratitude and the Writing Journey
01:04:35 Opening Line and Takeaway for a Writing Class
01:08:10 Future Plans and Priorities
Takeaways
Don't give up on your dreams, even in the face of rejection and setbacks.Success often comes after years of hard work and perseverance.Having a supportive partner or mentor can make a significant difference in your career.The publishing industry is evolving, but books and storytelling will always have a place in society. The storytelling industry has evolved throughout history, with changes in platforms & technology, but the desire for stories remains constant.Artificial intelligence may never be able to replicate the authenticity and emotional impact of human communication in storytelling.Aspiring writers should never give up and set doable writing goals to make progress.The City trilogy by Don Winslow which includes City On Fire, City Of Dreams & City In Ruins, explores timeless themes from classical literature in a modern setting, with a focus on character development and emotional depth.
(00:00) -
(00:15) - Chapter 2
(00:15) - Introduction and Background

(02:37) - Early

I’m your host David Temple and welcome to Your Front Row Seat to The Best Thriller Writers in the World! On today’s 174th episode of The Thriller Zone Podcast, we welcome #1 New York Times Bestselling Author LISA GARDNER where, among other things, she’s discuss her illustrious career as a thriller writer, and the inspiration behind her book 'Still See You Everywhere.' 

Lisa will share her evolution from writing romantic suspense to full-on thrillers plus the vital importance of character-driven storytelling. 

Concerning her next soon-to-be-hit novel, Gardner shares insights into her protagonist, Frankie Elkin, and the challenges she faces as a recovering alcoholic with more regrets than belongings. 

She also discusses her writing style, the power of show don't tell, and her super-inside secret for triggering creativity. Gardner also takes a serious moment to reflect on her goal of entertaining readers while raising awareness about missing persons.

There’s so much to enjoy, and equally as much to learn from a prolific thriller author whose latest thriller is sure to please. 

To learn more visit: LisaGardner.com
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Takeaways

Character-driven storytelling is a key aspect of Lisa Gardner's writing style.
Frankie Elkin, the protagonist of 'Still See You Everywhere,' is a relatable and vulnerable character.
Taking time off and getting outside of one's comfort zone can lead to new inspiration and creativity.
Using scent as a trigger can help writers get into the right mindset for writing.
Hollywood adaptations of books require letting go and allowing the director's vision to take over.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Setting
01:20 Transition to Lisa Gardner's Career
03:56 Characterization of Frankie Elkin
05:35 Frankie Elkin's Humanity, Vulnerability and Motivation
07:12 Frankie Elkin's Battle with Alcoholism
08:20 Comparison to Jack Reacher
09:39 Frankie Elkin's Disconnection from Conventional Life
10:05 Lisa Gardner's Sabbatical and Inspiration for the Book
11:33 The Power of Taking Time Off
12:44 Writing Style and Show, Don't Tell
15:25 Description of 'Still See You Everywhere'
20:44 Lisa Gardner's Writing Craftsmanship
23:09 Lisa Gardner's Confidence in Writing
25:12 Lisa Gardner's Strength in Characterization
26:22 Lisa Gardner's Struggle with Description
27:42 Lisa Gardner's Experience with Hollywood Adaptations
31:13 Entertainment and Raising Awareness
32:19 Writing Advice: Using Scent as a Trigger
34:15 Lisa Gardner's Approach to Hollywood Adaptations
35:01 Conclusion

The Thriller Zone with David Temple is sponsored in part by Blackstone Publishing.

On today’s 173rd episode of The Thriller Zone, now in our Sixth Season, JACK BEAUMONT, former spy turned author, discusses his world of living in the spy world, as a former fighter pilot, and how those experiences have influenced his writing. 

Jack shares insights as we dive deep into the world of espionage, his creation of false identities, and perhaps most significantly, the deep psychological toll being a spy can have on a person. 

Our discussion covers not only his two smash hits, which include The Frenchman and Dark Arena, but your mind will be blown as you hear how he takes his decades of experience and weaves them into the realistic portrayal of spy life in his novels. 

Easily one of my favorite things about Jack, and one that I believe will pull you in and impress you as well, is when he reveals how he writes with the intention of helping others understand and cope with trauma. 

Our gripping conversation concludes with a discussion of future projects and some inside secrets as to how his work is being adapted to television.
TO LEARN MORE: JACKBEAUMONTOFFICIAL.COM
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Takeaways

Espionage is a dark and psychologically challenging profession that takes a heavy toll on individuals.Creating and maintaining false identities is a crucial aspect of espionage work, requiring actors' skills and extensive preparation.Jack Beaumont's books, The Frenchman and Dark Arena, provide a realistic portrayal of spy life based on his own experiences.Writing with authenticity and emotional depth can help readers connect with characters and experience their journey.Beaumont's future projects include a book on Chinese cyber espionage and a TV series adaptation of The Frenchman.
The Thriller Zone with David Temple is sponsored in part by Blackstone Publishing.