Crime thriller author Jeff Kerr joins me to talk about Deadly Relic, the sixth book in his Adam Cash mystery series, featuring a sheriff's deputy investigating crimes in the rugged Texas Hill Country.

We discuss the fascinating inspiration behind Deadly Relic, which begins with the theft of a historic rifle connected to the Battle of the Alamo. Jeff also talks about his journey from writing nonfiction Texas history to crime fiction, creating the fictional town of Pinyon, his writing and research process, and his move from self-publishing to Vinci Books.

We also talk about Author Nation, where Jeff and I first met, his approach to plotting, what's next for Adam Cash, and his advice for aspiring writers.

Learn more and browse the Meet the Thriller Author archives at ThrillingReads.com.

Acclaimed screenwriter and television producer Kevin Wade joins me to discuss One Good Eye, the second novel in his Jeep Mullane crime series. Kevin shares how 14 years as a writer, executive producer, and showrunner of Blue Bloods inspired his move into crime fiction, the transition from screenwriting to novels, his writing process and routine, and why he chose Long Island as the setting for the series. We also talk about his Hollywood career, including writing the classic Working Girl, and Kevin shares his advice for aspiring writers.

In Episode 241 of Meet the Thriller Author, I talk with crime and suspense author Tom Towslee about his journey from newspaper reporter and political communications director to novelist. We discuss his latest thriller, Finding Lexi Divine, creating morally complex characters, the influence of journalism on his writing, his approach to plotting, and practical advice for aspiring authors. Tom also shares insights into marketing books and his interest in adapting his novels for the screen.

In Episode 240 of Meet the Thriller Author, host Alan Petersen welcomes award-winning author Amy Shojai to discuss her remarkable journey from television news anchor and veterinary technician to bestselling author of more than 35 pet-care books and a series of pet-centric suspense thrillers. They explore her transition from nonfiction to fiction, creating unforgettable animal characters, overcoming rejection, and the realities of publishing. Amy also shares how she avoided a scammer impersonating the podcast, offering valuable advice for fellow authors. It's an engaging conversation packed with writing insights, publishing tips, and stories for readers, writers, and pet lovers alike.

In Episode 239 of Meet the Thriller Author, I interview thriller author Steph Nelson, whose debut novel The Final Scene sold more than 10,000 copies in its first two months. We discuss her latest psychological thriller, Don't Ask Why, a suspenseful story about four friends trapped on a secluded island in the Florida Keys where secrets, disappearances, and danger quickly turn a getaway into a fight for survival.

Steph shares her journey from writing horror fiction to becoming a successful thriller author, how she develops story ideas, her "pantser" writing process, and the tools she uses to write her novels. We also discuss indie publishing, social media marketing, reader expectations, and her advice for aspiring thriller writers looking to break into the genre.

If you're a fan of psychological thrillers and behind-the-scenes author conversations, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

USA Today bestselling author H.Y. Hanna joins Alan Petersen to discuss her latest psychological thriller, The Taverna at the Edge of Night. In this episode, they talk about writing atmospheric destination thrillers, using international settings like Greece to build suspense, balancing mystery with emotional tension, and creating stories where paradise hides deadly secrets.

Legendary thriller author James Grady, creator of Six Days of the Condor, joins Alan Petersen to discuss his remarkable career, the enduring legacy of Three Days of the Condor, and his new noir thriller Shadows on Sidewalks. They also talk about political thrillers, real-world events influencing fiction, writing craft, literary influences, and advice for aspiring writers.

In this episode, Rea Frey shares insights into her writing routine, the power of family secrets in thrillers, and the dramatic behind-the-scenes moment that forced her to rewrite Dear Mother from scratch.