The Thriller Zone

On today’s 190th episode of The Thriller Zone, David and Tammy Temple discuss their TOP 20 SUMMER READS! 

David shares his formula for selecting the books and highlights a variety of thrillers, including military, political, and southern thrillers. They also mention debut authors and books that are in development for TV series. 

The episode concludes with a discussion about upcoming changes to the podcast for Season 7, they briefly share about David's battle with cancer and upcoming non-fiction book on the topic, and as always enjoy a good many laughs together, as they share their passion for reading great thrillers from exceptional authors.

Learn more on TheThrillerZone.com

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

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 189th episode of The Thriller Zone, host David Temple interviews authors Melinda Lee and Kendra Elliott about their collaborative novel, Echo Road. 

The two guest authors discuss how they came together to write the book, and their process of alternating chapters and maintaining consistent character voices. 

Elliot and Leigh also talk about their experiences with author Lee Goldberg and the importance of social media in the publishing industry. The episode ends with a brief elevator pitch for Echo Road.

To learn more visit:  KendraElliot.com and/or MelindaLeigh.com

• WATCH & SUBSCRIBE to our channel at YouTube.com/thethrillerzone
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• FOLLOW us on X.com/thethrillerzone, Instagram.com/thethrillerzone & Facebook.com/thethrillerzone 
• LISTEN to us on ALL the popular Podcast Channels like: 
• ApplePodcasts @ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-thriller-zone/id1577303372
• Spotify @ https://open.spotify.com/show/4f5vHVcT6DvXpZJ8nopIAU?si=6823127df7044420

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

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 188th episode of The Thriller Zone, host David Temple interviews #1 New York Times bestselling author Jack Carr about his latest thriller, Red Sky Mourning. 

Jack and Dave discuss Carr's growth as a writer and his commitment to constantly improving his craft. They also touch on topics such as imposter syndrome, complacency, and the importance of emotional connection in storytelling. 

Carr shares his excitement for book tours and the opportunity to personally thank his readers, while briefly mentioning his upcoming nonfiction book about the Marine Barracks bombing in Beirut. 

The prevailing theme of Red Sky Mourning is loyalty, which Carr explores through geopolitical events and questions of loyalty in the military. 

The episode ends with Carr's writing advice: never quit and focus on making the story the best it can be.

Learn more about Jack and his current Take Warning Tour at OfficialJackCarr.com

• WATCH & SUBSCRIBE to our channel at YouTube.com/thethrillerzone
• SIGN UP & JOIN us on our website at TheThrillerZone.com 
• FOLLOW us on X.com/thethrillerzone, Instagram.com/thethrillerzone & Facebook.com/thethrillerzone 
• LISTEN to us on ALL the popular Podcast Channels like: 
• ApplePodcasts @ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-thriller-zone/id1577303372
• Spotify @ https://open.spotify.com/show/4f5vHVcT6DvXpZJ8nopIAU?si=6823127df7044420

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

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 187th episode host David Temple celebrates THE THRILLER ZONE’S three-year anniversary with author May Cobb. They discuss May's journey from being David's first guest to having her book, The Hunting Wives, adapted into a TV series.

May shares her experience working in Hollywood and the surreal feeling of seeing her book come to life on set. They also talk about May's writing process and her best advice for aspiring authors.

The episode ends with MAY providing some real down-to-earth insights as to her Best Writing Advice, and David closes the show by expressing his gratitude to the listeners for the past three years…while teasing some upcoming surprises in future episodes.

Learn more at MayCobb.com

WATCH & SUBSCRIBE to our channel at YouTube.com/@thethrillerzone

SIGN UP & JOIN us on our website at TheThrillerZone.com

FOLLOW us on X.com/thethrillerzone, Instagram.com/thethrillerzone & Facebook.com/thethrillerzone

LISTEN to us on ALL the popular Podcast Channels like:
ApplePodcasts @ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-thriller-zone/id1577303372

Spotify @ https://open.spotify.com/show/4f5vHVcT6DvXpZJ8nopIAU?si=6823127df7044420

iHeartRadio @ https://www.iheart.com/podcast/338-the-thriller-zone-107694289

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

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 186th BONUS Episode of The Thriller Zone, host David Temple is happy to welcome two-time Edgar Award-winning Author Lori Roy as she discusses her latest book, Lake County.

The book is set in 1950s Florida and follows the story of Addie Ann, a young woman who tells a lie to pursue her dream of becoming a Hollywood actress. However, her lie puts her family in danger and leads to a collision with the Tampa mafia. 

Lori shares her background as a tax accountant turned writer and her journey to becoming a published author. She also emphasizes the importance of writing the book you want to read and developing all aspects of writing, including plot, characters, and setting.

New York Times Bestselling Author Michael Connelly says, "I loved it. Lori's voice is so entrancing you can almost smell the orange blossoms and blood."

Now, that will get your attention! To learn more visit: LoriRoy.com

• WATCH & SUBSCRIBE to our channel at YouTube.com/thethrillerzone
• SIGN UP & JOIN us on our website at TheThrillerZone.com 
• FOLLOW us on X.com/thethrillerzone, Instagram.com/thethrillerzone & Facebook.com/thethrillerzone 
• LISTEN to us on ALL the popular Podcast Channels like: 
• ApplePodcasts @ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-thriller-zone/id1577303372
• Spotify @ https://open.spotify.com/show/4f5vHVcT6DvXpZJ8nopIAU?si=6823127df7044420
• iHeartRadio @ https://www.iheart.com/podcast/338-the-thriller-zone-107694289

Chapters
00:00 Navigating Technical Difficulties
00:00 The Journey to Becoming an Author
15:55 Crafting Compelling Stories

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

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 185th episode of The Thriller Zone, host David Temple interviews New York Times bestselling author Meg Gardner. They discuss a wide variety of topics, including Meg's collaboration with Michael Mann on Heat 2, her writing process, and her latest book, Shadowheart.

They also deep-dive Meg’s other books, as well as discussing Meg’s experiences with research, and the challenges of writing a sequel to a popular movie. 

A terrific insight comes when Meg discusses researching dark and disturbing subjects, which can be challenging, but Meg balances it by finding joy in other activities and maintaining a positive mindset.

The conversation is filled with humor and insights into Meg's writing journey, and as is the case of her third appearance, Meg entertains in a truly engaging way.

To learn more visit: MegGardiner.com

WATCH & SUBSCRIBE to our channel at YouTube.com/thethrillerzone

SIGN UP & JOIN us on our website at TheThrillerZone.com 

FOLLOW us on X.com/thethrillerzone, Instagram.com/thethrillerzone & Facebook.com/thethrillerzone 

LISTEN to us on ALL the popular Podcast Channels like: 

ApplePodcasts @ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-thriller-zone/id1577303372

Spotify @ https://open.spotify.com/show/4f5vHVcT6DvXpZJ8nopIAU?si=6823127df7044420

iHeartRadio @ https://www.iheart.com/podcast/338-the-thriller-zone-107694289

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

02:37 Talking about Art and Getting Started

03:19 Collaborating with Michael Mann on Heat 2

05:13 Recovering from a House Fire

06:12 Congratulating Meg on Her Collaboration with Michael Mann

07:37 Geeking Out over Jeopardy

08:40 Favorite Crime Headlines

09:59 Talking about Meg's New Book, Shadowheart

11:17 Upcoming Book Tour

12:15 Praising Meg's Writing

13:12 Discussing Meg's Writing Style

Meg Gardner, interview, collaboration, Michael Mann, Heat 2, writing process, research, Shadowheart, The Thriller Zone, David Temple

• (00:00) -

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

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 184th episode of The Thriller Zone, a BONUS episode at that, we're pleased to welcome Washington Post Contributor and New York Times Bestselling Author David Ignatius.

On this podcast, David talks with us about his latest thriller, Phantom Orbit, and shares the inspiration and research behind his latest thriller, as well as the real-world events that influenced the plot.

Our hefty conversation delves into the complexities of satellite warfare, the role of technology in espionage, and the geopolitical landscape of Russia and Ukraine.

Best of all perhaps is when David shares insights into his writing process and offers advice for aspiring authors. Learn more at DavidIgnatius.com.

WATCH & SUBSCRIBE to our channel at YouTube.com/thethrillerzone

SIGN UP & JOIN us on our website at TheThrillerZone.com 

FOLLOW us on X.com/thethrillerzone, Instagram.come/thethrillerzone & Facebook.com/thethrillerzone 

LISTEN on ALL the popular Podcast Channels like: 

ApplePodcasts @ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-thriller-zone/id1577303372

Spotify @ https://open.spotify.com/show/4f5vHVcT6DvXpZJ8nopIAU?si=6823127df7044420

iHeartRadio @ https://www.iheart.com/podcast/338-the-thriller-zone-107694289

#DavidIgnatius, #PhantomOrbit, #thriller, #espionage, #satellitewarfare, #technology, #Russia, #Ukraine, #CIA, #writingadvice, #authorinterview #podcast #thethrillerzone @davetemple @davidtempleauthor #DavidTemple 

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Author Introduction
02:55 Crafting Realistic Thrillers
05:08 The Geopolitical Landscape of Espionage and Satellite Warfare
16:00 The Plot of Phantom Orbit and Real-World Influence
25:11 Writing Advice and Conclusion

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

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 183rd episode of The Thriller Zone we’ve a special treat. If you’re a fan of Thriller & Crime Fiction, then you’ve no doubt heard of The Real Book Spy. Well, today we sit down with Ryan Steck to discuss his latest thriller OUT FOR BLOOD.

This latest entry picks up where the last Matthew Redd thriller left off…with one exception. Redd’s danger is deeper. And the read is not only longer, but richer in scope. Yeah, it’s a good one! 

On today's show Ryan and I discuss a whole plethora of items like OUT FOR BLOOD, plus his first two thrillers, you'll also hear Ryan and I discuss a few things about New York Times Bestselling Author Jack Carr. We discuss in depth the process of writing substantial thrillers, learn about Ryan’s home life which involves no less than 11 mouths to feed, we cover a bit of Thrillerfest, and we hear about how Ryan got his start as The Real Book Spy. All is all, it’s a fully-packed hour of all things Thriller Fiction, with Real Book Spy Ryan Steck.

Learn more about Ryan and his Real Book Spy World at RyanSteck.com

Last thing before I sign off: A reminder that this is our Anniversary Month, and how we're excited to also welcome New York Times Bestselling Author MEG GARDINER on June 10th, where we'll cover her latest in the UNSUB Series, SHADOWHEART!

Then, the following week, the 17th to be exact, I’ll let you in on a closely held secret. Recall my very first guest…the person who took a chance talking to a then-yet-mostly-unknown podcast host of a little-startup pod called The Thriller Zone? If not, it was May Cobb. Well, she’s promised to return to celebrate our THREE YEAR ANNIVERSARY, as we discuss her latest thriller THE HOLLYWOOD ASSISTANT. 

So, do yourself a favor, and add Meg Gardiner’s book SHADOWHEART and May Cobb’s HOLLYWOOD ASSISTANT to your Summer Reading lists, as you’ll want to devour both of them.

Join us again soon for another exciting edition of TheThrillerZone.com … Your Front Row Seat to the Best Thriller Writers in the World.

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

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 182nd episode of The Thriller Zone, host David Temple interviews #1 International bestselling author John Katzenbach about his book Jack's Boys. 

They discuss the nature of storytelling in thrillers and the importance of creating complete and psychologically attuned characters. Katzenbach also shares how his experience as a criminal court reporter influenced his fiction writing. John also talks about growing up in the shadow of his father, former US Attorney General Nicholas Katzenbach, and how it shaped his perspective on government and history. 

The conversation touches on various topics, including the making of three of John's books that were made into the movies: THE MEAN SEASON, starring Kurt Russell and Mariel Hemingway, JUST CAUSE, starring Sean Connery, Laurence Fishburne and Ed Harris; and HART'S WAR, starring Bruce Willis and Colin Farrell.

David and John discuss other topics such as the impact of climate change in Miami, some of their favorite movies and movie stars, plus the inspiration behind the story, Jack's Boys, the importance of accuracy in thrillers, and the differences in reader reactions across different cultures.

Finally, the two men touch on the use of references to music and films in Katzenbach's writing, and their conversation ends with Katzenbach sharing his advice for writers.

Learn more at JohnKatzenbach.com, TheThrillerZone.com and be sure to subscribe to YouTube.com/thethrillerzone, as well as follow this podcast on X, Instagram and Facebook @thethrillerzone.

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

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 181st episode of The Thriller Zone, host David Temple interviews New York Times Bestselling author Eric Rickstad about his book "Lilith."

Lilith explores the theme of school shootings and the emotional impact on the victims and their families. Mr. Rickstad discusses his background as a writer and the influences that shaped his storytelling style. He also shares his thoughts on writing series versus standalone novels and the challenges of addressing previous events in a series.

The conversation delves into the inspiration behind Lilith and the societal issues it addresses, including gun violence and the politicization of tragedies.

In this episode, Temple talks to Eric about the themes of gun violence, mental health, and the role of women in society. Rickstad explains how the character of Lilith, the first wife of Adam, serves as a metaphor for women's struggle for autonomy and the myth of violence in America.

Rickstad wraps by sharing his writing advice, emphasizing the importance of consistency and trusting the creative process.

To order your copy of Lilith, and to learn more about Rick, visit: Rickstad.com

As always, be sure to join The Thriller Zone Podcast via our website: TheThrillerZone.com, FOLLOW us on Twitter, Instagram & Facebook @thethrillerzone. You can also listen to the podcast on ALL Podcast Channels, as well as watch the show on YouTube.com/thethrillerzone

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

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