Welcome to the 3rd annual Dave & Tammy Year-End Extravaganza! This special episode features our favorite Top Ten lists, where we dive into the best books, audiobooks, films, and television series of the year.

Join us as we celebrate the stories that captivated us, from thrilling novels to heartwarming films, all while sharing our personal insights and experiences. Tammy, my wonderful wife and life-sidekick, brings her unique perspective, and our audience absolutely loves her contributions! Get ready for a fun-filled discussion packed with laughter, reflections, and a look ahead at what 2025 has in store for us in the world of storytelling.

Join Dave and Tammy as they share their top picks, highlighting the thrillers that captivated them and the joyful light-hearted stories that provided a welcome escape. With a mix of humor and heartfelt reflections, they explore notable performances, including standout roles from beloved actors like Keri Russell and Ryan Gosling.

This episode is packed with their favorite picks in literature, film, television, and podcasts, creating an engaging tapestry of their shared experiences. From the outset, their chemistry is palpable, drawing listeners into a lively conversation that feels both familiar and relatable. The duo's reflections on the impact of storytelling throughout the year resonate deeply, capturing the essence of their shared journey in a way that invites audiences to reflect on their own experiences.

Dave enthusiastically lists his top ten books, while Tammy humorously navigates her usual challenge of reaching the double digits. Their playful banter and honest discussions about their reading habits enhance the episode's charm, showcasing their distinct personalities and preferences.

Listeners are not only treated to a rundown of their favorite book titles, but also gain insights into the emotional connections these stories foster. The conversation organically transitions to their favorite television shows and movies, where they explore the narratives that have left a lasting impression on them, discussing themes of love, loss, and the human experience.

As they delve into the world of podcasts, they highlight emerging voices alongside established favorites, demonstrating their commitment to diverse storytelling. The duo emphasizes the importance of staying informed and entertained, encouraging listeners to explore the vast landscape of podcasts available today.

As they reminisce about the year's entertainment, the couple also looks ahead to exciting releases in 2025, sharing their anticipation for new projects from familiar favorites. The chemistry between Dave and Tammy shines through, making this episode a delightful way to wrap up the year and appreciate the stories that resonate with their audience.

This episode culminates in a heartfelt conclusion that celebrates their journey, the stories that have shaped them, and the community of listeners who have journeyed alongside them. With a perfect blend of humor, insight, and personal anecdotes, Dave and Tammy deliver an enriching experience that encapsulates the joy of storytelling and leaves listeners eager for what lies ahead in 2025.

Links referenced in this episode:

• apple.com
• netflix.com
• youtube.com
• hulu.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Apple TV
• Showtime
• Netflix

And for those who would enjoy a clean listing of Dave's Top 10 Faves:

TOP 10 BOOKS OF THIS YEAR:

1. MATTERHORN — Chris Reich
2. CITY IN RUINS — Don Winslow
3. BREAK EVERY RULE — Brian Freeman
4. LILITH — Eric Rickstad
5. SHADOWHEART — Meg Gardiner
6. THE PEACOCK & THE SPARROW — I.S. Berry
7. THREE INCH TEETH — CJ Box
8. WORST CASE SCENARIO — TJ Newman
9. DEADBEAT — Adam Hamdy
10. SHADES OF MERCY — Bruce Borgos

TOP LISTENED-TO PODCASTS of 24

1. THE DR. MARK HYMAN SHOW
2. TETRAGRAMMATON with Rick Rubin
3. HUBERMAN LAB with Dr. Bernardo Huberman
4. THE JOE ROGAN EXPERIENCE
5. TRUE CRIME — which is why we’re entering that space in 25
6. SMARTLESS with Jason Bateman Sean Hayes Will Arnett
7. THE TIM FERRIS SHOW been a fan forever
8. THE TAKE OUT with Major Garrett
9. SPIES, LIES & PRIVATE EYES with Terrence McCauley
10. COURSE OF ACTION with Jeff Clark

TOP TEN TV SHOWS

1. THE DIPLOMAT
2. AGENCY
3. BLACK DOVES
4. SHRINKING
5. BAD MONKEY
6. DISCLAIMER
7. TRUE DETECTIVE: NIGHT COUNTRY
8. A GENTLEMAN IN MOSCOW
9. RIPLEY
10. OUTER RANGE

TOP TEN FILMS of 2024

1. CIVIL WAR
2. MY OLD ASS
3. ARTHUR THE KING
4. THE FALL GUY
5. ARGYLE
6. WILL & HARPER
7. MONKEY MAN
8. WOLFS
9. HORIZON
10. THE SUBSTANCE

Audiobooks mentioned by Tammy in this podcast include: BURN BOOK by Kara Swisher, THE ANXIOUS GENERATION by Jonathan Haidt, and THE STORM BEFORE THE CALM by George Friedman. One that wasn't mentioned but should've been is THE POSER by David Temple (yes, that's a shameless plug; perfect for Holiday gift-giving ;-)

As always, be sure to visit TheThrillerZone.com to stay up to date with Stories that thrill...our new mantra for the new year. Also, SUBSCRIBE & WATCH us at YouTube.com/thethrillerzone, and FOLLOW US on X, Instagram, BluSky, and Facebook ... @thethrillerzone.

HERE’S WISHING YOU & YOUR FAMILY A HAPPY & HEALTHY HOLIDAY & NEW YEAR!

*KEYWORDS: Dave and Tammy Year-End Extravaganza, podcast episode, year end review, top books 2024, top movies 2024, top TV shows 2024, best podcasts 2024, entertainment recap, thriller genre, book recommendations, movie recommendations, TV series recommendations, holiday entertainment, podcasting with spouse, couple podcast, thrillers, book lovers, film enthusiasts, family entertainment, pop culture discussions

Mentioned in this episode:

The Thriller Zone in 2025: now on Thursdays!

Look what's coming to The Thriller Zone in 2025...now on Thursdays!

The Thriller Zone in 2025: now on Thursdays!

Look what's coming to The Thriller Zone in 2025...now on Thursdays!

On today's 209th episode of The Thriller Zone, the conversation unfolds with host David Temple welcoming back Adam Hamdy, an acclaimed author whose latest work, 'Deadbeat', is the focal point of their engaging dialogue.

As they reminisce about their previous interactions, Temple expresses his admiration for Hamdy's unique storytelling abilities and narrates how much he has grown as a writer since their initial meeting.

The episode dives deep into the essence of 'Deadbeat', which is described as a gripping moral exploration of a deeply flawed protagonist, Peyton Collard. Temple praises the book for its ability to make readers root for a character bereft of conventional redeeming qualities, challenging the audience's perceptions of morality and empathy.

The discussion then transitions into the creative process behind Hamdy's writing, where he shares insights into how personal experiences and observations shape his characters and narratives.

The duo discuss the landscape of publishing today, the challenges authors face in promoting their work, and how the changing dynamics of media consumption impact storytelling.

Temple's enthusiastic endorsements and Hamdy's reflections on his writing journey culminate in a rich dialogue that is both informative and inspiring for aspiring writers and avid readers alike.

Keywords: The Thriller Zone podcast, host David Temple, Adam Hamdy interview, thriller books, writing advice, publishing industry trends, storytelling techniques, character development, psychological archetypes, true crime fiction, author interviews, book recommendations, creative writing tips, podcasting insights, reading challenges, literary analysis, contemporary literature, personal development through writing, emotional storytelling, engaging conversations.

Takeaways:

David Temple emphasizes the importance of authentic conversations in a world dominated by distractions.

Adam Hamdy discusses the challenges of promoting books in today's fast-paced publishing environment.

The podcast highlights how personal experiences can shape a writer's storytelling approach and character development.

Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their time management and what truly matters to them.

The conversation reveals insights into the evolving landscape of the publishing industry and the role of innovation.

Both hosts agree that understanding psychological archetypes can enhance character depth in writing.

Links referenced in this episode: AdamHamdy.com

Mentioned in this episode:

The Thriller Zone in 2025: now on Thursdays!

Look what's coming to The Thriller Zone in 2025...now on Thursdays!

The Thriller Zone in 2025: now on Thursdays!

Look what's coming to The Thriller Zone in 2025...now on Thursdays!

From CIA to Novelist: David McCloskey & The Art of Espionage

On today’s 208th episode of The Thriller Zone, host David Temple welcomes back former CIA analyst and author David McCloskey to discuss his latest thriller, The Seventh Floor. 

The conversation explores the intersection of social media and author branding, the development of McCloskey's protagonist Artemis Proctor, and the balance between authenticity and storytelling in espionage thrillers. 

McCloskey shares insights into the challenges of writing a series and the evolving nature of his characters, emphasizing the importance of engaging narratives over strict adherence to realism. In this engaging conversation, David McCloskey also shares his insights on the writing process, emphasizing the importance of perseverance through creative challenges, the solitude of writing, and the discipline of daily word counts. 

Temple and McCloskey discuss the value of learning from established authors by copying their prose longhand and the necessity of reading one's work aloud to ensure clarity and flow. The conversation also touches on the craft of dialogue and the complexities of Middle Eastern policy, reflecting McCloskey's background and expertise, before ending with Temple’s signature Best Writing Advice.

Learn more at: DavidMcCloskeyBooks.com

Keywords: David McCloskey, The Seventh Floor, CIA, espionage, thriller, social media, character development, authenticity, writing challenges, author branding, writing, creativity, editing, discipline, authorship, dialogue, Middle East, storytelling, craft, literature

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to David McCloskey and The Seventh Floor

06:04 The Role of Social Media in Author Branding

12:35 Character Development: Artemis Proctor's Journey

18:48 Authenticity in Espionage Thrillers

24:54 The Challenges of Writing a Series

27:33 Overcoming Creative Obstacles

30:33 The Loneliness of Writing

34:05 Daily Writing Discipline

37:39 Learning from Great Authors

39:30 The Importance of Reading Aloud

41:10 Crafting Dialogue and Prose

42:55 Insights on Middle East Policy

Best Sound Bites:

"You're just a great natural entertainer."

"I need to throw it away and be done."

"It's an imposter syndrome for sure."

"The feed loop is a really long one."

"Writing has really become about the editing."

"Just write the effing story."

"You should probably be spending time longhand copying."

"Read your stuff out loud to yourself."

"Give the reader some credit to use their own imagination."

"It's always interesting to get back into that world."

"We have a real case of main character syndrome."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DqhSNxKuWBE

Mentioned in this episode:

The Thriller Zone in 2025: now on Thursdays!

Look what's coming to The Thriller Zone in 2025...now on Thursdays!

The Thriller Zone in 2025: now on Thursdays!

Look what's coming to The Thriller Zone in 2025...now on Thursdays!

On today's 207th episode of The Thriller Zone, host David Temple interviews New York Times bestselling author Danielle Trussoni about her latest thriller, 'The Puzzle Box.'

Together, their engaging conversation covers the inspiration behind the book, the unique character of Mike Brink, and the cultural influences from Trussoni's time in Japan. The dialogue explores themes of power, gender, and the writing process, emphasizing the importance of character development and reader engagement.

Trussoni shares her writing routine and offers valuable advice for aspiring authors, making this a rich and insightful episode for fans of thriller fiction.

Learn more at: DanielleTrussoni.com and Follow us at: TheThrillerZone.com

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Danielle Trussoni and Her Work

02:46 The Inspiration Behind 'The Puzzle Box'

06:03 Character Development and Unique Traits

08:52 Exploring Japan: Cultural Influences in Writing

12:07 The Puzzle Master: A Deep Dive into the Character

14:56 Writing Process: Plotting vs. Discovery

18:08 Themes of Power and Gender in 'The Puzzle Box'

21:05 Reader Engagement and Character Connection

23:52 The Role of Research in Writing

27:09 Final Thoughts and Writing Advice

Takeaways:

Danielle Trussoni’s book covers are visually stunning and impactful.

Writing is akin to solving a puzzle, requiring creativity and structure.

Living in Japan greatly influenced Trussoni's writing and character development.

The character Mike Brink has savant syndrome, adding depth to the story.

Thrillers can explore timely themes, such as gender and power dynamics.

Research enhances the authenticity of the narrative and settings.

Daily writing, even in small amounts, is crucial for a sustainable writing career.

Engaging readers with relatable characters is essential for a successful thriller.

The bullet train experience in Japan is a must for travelers.

Fiction should entertain while also provoking thought and discussion.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vsg_2PjZEbY

Mentioned in this episode:

The Thriller Zone in 2025: now on Thursdays!

Look what's coming to The Thriller Zone in 2025...now on Thursdays!

The Thriller Zone in 2025: now on Thursdays!

Look what's coming to The Thriller Zone in 2025...now on Thursdays!

On today’s 206th episode of The Thriller Zone, host David Temple welcomes back author Jack Stewart to discuss his latest work in the Battleborn series, particularly the third book, Bogey Spades. 

The conversation delves into Jack's experiences as a military pilot, insights from the Top Gun movies, and the realities of aviation training. They also explore Jack's writing process, his aspirations beyond military thrillers, and how his day job as a pilot influences his storytelling. 

The episode provides a comprehensive look at the intersection of writing, military experience, and personal interests. In this engaging conversation, the host and guest explore various themes related to aviation, writing, and family life. 

The discussion begins with the unique flight approaches in San Diego, transitioning into a deeper understanding of turbulence and its misconceptions. The conversation then shifts to the balance between writing and flying, highlighting the challenges and joys of both professions. Family dynamics and the importance of parenting are also discussed, showcasing the guest's pride in his children's achievements. 

Finally, the conversation wraps up with insights into the underlying messages in the guest's writing and valuable advice for aspiring authors.

Learn more at JackStewartBooks.com

The Thriller Zone promises to wrap 2024 in a BIG way...Stay Tuned! Questions? Just write us at "[email protected]"

Mentioned in this episode:

The Thriller Zone in 2025: now on Thursdays!

Look what's coming to The Thriller Zone in 2025...now on Thursdays!

On today’s 205th episode of The Thriller Zone, host David Temple welcomes back author Steve Urszenyi to discuss his latest book, 'Out in the Cold.' 

The conversation explores Steve's journey as a writer, the development of his female protagonist Alex Martel, and the themes of isolation and resilience in his work. 

Temple and Urszenyi also delve into the importance of research in writing, Steve's literary influences, and valuable writing advice for aspiring authors. As they wrap up, Steve shares a sneak peek into his upcoming projects.

Learn more at: SteveUrszenyi.com

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Steve Yerzaney and His Work

04:07 The Journey of a Writer: From Debut to Acclaimed Author

07:57 Exploring the Protagonist: Alex Martel's Character Development

12:06 Themes of Isolation and Resilience in 'Out in the Cold'

15:57 The Importance of Research in Writing

20:04 Influences and Inspirations: Authors Who Shaped Steve's Writing

23:53 Writing Advice: The Best and Worst Tips for Aspiring Authors

28:08 Looking Ahead: What's Next for Steve Yerzaney?

Keywords

Steve Yerzaney, Out in the Cold, thriller, writing advice, female protagonist, Alex Martel, literary awards, research in writing, themes of resilience, author interviews

Takeaways

Steve Yerzaney's journey from debut author to acclaimed writer.

The significance of a strong female protagonist in thrillers.

Themes of isolation and resilience are central to 'Out in the Cold.'

Research plays a crucial role in creating authentic narratives.

Writing advice: Just write and don't overthink it.

The importance of building relationships in the writing community.

Steve's influences include Nelson DeMille and Tom Clancy.

The character Alex Martel was developed through a pantser approach.

Isolation in the story reflects both physical and emotional challenges.

Upcoming projects include a new adventure for Alex Martel.

Sound Bites

"Best things in life are worth the wait."

"Out in the Cold is a must-read."

"Research can be easily half of the story."

"Just write. Don't worry about the words."

"It's a business of relationships."

The Thriller Zone promises to wrap 2024 in a BIG way...Stay Tuned! Questions? Just write us at "[email protected]"

Mentioned in this episode:

The Thriller Zone in 2025: now on Thursdays!

Look what's coming to The Thriller Zone in 2025...now on Thursdays!

On today’s 204th episode of The Thriller Zone, host David Temple engages with bestselling author Robert Dugoni, exploring his journey as a writer, the intricacies of storytelling, and the challenges of adapting books for Hollywood. 

With 4 different series, 6 complete stand-alone novels, and a couple of short stories to boot, Bob is a critically acclaimed New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, and #1 Amazon Bestselling author, reaching over 9 million readers worldwide.

David & Bob discuss the importance of tension in writing, the influence of Dugoni's legal background on his work, and the emotional weight behind his stories. 

The conversation also touches on books, chess, the work of perfecting our craft, and a field of dreams, plus the creative process, the significance of antagonists in storytelling, and valuable advice for aspiring authors.

Learn more at RobertDugoniBooks.com and Follow us at TheThrillerZone.com...and remember to SUBSCRIBE!

Chapters:

00:00 The Art of Storytelling as a Conduit

00:53 Updates on Robert DeGoni's Writing Journey

02:55 Navigating Hollywood: The Long Road to Adaptation

06:08 The Influence of Legal Background on Writing

08:55 Researching Courtroom Dynamics

11:52 The Emotional Weight of Writing

15:04 Trusting the Creative Process

17:55 Balancing Standalones and Series

20:53 The Importance of Antagonists in Storytelling

23:51 Advice for Aspiring Authors

Takeaways: 

Being a conduit for storytelling is essential.

The journey of writing involves constant learning and adaptation.

Hollywood adaptations can take years and require patience.

Tension is a crucial element in both courtroom settings and writing.

Researching courtroom dynamics enhances the authenticity of legal thrillers.

Emotional connections to characters can make writing more impactful.

Trusting the creative process is vital for writers.

Balancing standalones and series depends on reader interest.

Antagonists play a key role in sustaining a series.

Aspiring authors should not let reality constrain their fiction.

Best Sound Bites: 

"I think it's natural for any human being to have self-doubt."

"You just have to trust that voice in your head."

"Never kill a good antagonist."

The Thriller Zone promises to wrap 2024 in a BIG way...Stay Tuned! Questions? Just write us at "[email protected]"

Mentioned in this episode:

The Thriller Zone in 2025: now on Thursdays!

Look what's coming to The Thriller Zone in 2025...now on Thursdays!

On today’s 203rd episode of The Thriller Zone, host David Temple welcomes author Taylor Moore to discuss his latest book, Cold Trail. 

The conversation covers Taylor's experiences at BoucherCon, family updates, and insights into the writing process. Taylor also shares the journey of creating Garrett Kohl’s character and the intertwining themes of adventure and heart in his storytelling. 

Their discussion touches on Taylor's past as a CIA intelligence officer and how it influences his writing and perspective on current events. 

In this engaging conversation, the host and guest explore the nuances of writing, the importance of reliable sources, and the influence of outdoor life on creativity. They discuss the significance of strong female characters in literature, share insights on overcoming writing challenges, and reflect on life lessons learned through personal experiences. 

The episode concludes with valuable writing advice for aspiring authors, emphasizing the importance of starting and finishing a book.

Learn more at: TaylorMooreBooks.com and as always Follow, Subscribe and Share TheThrillerZone.com

The Thriller Zone promises to wrap 2024 in a BIG way...Stay Tuned! Questions? Just write us at "[email protected]"

Mentioned in this episode:

The Thriller Zone in 2025: now on Thursdays!

Look what's coming to The Thriller Zone in 2025...now on Thursdays!

On today’s 202nd episode of The Thriller Zone, host David Temple welcomes Andrew Child, who discusses his writing process, the appeal of the Jack Reacher character, and the collaborative effort with his brother, Lee Child. 

They delve into the simplicity of Reacher's adventures, the importance of reader engagement, and the significance of cover design in storytelling. Andrew also shares insights into his personal projects and the challenges of balancing them with the Reacher series. 

In this engaging conversation, Andrew discusses his Janitor series, exploring themes of justice and moral dilemmas in fiction. He shares insights into the collaborative writing process with his brother Lee, the evolving landscape of publishing, and offers valuable writing advice for aspiring authors. 

The discussion highlights the importance of character development, the balance between traditional and self-publishing, and the role of social media in an author's career.

Learn more at: AndrewGrantBooks.com and JackReacher.com

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Technical Difficulties

02:47 The Writing Process and Coffee Consumption

06:03 Distractions and Writing Environment

09:13 The Simplicity of Reacher's Character

11:55 Cover Design and Character Focus

15:04 The Appeal of Jack Reacher

17:58 The Knight Errant Archetype

20:46 Reader Engagement and Storytelling

24:01 Andrew Child's Personal Projects and Future Work

30:16 The Janitor's Quest for Justice

33:09 Moral Dilemmas in Fiction

36:28 Collaborative Writing Process

49:20 The Evolving Landscape of Publishing

56:38 Writing Advice for Aspiring Authors

Keywords: Andrew Child, Lee Child, Jack Reacher, writing process, storytelling, character development, thriller novels, podcast, author interview, book cover design, Janitor series, justice, moral dilemmas, collaborative writing, publishing, writing advice, thriller genre, character development, self-publishing, social media

The Thriller Zone promises to wrap 2024 in a BIG way...Stay Tuned! Questions? Just write us at "[email protected]"

Mentioned in this episode:

The Thriller Zone in 2025: now on Thursdays!

Look what's coming to The Thriller Zone in 2025...now on Thursdays!

On today’s 201st episode of The Thriller Zone, host David Temple welcomes debut author Ryan C. Coleman to discuss his novel 'Billy the Kid.' 

Together, Dave and Ryan explore Ryan's journey from Chicago to Los Angeles, his transition from television writing to novel writing, and the inspiration behind his book. 

The conversation delves into the blending of fact and fiction in storytelling, the themes of family and belonging in Billy's life, and the organized crime elements of the Wild West. 

Ryan shares his aspirations for a screen adaptation of his novel and offers valuable writing advice.

The Thriller Zone promises to wrap 2024 in a BIG way...Stay Tuned! Questions? Just write us at "[email protected]"

Mentioned in this episode:

The Thriller Zone in 2025: now on Thursdays!

Look what's coming to The Thriller Zone in 2025...now on Thursdays!