The Gray Man's Journey: Mark Greaney on Writing, Research, and Realism

Get ready to dive into a whirlwind of listener love on this episode of the Thriller Zone! I’m David Temple, your trusty host, and today, we’re flipping the script a bit – instead of chatting with an author, I’m pouring over some fantastic emails from you lovely folks. Whether it’s your favorite moments from past episodes or insights from our thrilling guests, I’m here to share it all. Like, Tammy’s got a soft spot for Adrian McKinty’s coffee chat, and Heather’s raving about character development.This episode feels like a celebration of community and the shared love of storytelling, showcasing how deeply the podcast has woven itself into the lives of its listeners. David also hints at his own writing endeavors, sharing his journey through cancer and his aspirations for upcoming books. It’s this blend of personal and professional that makes the podcast feel like a chat with a close friend, making us all feel part of this lively discussion.As the episode wraps up, David reflects on the past four years of podcasting, admitting that while it’s a passion project, the journey hasn’t always been easy. He’s driven, and you can hear that in his voice – a mix of gratitude and determination that’s infectious. The listener letters are not just words on a page; they’re fuel for his fire, reminding him why he started this journey in the first place. The conversation about possibly shifting focus towards more casual chats with authors, rather than just book discussions, is intriguing, and I can’t help but wonder how that will shape future episodes. All in all, this episode is a heartwarming reminder of the power of connection through storytelling, both from the podcast host and the vibrant community of listeners who keep the conversation alive.So, grab your favorite beverage, kick back, and let’s see what you all have been saying!Links referenced in this episode:thethrillerzone.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: Adrian McKenty Gerard Doyle Gonzalez Inarritu Mark Gottlieb CJ Box James Patterson David Baldacci Josh Mendoza

On today's 222nd episode of the world-famous Thriller Zone, host Dave Temple sits down with New York Times bestselling author Adrian McKinty, creator of the Sean Duffy Series.Together, they’re diving deep into the thrilling world of storytelling and chatting about the magic of writing first drafts and how every aspiring author should just finish that story, no matter how messy it gets. Adrian, a multiple New York Times bestselling author and Dave's new best buddy, shares some seriously cool insights about his journey, from bartending to teaching to crafting captivating crime novels. And trust us, this episode isn’t just about the books; we’re dishing out some good ol' banter on everything from the best bagels to the quirks of tea culture, because what’s a conversation without a little flavor? So, whether you’re a writer looking for inspiration or just a fan of witty exchanges, kick back, turn up the volume, and enjoy the ride with us in this delightful chat on the Thriller Zone!Takeaways: The conversation between David and Adrian is filled with playful banter, creating a relaxed and fun atmosphere for listeners to enjoy. Adrian McKinty shares insights about the importance of finishing your writing, emphasizing that even a rough draft is a victory against the odds. The podcast touches on the unique nuances of language, including slang from Northern Ireland that adds a humorous twist to their dialogue. They dive into the world of food and drink, particularly the cultural significance of tea and biscuits, showcasing their shared love for culinary experiences. Links referenced in this episode:adrianmckinty.comMentioned in this episode:The Story FactoryPresenting Adrian McKinty's new thriller in the Sean Duffy Series.$295 Special for April ONLY!Would you like to advertise your book on The Thriller Zone? For a LIMITED TIME ONLY, you can do just that for ONLY $295. Go to TheThrillerZone.com/contact and we'll get started right away!THE STORY FACTORYToday's episode of The Thriller Zone with Dave Temple is sponsored by The Story Factory, an entertainment company representing many of the biggest fiction and non-fiction authors in the world.

On today's 221st and BONUS episode of The Thriller Zone, I dive into the nitty-gritty of the publishing world with my good friend Mark Gottlieb, Senior VP and top literary agent at Trident Media Group. I'm your host Dave Temple, and Mark is back to drop some serious knowledge bombs about what it takes to make it as an author in today’s thriller-happy market. We chat about the importance of having a killer query letter—because let’s face it, that’s your golden ticket to getting noticed. By the way, Mark's piece of advice is a step-by-step of THE WAY to formulate a proper query letter that all but guarantees getting noticed (don't miss this advice).And if you’re wondering how to stand out, Mark has tips on building your author platform and navigating the wild ride of trends and genres. Plus, we share some laughs about parenting and the real-life stories behind some bestselling authors. So grab your headphones, kick back, and let's unravel the secrets of crafting a page-turner in the ever-evolving literary landscape!Takeaways:• Mark Gottlieb, a seasoned literary agent, shares insider tips on navigating the publishing world, making it not just enlightening but super relatable too. • We discussed the importance of strong query letters, emphasizing that a concise, well-structured letter can be the golden ticket to representation. • The conversation touched on how authors must balance their unique voice with market trends while remaining authentic to their storytelling style. • Mark highlighted the significance of an author's platform in today's publishing landscape, revealing how social media can skyrocket a book's visibility. • Witty anecdotes about parenting and writing show that even seasoned pros like Mark can relate to the struggles of balancing life and creativity. • The episode wraps up with a reminder to aspiring writers: set your intentions and keep showing up, because that's where the magic begins! Links referenced in this episode:TridentMediaGroup.comTheThrillerZone.comthethrillerzone@gmail.com Companies mentioned in this episode:-- Trident Media Group - Poison Pen Press - Sourcebooks - Penguin Random House - Hachette Books - Timber Books - Blackstone PublishingKeywords: thriller podcast, mystery fiction, suspense fiction, literary agent insights, book publishing tips, author representation, query letter advice, bestselling authors, writing craft, book marketing strategies, comp titles, publishing trends, writing workshops, thriller writing advice, negotiating book deals, audiobook publishing, self-publishing success, storytelling techniques, author platform building, negotiating literary contractsMentioned in this episode:$295 Special for April ONLY!Would you like to advertise your book on The Thriller Zone? For a LIMITED TIME ONLY, you can do just that for ONLY $295. Go to TheThrillerZone.com/contact and we'll get started right away!The Story FactoryPresenting Adrian McKinty's new thriller in the Sean Duffy Series.THE STORY FACTORYToday's episode of The Thriller Zone with Dave Temple is sponsored by The Story Factory, an entertainment company representing many of the biggest fiction and non-fiction authors in the world.

Join host Dave Temple for episode #220 as he takes us on a wild and thrilling ride in the world of crime fiction as we chat with the incredibly talented Nick Kolakowski! Nick has a new book out, "Where the Bones Lie," that’s packed with dark humor and gripping storytelling. He shares his journey from travel journalist to novelist, revealing how his experiences shape his characters and plots—like a master chef whipping up a deliciously twisted dish! Dave & Nick dive into the art of writing, character development, and the importance of humor in suspenseful narratives. Plus, stick around for some juicy bonus material at the end—you won’t want to miss the tasty extras we’ve saved for you!So, if you haven't heard of Nick Kolakowski yet, just know that he is a total gem in the crime thriller world. Dave especially enjoys taking a quick side-road with one of his favorite artists, Peter Max. At the same time, Nick shares a hilarious story about a rather embarrassing incident involving Peter Max - yes, that Peter Max! Companies mentioned in this episode: Double Down Media DaturaBooks.com PeterMax.com McSweeney's Lit Cuckoo Chicken (NYC) TheThrillerZone.comKeywords: thriller podcast, Nick Kolakowski, crime fiction, where the bones lie, writing process, author interviews, storytelling techniques, journalism and fiction, writing humor in thrillers, character development, indie authors, mystery novels, suspense stories, writing advice, celebrity journalism, California detective novels, crafting query letters, book recommendations, publishing tips, writing resources Mentioned in this episode:$295 Special for April ONLY!Would you like to advertise your book on The Thriller Zone? For a LIMITED TIME ONLY, you can do just that for ONLY $295. Go to TheThrillerZone.com/contact and we'll get started right away!THE STORY FACTORYToday's episode of The Thriller Zone with Dave Temple is sponsored by The Story Factory, an entertainment company representing many of the biggest fiction and non-fiction authors in the world. The Story FactoryPresenting Adrian McKinty's new thriller in the Sean Duffy Series.

On today's 219th episode of The Thriller Zone with host Dave Temple, we dive into the world of thrillers with New York Times bestselling author Eric Rickstad. This show is like a rollercoaster ride through the dark alleys of crime fiction, and Eric’s latest book, 'Remote the Six', isn't just another run-of-the-mill serial killer tale; it’s a captivating blend of FBI drama and the uncanny world of remote viewing, where the line between reality and the supernatural gets a little blurry. As Eric explains, his protagonist, Lucas Stark, is thrust into a chilling manhunt that requires him to team up with an enigmatic remote viewer, Giles Garner, who’s been vetted by the FBI director himself. The stakes are high with families being killed across states, and the clock is ticking. In a world where skepticism reigns supreme, Stark's reluctance to trust Garner adds layers of tension and intrigue. Eric shares his inspiration from real-life events, weaving personal anecdotes that give us a glimpse into his creative process. Eric's knack for storytelling is evident, as he pulls us into the story, making us question everything—much like Stark does. This episode is a masterclass in how to craft suspense and keep readers on the edge of their seats, with Eric's insights on character development and pacing being particularly valuable for aspiring writers. Whether you’re a fan of thrillers or just love a good story, there’s something for everyone in this engaging conversation.Links referenced in this episode:thrillerzone@gmail.comthethrillerzone.comericrickstad.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: New York Times CIA Russia Tom Cruise Philip K. Dick The Story Factory FBI Music: Chillax by Jay Someday is licensed under a Creative Commons License.https://creativecommons.org/licenses/...Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypMMentioned in this episode:THE STORY FACTORYToday's episode of The Thriller Zone with Dave Temple is sponsored by The Story Factory, an entertainment company representing many of the biggest fiction and non-fiction authors in the world. The Story FactoryPresenting Adrian McKinty's new thriller in the Sean Duffy Series.$295 Special for April ONLY!Would you like to advertise your book on The Thriller Zone? For a LIMITED TIME ONLY, you can do just that for ONLY $295. Go to TheThrillerZone.com/contact and we'll get started right away!

On today's 218th episode of The Thriller Zone with Dave Temple, we're diving into the heart of thriller fiction as we chat with Ryan Steck, The Real Book Spy, and Byrdie Bell, the daughter of the late Ted Bell, a New York Times Bestselling author. We launch discussing "Monarch," the new thriller penned by Steck which respects the legacy of Ted’s iconic Alex Hawke series. I for one, feel it's a deeply emotional ride filled with heartfelt moments and behind-the-scenes stories that’ll give you the goosebumps. Sure, we hit a few tech (video) snags at the start—who doesn’t love a good tech hiccup? But don’t worry, we’ve got all the juicy audio goodness for you to enjoy. Plus, we sprinkle in some classic clips of Ted himself, because who doesn’t want to hear from the master? I trust you'll enjoy as we navigate the emotional landscape of Ted's legacy. Ted became a sincere friend in such a short time, and Ryan, who penned the latest Alex Hawke thriller, 'Monarch', echoes the fondness we share of a man who genuinely brought light to this world.One thing I particularly like is when Ryan shares his intimate journey of channeling Ted's voice while crafting a new chapter for this beloved character.An added bonus is when Byrdie offers a heartfelt glimpse into her father's storytelling genius, recalling cherished childhood memories filled with his animated storytelling and the creation of fantastical worlds. All together, we explore the intricacies of preserving a literary legacy while infusing fresh narratives that resonate with both new and longtime fans. Lastly, THANK YOU for Following us on Twitter, Instagram & Facebook, all at @TheThrillerZone.To learn more visit: TedBell.com, TheRealBookSpy.com and TheThrillerZone.com.Don't forget, you find us on ALL the podcast channels, like @applepodcasts @Spotify, @iHeartRadio and more.Connect with us:💟 Website:https://www.thethrillerzone.com/💟 X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/thethrillerzone💟 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/thethrillerzoneOther shows you might enjoy include these favorites:✅ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EOan3dQthmI✅ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UB1owUf8VhY&t=549s✅ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mwnwFs9CBkA✅ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZHY7LiJIAno✅ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=skxQ51uNgRsMentioned in this episode:$295 Special for April ONLY!Would you like to advertise your book on The Thriller Zone? For a LIMITED TIME ONLY, you can do just that for ONLY $295. Go to TheThrillerZone.com/contact and we'll get started right away!THE STORY FACTORYToday's episode of The Thriller Zone with Dave Temple is sponsored by The Story Factory, an entertainment company representing many of the biggest fiction and non-fiction authors in the world. The Story FactoryPresenting Adrian McKinty's new thriller in the Sean Duffy Series.

On today's 217th episode, we’re diving into the mind of the legendary Marshall Karp, a true master of the thriller genre and co-author with the great James Patterson. You’re in for a genuine treat as we unpack Karp's latest book, "Don't Tell Me How to Die," a gripping tale about a woman on a mission to secure her family’s future after receiving a terminal diagnosis. Karp is known for his sharp storytelling and knack for creating compelling characters, while Temple's humor shines as he asks Karp about the challenges of writing from a female perspective. Karp responds with a mix of candor and clever insights. Folks, this is not just a thriller and an amazing read; it’s a wild ride filled with dark humor and unexpected twists that’ll have you chuckling while gripping your seat. And if you're anything like me, you'll devour this book in one or two sittings. CLICK TO ORDER YOUR COPY NOW!We’ll chat about how Marshall crafts compelling characters and weaves in emotional depth, and trust me, he’s got stories that’ll make your heart race and your eyes widen. So buckle up and join us as we get cozy in the Thriller Zone with Marshall Karp!The two pros touch on the generational impact of loss and how personal experiences shape the narrative of Karp's books. The episode is rich with laughter, poignant moments, and valuable advice for aspiring writers, all wrapped in a casual, conversational style that feels like a chat with old friends.Be sure to visit Marshall's website: KarpKills.com and as always, SUBSCRIBE & FOLLOW us at TheThrillerZone.comSpecial mentions in this episode: James Patterson, the world's most successful thriller writer, and co-writer with Karp Get BOOK ONE in the NYPD Red Series that started the series! Mentioned in this episode:THE STORY FACTORYToday's episode of The Thriller Zone with Dave Temple is sponsored by The Story Factory, an entertainment company representing many of the biggest fiction and non-fiction authors in the world. $295 Special for April ONLY!Would you like to advertise your book on The Thriller Zone? For a LIMITED TIME ONLY, you can do just that for ONLY $295. Go to TheThrillerZone.com/contact and we'll get started right away!

Thriller writer Tess Gerritsen, the brilliant mind behind over 30 award-winning novels, is back on our podcast, and we're diving headfirst into her latest gem, "The Summer Guest," here on our 216th episode of Season 8; perhaps our best season yet! Right off the bat, Tess shares her magical writing process, where her characters practically write themselves—talk about a fun twist on the typical writing grind! We’ll chat about The Martini Club, where retired spies tackle mysteries, and explore the juicy conflict between amateur sleuths and local law enforcement. Plus, Tess reveals how her real-life experiences with retired spies in her Maine neighborhood spark her stories. It's a cozy chat filled with humor, insights, and a dash of intrigue, so grab your favorite beverage and join us on this literary adventure!If you’re a fan of thrillers, get ready to pop a cork because Tess is back on my podcast to spill the tea on her latest book, "The Summer Guest." Tess dives into the nitty-gritty of writing, sharing how her characters often take the reins of the story, leading her down paths she never expected. This epic episode is a fascinating look at the creative process that many writers can relate to. We also chat about the dynamics of friendship, the tension between the old guard and the young blood, and how those themes resonate in her work. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to Tess’s novels, this episode will leave you eager for more. Learn more at: TessGerritsen.com, SUBSCRIBE to our Youtube Channel @thethrillerzone and whatever you do...share this episode with your Bestie Writer Friend (aka BWF).To learn more visit: TessGerritsen.com. And if you need some takeaways, check this out: Tess Gerritsen emphasizes that the magic of writing comes from letting characters take over the story, revealing their own narratives. In this episode, Tess discusses how she draws inspiration from real-life retired spies living in her neighborhood in Maine. The importance of friendship and loyalty is a central theme in Tess's novels, particularly in her Martini Club series. Tess highlights her unique writing process, explaining that she often waits for her characters to speak to her before plotting the story. Writing across different genres allows Tess to explore a variety of themes and keeps her creativity flowing without getting stagnant. Tess shares her belief that every book has an overriding emotion, which she uses to guide the narrative and character development. Companies mentioned in this episode: Amazon Studios Simon & Schuster Random House Thomas and Mercer As always, we ask that you FOLLOW + SUBSCRIBE to us at: TheThrillerZone.comMentioned in this episode:THE STORY FACTORYToday's episode of The Thriller Zone with Dave Temple is sponsored by The Story Factory, an entertainment company representing many of the biggest fiction and non-fiction authors in the world. $295 Special for April ONLY!Would you like to advertise your book on The Thriller Zone? For a LIMITED TIME ONLY, you can do just that for ONLY $295. Go to TheThrillerZone.com/contact and we'll get started right away!

On today's 215th episode, host Dave Temple is diving into the wild world of C.J. Box's latest thrill ride, Battle Mountain, the 25th installment in his Joe Pickett series. Can you believe it? Twenty-five! That’s like a silver anniversary for books! In a conversational style that feels like eavesdropping on a couple of good friends catching up, this episode of the Thriller Zone podcast takes us behind the scenes, as C.J. chats with Dave, as they reminisce about the journey of creating Joe Pickett, a character that has become synonymous with adventure and moral dilemmas in the wilds of Wyoming. The two friends dive into how Joe has developed over the years, tackling not only wildlife issues but also personal challenges, making him relatable and real. Alongside the laughter and banter, there’s a heartfelt discussion about the significance of strong female characters in the series, particularly Susan Kaney, who challenges Joe in ways that make him confront his own vulnerabilities. Today's show is a refreshing take on storytelling that highlights the importance of evolving characters in a long-running series while keeping readers hooked. C.J. peppers the episode with anecdotes, insights, and, of course, the ever-present humor that makes him such a beloved author. Seriously, grab a comfy seat with your favorite drink and settle in for 40 minutes of pure entertainment!Learn more at CJBox.net ... ORDER THE BOOK HERE ... and #SUBSCRIBE to thriller fictions #1 podcast, TheThrillerZone.comTakeaways: C.J. Box's passion for writing shines through as he discusses his journey with the Joe Pickett series, emphasizing that success stems from following one's passion rather than chasing trends. Falconry is more than just cool birds; it requires dedication, patience, and a unique partnership with nature—C.J. dives into this fascinating world in his latest novel, Battle Mountain. In the podcast, C.J. shares how his characters feel authentic and relatable, making readers feel like they're part of a cozy chat with friends around a campfire. We highlight the importance of immersing oneself in different genres because it can inspire new ideas and enrich one's writing style—C.J. believes in learning from all types of literature. Mentioned in this episode:THE STORY FACTORYToday's episode of The Thriller Zone with Dave Temple is sponsored by The Story Factory, an entertainment company representing many of the biggest fiction and non-fiction authors in the world. $295 Special for April ONLY!Would you like to advertise your book on The Thriller Zone? For a LIMITED TIME ONLY, you can do just that for ONLY $295. Go to TheThrillerZone.com/contact and we'll get started right away!

On today's 214th episode of The Thriller Zone with Dave Temple, we're diving deep into the thrilling world of writing with none other than Mark Greaney, the mastermind behind the Gray Man series, and his latest page-turner, "Midnight Black." I'm so pleased that Mark carved out time for a fourth appearance on the Thriller Zone, and let me tell you, it’s a blast! As you can imagine, his new book Midnight Black, promises all the excitement and intrigue fans have come to love. Mark opens up about how he balances the demands of writing with the realities of public appearances. You might think he spends all his time at book events, but he quickly sets the record straight—it’s just a tiny fraction of what he does! Mark also shares some juicy tidbits about his characters, particularly the evolving relationship between Court Gentry and Zoya, which adds a sweet twist to the thrill of espionage. With a good dose of humor, we explore the importance of research in his writing process and how he strives to create a realistic world, even when the narrative takes wild turns. If you’re a fan of thrillers, this episode is a treasure trove of insights, laughs, and maybe even a few tips on how to craft your own gripping stories!So grab a snack, kick back, and let’s unravel the secrets behind the action-packed world of Mark Greaney's writing!IF you're looking for a staring place to read Mark's books, may I suggest ordering MIDNIGHT BLACK HERE ... and if you love it as much as I bet you will, then start at the beginning and read all 14 of them!Learn more at MarkGreaneyBooks.com and follow us at TheThrillerZone.comTakeaways: Mark Greaney emphasizes that public appearances are just a tiny fraction of his writing life, which consists predominantly of, you guessed it, writing! The new book, Midnight Black, blends classic espionage vibes with modern pacing, and if that doesn't get your heart racing, what will? Greaney describes his writing process as a chaotic mix of creativity and spontaneity, where he often starts with intriguing dialogue lines that could come from anywhere. He believes that the best way to enhance writing skills is to focus on improving the quality of one's writing rather than getting caught up in publicity efforts. Links referenced in this episode:markgreaneybooks.comMentioned in this episode:THE STORY FACTORYToday's episode of The Thriller Zone with Dave Temple is sponsored by The Story Factory, an entertainment company representing many of the biggest fiction and non-fiction authors in the world. $295 Special for April ONLY!Would you like to advertise your book on The Thriller Zone? For a LIMITED TIME ONLY, you can do just that for ONLY $295. Go to TheThrillerZone.com/contact and we'll get started right away!