The Thriller Zone

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

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 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

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 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

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 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!

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

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

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 215th episode, host Dave Temple is diving into the wild world of C.J. Box's latest thrill ride, Battle Mountain, the 25th installment in his Joe Pickett series.

Can you believe it? Twenty-five! That’s like a silver anniversary for books! In a conversational style that feels like eavesdropping on a couple of good friends catching up, this episode of the Thriller Zone podcast takes us behind the scenes, as C.J. chats with Dave, as they reminisce about the journey of creating Joe Pickett, a character that has become synonymous with adventure and moral dilemmas in the wilds of Wyoming.

The two friends dive into how Joe has developed over the years, tackling not only wildlife issues but also personal challenges, making him relatable and real. Alongside the laughter and banter, there’s a heartfelt discussion about the significance of strong female characters in the series, particularly Susan Kaney, who challenges Joe in ways that make him confront his own vulnerabilities.

Today's show is a refreshing take on storytelling that highlights the importance of evolving characters in a long-running series while keeping readers hooked.

C.J. peppers the episode with anecdotes, insights, and, of course, the ever-present humor that makes him such a beloved author. Seriously, grab a comfy seat with your favorite drink and settle in for 40 minutes of pure entertainment!

Learn more at CJBox.net ... ORDER THE BOOK HERE ... and #SUBSCRIBE to thriller fictions #1 podcast, TheThrillerZone.com

Takeaways:

• C.J. Box's passion for writing shines through as he discusses his journey with the Joe Pickett series, emphasizing that success stems from following one's passion rather than chasing trends.
• Falconry is more than just cool birds; it requires dedication, patience, and a unique partnership with nature—C.J. dives into this fascinating world in his latest novel, Battle Mountain.
• In the podcast, C.J. shares how his characters feel authentic and relatable, making readers feel like they're part of a cozy chat with friends around a campfire.
• We highlight the importance of immersing oneself in different genres because it can inspire new ideas and enrich one's writing style—C.J. believes in learning from all types of literature.

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 214th episode of The Thriller Zone with Dave Temple, we're diving deep into the thrilling world of writing with none other than Mark Greaney, the mastermind behind the Gray Man series, and his latest page-turner, "Midnight Black."

I'm so pleased that Mark carved out time for a fourth appearance on the Thriller Zone, and let me tell you, it’s a blast! As you can imagine, his new book Midnight Black, promises all the excitement and intrigue fans have come to love.

Mark opens up about how he balances the demands of writing with the realities of public appearances. You might think he spends all his time at book events, but he quickly sets the record straight—it’s just a tiny fraction of what he does!

Mark also shares some juicy tidbits about his characters, particularly the evolving relationship between Court Gentry and Zoya, which adds a sweet twist to the thrill of espionage. With a good dose of humor, we explore the importance of research in his writing process and how he strives to create a realistic world, even when the narrative takes wild turns.

If you’re a fan of thrillers, this episode is a treasure trove of insights, laughs, and maybe even a few tips on how to craft your own gripping stories!

So grab a snack, kick back, and let’s unravel the secrets behind the action-packed world of Mark Greaney's writing!

IF you're looking for a staring place to read Mark's books, may I suggest ordering MIDNIGHT BLACK HERE ... and if you love it as much as I bet you will, then start at the beginning and read all 14 of them!

Learn more at MarkGreaneyBooks.com and follow us at TheThrillerZone.com

Takeaways:

• Mark Greaney emphasizes that public appearances are just a tiny fraction of his writing life, which consists predominantly of, you guessed it, writing!
• The new book, Midnight Black, blends classic espionage vibes with modern pacing, and if that doesn't get your heart racing, what will?
• Greaney describes his writing process as a chaotic mix of creativity and spontaneity, where he often starts with intriguing dialogue lines that could come from anywhere.
• He believes that the best way to enhance writing skills is to focus on improving the quality of one's writing rather than getting caught up in publicity efforts.

Links referenced in this episode:

• markgreaneybooks.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 213th episode of The Thriller Zone, we're doing something just a little bit differently.

You see I recorded this episode with the lovely and talented Ashley Erwin nearly three years ago...April 2022, to be exact.

Long story short, I pushed it aside to edit it, while waiting for the book to drop, and, well, the book got delayed, I misplaced the show file, and wouldn't you know I found this just this week and thought...why not air it now?

Ashley, you don't mind, do you? Maybe it can enjoy a Renaissance.

So, pull up a chair, pour yourself something good, and enjoy an off the cuff, and more than a little bit delayed conversation with the funny, charming, and mega-talented Ashley Erwin, here on The Thriller Zone.

Learn more at: Ashley-Erwin.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

This 212th episode of the Thriller Zone hosted by Dave Temple, features a captivating interview with Scott Turow, the legendary author known for his contributions to the legal thriller genre. Scott, known as the pioneering author of legal thrillers, discusses his latest novel, "Presumed Guilty," which continues the story of Rusty Savage from his ground-breaking bestseller, "Presumed Innocent."

The conversation unveils Scott's journey from aspiring writer to a celebrated author, revealing the intense experience of transitioning from a struggling writer to the creator of a worldwide bestseller. With a humorous tone, Scott shares personal anecdotes about the highs and lows of his writing career, including the emotional rollercoaster that comes with achieving literary success.

As Dave & Scott reflect on the impact of advancements in forensic technology on storytelling, Turow reveals how modern expectations have shifted due to popular crime dramas, making it more challenging to create suspense.

The episode touches on the recent television adaptation of "Presumed Innocent," originally starring Harrison Ford, and more recently, Jake Gyllenhaal, highlighting the differences in character portrayal and storyline.

The discussion explores how Scott's real-life experiences as a prosecutor inform his fiction. His unique perspective on the complexities of the legal world offers listeners an insightful look into the nuances of crafting a compelling legal narrative.

The episode also touches on the evolution of legal thrillers in contemporary literature, highlighting how advancements in forensic science and changes in societal expectations have shaped the genre. Scott emphasizes the importance of character development and the intricate layers within his stories, which resonate deeply with readers, creating a rich tapestry of intrigue and suspense.

The episode wraps up with a powerful reminder that writing is a craft requiring dedication and persistence, encouraging aspiring writers to embrace their journeys with passion and resilience. This engaging conversation is a must-listen for fans of thrillers and anyone interested in the art of storytelling.

ORDER SCOTT'S NEW BOOK "PRESUMED GUILTY" HERE.

Learn more at ScottTurow.com and follow us at TheThrillerZone.com

Takeaways:

• Scott Turow reflects on his journey from aspiring writer to pioneer of the legal thriller genre,
• The impact of forensic technology on legal storytelling has significantly changed reader expectations,
• Turow shares the emotional experience of seeing his first book adapted into a film.
• The collaboration between filmmakers and authors can lead to unique interpretations of stories,
• Turow discusses the importance of persistence and hard work in the writing process,
• He emphasizes that writing requires consistent effort, regardless of the level of success attained.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Apple TV
• Bad Robot Productions
• Nike
• Grand Central Publishing

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 211th episode of the #1 thriller podcast, The Thriller Zone, host Dave Temple welcomes the literary titan James Patterson, marking a significant highlight in the podcast's eighth season.

The two scribes dive into the world of thriller fiction, discussing Patterson's illustrious career, which includes a staggering number of bestsellers and a unique blend of characters like Holmes, Marple, and Poe in his latest release, 'Holmes is Missing'.

Temple reflects on Patterson's influence on his own journey as a reader and writer, expressing admiration for Patterson's ability to craft engaging narratives through short, punchy chapters that keep readers hooked. Dave candidly admits that it was Patterson's influence that not only got Dave "seriously" reading again, but was the catalyst that pushed Dave toward becoming a writer.

As the dialogue progresses, Patterson shares insights into his creative process, emphasizing the importance of storytelling and the ability to adapt and change directions in narrative as characters evolve. This candid exchange not only sheds light on Patterson’s methods but also showcases his humorous and relatable personality, making the episode a delightful blend of inspiration and entertainment for fans of the genre.

The episode also takes a more personal turn as Patterson opens up about his life, including anecdotes about his family, particularly his wife Sue, whom he describes with heartfelt affection.

The discussion touches on the emotional aspects of writing, with Patterson highlighting how his personal experiences shape his storytelling. Jim shares a touching moment from his autobiography, revealing a deep connection with his audience and the significance of emotional authenticity in writing.

Temple and Patterson’s rapport is evident as they share laughs and insights, creating an engaging atmosphere that resonates throughout the conversation, and the episode serves as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling, both in fiction and in the lived experiences of the authors themselves, leaving listeners with a renewed appreciation for the craft.

Additionally, the episode invites listeners to reflect on the evolving landscape of literature and the role of technology in shaping reading habits. Patterson discusses the impact of modern distractions on attention spans and how this influences his writing style, favoring brevity and engagement over lengthy prose.

The dynamic between storytelling and audience engagement becomes a recurring theme, as they explore how Patterson's books have adapted to meet the needs of contemporary readers. This exploration of the intersection between creativity and commercial success highlights the challenges and triumphs of being a prolific author in today's fast-paced world.

As the episode wraps up, Temple and Patterson leave audiences with a sense of hope and inspiration, encouraging aspiring writers to embrace their unique voices and tell their stories, regardless of the challenges they may face.

ORDER JIM'S NEW BOOK: "HOLMES IS MISSING" HERE

Learn more about Jim's prolific body of work at JamesPatterson.com and be sure to visit/follow/subscribe at TheThrillerZone.com as well as YouTube.com/thethrillerzone

Major takeaways include:

• Dave Temple reflects on his journey in podcasting and the significance of having James Patterson as a guest.
• James Patterson emphasizes the importance of storytelling and keeping readers engaged throughout the narrative.
• During the episode, Patterson shares personal anecdotes about his life and his writing process.
• Temple expresses his admiration for Patterson's work and discusses the impact it had on him as a reader.
• The two discuss the evolving landscape of publishing and the necessity of adapting to readers' changing preferences.
• Patterson highlights the collaborations he enjoys, especially with authors who bring fresh perspectives to his stories.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Apple TV+
• Amazon

Keywords: James Patterson, Holmes is Missing, thriller fiction podcast, writing tips, bestselling authors, James Patterson interview, literary collaborations, thriller novels, writing process, storytelling techniques, book recommendations, author insights, creative writing, literary influences, podcast episodes, mystery fiction, book adaptations, writing advice, publishing industry, masterclass in writing

WATCH DAVE & JIM ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL AT:

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