Best Charlene Simon Podcasts (2025)

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How to Write a Thriller that Gets Attention: Character and Plot Advice from Chevy Stevens 31:16

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2h ago31:16

31:16

Send me a Text Message! New York Times bestselling author Chevy Stevens pulls back the curtain on what separates a good thriller from an unforgettable one. And it might not be what you think. In this episode, Chevy reveals her unconventional process for crafting antagonists that readers love to hate. She also shares the exact mindset shift that hel…

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Developing Better Plots Using a Character-Driven Approach with Daniel David Wallace 27:36

6d ago27:36

27:36

Send me a Text Message! Struggling with how to write a thriller that grabs readers immediately? In this interview, writing expert Daniel David Wallace shares game-changing writing tips for crafting plots that keep readers hooked from page one. Daniel, creator of the Character First Writing Approach and host of Escape the Plot Forest summit, reveals…

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How to Write Thrillers That Actually Matter with Aaron Philip Clark 32:31

12d ago32:31

32:31

Send me a Text Message! What if the setting you choose could be as morally complex as your protagonist? In this episode, USA Today bestselling author Aaron Philip Clark pulls back the curtain on how he crafts crime fiction that thrills and matters. Aaron reveals: his process for weaving heavy themes into page-turners without slowing the pace why he…

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146 How to turn 'wasted' drafts and subverted tropes into your writing superpower with Charlene Wang 14:49

20d ago14:49

14:49

Send me a Text Message! What if the tropes you love are actually holding your thriller back? In this episode, Charlene Wang reveals how she transformed the beloved campus novel into a feminist revenge thriller by strategically subverting genre expectations. And the results landed her a major book deal. You'll discover the counterintuitive truth abo…

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145 The View from the Slush Pile: A Literary Agent's Fresh Take on What Works with Tommy Dean 20:19

26d ago20:19

20:19

Send me a Text Message! What if I told you that right now, while established agents are drowning in hundreds of submissions, there's a brand new literary agent who's actively building his client list and genuinely excited to discover your manuscript? In this episode, Tommy Dean shares what makes him your ideal partner in this industry. Tommy shares…

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What Editors Really Want Right Now with Chantelle Aimée Osman, Who Provides a Sneak Peek Inside Simon & Schuster's Newest Imprint 27:39

1M ago27:39

27:39

Send me a Text Message! You’re going to love this exclusive conversation with Chantelle Aimée Osman, Senior Editor at Simon & Schuster's new imprint, Simon Maverick. Chantelle reveals how the publishing industry is evolving to meet indie and hybrid authors where they are. And why audio is becoming the new frontier that could transform your writing …

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Why Your Perfect Manuscript Isn't Enough And What to Do About It with Author Tamara Miller 16:57

1M ago16:57

16:57

Send me a Text Message! Tamara Miller's debut thriller INTO THE FALL has launched her career with a two-book publishing contract. But her path from government policy analyst to published author wasn't built on talent alone. It was strategic business thinking that made the difference. In this episode, Tamara Miller reveals the approach that got her …

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Literary Agent Lori Galvin Talks Going From Query to Deal: What Agents Need to See Before They Sign You 22:13

2M ago22:13

22:13

Send me a Text Message! Literary agent Lori Galvin reveals exactly what makes a query letter irresistible. She breaks down the specific elements that make agents request materials, and the common mistakes that lead to instant rejections. Whether you're crafting your first query or your fiftieth, this episode delivers the agent perspective that ever…

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141 Literary Agent Vicky Weber on Why Most Writers Aren't Agent-Ready (And How to Fix It) 29:37

2M ago29:37

29:37

Send me a Text Message! Ever wondered why it feels nearly impossible to land a literary agent these days? In this episode, I had a chat with Vicky Weber, a literary agent, bestselling children's author, and marketing strategist, who pulls back the curtain on the harsh realities facing today's publishing industry. Vicky reveals why the bar for getti…

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Developmental Editor and Former Literary Agent, Mary Kole Shares Her Top Revision Strategies 28:33

3M ago28:33

28:33

Send me a Text Message! Developmental editor and former literary agent Mary Kole breaks down the exact process that transforms manuscripts from "just okay" to "must-read." In this episode, you'll learn why most writers approach feedback and revision completely wrong. You’ll discover the important difference between revision and editing. And you’ll …

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Editor Turned Literary Agent, Shelly Romero Shares Important Insights on Traditional Publishing 27:42

3M ago27:42

27:42

Send me a Text Message! Former Scholastic editor Shelly Romero just made the leap to literary agent. And she's spilling the industry secrets most writers never hear. After eight years of editorial experience and now with an agent's perspective, Shelly reveals… What really happens when agents read your opening pages Why manuscripts need to be more p…

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Turn Your Manuscript into a Page-Turner Using The Central Question Framework with Julie Tyler Ruiz 21:27

3M ago21:27

21:27

Send me a Text Message! Every thriller, mystery, suspense, and crime writer faces the same dilemma… How do you craft a story that keeps readers turning pages? In this episode, Julie Tyler Ruiz reveals a simple framework that separates forgettable genre fiction from the stories readers obsess over for years. You'll discover… How to identify the one …

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Author Liz Alterman Reveals Her Weekly Writing Ritual That Transforms First Drafts Into Gold And How to Know When Your Story Idea Is Worth Writing 19:16

3M ago19:16

19:16

Send me a Text Message! Liz Alterman joins the podcast to discuss her latest novel, "You Shouldn't Have Done That", and reveals the unconventional strategies that have shaped her successful writing career. From her unique character development process involving weekly read-aloud sessions to her bold decision to switch from traditional publishing to…

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Literary Agent and Author Jenna Satterthwaite on Making it in the Publishing Industry 22:40

4M ago22:40

22:40

Send me a Text Message! Ever wondered what it's really like behind the scenes of being a literary agent? What You'll Learn in this episode: • Why agents prioritize story over polished prose • The brutal financial reality of the publishing industry • What makes manuscripts stand out in queries Jenna's honesty about the industry might just shift how …

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First Page Formula: Author and Writing Coach April Davila on What Agents & Readers Want to See in Your Thriller Manuscript Opening 16:09

4M ago16:09

16:09

Send me a Text Message! Writing coach April Davila reveals the non-negotiable elements that make first pages irresistible to readers and agents. Learn why most manuscripts fail in the opening paragraph, discover the strategic approach to character revelation that transforms boring descriptions into magnetic hooks. Then find out which common opening…

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Creative Silos: A Unique Strategy for Your Writer Brain with Cindy Cisneros 12:26

4M ago12:26

12:26

Send me a Text Message! Storyteller's Society Sneak Peek: This Creative Silos method can make you way more efficient in your writing practice. Creativity coach Cindy Cisneros reveals why traditional productivity advice fails creative writers, her game-changing "Silos" method that stops the destructive cycle of switching between writing and querying…

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Literary Agent Amy Nielsen on How to Fix Your Opening Pages (Part 2) 27:12

5M ago27:12

27:12

Send me a Text Message! Your opening page has 30 seconds to hook an agent or it's as good as a rejection. Literary agent Amy Nielsen reveals the cliché openings that kill manuscripts, the scene structure 90% of authors get wrong, and her "General-Specific-Personal" formula that eliminates info-dumping while building irresistible voice. What You'll …

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3-Part Formula for Writing Compelling Red Herrings That Mislead Without Cheating Readers with Author Eloise Corvo 17:49

6M ago17:49

17:49

Send me a Text Message! Find out more about Eloise here. In this interview, I talk to author Eloise Corvo about her debut novel OFF THE BEATEN PATH. Eloise reveals her practical three-part framework for crafting effective red herrings, which is a vital skill for any thriller, mystery, suspense, or crime fiction writer. You’ll discover essential wri…

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Writing Your Series & Developing Dynamic Characters with Author Stephen Spotswood 20:18

6M ago20:18

20:18

Send me a Text Message! Find out more about Stephen Spotswood Listen to the episode with Douglas Corleone Come hang out for an interesting conversation with author Stephen Spotswood as he shares his creative process behind his successful Pentecost Parker thriller series. In this episode, Stephen shares his writing tips for crafting engaging mystery…

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How to Navigate Thriller Sub-Genres and Create Memorable Stories with Douglas Corleone 21:24

7M ago21:24

21:24

Send me a Text Message! Find out more about Douglas Corleone This interview is with Douglas Corleone, author of the new thriller "Falls to Pieces." In this episode, Douglas shares essential thriller writing techniques that have helped him successfully navigate multiple sub-genres, from legal thrillers to psychological suspense. Learn practical writ…

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Literary Agent Amy Nielsen on How to Write a Query Letter that Gets Attention 29:12

8M ago29:12

29:12

Send me a Text Message! Learn more about the Storyteller's Society Learn more about Amy Nielsen Having reviewed thousands queries in the past two years, literary agent Amy Nielsen shares exclusive writing tips specifically tailored for thriller writers on the traditional publishing route. This agent interview with Amy dives deep into query structur…

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Community 101: What you need to know 14:00

8M ago14:00

14:00

Send me a Text Message! Click here to sign up for the Storyteller's Society Enter your name and email address. I'll reach out with more information to see if we're the right fit. Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now…

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90% of Writers Make THESE Writing Mistakes Interview with Ex-Literary Agent Karyn Fischer 12:07

8M ago12:07

12:07

Send me a Text Message! Learn more about Karyn Fischer Jessica Berg Literary Agent Interview Want to know what literary agents really think when they read your submission? In this interview, former literary agent and current book coach and writing expert Karyn Fischer shares insider knowledge on how to write a novel that stands out. Discover the to…

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Literary Agent Jessica Berg Shares How to Catch an Agent's Eye 27:02

9M ago27:02

27:02

Send me a Text Message! Storyteller's Society Waitlist Learn more about Jessica Berg Listen to Daria White Osah's Episode Want to write a thriller that stands out in today’s crowded market? In this episode, literary agent Jessica Berg shares expert insights into what makes a manuscript irresistible to agents and publishers. We dive into essential t…

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Time Pockets: Could This Tip Revolutionize Your Writing Process? 13:14

9M ago13:14

13:14

Send me a Text Message! Storyteller's Society Waitlist Learn more about Daria White Osah Listen to David McCloskey's Episode Struggling to find time to write? In this episode, Daria White Osah (author and book coach) discusses a great strategy for busy writers—Time Pockets. If you’ve ever wondered how to write more efficiently while juggling work, …

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How to Write an Opening Chapter that Keeps Readers Reading with Author David McCloskey 25:05

9M ago25:05

25:05

Send me a Text Message! Storyteller's Society Waitlist Leslie Conner's Episode Connect with David Find David on Instagram In this episode, we’re joined by David McCloskey, a former CIA analyst and author of the thrillers The Seventh Floor, Moscow X, and Damascus Station. David brings a wealth of real-world experience into his fiction, and today, we…

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Thriller Writing Secrets: Building a Writing Process with Leslie Conner 17:35

9M ago17:35

17:35

Send me a Text Message! Storyteller's Society Waitlist Alex Kenna's Episode Connect with Leslie In this episode, thriller author Leslie Conner joins us to share expert tips on crafting suspenseful mysteries. She shares valuable resources and an insight into her writing practice that will help writers see how to develop a series! Get the list of 125…

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How to Hook Readers with Alex Kenna’s Expert Thriller-Writing Advice 20:30

10M ago20:30

20:30

Send me a Text Message! Download the One-Page Study of Alex Kenna's Writing Storyteller's Society Waitlist Elle Grawl's Episode Connect with Alex on Instagram Join me for an in-depth author interview with Alex Kenna, the brilliant mind behind What Meets the Eye. This episode is packed with writing tips for aspiring thriller authors, including how t…

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Pacing and Process: Writing Thrillers and Mysteries with Elle Grawl 15:19

10M ago15:19

15:19

Send me a Text Message! Storyteller's Society Waitlist Learn more about Elle In this episode, I talk with Elle Grawl, author of the psychological thrillers One of Those Faces and What Still Burns. Elle shares how she wrote her debut novel while balancing a demanding day job, how her writing process has evolved, and her best advice for writers navig…

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The Secret to Writing Twists Readers Will Never Forget with Bestselling Author J.T. Ellison 18:28

10M ago18:28

18:28

Send me a Text Message! Previous episode with Aaron Philip Clark Learn more about J.T. Ellison Join J.T. Ellison's Substack Bestselling thriller author, J.T. Ellison shares how she create the unforgettable twists and characters that define her work. Whether you're an aspiring writer or an experienced author, this episode is packed with actionable w…

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How to Develop Characters and Themes with Author Aaron Philip Clark 41:54

10M ago41:54

41:54

Send me a Text Message! Download the 50 editing mistakes authors make as shared by an editor for Lake Union Publishing! In this episode, Aaron Philip Clark shares invaluable writing tips on crafting compelling characters, weaving meaningful themes into your stories, and making your thrillers stand out in today’s market. If you’re an aspiring or exp…

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From Journalist to True Crime Memoir: Carla Conti’s Writing and Publishing Tips 16:20

11M ago16:20

16:20

Send me a Text Message! Download the 50 editing mistakes authors make as shared by an editor for Lake Union Publishing! In this episode, we talk about: Using Documentation to Enhance Authenticity Setting Deadlines for Momentum How to Know When a Story Is Ready Find out more about Carla HERE Carla Conti is a true crime journalist, storyteller, and p…

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Meet a Storyteller's Society Cohort #1 Member: Timothy Hedden 11:18

11M ago11:18

11:18

Send me a Text Message! Learn more about the Storyteller's Society Listen to the episode with Stacy Frazer Connect with Timothy on Twitter (X) Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now…

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Meet a Storyteller's Society Cohort #1 Member: Stacy Frazer 11:48

11M ago11:48

11:48

Send me a Text Message! Learn more about the Storyteller's Society Listen to the episode with Anne Brooks Learn more about Stacy Frazer Connect with Stacy on Instagram Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now…

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Meet a Storyteller's Society Cohort #1 Member: Anne Brooks 14:20

11M ago14:20

14:20

Send me a Text Message! Learn more about the Storyteller's Society Learn more about Anne Brooks Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right NowBy David

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Benefits of Being in a Community & Storyteller's Society Exclusive Sneak Peek 8:40

11M ago8:40

8:40

Send me a Text Message! Thriller 101 Storyteller's Society Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right NowBy David

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Introduction to the Brand New Storyteller's Society 12:10

12M ago12:10

12:10

Send me a Text Message! Learn more about the Thriller 101 Storyteller's Society Stay up to date on everything going on with the community Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now…

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Halloween Special: Understanding How Your Theme can Improve Your Story with Jeremy Dauber 16:11

12M ago16:11

16:11

Send me a Text Message! Thriller 101 Community Waitlist Episode with Jenna Satterthwaite How horror reflects societal fears and anxieties throughout different periods in history. What's next for societal fears reflected in our themes Insights into why certain genres remains a unique genre for exploring the darker side of human nature and social iss…

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Literary Agent Jenna Satterthwaite on Character Voice and Submissions She Can't Put Down 48:01

12M ago48:01

48:01

Send me a Text Message! Thriller 101 Community Waitlist Episode with Jason Rekulak Connect with Jenna Satterthwaite Jenna's Substack Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right NowBy David

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How to Develop Intense Twists and Memorable Characters with Jason Rekulak 19:26

1y ago19:26

19:26

Send me a Text Message! Episode with Marybeth Mayhew Whalen Learn more about the Thriller 101 Community Learn more about Jason Rekulak Connect with Jason Rekulak Jess Munday's Article Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right No…

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Tying Past and Present Together: How to Write Satisfying Resolutions in Suspense Fiction with Marybeth Mayhew 20:52

1y ago20:52

20:52

Send me a Text Message! Episode with Michelle Chouinard Learn more about the Thriller 101 Community Learn more about Marybeth Mayhew Whalen Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now…

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The Secret to Gripping Stories: How (and Why) to Weaving Personal and Professional Tension with Michelle Chouinard 22:07

1y ago22:07

22:07

Send me a Text Message! Learn more about the Thriller 101 Community Connect with Michelle Chouinard Listen to Liz Alterman's interview Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now…

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5 Techniques to Craft Unforgettable Antagonists in Your Thriller 12:54

1y ago12:54

12:54

Send me a Text Message! Thriller 101 Community Founding Member Waitlist Thriller 101 Community Episode Antagonist Checklist JM Donellan Episode Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now…

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You Want In? Now's Your Chance! 4:42

1y ago4:42

4:42

Send me a Text Message! Click here for more information about the Thriller 101 Community Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right NowBy David

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The Art of Dual POV & Crafting Psychological Thrillers with Liz Alterman 20:20

1y ago20:20

20:20

Send me a Text Message! Thriller 101 Newsletter Last week's episode with Kathy Reichs Learn more about Liz Alterman Listen to the last conversation I had with Liz Eloise Corvo: How to Navigate a Book Contract Ever wondered how to master the intricate art of crafting multi-perspective thrillers? You're in for a treat with our latest episode of Thril…

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Thriller Writing Advice from Kathy Reichs Who's Books Inspired 12 Seasons of an Award Winning Television Show 14:30

1y ago14:30

14:30

Send me a Text Message! Thriller 101 Newsletter Learn more about Kathy Reichs 3 Story Elements You Need in Your Opening Paragraphs EPISODE INFO: How about some writing advice from an author who’s books inspired twelve seasons of an award winning television show? You know the show Bones? It’s is a drama series created for Fox and ran from 2005 to 20…

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3 Keys to Nailing the Opening of Your Novel 16:43

1y ago16:43

16:43

Send me a Text Message! Thriller 101 Newsletter Check out the Thriller Opening Data Tracker HERE Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right NowBy David

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Publishing Industry: Hot Take or Conspiracy Theory? 10:53

1y ago10:53

10:53

Send me a Text Message! Click here for more information about the pitching system that guarantees full requests or your money back. Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right NowBy David

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Bring Your Characters to Life Through Voice with Author Lisa Kusel 25:40

1+ y ago25:40

25:40

Send me a Text Message! Thriller 101 Newsletter Learn more about Lisa Kusel Jessica Payne Episode Heather Levy Episode Lisa Unger Episode EPISODE INFO: Ever wondered how authors create those unforgettable characters that seem to linger in your mind after the last page? You know, those characters that feel like they’re living and breathing? Well, to…

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100th Episode with Major News and Updates 5:18

1+ y ago5:18

5:18

Send me a Text Message! Thriller 101 Newsletter Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right NowBy David