Meet the Thriller Author (Author Interviews)

Alan Petersen
  • 4.7 (39)
  • Books
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Go behind the books with Meet the Thriller Author, hosted by mystery and thriller author Alan Petersen. Through conversations with bestselling and emerging mystery, suspense, and thriller writers, discover the inspirations behind their stories, how they create memorable characters, and the writing habits that help them finish their books. Whether you’re looking for your next gripping read or practical insights for your own writing, join Alan for candid discussions about storytelling, publishing, and the writing life.

  1. Oct 6

    Bobby Nash Interview

    Award-winning author Bobby Nash returns to Meet the Thriller Author more than ten years after appearing as one of the podcast’s first guests. We discuss his survival thriller, Nowhere to Run, which sends Deputy U.S. Marshal William Teague into the mountains after a prisoner-transfer plane crashes, combining a dangerous rescue with a fugitive hunt. Bobby shares how a supporting character became the lead in his own series, why he expanded the story from a novella into a novel, and how his “signpost” approach to plotting leaves room for surprises. We also talk about writing novels, comics, and media tie-ins, balancing self-publishing with traditional publishing, managing multiple projects, and the persistence it takes to build a lasting writing career.

  2. Sep 16

    Laurie R. King Interview

    New York Times bestselling author Laurie R. King joins me to discuss her latest mystery, Those Who Are Gone, featuring San Francisco homicide inspector Raquel Laing. Laurie talks about writing cold cases, using DNA and family ancestry in a mystery, and connecting Raquel’s world with her earlier Kate Martinelli series. We also explore the creation of Mary Russell, her experiences writing in the Sherlock Holmes universe, and her recognition by the Baker Street Irregulars. Laurie also shares her writing process, including why she considers herself an organic writer rather than a pantser, how she expands short first drafts during revision, and her advice for aspiring mystery and thriller authors.

  3. Sep 9

    Jeff Kerr Interview

    Crime thriller author Jeff Kerr joins me to talk about Deadly Relic, the sixth book in his Adam Cash mystery series, featuring a sheriff's deputy investigating crimes in the rugged Texas Hill Country. We discuss the fascinating inspiration behind Deadly Relic, which begins with the theft of a historic rifle connected to the Battle of the Alamo. Jeff also talks about his journey from writing nonfiction Texas history to crime fiction, creating the fictional town of Pinyon, his writing and research process, and his move from self-publishing to Vinci Books. We also talk about Author Nation, where Jeff and I first met, his approach to plotting, what's next for Adam Cash, and his advice for aspiring writers. Learn more and browse the Meet the Thriller Author archives at ThrillingReads.com.

  4. Aug 11

    MTTA 242: Kevin Wade Interview

    Acclaimed screenwriter and television producer Kevin Wade joins me to discuss One Good Eye, the second novel in his Jeep Mullane crime series. Kevin shares how 14 years as a writer, executive producer, and showrunner of Blue Bloods inspired his move into crime fiction, the transition from screenwriting to novels, his writing process and routine, and why he chose Long Island as the setting for the series. We also talk about his Hollywood career, including writing the classic Working Girl, and Kevin shares his advice for aspiring writers.

  5. Jul 14

    241: Tom Towslee on Finding Lexi Divine, Journalism & Writing Crime Fiction

    In Episode 241 of Meet the Thriller Author, I talk with crime and suspense author Tom Towslee about his journey from newspaper reporter and political communications director to novelist. We discuss his latest thriller, Finding Lexi Divine, creating morally complex characters, the influence of journalism on his writing, his approach to plotting, and practical advice for aspiring authors. Tom also shares insights into marketing books and his interest in adapting his novels for the screen.

  6. Jun 30

    MTTA 240: Amy Shojai Interview

    In Episode 240 of Meet the Thriller Author, host Alan Petersen welcomes award-winning author Amy Shojai to discuss her remarkable journey from television news anchor and veterinary technician to bestselling author of more than 35 pet-care books and a series of pet-centric suspense thrillers. They explore her transition from nonfiction to fiction, creating unforgettable animal characters, overcoming rejection, and the realities of publishing. Amy also shares how she avoided a scammer impersonating the podcast, offering valuable advice for fellow authors. It's an engaging conversation packed with writing insights, publishing tips, and stories for readers, writers, and pet lovers alike.

  7. Jun 2

    Steph Nelson Interview | Meet the Thriller Author

    In Episode 239 of Meet the Thriller Author, I interview thriller author Steph Nelson, whose debut novel The Final Scene sold more than 10,000 copies in its first two months. We discuss her latest psychological thriller, Don't Ask Why, a suspenseful story about four friends trapped on a secluded island in the Florida Keys where secrets, disappearances, and danger quickly turn a getaway into a fight for survival. Steph shares her journey from writing horror fiction to becoming a successful thriller author, how she develops story ideas, her "pantser" writing process, and the tools she uses to write her novels. We also discuss indie publishing, social media marketing, reader expectations, and her advice for aspiring thriller writers looking to break into the genre. If you're a fan of psychological thrillers and behind-the-scenes author conversations, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

  8. May 19

    MTTA 238: H.Y. Hanna Interview

    USA Today bestselling author H.Y. Hanna joins Alan Petersen to discuss her latest psychological thriller, The Taverna at the Edge of Night. In this episode, they talk about writing atmospheric destination thrillers, using international settings like Greece to build suspense, balancing mystery with emotional tension, and creating stories where paradise hides deadly secrets.

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4.7
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About

Go behind the books with Meet the Thriller Author, hosted by mystery and thriller author Alan Petersen. Through conversations with bestselling and emerging mystery, suspense, and thriller writers, discover the inspirations behind their stories, how they create memorable characters, and the writing habits that help them finish their books. Whether you’re looking for your next gripping read or practical insights for your own writing, join Alan for candid discussions about storytelling, publishing, and the writing life.

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