Today's Bonus Episode of The Thriller Zone with Dave Temple dives into a thrilling discussion with new author Gary Quesenberry, who's just dropped his debut book, *Homecoming*.

We kick things off by exploring the gripping world of his main character, Case Younger, an air marshal who's trying to escape a violent past but soon finds himself in a small town where chaos reigns.

Gary’s got a unique perspective on this, having been an army veteran and a Federal Air Marshal himself, which means he’s serving up some real-life insights mixed in with the fiction.

We get into everything from the nuts and bolts of being an air marshal—like how to blend in on a flight—to the emotional rollercoaster that comes with high-stakes situations.

So grab your headphones and settle in because this episode is packed with juicy tidbits and a sprinkle of wisdom for aspiring writers!

Takeaways:

• In this episode, Gary Quesenberry shares his exciting journey from being an Air Marshal to becoming an author, highlighting how real-life experiences shape storytelling.
• Dave and Gary discuss the importance of blending emotional depth with action in writing, making characters relatable and their situations believable.
• Gary's character, Case Younger, deals with trauma and the quest for peace, showing that sometimes, finding calm can come with unexpected challenges.
• The duo dives into the nitty-gritty of writing, emphasizing that having fun and letting characters guide the story can lead to unexpected and satisfying outcomes.
• Listeners get a glimpse into the writing process, where Gary reveals he uses personal experiences to create authentic narratives that resonate with readers.
• The episode encourages aspiring writers to embrace their unique stories and share their journeys, reminding us that every writer has something valuable to contribute.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• GaryQuesenberry.com

KEYWORDS: podcast episode, Gary Quesenberry, Homecoming book, thriller novel, Federal Air Marshal, writing advice, thriller zone podcast, Case Younger character, military veterans, PTSD in fiction, human trafficking themes, book cover design, author interview, emotional reactions in writing, situational awareness, aviation security, writing process tips, character development, storytelling techniques, crime fiction

Hello and welcome to Episode #224 with host Dave Temple. It's your #1 Thriller Fiction, Film & TV Podcast where Dave interviews the giants of thriller fiction. And today, we’re happy to have #1 New York Times bestselling author, the legendary David Baldacci.

David is here to chat about his latest book, "Strangers in Time!" This isn’t another legal thriller; instead, Baldacci has taken a delightful detour into historical fiction, and trust me, it's a ride you want to buckle up for.

We’ll unpack how this book explores the resilience of the human spirit during tough times and the power of connection—because let's face it, going it alone is so last season.

With over 150 million copies of his books flying off the shelves, Baldacci shares his journey, revealing the stories behind the stories and how he keeps that creative engine running.

So grab your favorite drink, settle in, and let’s unravel the layers of this incredible tale together!

Takeaways:

• Setting intentions can lead to incredible opportunities, like landing major podcast guests.
• David Baldacci's new book 'Strangers in Time' showcases his versatility beyond legal thrillers.
• Writing passionately about topics you love can enhance your storytelling quality immensely.
• Empathy and human connection are central themes in Baldacci's work, especially in challenging times.
• Reading fosters empathy and understanding, crucial for navigating today's complex world.
• The evolution of publishing and the importance of maintaining reading as a priority in society.
• Learn more about David and his vast back catalogue of books at: davidbaldacci.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• New York Times
• Playboy
• John Grisham
• James Patterson
• Patricia Cornwell
• Michael Crichton
• YouTube

As always, you can Watch, Listen, Share and Subscribe at: TheThrillerZone.com and YouTube.com/thethrillerzone

Keywords:

David Baldacci, Strangers in Time, thriller podcast, historical fiction, bestselling author, writing advice, book recommendations, character development, emotional resilience, publishing industry, legal thrillers, storytelling techniques, empathy in literature, writing process, author interviews, book club discussions, literature and society, reading culture, writer's journey, literary themes

Get ready to dive into a whirlwind of listener love on this episode of the Thriller Zone! I’m David Temple, your trusty host, and today, we’re flipping the script a bit – instead of chatting with an author, I’m pouring over some fantastic emails from you lovely folks.

Whether it’s your favorite moments from past episodes or insights from our thrilling guests, I’m here to share it all. Like, Tammy’s got a soft spot for Adrian McKinty’s coffee chat, and Heather’s raving about character development.

This episode feels like a celebration of community and the shared love of storytelling, showcasing how deeply the podcast has woven itself into the lives of its listeners. David also hints at his own writing endeavors, sharing his journey through cancer and his aspirations for upcoming books. It’s this blend of personal and professional that makes the podcast feel like a chat with a close friend, making us all feel part of this lively discussion.

As the episode wraps up, David reflects on the past four years of podcasting, admitting that while it’s a passion project, the journey hasn’t always been easy. He’s driven, and you can hear that in his voice – a mix of gratitude and determination that’s infectious.

The listener letters are not just words on a page; they’re fuel for his fire, reminding him why he started this journey in the first place. The conversation about possibly shifting focus towards more casual chats with authors, rather than just book discussions, is intriguing, and I can’t help but wonder how that will shape future episodes.

All in all, this episode is a heartwarming reminder of the power of connection through storytelling, both from the podcast host and the vibrant community of listeners who keep the conversation alive.

So, grab your favorite beverage, kick back, and let’s see what you all have been saying!

Links referenced in this episode:

• thethrillerzone.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Adrian McKenty
• Gerard Doyle
• Gonzalez Inarritu
• Mark Gottlieb
• CJ Box
• James Patterson
• David Baldacci
• Josh Mendoza

On today's 222nd episode of the world-famous Thriller Zone, host Dave Temple sits down with New York Times bestselling author Adrian McKinty, creator of the Sean Duffy Series.

Together, they’re diving deep into the thrilling world of storytelling and chatting about the magic of writing first drafts and how every aspiring author should just finish that story, no matter how messy it gets.

Adrian, a multiple New York Times bestselling author and Dave's new best buddy, shares some seriously cool insights about his journey, from bartending to teaching to crafting captivating crime novels.

And trust us, this episode isn’t just about the books; we’re dishing out some good ol' banter on everything from the best bagels to the quirks of tea culture, because what’s a conversation without a little flavor?

So, whether you’re a writer looking for inspiration or just a fan of witty exchanges, kick back, turn up the volume, and enjoy the ride with us in this delightful chat on the Thriller Zone!

Takeaways:

• The conversation between David and Adrian is filled with playful banter, creating a relaxed and fun atmosphere for listeners to enjoy.
• Adrian McKinty shares insights about the importance of finishing your writing, emphasizing that even a rough draft is a victory against the odds.
• The podcast touches on the unique nuances of language, including slang from Northern Ireland that adds a humorous twist to their dialogue.
• They dive into the world of food and drink, particularly the cultural significance of tea and biscuits, showcasing their shared love for culinary experiences.

Links referenced in this episode:

• adrianmckinty.com

On today's 221st and BONUS episode of The Thriller Zone, I dive into the nitty-gritty of the publishing world with my good friend Mark Gottlieb, Senior VP and top literary agent at Trident Media Group.

I'm your host Dave Temple, and Mark is back to drop some serious knowledge bombs about what it takes to make it as an author in today’s thriller-happy market. We chat about the importance of having a killer query letter—because let’s face it, that’s your golden ticket to getting noticed.

By the way, Mark's piece of advice is a step-by-step of THE WAY to formulate a proper query letter that all but guarantees getting noticed (don't miss this advice).

And if you’re wondering how to stand out, Mark has tips on building your author platform and navigating the wild ride of trends and genres. Plus, we share some laughs about parenting and the real-life stories behind some bestselling authors.

So grab your headphones, kick back, and let's unravel the secrets of crafting a page-turner in the ever-evolving literary landscape!

Takeaways:

• Mark Gottlieb, a seasoned literary agent, shares insider tips on navigating the publishing world, making it not just enlightening but super relatable too.

• We discussed the importance of strong query letters, emphasizing that a concise, well-structured letter can be the golden ticket to representation.

• The conversation touched on how authors must balance their unique voice with market trends while remaining authentic to their storytelling style.

• Mark highlighted the significance of an author's platform in today's publishing landscape, revealing how social media can skyrocket a book's visibility.

• Witty anecdotes about parenting and writing show that even seasoned pros like Mark can relate to the struggles of balancing life and creativity.

• The episode wraps up with a reminder to aspiring writers: set your intentions and keep showing up, because that's where the magic begins!

Links referenced in this episode:

TridentMediaGroup.com

TheThrillerZone.com

[email protected]

Companies mentioned in this episode:-

- Trident Media Group

- Poison Pen Press

- Sourcebooks

- Penguin Random House

- Hachette Books

- Timber Books

- Blackstone Publishing

• Keywords: thriller podcast, mystery fiction, suspense fiction, literary agent insights, book publishing tips, author representation, query letter advice, bestselling authors, writing craft, book marketing strategies, comp titles, publishing trends, writing workshops, thriller writing advice, negotiating book deals, audiobook publishing, self-publishing success, storytelling techniques, author platform building, negotiating literary contracts

Join host Dave Temple for episode #220 as he takes us on a wild and thrilling ride in the world of crime fiction as we chat with the incredibly talented Nick Kolakowski!

Nick has a new book out, "Where the Bones Lie," that’s packed with dark humor and gripping storytelling. He shares his journey from travel journalist to novelist, revealing how his experiences shape his characters and plots—like a master chef whipping up a deliciously twisted dish!

Dave & Nick dive into the art of writing, character development, and the importance of humor in suspenseful narratives. Plus, stick around for some juicy bonus material at the end—you won’t want to miss the tasty extras we’ve saved for you!

So, if you haven't heard of Nick Kolakowski yet, just know that he is a total gem in the crime thriller world. Dave especially enjoys taking a quick side-road with one of his favorite artists, Peter Max. At the same time, Nick shares a hilarious story about a rather embarrassing incident involving Peter Max - yes, that Peter Max!

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Double Down Media
• DaturaBooks.com
• PeterMax.com
• McSweeney's Lit
• Cuckoo Chicken (NYC)
• TheThrillerZone.com

Keywords: thriller podcast, Nick Kolakowski, crime fiction, where the bones lie, writing process, author interviews, storytelling techniques, journalism and fiction, writing humor in thrillers, character development, indie authors, mystery novels, suspense stories, writing advice, celebrity journalism, California detective novels, crafting query letters, book recommendations, publishing tips, writing resources

On today's 219th episode of The Thriller Zone with host Dave Temple, we dive into the world of thrillers with New York Times bestselling author Eric Rickstad.

This show is like a rollercoaster ride through the dark alleys of crime fiction, and Eric’s latest book, 'Remote the Six', isn't just another run-of-the-mill serial killer tale; it’s a captivating blend of FBI drama and the uncanny world of remote viewing, where the line between reality and the supernatural gets a little blurry.

As Eric explains, his protagonist, Lucas Stark, is thrust into a chilling manhunt that requires him to team up with an enigmatic remote viewer, Giles Garner, who’s been vetted by the FBI director himself. The stakes are high with families being killed across states, and the clock is ticking.

In a world where skepticism reigns supreme, Stark's reluctance to trust Garner adds layers of tension and intrigue. Eric shares his inspiration from real-life events, weaving personal anecdotes that give us a glimpse into his creative process.

Eric's knack for storytelling is evident, as he pulls us into the story, making us question everything—much like Stark does. This episode is a masterclass in how to craft suspense and keep readers on the edge of their seats, with Eric's insights on character development and pacing being particularly valuable for aspiring writers.

Whether you’re a fan of thrillers or just love a good story, there’s something for everyone in this engaging conversation.

Links referenced in this episode:

• [email protected]
• thethrillerzone.com
• ericrickstad.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• New York Times
• CIA
• Russia
• Tom Cruise
• Philip K. Dick
• The Story Factory
• FBI

Music: Chillax by Jay Someday is licensed under a Creative Commons License.

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/...

Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

On today's 218th episode of The Thriller Zone with Dave Temple, we're diving into the heart of thriller fiction as we chat with Ryan Steck, The Real Book Spy, and Byrdie Bell, the daughter of the late Ted Bell, a New York Times Bestselling author.

We launch discussing "Monarch," the new thriller penned by Steck which respects the legacy of Ted’s iconic Alex Hawke series. I for one, feel it's a deeply emotional ride filled with heartfelt moments and behind-the-scenes stories that’ll give you the goosebumps.

Sure, we hit a few tech (video) snags at the start—who doesn’t love a good tech hiccup? But don’t worry, we’ve got all the juicy audio goodness for you to enjoy. Plus, we sprinkle in some classic clips of Ted himself, because who doesn’t want to hear from the master?

I trust you'll enjoy as we navigate the emotional landscape of Ted's legacy. Ted became a sincere friend in such a short time, and Ryan, who penned the latest Alex Hawke thriller, 'Monarch', echoes the fondness we share of a man who genuinely brought light to this world.

One thing I particularly like is when Ryan shares his intimate journey of channeling Ted's voice while crafting a new chapter for this beloved character.

An added bonus is when Byrdie offers a heartfelt glimpse into her father's storytelling genius, recalling cherished childhood memories filled with his animated storytelling and the creation of fantastical worlds.

All together, we explore the intricacies of preserving a literary legacy while infusing fresh narratives that resonate with both new and longtime fans.

Lastly, THANK YOU for Following us on Twitter, Instagram & Facebook, all at @TheThrillerZone.

To learn more visit: TedBell.com, TheRealBookSpy.com and TheThrillerZone.com.

Don't forget, you find us on ALL the podcast channels, like @applepodcasts @Spotify, @iHeartRadio and more.

Connect with us:

💟 Website:https://www.thethrillerzone.com/

💟 X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/thethrillerzone

💟 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/thethrillerzone

Other shows you might enjoy include these favorites:

✅ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EOan3dQthmI

✅ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UB1owUf8VhY&t=549s

✅ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mwnwFs9CBkA

✅ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZHY7LiJIAno

✅ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=skxQ51uNgRs

On today's 217th episode, we’re diving into the mind of the legendary Marshall Karp, a true master of the thriller genre and co-author with the great James Patterson.

You’re in for a genuine treat as we unpack Karp's latest book, "Don't Tell Me How to Die," a gripping tale about a woman on a mission to secure her family’s future after receiving a terminal diagnosis.

Karp is known for his sharp storytelling and knack for creating compelling characters, while Temple's humor shines as he asks Karp about the challenges of writing from a female perspective. Karp responds with a mix of candor and clever insights.

Folks, this is not just a thriller and an amazing read; it’s a wild ride filled with dark humor and unexpected twists that’ll have you chuckling while gripping your seat. And if you're anything like me, you'll devour this book in one or two sittings.

CLICK TO ORDER YOUR COPY NOW!

We’ll chat about how Marshall crafts compelling characters and weaves in emotional depth, and trust me, he’s got stories that’ll make your heart race and your eyes widen. So buckle up and join us as we get cozy in the Thriller Zone with Marshall Karp!

The two pros touch on the generational impact of loss and how personal experiences shape the narrative of Karp's books. The episode is rich with laughter, poignant moments, and valuable advice for aspiring writers, all wrapped in a casual, conversational style that feels like a chat with old friends.

Be sure to visit Marshall's website: KarpKills.com and as always, SUBSCRIBE & FOLLOW us at TheThrillerZone.com

Special mentions in this episode:

• James Patterson, the world's most successful thriller writer, and co-writer with Karp
• Get BOOK ONE in the NYPD Red Series that started the series!

Thriller writer Tess Gerritsen, the brilliant mind behind over 30 award-winning novels, is back on our podcast, and we're diving headfirst into her latest gem, "The Summer Guest," here on our 216th episode of Season 8; perhaps our best season yet!

Right off the bat, Tess shares her magical writing process, where her characters practically write themselves—talk about a fun twist on the typical writing grind!

We’ll chat about The Martini Club, where retired spies tackle mysteries, and explore the juicy conflict between amateur sleuths and local law enforcement. Plus, Tess reveals how her real-life experiences with retired spies in her Maine neighborhood spark her stories. It's a cozy chat filled with humor, insights, and a dash of intrigue, so grab your favorite beverage and join us on this literary adventure!

If you’re a fan of thrillers, get ready to pop a cork because Tess is back on my podcast to spill the tea on her latest book, "The Summer Guest." Tess dives into the nitty-gritty of writing, sharing how her characters often take the reins of the story, leading her down paths she never expected.

This epic episode is a fascinating look at the creative process that many writers can relate to. We also chat about the dynamics of friendship, the tension between the old guard and the young blood, and how those themes resonate in her work.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to Tess’s novels, this episode will leave you eager for more. Learn more at: TessGerritsen.com, SUBSCRIBE to our Youtube Channel @thethrillerzone and whatever you do...share this episode with your Bestie Writer Friend (aka BWF).

To learn more visit: TessGerritsen.com. And if you need some takeaways, check this out:

• Tess Gerritsen emphasizes that the magic of writing comes from letting characters take over the story, revealing their own narratives.
• In this episode, Tess discusses how she draws inspiration from real-life retired spies living in her neighborhood in Maine.
• The importance of friendship and loyalty is a central theme in Tess's novels, particularly in her Martini Club series.
• Tess highlights her unique writing process, explaining that she often waits for her characters to speak to her before plotting the story.
• Writing across different genres allows Tess to explore a variety of themes and keeps her creativity flowing without getting stagnant.
• Tess shares her belief that every book has an overriding emotion, which she uses to guide the narrative and character development.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Amazon Studios
• Simon & Schuster
• Random House
• Thomas and Mercer

As always, we ask that you FOLLOW + SUBSCRIBE to us at: TheThrillerZone.com