The Thriller Zone

On today’s 180th episode of The Thriller Zone, host David Temple interviews film director and debut author James Cox about his breakout hit novel, Grand Theft AI. 

The conversation covers Cox's background in directing, his influences, and the process of writing the book. They discuss the cyberpunk landscape of the story, the immersive technology called Wetwire, and the future history of the world. 

Cox also shares his passion for detail and authenticity in science fiction and the blending of reality and fiction in his work, and shares how he explores the themes of artificial intelligence (AI), human-machine interaction, the impact of AI on labor, and the ownership and control of AI technology. 

David and James discuss the novel, which focuses on people trying to navigate a world that has been accelerated by AI, and emphasize how the fear of AI rising up and the idea of machines becoming self-aware and human-like are intriguing. 

The conversation concludes with the importance of relationships in thrillers, the role of music in storytelling, and the challenges of building an online presence as a writer.

Thank you for following TheThrillerZone.com and for subscribing to our YouTube.com/thethrillerzone

• (00:03) - Introduction

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

In this 179th episode of The Thriller Zone, host David Temple interviews thriller writer Joe Reid, also known as Parker Adams, about his latest book, The Lock Box.

The conversation covers various topics, including the inspiration behind the book, the use of pen names, and Reid's background as a marine biologist and patent lawyer. He discusses the process of writing fiction and how it relates to his work as a litigator.

The discussion also delves into the character of Monna Locke, a female army vet turned safecracker, and the possibility of a sequel, plus Joe discusses his writing journey and the influences that have shaped his career.

Joe (aka Parker) talks about the importance of accumulating experiences and listening to your instincts as a writer, and also emphasizes the need to finish what you start and not be afraid of criticism.

Some highlights include the themes of complex characters, the influence of personal backgrounds on writing, and the importance of starting a story in the right place.

The interview concludes with a discussion about the impact of COVID-19 on storytelling plus an upcoming speaking event at the Carlsbad library with Christopher Reich on May 17th at Noon.

Learn more at JosephReidBooks.com, and as always, be sure to visit us at TheThrillerZone.com, follow us on Twitter, Instagram & Facebook  @TheThrillerZone and you can catch us on all the podcast channels, like @applepodcasts  @Spotify  @iHeartRadio and more.

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 178th episode of The Thriller Zone, David Temple and Scott Carson, author of Lost Man's Lane, discusses his writing process and the importance of voice in storytelling. He shares his experience working with a private investigator and how it influenced his latest novel.

Carson also talks about the power of face-to-face interviews and the impact of feedback on the writing process.

Scott offers advice to aspiring writers, emphasizing the importance of reading widely and keeping goals close to the vest. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the magic of voice and the thrill of having respected authors read and praise your work.

Takeaways

• Using a pen name can help differentiate between different genres and target specific readerships.
• Supernatural stories can be challenging to write well and appeal to skeptics, but the satisfaction of success is greater.
• Readers often have preferences for certain genres and may be more open to different types of stories within those genres.
• As a writer, it's important to challenge yourself and try new things to continue growing and producing your best work.
• Building a connection with readers is crucial, and they will follow you across genres if they enjoy your writing style and storytelling. 
• The importance of having fun and taking risks in life and art
• The power of voice in writing and the uniqueness each writer brings
• The value of reading widely to improve writing skills
• The benefits of keeping writing goals private and avoiding early feedback

Sound Bites

• "If people like your prose, be whatever flavor it is, they're going to follow you wherever you go."
• "The supernatural stories are by far the more difficult ones for me. But the satisfaction of sticking the landing is maybe a little bit greater."
• "I don't think you're ever going to get your best work by staying in the familiar. It's going out there and getting a little bit dangerous."
• "We only get one crack at this life. So why don't we just have fun with it?"
• "The thing that makes your heart beat a little faster, whatever your emotional cues and triggers are, those are going to still be there no matter how different the story world might be."
• "Write the first draft with the door shut.”
• "Voice is the magic, the thing that makes it work."
• "Read widely because it's all grist for the mill."
• "Keep your goals close to the vest for as long as possible."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Face-to-Face Interviews
05:15 The Impact of Face-to-Face Interviews
09:33 Advice for Aspiring Writers
14:45 The Magic of Having Respected Authors Read Your Work

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

Welcome to the latest episode of The Thriller Zone with special guest, Christopher "Chris" Reich. In this episode, we dive deep into the world of Chris Reich, a renowned author known for his thrilling novels. The host, David, engages in a captivating conversation with Chris, exploring his journey as a writer and the inspiration behind his successful series and standalone novels.

Chris shares insights into his writing process, revealing how he transitioned from a corporate career to pursue his passion for writing. He discusses the challenges and triumphs he faced along the way, highlighting the importance of perseverance and never giving up on one's dreams.

The conversation delves into the intricacies of Chris's latest book, "Matterhorn," which promises to be a blockbuster hit. The host and guest discuss the characters, setting, and themes of the book, offering a glimpse into the thrilling world of espionage, action, and emotional depth that readers can expect.

Throughout the episode, the host and guest touch on various elements of storytelling, from crafting compelling characters to creating immersive settings. They also explore the evolving landscape of the publishing industry and the impact of technology on espionage and intelligence operations, drawing parallels between fiction and reality.

As the conversation unfolds, the host and guest share personal anecdotes, including a fascinating story about Stan Getz's iconic song "Desafinado" and its influence on their lives. The episode is filled with engaging discussions, literary insights, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the creative process of a successful author.

In the end, the episode leaves listeners intrigued and eager to explore Chris Reich's thrilling novels, offering a blend of action, suspense, and emotional depth that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Tune in to TheThrillerZone.com for a captivating journey into the world of storytelling with Chris Reich. And to learn more about our guest, visit: ChristopherReich.com

BEST CHRIS REICH QUOTES:

• "I love what I do. So it beats working for a living." - 00:00:47
• "I got to write a book that is as exciting as The Bourne Identity. And that book became Rules of Deception." - 00:03:46
• "The days when the public unites around a central title, a central book that kind of captures the national interest, the zeitgeist. Very rare now, very rare." - 00:05:48
• "Social media is killing attention span, where people want that dopamine hit every 15 seconds, new page, new picture." - 00:06:38
• "I want to be part of this box theory where I keep a certain level, and then boom, you drop dead or something, you know, at age 85." - 00:10:23
• "Revenge is not a dish best served cold. Revenge is a dish best served hot and bloody right in your face." - 00:35:45
• "I don't know, revenge is not a dish best served cold. Revenge is a dish best served hot and bloody right in your face." - 00:35:45
• "Stan Getz is one of the greatest alto players ever. I mean, one of the greatest players of anything ever." - 00:42:18
• "I try to aim for a certain level of a skill level, let's say. So, you know, but thank you. I'm glad you like it." - 00:44:24

BEST DAVE TEMPLE QUOTE:

"I put it [STAN GETZ} on the drive up from San Diego today so I could get in the mood, because whenever I feel if I'm too preoccupied or down, I put on Bossa Nova, or Stan Getz, and it just makes the world a better place." - 00:40:26

• (00:00) - to the Thriller Zone: 00:00:00

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 176th episode of The Thriller Zone, host David Temple interviews Brian Andrews and Jeff Wilson, the authors of the book 'Four Minutes.'
The conversation starts with some lighthearted banter having to do with "silly hats,' but soon delves into the authors' busy writing schedule and their upcoming projects. A highlight comes when they share their collaboration with Tom Clancy's estate and the research they conducted with the US Navy for their Clancy novels.

The authors also explain the concept behind their latest military thriller, Four Minutes, which involves a special operations team using advanced technology to predict future events.

The show wraps with a brief discussion about the challenges and limitations of time travel in the book, how it could be possible through the use of modular fusion reactors, as well as the potential benefits and risks of artificial intelligence in writing and warfare.

To learn more visit: Andrews-Wilson.com

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Show Updates
08:06 Collaborating with Tom Clancy's Estate and the US Navy
21:54 Creating Realistic Rules for Time Travel
22:51 The Importance of Family Support and Military Dedication
22:57 Exploring the Intersection of the Human Condition and Technology
23:25 Time Travel through Modular Fusion Reactors
24:24 Limitations and Consequences of Time Travel
26:43 The Potential Benefits and Risks of Artificial Intelligence
38:19 Gratitude for Opportunities in the Entertainment Industry

Some take-aways:

• Brian Andrews and Jeff Wilson have a busy writing schedule, but they are grateful for the opportunities they have been given.
• The authors collaborated with Tom Clancy's estate and conducted extensive research with the US Navy for their Clancy novels.
• 'Four Minutes' explores the concept of using advanced technology to predict future events and its implications for special operations teams.
• The authors wanted to create realistic rules and limitations for time travel in the book.
• The episode highlights the importance of family support and the dedication of military personnel. The hosts are interested in exploring the intersection of the human condition and technology.
• Time travel in their book is made possible through the use of modular fusion reactors.
• Time travel has limitations and unintended consequences.
• Artificial intelligence can be a valuable tool if humans are in control of it.
• The hosts are grateful for the opportunities they have in the entertainment industry.

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 175th Episode of The Thriller Zone, now in our 6th Season, we’re happy to invite Don Winslow into our home for a face-to-face interview that, as you’ll quickly notice, is truly a one of a kind opportunity for this host, and for you as an audience member.

Don, as you may know, is a renowned thriller writer who has decades of experience as a seasoned writer, creating one hit after another. Today, Don discusses his journey as an author and the challenges he faced in the publishing industry. 

Despite initial rejections and being labeled a cult writer, Winslow persevered and eventually achieved success. He credits his partnership with agent Shane Salerno as a turning point in his career. Together, they started a rebellion against the limitations imposed by publishers and Hollywood. 

In our in-depth conversation, Winslow reflects on the impact of his mother, a librarian, who instilled in him a love for books and the belief that he could achieve anything. He also shares his thoughts on retirement and the future of the publishing industry. 

Digging deeper and opening up, Don reveals the evolution of storytelling and the impact of technology and AI on the industry. He emphasizes the authenticity of human communication and the importance of bringing heart and soul to writing. 

As our show begins to wrap, Don allows us an inside peek, as he shares advice for aspiring writers, encouraging them to never give up and set doable writing goals. He reflects on the emotional impact of his City Trilogy, which includes City On Fire, City Of Dreams and City In Ruins, as well as the upcoming film adaptation, and concludes by discussing his future plans, including his commitment to fighting against neo-fascism and—on a much lighter note—spending more time with his wife, Jean.

All in all, this will stand out as one of the very finest episodes of The Thriller Zone since I launched the podcast nearly three years ago. I’m your host, David Temple, now let’s meet the man of the hour, my friend Don Winslow here in TheThrillerZone.com

To learn more visit: DonWinslow.com and purchase his book #CityInRuins wherever you buy your books!

* * * * *

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:22 Early Days and Challenges

06:03 The Turning Point

09:25 Dealing with Rejection

13:19 Meeting Shane Salerno

22:57 The Moment of Confidence

26:41 Retirement and Future Plans

32:13 The Publishing Industry Today

35:13 The Evolution of Storytelling

36:10 The Impact of Technology and AI

37:31 The Authenticity of Human Communication

38:29 Advice for Aspiring Writers

40:57 Setting Doable Writing Goals

45:12 The Emotional Impact of the City Trilogy

47:09 Film Adaptation of the City Trilogy

49:32 Austin Butler as Danny in the Film Adaptation

52:51 Overview of the City Trilogy

56:13 The Emotional Impact of the Epilogue

59:05 Reflecting on Gratitude and the Writing Journey

01:04:35 Opening Line and Takeaway for a Writing Class

01:08:10 Future Plans and Priorities

Takeaways

• Don't give up on your dreams, even in the face of rejection and setbacks.
• Success often comes after years of hard work and perseverance.
• Having a supportive partner or mentor can make a significant difference in your career.
• The publishing industry is evolving, but books and storytelling will always have a place in society. 
• The storytelling industry has evolved throughout history, with changes in platforms & technology, but the desire for stories remains constant.
• Artificial intelligence may never be able to replicate the authenticity and emotional impact of human communication in storytelling.
• Aspiring writers should never give up and set doable writing goals to make progress.
• The City trilogy by Don Winslow which includes City On Fire, City Of Dreams & City In Ruins, explores timeless themes from classical literature in a modern setting, with a focus on character development and emotional depth.

• (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

I’m your host David Temple and welcome to Your Front Row Seat to The Best Thriller Writers in the World! On today’s 174th episode of The Thriller Zone Podcast, we welcome #1 New York Times Bestselling Author LISA GARDNER where, among other things, she’s discuss her illustrious career as a thriller writer, and the inspiration behind her book 'Still See You Everywhere.' 

Lisa will share her evolution from writing romantic suspense to full-on thrillers plus the vital importance of character-driven storytelling. 

Concerning her next soon-to-be-hit novel, Gardner shares insights into her protagonist, Frankie Elkin, and the challenges she faces as a recovering alcoholic with more regrets than belongings. 

She also discusses her writing style, the power of show don't tell, and her super-inside secret for triggering creativity. Gardner also takes a serious moment to reflect on her goal of entertaining readers while raising awareness about missing persons.

There’s so much to enjoy, and equally as much to learn from a prolific thriller author whose latest thriller is sure to please. 

To learn more visit: LisaGardner.com

* * * * *

Takeaways

Character-driven storytelling is a key aspect of Lisa Gardner's writing style.

Frankie Elkin, the protagonist of 'Still See You Everywhere,' is a relatable and vulnerable character.

Taking time off and getting outside of one's comfort zone can lead to new inspiration and creativity.

Using scent as a trigger can help writers get into the right mindset for writing.

Hollywood adaptations of books require letting go and allowing the director's vision to take over.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Setting

01:20 Transition to Lisa Gardner's Career

03:56 Characterization of Frankie Elkin

05:35 Frankie Elkin's Humanity, Vulnerability and Motivation

07:12 Frankie Elkin's Battle with Alcoholism

08:20 Comparison to Jack Reacher

09:39 Frankie Elkin's Disconnection from Conventional Life

10:05 Lisa Gardner's Sabbatical and Inspiration for the Book

11:33 The Power of Taking Time Off

12:44 Writing Style and Show, Don't Tell

15:25 Description of 'Still See You Everywhere'

20:44 Lisa Gardner's Writing Craftsmanship

23:09 Lisa Gardner's Confidence in Writing

25:12 Lisa Gardner's Strength in Characterization

26:22 Lisa Gardner's Struggle with Description

27:42 Lisa Gardner's Experience with Hollywood Adaptations

31:13 Entertainment and Raising Awareness

32:19 Writing Advice: Using Scent as a Trigger

34:15 Lisa Gardner's Approach to Hollywood Adaptations

35:01 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 173rd episode of The Thriller Zone, now in our Sixth Season, JACK BEAUMONT, former spy turned author, discusses his world of living in the spy world, as a former fighter pilot, and how those experiences have influenced his writing. 

Jack shares insights as we dive deep into the world of espionage, his creation of false identities, and perhaps most significantly, the deep psychological toll being a spy can have on a person. 

Our discussion covers not only his two smash hits, which include The Frenchman and Dark Arena, but your mind will be blown as you hear how he takes his decades of experience and weaves them into the realistic portrayal of spy life in his novels. 

Easily one of my favorite things about Jack, and one that I believe will pull you in and impress you as well, is when he reveals how he writes with the intention of helping others understand and cope with trauma. 

Our gripping conversation concludes with a discussion of future projects and some inside secrets as to how his work is being adapted to television.

TO LEARN MORE: JACKBEAUMONTOFFICIAL.COM

* * * * *

Takeaways

• Espionage is a dark and psychologically challenging profession that takes a heavy toll on individuals.
• Creating and maintaining false identities is a crucial aspect of espionage work, requiring actors' skills and extensive preparation.
• Jack Beaumont's books, The Frenchman and Dark Arena, provide a realistic portrayal of spy life based on his own experiences.
• Writing with authenticity and emotional depth can help readers connect with characters and experience their journey.
• Beaumont's future projects include a book on Chinese cyber espionage and a TV series adaptation of The Frenchman.

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

Welcome to The Thriller Zone, I’m your host David Temple. On the TZ we explore the thrilling world of fiction crafted by today's most compelling authors. On today’s 172nd episode, we delve into the thrilling universe of C.J. Box, the mastermind behind unforgettable tales of the American West.

From the rugged landscapes of Wyoming to the intricate webs of mystery and suspense, C.J. Box's novels captivate readers with their vivid characters and gripping plots. Join me as we journey through his acclaimed series featuring game warden Joe Pickett, and discover what sets Box apart as a writer who seamlessly blends adrenaline-pumping action with deep insights into the human condition.

We'll explore Box's unique storytelling style, his knack for creating authentic settings, and the themes that resonate throughout his body of work. His new book THREE INCH TEETH centers around a rogue Grizzly Bear and the havoc he creates, plus some underhanded characters you’ll love to despise. 

Whether you're a longtime fan or new to CJ’s books, prepare to be immersed in a world where danger lurks around every corner and justice is always worth fighting for. And take it from this CJ Newbie, this is one of those authors you can count on me reading and sharing for years to come.

So saddle up as we embark on an adventure through the pages of C.J. Box's THREE INCH TEETH…here on the home of your Front Row Seat To The Best Thriller Writers in The World…TheThrillerZone.com.

Learn more at: CJBOX.net

* * * * *

KEY TAKE-AWAYS:
The enjoyment of reading and writing is a key aspect of CJ Box's work.

The dangers and behavior of grizzly bears are explored in his books.

CJ Box's favorite outdoor activity is fly fishing.

Realistic dialogue is important in writing.

CJ Box aims to provide different perspectives on controversial issues in his books.

Nature's power and the importance of respecting bears are recurring themes in his writing.

CJ Box is working on the next Joe Pickett book, which will focus on Nate Romanowski seeking revenge.

CJ Box's role as an executive producer involves providing source material and cashing checks.

TV shows can serve as a gateway for new readers to discover books.

AI has limitations in creative writing.

Breaking through as a writer can be challenging, especially in a competitive landscape.

Reading widely and understanding point of view are important for writers.

CJ Box realized he had become a writer around his third book.

The importance of awards in the writing industry has changed over time.

The best piece of writing advice from CJ Box is to read books and understand point of view.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction 

01:28 The Enjoyment of Reading and Writing

09:57 Grizzly Bear Behavior and Human Interactions

10:38 Mama Bears and Bear Activists

12:29 Favorite Outdoor Activity: Fly Fishing

13:19 Realistic Dialogue in Writing

15:01 Writing About Controversial Issues

16:00 Nature's Power and Respect for Bears

19:17 Upcoming Joe Pickett Book

20:29 CJ Box's Role as an Executive Producer

22:12 The Impact of TV Shows on Book Sales

23:41 The Limitations of AI in Writing

25:46 The Challenges of Breaking Through as a Writer

26:51 The Importance of Reading and Understanding Point of View

30:23 Realizing the Craft of Writing

31:46 The Difficulty of Winning Awards and New Challenges in the Writing Landscape

32:14 Best Piece of Writing Advice

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

Mentioned in this episode:

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 171st episode of The Thriller Zone, New York Times Bestselling author Mark Greaney discusses his latest book, The Chaos Agent.

As Mark and I catch up, we reminisce about our previous interactions, as he explains his decision to incorporate the slow burn and tension in his latest thriller that allows readers to delve deeper into the protagonist's character.

We also delve into the topic of artificial intelligence (AI) and its influence on the story, as Greaney expresses his concerns about the potential dangers of AI, particularly in the development of lethal autonomous weapons. We also touch on the impact of AI on the writing community and the portrayal of the protagonist in a potential movie adaptation.

Later in the show, Mark discusses various aspects of his writing career, The Grey Man Series, and the vulnerability of his protagonist and the importance of creating a story that is interesting and keeps readers engaged.

As we close, Mark also shares insights into the future of The Grey Man series and the challenges of his being a busy writer. Greaney also emphasizes the role of a good editor (like Tom Colgan), and the influence of other writers on his work.

We conclude with a discussion about Mark's early burgeoning career as a "hopeful rock star" in his band BAD ENGLISH, where he played drums and wore very large permed hair. As always, we close with Mark's best writing advice, before we have Mark answer some fun Random Fire Questions, one of our favorite games.

To learn more about Mark, visit: MarkGreaneyBooks.com and as always, follow us at TheThrillerZone.com and be sure to SUBSCRIBE to us at YouTube.com/thethrillerzone.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Catching Up
00:52 The Slow Burn and Tension
08:21 Mark Graney's Busy Life
14:12 The Influence of AI in Chaos Agent
21:16 AI and the Writing Community
24:06 Ryan Gosling as Court Gentry
25:34 Writing a Vulnerable Protagonist
26:22 Future of the Grey Man Series
27:46 Lack of Control in the Publishing Process
30:36 The Challenges of Being a Busy Writer
31:05 The Difference Between Writing Grey Man and Tom Clancy
33:22 The Importance of a Good Editor
34:51 Influence of Other Writers
44:59 Best Writing Advice
47:50 Random Fire Questions

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