Halley Sutton, author of The Lady Upstairs

Today, host Dave Temple is diving into the nitty-gritty of the publishing world with the legendary Robert Gottlieb, the chairman of Trident Media Group. Robert has the inside scoop on how books go from mere words on a page to bestsellers that everyone’s talking about. We’re pulling back the curtain on what it really takes to run a top-tier talent agency and what separates a good writer from a great one. As we chat, Robert shares his journey from being an assistant at the William Morris Agency to establishing himself as a titan in the literary agency world. He highlights the importance of understanding the unique qualities that make an author stand out in a sea of submissions. We explore the nuances between literary and commercial fiction, uncovering what truly captivates editors and readers alike. Robert's insights into the shifting dynamics of publishing—especially with the rise of eBooks and the influence of social media on book sales—paint a vivid picture of today's literary landscape. Get ready for a masterclass in how to navigate the complexities of getting published, with plenty of anecdotes and wisdom from Robert's extensive career. Whether you're a budding author or just a curious listener, there's gold to be mined in this conversation. Learn more at TridentMediaGroup.com and WATCH/LISTEN/FOLLOW us at TheThrillerZone.comCompanies and people mentioned in this episode: Trident Media Group William Morris Agency Knopf Bertelsmann Alba Michel Frank Herbert Brian Herbert Leon Uris Random House Dune Sony Lionsgate Putnam Group Keywords: thriller podcast, literary agent insights, Robert Gottlieb interview, publishing industry trends, how to write a bestseller, author career development, Trident Media Group, best practices for authors, commercial fiction vs literary fiction, storytelling techniques, international book markets, marketing for authors, navigating publishing contracts, building an author brand, literary agency secrets, author representation tips, the future of publishing, writing craft advice, book marketing strategies, understanding genre fiction

Welcome to not only the 232nd episode of The Thriller Zone, but we are also celebrating our 4-YEAR ANNIVERSARY!!!! Can you believe it? Four years of thrilling stories, incredible guests, and a whole lot of banter. Who better to celebrate with than #1 New York Times Bestselling author Megan Abbott, author of The Turnout. Today's chat is all about celebrating our fabulous four-year anniversary of the podcast...but perhaps as equally important, we're going to do a deep-dive on her latest riveting thriller called El Dorado Drive...which is already catching some serious buzz.If you know Megan's work, then you know what a captivating author she is. Moreover, she's a delightful conversationalist...and we have plenty of that in store for you. Trust me, El Dorado Drive is a riveting read that dives deep into the chaos of suburban life and the lengths people go to maintain their status. We'll also explore some juicy tidbits about the upcoming TV adaptation and how it feels to see her characters come to life on screen. So grab your favorite drink and settle in, because this episode is packed with all the good stuff!Learn more at MeganAbbott.com and TheThrillerZone.com ... where we plan on kicking off Season 9, here in our 4th year!Takeaways: Celebrating our four-year anniversary feels like a wild ride through podcasting history, can you believe it? Megan Abbott's latest work, El Dorado Drive, is a riveting tale of suburban intrigue and family drama that'll keep you guessing. The fascinating dynamics of desperation and friendship in illegal money-making schemes are explored through Abbott's storytelling. A24 is adapting El Dorado Drive for TV, bringing Abbott's cinematic vision to life in a thrilling new way! The conversation dives into nostalgia, revealing how our fond memories can obscure the less glamorous realities of the past. Abbott emphasizes the importance of reading widely to hone your writing skills, so pick up those books, folks! Companies mentioned in this episode: Netflix A24 Triton Media Group May Cobb Megan Abbott Gillian Flynn SA Cosby Dennis Lehane Harlan Coban Karen Slaughter Elmore Leonard Keywords: podcast, Megan Abbott, El Dorado Drive, thriller genre, suspenseful stories, book recommendations, crime fiction, Netflix adaptations, women in literature, anniversary episodes, literary interviews, writing advice, reading habits, character development, suburban stories, female empowerment, psychological thrillers, nostalgia in storytelling, book to screen adaptations, A24 productions

Get ready to dive into the wild world of “Dark Neon Dirt,” because today's 231st episode with Dave Temple, the host of The Thriller Zone, we’re hanging out with debut author Thomas Trang.Let me tell you, this cat knows how to spin a tale, and we kick things off by gushing over his book that’s got all the thrilling vibes you’d expect—think crime, grit, and a dash of clever banter. Thomas shares his journey from the shipping industry to the literary scene, proving that you can go from navigating the high seas to navigating the depths of character development without missing a beat. Plus, we’ll chat about how the magic of storytelling intertwines with real-life experiences, and why engaging characters are the secret sauce to any gripping narrative. If you’re into sharp dialogue and stories that hit home, you’re in for a treat—this episode is a must-listen!Takeaways: In today's episode of the Thriller Zone, we had the pleasure of welcoming debut author Thomas Trang, whose book 'Dark Neon Dirt' is creating quite the buzz in the literary world. We dove deep into the intricacies of character development, emphasizing that it's not just about the plot but how well we connect with the characters that truly draws readers in. Thomas shared his journey from working in shipping to writing thrillers, revealing how his diverse experiences enrich his storytelling and character creation. The conversation highlighted the importance of dialogue in fiction, with both hosts agreeing that strong dialogue can elevate a story and bring characters to life. We also discussed the fascinating blend of personal experiences and cultural references that shape Thomas's writing style, making 'Dark Neon Dirt' a rich tapestry of influences. Lastly, we touched on the future of storytelling, as Thomas hinted at an upcoming sci-fi project that will maintain the gripping essence of his debut while exploring new themes. Links referenced in this episode:shotgunhoney.comthomastrang.comthethrillerzone.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: Shotgun Honey Bad Fido Keywords: debut author podcast, thriller zone podcast, Thomas Trang interview, Dark Neon Dirt, writing advice for authors, crime fiction writing, character development in thrillers, Elmore Leonard influence, dialogue in writing, audiobook recommendations, publishing debut novels, writing process tips, storytelling techniques, crafting engaging narratives, essential writing skills, podcasting for authors, literary podcast, suspenseful storytelling, author interviews, book recommendations

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.comCompanies 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

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.comKeywords: 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 fictionMentioned in this episode:RIVIAN CommRivian—electric adventure vehicles built for the wild. Go anywhere, do anything, and drive into the future with confidence. Explore more at Rivian.comSEASON 9 PROMOSeason 9 of The Thriller Zone launches Thursday, June 19th at 2AM-West/5AM-East.

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.comMentioned in this episode:SEASON 9 PROMOSeason 9 of The Thriller Zone launches Thursday, June 19th at 2AM-West/5AM-East.RIVIAN CommRivian—electric adventure vehicles built for the wild. Go anywhere, do anything, and drive into the future with confidence. Explore more at Rivian.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.comTakeaways: 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:SEASON 9 PROMOSeason 9 of The Thriller Zone launches Thursday, June 19th at 2AM-West/5AM-East.RIVIAN OpenRivian—electric adventure vehicles built for the wild. Go anywhere, do anything, and drive into the future with confidence. Explore more at Rivian.comRIVIAN CommRivian—electric adventure vehicles built for the wild. Go anywhere, do anything, and drive into the future with confidence. Explore more at Rivian.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.orgtwodandelionsbookshop.comcountryboybrewing.combluestallionbrewing.comCompanies 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:SEASON 9 PROMOSeason 9 of The Thriller Zone launches Thursday, June 19th at 2AM-West/5AM-East.RIVIAN OpenRivian—electric adventure vehicles built for the wild. Go anywhere, do anything, and drive into the future with confidence. Explore more at Rivian.comRIVIAN CommRivian—electric adventure vehicles built for the wild. Go anywhere, do anything, and drive into the future with confidence. Explore more at Rivian.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 fictionMentioned in this episode:RIVIAN CommRivian—electric adventure vehicles built for the wild. Go anywhere, do anything, and drive into the future with confidence. Explore more at Rivian.comSEASON 9 PROMOSeason 9 of The Thriller Zone launches Thursday, June 19th at 2AM-West/5AM-East.RIVIAN OpenRivian—electric adventure vehicles built for the wild. Go anywhere, do anything, and drive into the future with confidence. Explore more at Rivian.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.comCompanies 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/thethrillerzoneKeywords: 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 themesMentioned in this episode:SEASON 9 PROMOSeason 9 of The Thriller Zone launches Thursday, June 19th at 2AM-West/5AM-East.RIVIAN OpenRivian—electric adventure vehicles built for the wild. Go anywhere, do anything, and drive into the future with confidence. Explore more at Rivian.comRIVIAN CommRivian—electric adventure vehicles built for the wild. Go anywhere, do anything, and drive into the future with confidence. Explore more at Rivian.com