The Thriller Zone

On today's 230th episode of The Thriller Zone with Dave Temple, get ready to dive into the thrilling world of book publishing with the fabulous Emily Bestler, a true rock star in the industry!

We’re talking about her journey from studying English at Columbia to being the Senior VP and Editor-in-Chief at Emily Bestler Books.

With a resume that boasts 79 New York Times bestsellers, she's not just any editor; she’s a literary wizard making dreams come true for authors everywhere. We’ll chat about what makes a successful author-editor relationship, how to spot a bestseller, and the magic behind storytelling that keeps readers glued to the page.

Plus, Emily spills the tea on the latest trends in dark romance and other genres, so buckle up—this is one episode you do NOT want want to miss!

Takeaways:

• This episode marks the 230th installment of the Thriller Zone, and guess what? We're gearing up to celebrate four fantastic years of thrilling content!
• Our guest, Emily Bestler, has an impressive background, having published 79 New York Times bestsellers, including works from renowned authors like Jodi Picoult and Vince Flynn.
• Emily emphasizes the importance of authenticity in writing, stating that writers can't fool readers; they need to write what they know or do deep research to connect.
• In the ever-evolving publishing landscape, staying adaptable is key, especially with trends like TikTok Book Talk changing how books are marketed and discovered.
• Emily's insights about the darker side of storytelling reveal her passion for horror and the complexities of human nature, making it clear why readers are drawn to these narratives.
• The episode wraps up with a reminder that whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting out, writing what you love is crucial for success in the publishing world.

Links referenced in this episode:

• thethrillerzone.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Macmillan
• Random House
• Atria Pocket Books
• Emily Bessler Books
• Simon and Schuster
• Scribner
• Free Press
• Little Simon
• Jack Carr
• 1201 Books

keywords: thriller podcast, book publishing, Emily Bessler, New York Times bestsellers, author editor partnership, storytelling magic, commercial fiction, literary quality, dark romance trends, publishing industry insights, book marketing strategies, author interviews, writing advice, un-agented submissions, thriller genre, creative writing tips, horror publishing, bestsellers, book publishing process, author success stories

Mentioned in this episode:

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

On today's 229th episode of The Thriller Zone, host Dave Temple dives into the thrilling world of indie authorship with the debut of Josh Mendoza and his book, *Shadow of the Eternal Watcher*.

Right off the bat, this title has got some serious flair! Not only does it have a cover that could make even the grumpiest bookworm smile, but it’s also packed with enough tension and excitement to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Josh, who’s also an indie filmmaker, brings a unique perspective to storytelling, blending his cinematic flair with the art of writing.

We’ll chat about the journey of getting his book into the world, the challenges of adapting stories from page to screen, and why indie creators are the true rock stars of the storytelling universe.

So grab a snack and get ready, because this chat is all about the thrills, the spills, and maybe a few creative hacks along the way!

Takeaways:

• The episode dives into the life of indie filmmaker and debut author Josh Mendoza, who discusses his book 'Shadow of the Eternal Watcher' and his journey into storytelling.
• Josh reveals he originally aimed to be an author before getting sidetracked into filmmaking, showcasing the crossover between books and movies.
• We get an inside look at Josh's filmmaking process, including tips on how to create visually appealing movies on a tight budget.
• The conversation highlights the importance of consistency in writing, as Josh encourages aspiring authors to set achievable goals, like writing 500 words a day.
• Listeners learn about the challenges of adapting books into films, and the creative solutions filmmakers use to bring stories to life on screen.
• Finally, we explore the mashup of genres in storytelling, as Josh combines elements of sci-fi and noir, proving there's no one way to craft a thrilling narrative.

Links referenced in this episode:

• joshmendoza.com

Keywords: thriller podcast, Shadow of the Eternal Watcher, Josh Mendoza author, indie filmmaker interview, book to film adaptation, debut author insights, writing advice for authors, filmmaking tips, thriller genre discussion, self-publishing strategies, indie filmmaking challenges, creative storytelling techniques, book cover design, PR for authors, cinematic storytelling, writing process, genre mashup novels, author interviews, indie film production, narrative techniques in fiction

Mentioned in this episode:

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

The 228th episode of The Thriller Zone is a laid-back, celebratory throwback as host Dave Temple takes a breather for Memorial Day weekend. He’s treating us to a thrilling two-for-one special with interviews from two heavyweights in the thriller genre, Jon Katzenbach and Matthew Quirk.

First up is Jon Katzenbach, who shares insights about his riveting work, *Jack's Boys*, while reminiscing about his journey from a crime reporter to a bestselling author. Dave and Jon dive into the intricacies of writing thrillers, touching on the psychological depth of characters and the importance of storytelling. Jon’s humor and engaging anecdotes add a delightful flavor to the conversation, making it feel like a casual chat between friends rather than a structured interview.

The episode wraps up with a sneak peek into Matthew Quirk’s perspective, who reflects on his work in *The Night Agent* and the challenges of adapting it for television. This episode is a perfect blend of nostalgia, humor, and rich storytelling insights, making it a must-listen for thriller aficionados.

This episode is rich with valuable writing advice, engaging stories, and the camaraderie of two talented authors...certainly makes for a Thriller Zone Memorial Celebration!

Follow us @ TheThrillerZone.com

Get ready to dive into Episode #227 when host Dave Temple leads The Thriller Zone with an electrifying conversation in the world of Silent Horizons with his pal Jack Stewart!

We’re kicking off this chat by unpacking the thrilling journey of co-authoring this new gem, blending Jack's storytelling magic with Chad Robichaux's real-life experiences.

Expect some juicy tales about the creative process, the ups and downs of writing alongside someone else, and a sprinkle of witty banter that keeps things light.

We’ll touch on how this book isn’t just about action-packed moments; it’s a heartfelt exploration of faith, family, and the human experience in tough times.

So, grab your snacks, settle in, and let’s get into the good stuff!

Learn more at JackStewartBooks.com and TheThrillerZone.com

Takeaways:

• In this episode, Jack Stewart shares the behind-the-scenes process of co-authoring his latest book, 'Silent Horizons', and how it differs from his solo projects.
• We dive into the unique challenges and joys of writing collaboratively, especially when it comes to balancing creative visions with a writing partner.
• Jack gives an insightful glimpse into the themes of 'Silent Horizons', emphasizing its focus on authenticity and the struggles of faith amidst turmoil.
• The podcast highlights the dynamic between humor and serious topics, showcasing how humor can be a great tool to connect with audiences about tough subjects.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Silent Horizons
• Bogey Spades
• Unknown Writer
• Outlaw
• Chad Robichaux
• Saving Aziz
• Mighty Oaks
• Tyndale House Publishing
• Web Griffin
• Tom Clancy
• Andrews and Wilson

Mentioned in this episode:

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

Welcome to our 226th episode of The Thriller Zone, as host Dave Temple welcomes Wes Browne, the mastermind behind the gripping novel 'They All Fall the Same,' for an enjoyable conversation. We chat about everything from the gritty reality of rural noir to the culinary chaos of running pizza joints and crafting beers.

Wes spills the beans on how his background as a criminal defense attorney spices up his storytelling, making us ponder the fine line between right and wrong—much like a good pizza topping debate! Plus, there’s a side of humor that’ll have you chuckling as we explore the hilariously chaotic life of his character, Burl Spoon.

The episode kicks off with a nostalgic nod to their last encounter at Bouchercon in sunny San Diego, where Wes's warm demeanor left a lasting impression on Dave. They dive headfirst into Wes's eclectic background as a criminal defense attorney and restaurateur, which perfectly fuels his storytelling prowess.

Browne's dual life of defending the accused and managing multiple pizza restaurants provides a treasure trove of material for his writing, particularly in the Kentucky noir genre.

The conversation flows smoothly into Wes's writing journey, with a spotlight on his first published work, 'Hillbilly Hustle,' a novel steeped in the quirky realities of small-town America, where pizza and pot intersect in unexpected ways.

With a blend of humor and seriousness, Wes shares anecdotes from his pizza shop, revealing a past where ordering a 'spinach special' had a whole different meaning. He reflects on how the pandemic reshaped his law practice and how he transitioned into writing full time. Listeners get a peek into Wes's creative process, as he discusses the complexities of crafting characters who are, at times, morally ambiguous yet relatable.

So grab a slice (or a beer if you’re feeling fancy), and let’s dig into this episode that’s packed with juicy stories and clever banter!

Learn more about Wes at WesBrowneAuthor.com (and don't forget the letter e at the end of Browne).

Links referenced in this episode:

• indiebound.org
• twodandelionsbookshop.com
• countryboybrewing.com
• bluestallionbrewing.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Country Boy Brewing
• Apollo Pizza
• Crooked Lane Books
• Ballast Point
• Blue Stallion Brewing
• Kroger
• Two Dandelions Bookshop
• Red Spotted Newt

Mentioned in this episode:

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

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

Mentioned in this episode:

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

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

Mentioned in this episode:

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

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

Mentioned in this episode:

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

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

Mentioned in this episode:

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.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

Mentioned in this episode:

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com