Summer Vibes & Thriller Talk: A Chat with Kyle Mills

On today's 238th episode of The Thriller Zone with host Dave Temple, we're diving into the world of thrilling literature with two amazing authors: James Byrne and Bruce Borgos. We’re all about the casual vibes this episode, but don’t let that fool you—there’s some serious storytelling magic happening here! We chat about their latest works, including James’s "Chain Reaction" and Bruce’s "The Blue Horse," both packed with suspense, deep characters, and unique settings that feel like characters themselves. Plus, we tackle the challenges of tech hiccups in podcasting—because who doesn’t love a little chaos? So grab your headphones, sit back, and join us in this light-hearted yet insightful romp through the art of writing, where we share tips, laughs, and the occasional literary gem!Takeaways: Today's episode had a few technical hiccups, but the casual vibe made it all fun! If you're planning to join the podcast, make sure to have a good mic and lighting. We discussed two thrilling books: 'Chain Reaction' and 'The Blue Horse'—both packed with excitement! The uniqueness of characters like Porter Beck and Aloysius Limerick shows how diverse thrillers can be. It's important to write for yourself first; if you're not entertained, neither will your readers be! Editing is crucial—sometimes the best lines need to be cut if they don't serve the story. Links referenced in this episode:thrillerzonemail.combruceborgos.comjamesbyrnethriller.com

Get ready to dive into the thrilling world of Kyle Mills and his latest book, FADE IN! This 237TH episode of The Thriller Zone with Dave Temple is packed with all sorts of fun and insightful chatter as we explore the fascinating themes of power dynamics and the influence of AI on society. We kick things off with some light banter, but don't worry, we get down to the nitty-gritty of his new protagonist, who is a bit of a wild card himself. As always, it’s a delightful mix of humor and deep conversation that keeps things lively. Kyle shares his thoughts on how the world is changing faster than we can keep up with, and why he believes that the biggest threats to humanity are now coming from within. So grab your favorite drink, settle in, and let’s unravel the complexities of today’s world through the lens of a gripping thriller!Takeaways: In this episode, we dive into the summer vibes, reflecting on the warmth of August and the changes it brings, both in weather and life. Kyle Mills shares his insights on writing his latest book 'Fade In', which tackles timely issues like technology and power dynamics in society. The conversation explores how characters evolve and how Kyle's protagonist differs from his previous works, lending depth to the narrative. We chat about the challenges and nuances of learning a new language while living abroad, which adds a personal touch to the discussion. The podcast touches on the rapid advancements of AI and its implications for humanity, sparking a lively debate on the future of technology and ethics. Dave Temple shares his own writing journey, hinting at his upcoming book while navigating the balance between personal and professional life. Links referenced in this episode:kylemills.comthethrillerzone.comMentions in this episode: Kyle Mills Vince Flynn Mitch Rapp Elon Musk Zuckerberg Google KEYWORDS: thriller podcast, Kyle Mills interview, Fade In book, summer reading recommendations, author conversations, writing advice, thriller novels, best-selling authors, publishing insights, AI in storytelling, contemporary thrillers, conversation with authors, book promotion strategies, character development in thrillers, writing trends 2023, suspenseful fiction, engaging podcast episodes, literary discussions, genre exploration, storytelling techniques

Hello and welcome to the 236th episode of The Thriller Zone with Dave Temple, Your #1 Thriller FIction Film & TV Podcast in the world!Today we dive into the thrilling world of Steve Berry, the mastermind behind the gripping new book, "The List." Spoiler alert: this episode reveals how the book was almost completely destroyed, and trust me, you’ll want to hear the wild tale behind that! We’ll also chat about the intricacies of writing thrillers, including some spicy advice on how to keep readers on the edge of their seats. Steve shares his journey from a small-town lawyer to a bestselling author, highlighting the real-life inspirations that shaped his work. So grab your favorite drink, sit back, and let’s unravel the secrets behind crafting stories that not only entertain but also provoke thought about the darker sides of human nature.Takeaways: In this episode, we chatted with Steve Berry about the importance of writing structure, emphasizing the six C's that help create a compelling narrative. Steve shared a funny story about a book getting soaked by a cannonball splash, proving that not all book mishaps are tragic! We dove into the significance of outlining a novel before writing, noting that it can save a writer from many headaches down the line. Steve's advice for aspiring writers is straightforward: write every day to improve your craft, because practice makes perfect! The discussion also highlighted how thrillers differ from mysteries, focusing on the suspense of 'what will happen next' rather than just solving a crime. Lastly, we explored how real-world experiences can fuel fictional stories, with Steve revealing that his own legal background inspired many plot elements in his novels. Links referenced in this episode:thethrillerzonemail.comthethrillerzone.comsteveberry.orgCompanies mentioned in this episode: Steve Berry Mark Greeny Tim Chandler Blake Snyder Lee Child John Grisham Cotton Malone KEYWORDS, thriller podcast, writing tips, Steve Berry, author interviews, thriller novels, book masterclass, storytelling techniques, character development, plot structure, suspense writing, creative writing advice, publishing industry insights, reader engagement, novel pacing, moral conflict in fiction, outlining a novel, writing process, fiction writing tips, literary themes in thrillers, book recommendationsHost and former radio star David "Dave" Temple interviews the biggest, brightest, and best thriller writers of thriller fiction, thriller and mystery films, thriller and suspense television, and more. With four years on the podcast, nearly 25 years of radio experience, and another 15 years as an actor and voiceover narrator, Dave has the credibility required to access and interview the very best and New York Times bestselling authors in the world. Tune in each week as he breaks down the magic, or the "secret sauce" of his guests. During his segment called "Best Writing Advice," Dave's audience learns the very best insights to what makes a super successful thriller fiction writer.New to The Thriller Zone? Start here: https://www.thethrillerzone.comFollow us across all social media @thethrillerzone Follow us on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/thethrillerzoneFollow us on X/twitter - https://www.x.com/thethrillerzoneFollow us on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thethrillerzoneLike us on Facebook - https://facebook.com/thethrillerzoneListen to our podcast -...

Welcome to the 235th episode of The Thriller Zone with Dave Temple. Get ready to dive into the thrilling world of Adam Plantinga, whose latest book, *Hard Town*, promises to keep you on the edge of your seat! Right off the bat, we’re unpacking the gritty reality of policing, which Plantinga knows all too well after 24 years on the job. He shares some surprising insights about human nature and the hectic life of a street cop that’ll make you rethink everything you thought you knew from the movies. We chat about Adam's journey from the police beat to penning captivating thrillers, with plenty of laughs and some serious moments sprinkled in. So, grab your favorite drink, settle in, and join us as we explore the wild ride of writing and the fascinating tales that come from the front lines of law enforcement on your #1 Podcast For Thriller Fiction, Film & TV...TheThrillerZone.com!Takeaways: In this episode, we chat with Adam Plantiga about his book 'Hard Town', which takes readers on a thrilling ride through unexpected twists. Adam shares insights about police work that challenge common perceptions, revealing the complexities faced by street cops every day. We dive into the importance of realistic depictions of violence in thrillers and how it affects storytelling with genuine consequences. The conversation highlights Adam's evolution as a writer, sharing invaluable lessons learned from his journey in crafting compelling narratives. Listeners will discover how humor plays a role even in serious discussions about policing and the intricacies of human nature. We also touch on the collaborative nature of writing, including how feedback from editors shapes the final product of a novel. Links referenced in this episode: adamplantinga.com People and companies mentioned in this episode: Universal Adam Plantinga Harlan Coben Gregg Hurwitz Meg Gardner Nick Petrie Joseph Finder Jeffrey Deaver Rachel Howzell Hall Bruce Borgos Jay Bell Jack StewartARE YOU NEW TO THE THRILLER ZONE?Host and former radio star David "Dave" Temple interviews the biggest, brightest, and best thriller writers of thriller fiction, thriller and mystery films, thriller and suspense television, and more. With four years on the podcast, nearly 25 years of radio experience, and another 15 years as an actor and voiceover narrator, Dave has the credibility required to access and interview the very best and New York Times bestselling authors in the world. Tune in each week as he breaks down the magic, or the "secret sauce" of his guests. During his segment called "Best Writing Advice," Dave's audience learns the very best insights to what makes a super successful thriller fiction writer.New to The TZ? Start here: https://www.thethrillerzone.comFollow us across all social media @thethrillerzone Follow us on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/thethrillerzoneFollow us on X/twitter - https://www.x.com/thethrillerzoneFollow us on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thethrillerzoneLike us on Facebook - https://facebook.com/thethrillerzoneListen to our podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-thriller-zone/id1577303372Listen to our podcast - https://open.spotify.com/show/4JgE6SbRqXsVJWyUKqUIk7?si=c891564b7adb4fc7Keywords: podcast episode, Adam Plantinga interview, Hard Town book, thriller fiction, police insights, law enforcement stories, writing thrillers, character development, realistic fight scenes, street cop experiences, crime fiction, author...

On today's 234th episode of The Thriller Zone, host Dave Temple sits down with Rachel Howzell Hall for a return performance to discuss her latest thriller FOG AND FURY.As always, Rachel is a superb guest, and she provides insights and instincts like few other writers. There's a reason she's atop the best-selling charts! Fog and Fury is the star of today’s show, and trust me, you won’t want to miss this conversation! Rachel our fantastic guest and prolific author, is back to chat about her new thriller that feels like both a fresh start and a cozy return to familiar vibes. We're diving into the heart of her latest protagonist, who navigates a world of moral ambiguity and emotional depth, all while dealing with the foggy complexities of life in a small town. With a mix of personal anecdotes and insights into her writing process, Rachel shares how her characters come to life, reflecting the intricate layers of human experience. So, grab your favorite beverage and settle in, because we’re about to embark on a thrilling journey filled with laughs, deep thoughts, and a sprinkle of literary magic and...Thanks for joining us here in Season 9!Learn more at RachelHowzell.com and follow us at TheThrillerZone.comTakeaways: In this episode, we celebrate Season Nine of the Thriller Zone and dive into the fascinating world of author Rachel Housel Hall, who has a new book titled 'Fog and Fury'. Rachel Housel Hall shares her excitement about writing, revealing how her latest book feels like both a departure and a comfort zone at the same time, showcasing her unique style. The conversation touches on Rachel's personal journey through her writing career, including her experiences with illness and how they influenced her storytelling approach. Listeners get a peek into the research process behind 'Fog and Fury', as Rachel explains the importance of understanding small town dynamics and the intricacies of real estate development. We discuss the significance of character development in thrillers, emphasizing Rachel's commitment to creating multi-dimensional characters who grapple with moral ambiguity and personal struggles. The episode wraps up with some quick-fire questions, where Rachel emphasizes that the key to writing is simply to put your butt in the seat and write every day, no matter what. Companies mentioned in this episode: Scripps Cedars UCLA Blackstone Thomas and Mercer KEYWORDS: Fog and Fury, Rachel Housel Hall, thriller podcast, writing advice, character development, suspense novels, psychological thrillers, small town mysteries, literary interviews, storytelling techniques, book covers, author interviews, crime fiction, literary inspiration, writing process, plot twists, book recommendations, literary voice, publishing industry insights, first-person narratives

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 fiction