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

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:BLACKSTONE OPENThis episode of The Thriller Zone is sponsored by Blackstone Publishing.Blackstone Publishing CloseThis episode of The Thriller Zone has been sponsored by Blackstone Publishing.$295 OfferBook your book trailer commercial today for only 295 and reach millions of listeners via The Thriller Zone Network. There are only a number of spaces available. and for March & April ONLY, so ORDER TODAY!

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:BLACKSTONE OPENThis episode of The Thriller Zone is sponsored by Blackstone Publishing.$295 OfferBook your book trailer commercial today for only 295 and reach millions of listeners via The Thriller Zone Network. There are only a number of spaces available. and for March & April ONLY, so ORDER TODAY!Blackstone Publishing CloseThis episode of The Thriller Zone has been sponsored by Blackstone Publishing.

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:BLACKSTONE OPENThis episode of The Thriller Zone is sponsored by Blackstone Publishing.$295 OfferBook your book trailer commercial today for only 295 and reach millions of listeners via The Thriller Zone Network. There are only a number of spaces available. and for March & April ONLY, so ORDER TODAY!Blackstone Publishing CloseThis episode of The Thriller Zone has been sponsored by Blackstone Publishing.

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:Blackstone Publishing CloseThis episode of The Thriller Zone has been sponsored by Blackstone Publishing.$295 OfferBook your book trailer commercial today for only 295 and reach millions of listeners via The Thriller Zone Network. There are only a number of spaces available. and for March & April ONLY, so ORDER TODAY!BLACKSTONE OPENThis episode of The Thriller Zone is sponsored by Blackstone Publishing.

On today's 213th episode of The Thriller Zone, we're doing something just a little bit differently. You see I recorded this episode with the lovely and talented Ashley Erwin nearly three years ago...April 2022, to be exact.Long story short, I pushed it aside to edit it, while waiting for the book to drop, and, well, the book got delayed, I misplaced the show file, and wouldn't you know I found this just this week and thought...why not air it now?Ashley, you don't mind, do you? Maybe it can enjoy a Renaissance.So, pull up a chair, pour yourself something good, and enjoy an off the cuff, and more than a little bit delayed conversation with the funny, charming, and mega-talented Ashley Erwin, here on The Thriller Zone. Learn more at: Ashley-Erwin.comMentioned in this episode:BLACKSTONE OPENThis episode of The Thriller Zone is sponsored by Blackstone Publishing.$295 OfferBook your book trailer commercial today for only 295 and reach millions of listeners via The Thriller Zone Network. There are only a number of spaces available. and for March & April ONLY, so ORDER TODAY!Blackstone Publishing CloseThis episode of The Thriller Zone has been sponsored by Blackstone Publishing.

This 212th episode of the Thriller Zone hosted by Dave Temple, features a captivating interview with Scott Turow, the legendary author known for his contributions to the legal thriller genre. Scott, known as the pioneering author of legal thrillers, discusses his latest novel, "Presumed Guilty," which continues the story of Rusty Savage from his ground-breaking bestseller, "Presumed Innocent." The conversation unveils Scott's journey from aspiring writer to a celebrated author, revealing the intense experience of transitioning from a struggling writer to the creator of a worldwide bestseller. With a humorous tone, Scott shares personal anecdotes about the highs and lows of his writing career, including the emotional rollercoaster that comes with achieving literary success. As Dave & Scott reflect on the impact of advancements in forensic technology on storytelling, Turow reveals how modern expectations have shifted due to popular crime dramas, making it more challenging to create suspense. The episode touches on the recent television adaptation of "Presumed Innocent," originally starring Harrison Ford, and more recently, Jake Gyllenhaal, highlighting the differences in character portrayal and storyline. The discussion explores how Scott's real-life experiences as a prosecutor inform his fiction. His unique perspective on the complexities of the legal world offers listeners an insightful look into the nuances of crafting a compelling legal narrative. The episode also touches on the evolution of legal thrillers in contemporary literature, highlighting how advancements in forensic science and changes in societal expectations have shaped the genre. Scott emphasizes the importance of character development and the intricate layers within his stories, which resonate deeply with readers, creating a rich tapestry of intrigue and suspense.The episode wraps up with a powerful reminder that writing is a craft requiring dedication and persistence, encouraging aspiring writers to embrace their journeys with passion and resilience. This engaging conversation is a must-listen for fans of thrillers and anyone interested in the art of storytelling.ORDER SCOTT'S NEW BOOK "PRESUMED GUILTY" HERE.Learn more at ScottTurow.com and follow us at TheThrillerZone.comTakeaways: Scott Turow reflects on his journey from aspiring writer to pioneer of the legal thriller genre, The impact of forensic technology on legal storytelling has significantly changed reader expectations, Turow shares the emotional experience of seeing his first book adapted into a film. The collaboration between filmmakers and authors can lead to unique interpretations of stories, Turow discusses the importance of persistence and hard work in the writing process, He emphasizes that writing requires consistent effort, regardless of the level of success attained. Companies mentioned in this episode: Apple TV Bad Robot Productions Nike Grand Central PublishingMentioned in this episode:$295 OfferBook your book trailer commercial today for only 295 and reach millions of listeners via The Thriller Zone Network. There are only a number of spaces available. and for March & April ONLY, so ORDER TODAY!Blackstone Publishing CloseThis episode of The Thriller Zone has been sponsored by Blackstone Publishing.BLACKSTONE OPENThis episode of The Thriller Zone is sponsored by Blackstone Publishing.

On today's 211th episode of the #1 thriller podcast, The Thriller Zone, host Dave Temple welcomes the literary titan James Patterson, marking a significant highlight in the podcast's eighth season. The two scribes dive into the world of thriller fiction, discussing Patterson's illustrious career, which includes a staggering number of bestsellers and a unique blend of characters like Holmes, Marple, and Poe in his latest release, 'Holmes is Missing'. Temple reflects on Patterson's influence on his own journey as a reader and writer, expressing admiration for Patterson's ability to craft engaging narratives through short, punchy chapters that keep readers hooked. Dave candidly admits that it was Patterson's influence that not only got Dave "seriously" reading again, but was the catalyst that pushed Dave toward becoming a writer.As the dialogue progresses, Patterson shares insights into his creative process, emphasizing the importance of storytelling and the ability to adapt and change directions in narrative as characters evolve. This candid exchange not only sheds light on Patterson’s methods but also showcases his humorous and relatable personality, making the episode a delightful blend of inspiration and entertainment for fans of the genre.The episode also takes a more personal turn as Patterson opens up about his life, including anecdotes about his family, particularly his wife Sue, whom he describes with heartfelt affection. The discussion touches on the emotional aspects of writing, with Patterson highlighting how his personal experiences shape his storytelling. Jim shares a touching moment from his autobiography, revealing a deep connection with his audience and the significance of emotional authenticity in writing. Temple and Patterson’s rapport is evident as they share laughs and insights, creating an engaging atmosphere that resonates throughout the conversation, and the episode serves as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling, both in fiction and in the lived experiences of the authors themselves, leaving listeners with a renewed appreciation for the craft.Additionally, the episode invites listeners to reflect on the evolving landscape of literature and the role of technology in shaping reading habits. Patterson discusses the impact of modern distractions on attention spans and how this influences his writing style, favoring brevity and engagement over lengthy prose. The dynamic between storytelling and audience engagement becomes a recurring theme, as they explore how Patterson's books have adapted to meet the needs of contemporary readers. This exploration of the intersection between creativity and commercial success highlights the challenges and triumphs of being a prolific author in today's fast-paced world. As the episode wraps up, Temple and Patterson leave audiences with a sense of hope and inspiration, encouraging aspiring writers to embrace their unique voices and tell their stories, regardless of the challenges they may face.ORDER JIM'S NEW BOOK: "HOLMES IS MISSING" HERELearn more about Jim's prolific body of work at JamesPatterson.com and be sure to visit/follow/subscribe at TheThrillerZone.com as well as YouTube.com/thethrillerzoneMajor takeaways include:Dave Temple reflects on his journey in podcasting and the significance of having James Patterson as a guest. James Patterson emphasizes the importance of storytelling and keeping readers engaged throughout the narrative. During the episode, Patterson shares personal...

Welcome to the 3rd annual Dave & Tammy Year-End Extravaganza! This special episode features our favorite Top Ten lists, where we dive into the best books, audiobooks, films, and television series of the year. Join us as we celebrate the stories that captivated us, from thrilling novels to heartwarming films, all while sharing our personal insights and experiences. Tammy, my wonderful wife and life-sidekick, brings her unique perspective, and our audience absolutely loves her contributions! Get ready for a fun-filled discussion packed with laughter, reflections, and a look ahead at what 2025 has in store for us in the world of storytelling.Join Dave and Tammy as they share their top picks, highlighting the thrillers that captivated them and the joyful light-hearted stories that provided a welcome escape. With a mix of humor and heartfelt reflections, they explore notable performances, including standout roles from beloved actors like Keri Russell and Ryan Gosling. This episode is packed with their favorite picks in literature, film, television, and podcasts, creating an engaging tapestry of their shared experiences. From the outset, their chemistry is palpable, drawing listeners into a lively conversation that feels both familiar and relatable. The duo's reflections on the impact of storytelling throughout the year resonate deeply, capturing the essence of their shared journey in a way that invites audiences to reflect on their own experiences.Dave enthusiastically lists his top ten books, while Tammy humorously navigates her usual challenge of reaching the double digits. Their playful banter and honest discussions about their reading habits enhance the episode's charm, showcasing their distinct personalities and preferences. Listeners are not only treated to a rundown of their favorite book titles, but also gain insights into the emotional connections these stories foster. The conversation organically transitions to their favorite television shows and movies, where they explore the narratives that have left a lasting impression on them, discussing themes of love, loss, and the human experience.As they delve into the world of podcasts, they highlight emerging voices alongside established favorites, demonstrating their commitment to diverse storytelling. The duo emphasizes the importance of staying informed and entertained, encouraging listeners to explore the vast landscape of podcasts available today. As they reminisce about the year's entertainment, the couple also looks ahead to exciting releases in 2025, sharing their anticipation for new projects from familiar favorites. The chemistry between Dave and Tammy shines through, making this episode a delightful way to wrap up the year and appreciate the stories that resonate with their audience.This episode culminates in a heartfelt conclusion that celebrates their journey, the stories that have shaped them, and the community of listeners who have journeyed alongside them. With a perfect blend of humor, insight, and personal anecdotes, Dave and Tammy deliver an enriching experience that encapsulates the joy of storytelling and leaves listeners eager for what lies ahead in 2025.Links referenced in this episode:apple.comnetflix.comyoutube.comhulu.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: Apple TV Showtime Netflix And for those who would enjoy a clean listing of Dave's Top 10 Faves:TOP 10 BOOKS OF THIS YEAR:MATTERHORN — Chris...

On today's 209th episode of The Thriller Zone, the conversation unfolds with host David Temple welcoming back Adam Hamdy, an acclaimed author whose latest work, 'Deadbeat', is the focal point of their engaging dialogue. As they reminisce about their previous interactions, Temple expresses his admiration for Hamdy's unique storytelling abilities and narrates how much he has grown as a writer since their initial meeting. The episode dives deep into the essence of 'Deadbeat', which is described as a gripping moral exploration of a deeply flawed protagonist, Peyton Collard. Temple praises the book for its ability to make readers root for a character bereft of conventional redeeming qualities, challenging the audience's perceptions of morality and empathy. The discussion then transitions into the creative process behind Hamdy's writing, where he shares insights into how personal experiences and observations shape his characters and narratives.The duo discuss the landscape of publishing today, the challenges authors face in promoting their work, and how the changing dynamics of media consumption impact storytelling. Temple's enthusiastic endorsements and Hamdy's reflections on his writing journey culminate in a rich dialogue that is both informative and inspiring for aspiring writers and avid readers alike.Keywords: The Thriller Zone podcast, host David Temple, Adam Hamdy interview, thriller books, writing advice, publishing industry trends, storytelling techniques, character development, psychological archetypes, true crime fiction, author interviews, book recommendations, creative writing tips, podcasting insights, reading challenges, literary analysis, contemporary literature, personal development through writing, emotional storytelling, engaging conversations.Takeaways:David Temple emphasizes the importance of authentic conversations in a world dominated by distractions. Adam Hamdy discusses the challenges of promoting books in today's fast-paced publishing environment. The podcast highlights how personal experiences can shape a writer's storytelling approach and character development. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their time management and what truly matters to them. The conversation reveals insights into the evolving landscape of the publishing industry and the role of innovation. Both hosts agree that understanding psychological archetypes can enhance character depth in writing. Links referenced in this episode: AdamHamdy.comMentioned in this episode:BLACKSTONE OPENThis episode of The Thriller Zone is sponsored by Blackstone Publishing.$295 OfferBook your book trailer commercial today for only 295 and reach millions of listeners via The Thriller Zone Network. There are only a number of spaces available. and for March & April ONLY, so ORDER TODAY!Blackstone Publishing CloseThis episode of The Thriller Zone has been sponsored by Blackstone Publishing.

From CIA to Novelist: David McCloskey & The Art of EspionageOn today’s 208th episode of The Thriller Zone, host David Temple welcomes back former CIA analyst and author David McCloskey to discuss his latest thriller, The Seventh Floor. The conversation explores the intersection of social media and author branding, the development of McCloskey's protagonist Artemis Proctor, and the balance between authenticity and storytelling in espionage thrillers. McCloskey shares insights into the challenges of writing a series and the evolving nature of his characters, emphasizing the importance of engaging narratives over strict adherence to realism. In this engaging conversation, David McCloskey also shares his insights on the writing process, emphasizing the importance of perseverance through creative challenges, the solitude of writing, and the discipline of daily word counts. Temple and McCloskey discuss the value of learning from established authors by copying their prose longhand and the necessity of reading one's work aloud to ensure clarity and flow. The conversation also touches on the craft of dialogue and the complexities of Middle Eastern policy, reflecting McCloskey's background and expertise, before ending with Temple’s signature Best Writing Advice.Learn more at: DavidMcCloskeyBooks.comKeywords: David McCloskey, The Seventh Floor, CIA, espionage, thriller, social media, character development, authenticity, writing challenges, author branding, writing, creativity, editing, discipline, authorship, dialogue, Middle East, storytelling, craft, literatureChapters:00:00 Introduction to David McCloskey and The Seventh Floor06:04 The Role of Social Media in Author Branding12:35 Character Development: Artemis Proctor's Journey18:48 Authenticity in Espionage Thrillers24:54 The Challenges of Writing a Series27:33 Overcoming Creative Obstacles30:33 The Loneliness of Writing34:05 Daily Writing Discipline37:39 Learning from Great Authors39:30 The Importance of Reading Aloud41:10 Crafting Dialogue and Prose42:55 Insights on Middle East PolicyBest Sound Bites:"You're just a great natural entertainer.""I need to throw it away and be done.""It's an imposter syndrome for sure.""The feed loop is a really long one.""Writing has really become about the editing.""Just write the effing story.""You should probably be spending time longhand copying.""Read your stuff out loud to yourself.""Give the reader some credit to use their own imagination.""It's always interesting to get back into that world.""We have a real case of main character syndrome."https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DqhSNxKuWBEMentioned in this episode:BLACKSTONE OPENThis episode of The Thriller Zone is sponsored by Blackstone Publishing.$295 OfferBook your book trailer commercial today for only 295 and reach millions of listeners via The Thriller Zone Network. There are only a number of spaces available. and for March & April ONLY, so ORDER TODAY!Blackstone Publishing CloseThis episode of The Thriller Zone has been sponsored by Blackstone Publishing.