Mark Greaney: The Chaos Agent

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.TakeawaysUsing 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 artThe power of voice in writing and the uniqueness each writer bringsThe value of reading widely to improve writing skillsThe benefits of keeping writing goals private and avoiding early feedbackSound 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."Chapters00:00 Introduction and Face-to-Face Interviews05:15 The Impact of Face-to-Face Interviews09:33 Advice for Aspiring Writers14:45 The Magic of Having Respected Authors Read Your Work The Thriller Zone with David Temple is sponsored in part by Blackstone Publishing.

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.comBEST 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." - 00:44:24BEST 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 (00:15) - Reich's Background and Writing Career: 00:05:30 (00:15) - on Book Series and Standalones: 00:07:40 (00:15) - Reich's Health and Longevity: 00:09:30 (00:15) - on Matterhorn and Climbing: 00:23:51 (00:15) - in Writing and Sense of Place: 00:28:19 (00:15) - and Conclusion of the Book: 00:35:45 (00:15) - of Music and Personal Anecdote: 00:40:26 The Thriller Zone with David Temple is sponsored in part by Blackstone Publishing.

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.comChapters00:00 Introduction and Show Updates08:06 Collaborating with Tom Clancy's Estate and the US Navy21:54 Creating Realistic Rules for Time Travel22:51 The Importance of Family Support and Military Dedication22:57 Exploring the Intersection of the Human Condition and Technology23:25 Time Travel through Modular Fusion Reactors24:24 Limitations and Consequences of Time Travel26:43 The Potential Benefits and Risks of Artificial Intelligence38:19 Gratitude for Opportunities in the Entertainment IndustrySome 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 with David Temple is sponsored in part by Blackstone Publishing.

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.comTo learn more visit: DonWinslow.com and purchase his book #CityInRuins wherever you buy your books!* * * * *Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background02:22 Early Days and Challenges06:03 The Turning Point09:25 Dealing with Rejection13:19 Meeting Shane Salerno22:57 The Moment of Confidence26:41 Retirement and Future Plans32:13 The Publishing Industry Today35:13 The Evolution of Storytelling36:10 The Impact of Technology and AI37:31 The Authenticity of Human Communication38:29 Advice for Aspiring Writers40:57 Setting Doable Writing Goals45:12 The Emotional Impact of the City Trilogy47:09 Film Adaptation of the City Trilogy49:32 Austin Butler as Danny in the Film Adaptation52:51 Overview of the City Trilogy56:13 The Emotional Impact of the Epilogue59:05 Reflecting on Gratitude and the Writing Journey01:04:35 Opening Line and Takeaway for a Writing Class01:08:10 Future Plans and Priorities TakeawaysDon'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) - (00:15) - Chapter 2 (00:15) - Introduction and Background (02:37) - Early Days and Challenges (06:18) - The Turning Point (09:40) - Dealing with Rejection (13:34) - Meeting Shane Salerno (23:12) - The Moment of Confidence (26:56) - Retirement and Future Plans (33:07) - The Publishing Industry Today (36:07) - The Evolution of Storytelling (37:04) - The Impact of Technology and AI (38:25) - The Authenticity of Human Communication (39:23) - Advice for Aspiring Writers (41:51) - Setting Doable Writing Goals (46:06) - The Emotional Impact of the City Trilogy (48:03) - Film Adaptation of the City Trilogy (50:26) - Austin Butler as Danny in the Film Adaptation (53:45) - Overview of the City Trilogy (57:07) - The Emotional Impact of the Epilogue (59:59) - Reflecting on Gratitude and the Writing Journey (01:05:29) - Opening Line and Takeaway for a Writing Class (01:09:04) - Future Plans and Priorities The Thriller Zone with David Temple is sponsored in part by Blackstone Publishing.

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* * * * *TakeawaysCharacter-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.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Setting01:20 Transition to Lisa Gardner's Career03:56 Characterization of Frankie Elkin05:35 Frankie Elkin's Humanity, Vulnerability and Motivation07:12 Frankie Elkin's Battle with Alcoholism08:20 Comparison to Jack Reacher09:39 Frankie Elkin's Disconnection from Conventional Life10:05 Lisa Gardner's Sabbatical and Inspiration for the Book11:33 The Power of Taking Time Off12:44 Writing Style and Show, Don't Tell15:25 Description of 'Still See You Everywhere'20:44 Lisa Gardner's Writing Craftsmanship23:09 Lisa Gardner's Confidence in Writing25:12 Lisa Gardner's Strength in Characterization26:22 Lisa Gardner's Struggle with Description27:42 Lisa Gardner's Experience with Hollywood Adaptations31:13 Entertainment and Raising Awareness32:19 Writing Advice: Using Scent as a Trigger34:15 Lisa Gardner's Approach to Hollywood Adaptations35:01 Conclusion The Thriller Zone with David Temple is sponsored in part by Blackstone Publishing.

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* * * * *TakeawaysEspionage 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 with David Temple is sponsored in part by Blackstone Publishing.

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.Chapters00:00 Introduction 01:28 The Enjoyment of Reading and Writing09:57 Grizzly Bear Behavior and Human Interactions10:38 Mama Bears and Bear Activists12:29 Favorite Outdoor Activity: Fly Fishing13:19 Realistic Dialogue in Writing15:01 Writing About Controversial Issues16:00 Nature's Power and Respect for Bears19:17 Upcoming Joe Pickett Book20:29 CJ Box's Role as an Executive Producer22:12 The Impact of TV Shows on Book Sales23:41 The Limitations of AI in Writing25:46 The Challenges of Breaking Through as a Writer26:51 The Importance of Reading and Understanding Point of View30:23 Realizing the Craft of Writing31:46 The Difficulty of Winning Awards and New Challenges in the Writing Landscape32:14 Best Piece of Writing Advice The Thriller Zone with David Temple is sponsored in part by Blackstone Publishing.

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.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Catching Up00:52 The Slow Burn and Tension08:21 Mark Graney's Busy Life14:12 The Influence of AI in Chaos Agent21:16 AI and the Writing Community24:06 Ryan Gosling as Court Gentry25:34 Writing a Vulnerable Protagonist26:22 Future of the Grey Man Series27:46 Lack of Control in the Publishing Process30:36 The Challenges of Being a Busy Writer31:05 The Difference Between Writing Grey Man and Tom Clancy33:22 The Importance of a Good Editor34:51 Influence of Other Writers44:59 Best Writing Advice47:50 Random Fire Questions The Thriller Zone with David Temple is sponsored in part by Blackstone Publishing.

On today's 170th episode of The Thriller Zone, host David Temple and Nick Petrie discuss various topics related to Nick's book 'The Price You Pay'. They talk about personal updates, then delve into the opening scene of the book and the significance of the epigraph. They also explore the characters of Lewis and June Cassidy and the inspiration behind Peter Ash and the theme of PTSD. The conversation touches on writing style, emotional depth, and the possibility of writing romance. They conclude with a discussion on writing standalone novels, touch on unhealthy eating habits, the importance of reading, analyzing book structure, and of course, the classic closing question: Best Writing Advice.To learn more visit: NickPetrie.comFollow us at TheThrillerZone.com, YouTube.com/thethrillerzone, and listen wherever you enjoy your podcasts!Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates03:05 Praise for Nick Petrie's Book 'The Price You Pay'04:08 Conversation about the Opening Scene of the Book08:45 Discussion on Video Production and Microphones10:47 Conversation about the Epigraph of the Book12:28 Exploration of the Characters Lewis and June Cassidy15:35 Inspiration for Peter Ash and the Theme of PTSD19:08 Discussion on the Writing Style and Emotional Depth22:53 Introduction to the Character of Louis25:15 Introduction to the Character of June Cassidy29:00 Exploration of the Possibility of Writing Romance32:35 Discussion on Influences and Writing Style35:07 Conversation about Writing Standalone Novels38:15 Discussion on the New Standalone Novel39:03 Unhealthy Eating Habits40:09 Importance of Reading41:00 Analyzing Book Structure42:27 Writing Advice The Thriller Zone with David Temple is sponsored in part by Blackstone Publishing.

On today's 169th episode of The Thriller Zone, I'm happy to introduce you to New York Times Bestselling author Gregg Hurwitz.If you're an Orphan X fan, you're going to join our deep dive in that series. Gregg shares insights into crafting a successful series and the journey of writing a long-running character. The conversation also delves into the role of artificial intelligence in the creative arena and the importance of community in storytelling. Hurwitz highlights the differences between novel and screenplay writing and provides an elevator pitch for his latest book, 'Lone Wolf.' Our conversation concludes with a discussion on the writing fire within and the importance of curiosity in driving Gregg's work, plus his insights and writing advice. I enjoy how Gregg emphasizes the power of curiosity and fascination in exploring the world and finding inspiration, plus how he encourages aspiring writers to prioritize their writing time and be dedicated to the craft.To learn more about Gregg and his prolific work, visit: GreggHurwitz.net.As always follow us at TheThrillerZone.com, YouTube.com/thethrillerzone and on all social media channels @thethrillerzone, as well as listen to us on ApplePodcasts, Spotify, or pretty much anyplace you get your podcast.* * * * *Chapters00:00 Introduction and Setting03:01 Crafting a Successful Series09:12 The Journey of Series Writing11:30 Writing as Self-Therapy12:20 The Role of Artificial Intelligence19:17 The Importance of Community22:07 The Difference Between Novel and Screenplay Writing30:06 Elevator Pitch for 'Lone Wolf'34:56 The Fire Within: Curiosity and Honoring It38:09 The Power of Curiosity and Fascination39:07 Writing Advice: Ass in Chair Time40:10 The Importance of Personalized Correspondence The Thriller Zone with David Temple is sponsored in part by Blackstone Publishing.