In the latest episode of Meet the Thriller Author, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Eric Rickstad, the New York Times and international bestselling author whose thrillers have captivated readers around the world. Known for his dark, atmospheric stories often set in small Vermont towns, Rickstad has a gift for exposing the shadowy layers beneath idyllic settings.



Eric shared how his lifelong love of reading—from Encyclopedia Brown to Poe—sparked an early interest in storytelling. Growing up around storytellers and steeped in film noir and Hitchcock, he gravitated toward suspense and crime fiction.



We dove into his latest series, REMOTE, which blends high-stakes suspense with real-life intrigue inspired by declassified CIA remote-viewing programs. Eric explained how his skepticism about the paranormal actually fueled the dynamic between his two central characters: hard-nosed FBI agent Lukas Stark and Garnier, a mysterious “remote viewer.”



Eric’s novels, including Lilith, I Am Not Who You Think I Am, What Remains of Her, and the Canaan Crime Series, have sold nearly 700,000 copies worldwide.



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Show Notes & Transcript




* Eric Rickstad grew up a voracious reader, started writing early, and gravitated to crime, victimhood, and the aftermath of violence; his first “short story” morphed into a debut novel.



* Vermont’s small towns and New England’s gothic woods shape his settings; an oral storytelling upbringing, film noir, and Hitchcock influence his darker crime bent.



* Key influences include Dennis Lehane, Tana French, and Kate Atkinson—he values immersive setting, language, and character detail over pure velocity.



* His style evolved: typically third-person, past tense, multiple POVs, but he’s experimented (e.g., Lilith in first-person present); he still lingers in scenes to build tension through character.



* The Remote series sprang from true CIA programs (LSD experiments, remote viewing) and the Wormwood documentary; a skeptic perspective forces the “remote viewer” to prove himself.



* Lucas Stark’s partnership evokes a Mulder/Scully dynamic; Rickstad outlines lightly, discovers as he writes, and crafted a manhunt around a killer staging family tableaux.



* He dismantles profiler myths: profiling aids peripherally but rarely catches killers; cites Bundy, Son of Sam, and BTK captures as driven by breaks, not profiles.



* Research included extensive calls with 25–30-year FBI veterans and ongoing access to Vermont’s lead homicide detective friend, grounding procedures and real-life logistics.



* Process: drafts longhand in notebooks (4–5 per novel), then types into Word as a built-in second draft; many rewrites; typical timeline ~18–24 months (som...

In this episode of Meet the Thriller Author, I chat with Traci Hunter Abramson, a former CIA officer, longtime high school swimming coach, and the award-winning author of more than forty-five bestselling novels. Drawing on her background in intelligence and international travel, Traci crafts thrillers rich in authenticity, heart, and high-stakes suspense.



Her latest release, Victim #8—out October 7—follows military aide Luke Steele and FBI Special Agent Amberlyn Reiner as they go undercover to stop a conspiracy that could lead to a nuclear strike on the United States. Set partly in Istanbul, the story was inspired in part by Abramson’s own travels; in fact, the haunting cover image was taken by Traci herself at the city’s Basilica Cistern.



During the conversation, Traci reflects on her path from the CIA to fiction writing, revealing that while her real-life experiences inform her stories, truth is often stranger than fiction. She discusses balancing realism with entertainment, portraying characters with emotional depth, and bringing an insider’s credibility to her thrillers.



Listeners will also enjoy hearing about her writing process—drafting on a treadmill or an old AlphaSmart word processor, writing 2,000 words a day, and relying more on instinct than outlines. Traci also shares how her years coaching swimming and her study-abroad experience in Venezuela have shaped her discipline, perspective, and storytelling.



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Summary




* Guest: Traci Hunter Abramson—former CIA officer, longtime high school swim coach, and award-winning author of 45+ novels



* Discusses her career path from the Agency to bestselling thrillers.



* New release: Victim Number 8 (Luke Steele #2) launches October 7; Luke is a Marine Corps captain serving as the President’s military aide, paired with FBI behavioral analyst Amberlyn Reiner.



* Series genesis: Inspired by a friend who served as a real military aide at the White House; Abramson also consulted FBI behavioral experts met at ThrillerFest.



* Setting and cover: The book features Istanbul; the cover image is Abramson’s own photo from the Basilica Cistern, adapted by her publisher’s design team.



* Research/travel: She mixes firsthand travel (breathing the air, riding local transit, tasting the food) with Google Earth and expert conversations, aiming for authenticity beyond tourist sights.

On this episode of Meet the Thriller Author, I’m joined by USA Today and Amazon bestselling author Nicole Trope. Nicole’s novels have gripped readers around the world with their mix of raw emotion and edge-of-your-seat suspense. Her latest book, My Daughter’s Secret, is being released this fall in trade paperback by Grand Central, following its initial success as an ebook with Bookouture.



The novel begins with every parent’s worst nightmare. In the middle of the night, Claire receives the devastating news that her daughter Julia, away at college, is dead. As Claire stumbles through her grief, she discovers a battered shoebox filled with Julia’s letters. At first, they seem to show a young woman happy and thriving. But as the letters go on, Claire begins to sense something darker hidden between the lines. What she uncovers will make her question everything she thought she knew about her daughter.



In our conversation, Nicole talks about her fascinating path from law student to teacher to bestselling author. We dig into the emotional challenges of writing about grief, how she balances psychological depth with page-turning twists, and why she believes readers connect so strongly to stories about family secrets. She also shares her writing process, the tools she uses, and the moment she realized her books had reached a global audience.



Nicole lives in Sydney with her husband and three children, and she’s published more than a dozen thrillers that have found fans across the U.S., U.K., Australia, and Canada.



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Summay




* Nicole Trope, a former lawyer and high school English/drama teacher in Sydney, always intended to write and began seriously after having her first child



* Publication took years. – Her first published novel was The Boy Under the Table; many earlier manuscripts remain unpublished.



* My Daughter’s Secret, now releasing in trade paperback with Grand Central after Bookouture’s acquisition by Hachette, expands her reach into U.S. stores and book clubs.



* The novel opens with two girls discovering a real hanging body mistaken for a Halloween decoration; it follows mother Claire’s quest to uncover why her daughter died, featuring pivotal discovered letters.



* Trope writes psychological/domestic thrillers about “families in crisis,” dissecting the why behind devastating events, emphasizing character, suspense, and twists.



* She is a discovery writer: starts with a loose idea, lets twists emerge in draft, and often diverges from initial synopses; themes become clear in revision.

Meet J.A. Jance on Meet the Thriller Author



Few authors have had a career as remarkable—and as enduring—as J.A. Jance. With nearly 70 novels published and millions of copies sold, she is one of the most successful thriller writers of the last forty years. Her series featuring J.P. Beaumont, Joanna Brady, Ali Reynolds, and the Walker family have captivated generations of readers with their mix of suspense, humanity, and unforgettable characters.



But Jance’s path to becoming a bestselling author was anything but easy. Growing up in Bisbee, Arizona, she dreamed of being a writer from an early age. Yet when she applied to the University of Arizona’s creative writing program in 1964, she was told that “girls ought to be teachers or nurses” rather than writers. Later, her first husband—who had been admitted to the program—declared there would be only one writer in their family, and it wouldn’t be her.



Undeterred, Jance carved her own path. As a divorced single mother raising two children and selling life insurance full-time, she woke at 4 a.m. to write. Her persistence paid off when Until Proven Guilty, the first J.P. Beaumont novel, was published in 1985. Decades later, her work continues to resonate with readers around the world.



In this episode of Meet the Thriller Author, J.A. Jance joins me to talk about her upcoming novel, The Girl from Devil’s Lake (out September 30, 2025). It’s the 21st Joanna Brady mystery, and perhaps her most ambitious yet: a chilling case that spans decades and even crosses international borders. We also dive into her writing process, how she balances multiple series, her reflections on a long career in publishing, and the resilience it took to overcome the obstacles she faced at the start.



It’s an inspiring conversation with a true master of the thriller genre.



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In this episode of Meet the Thriller Author, I sit down with New York Times bestselling author J.A. Jance to talk about her incredible career and her latest novel, The Girl from Devil’s Lake (Joanna Brady #21).



Highlights include:




* The inspiration and scope behind The Girl from Devil’s Lake — Joanna Brady’s most complex case yet



* How J.A. Jance develops characters who grow and change over time



* Why she considers herself a storyteller rather than just a novelist



* Her daily writing routine and surprising choice of software



* Overcoming early career roadblocks to build a legendary writing career




Video

On this episode of Meet the Thriller Author, I’m joined by Mike Adamick — a writer, performer, and former journalist whose creative work spans journalism, books, and now podcasting with his gripping series, Crime Adjacent.



Mike’s career began as a small-town crime reporter in the Bay Area, where he covered cases involving the Zodiac killer and even had a near run-in with the infamous Co-Ed Killer, Ed Kemper. That early exposure to real-life crime shaped his fascination with human behavior, justice, and the psychology of those who live among us with dangerous secrets.



Over the years, Mike’s reporting and essays have appeared in NPR, the New York Times, Parade Magazine, the San Francisco Chronicle, and KQED Radio. He is also a best-selling author of several books, including The Dad’s Book of Awesome series (Simon & Schuster, 2014) and Raising Empowered Daughters (Hachette, 2019).



With Crime Adjacent, Mike brings together all of his experiences — journalism, sociology, gender studies, and forensic psychology — to create something entirely new. The podcast is scripted fiction but presented with the meticulous detail and tone of a true crime documentary. Each season explores not just the crimes themselves, but also the “why” behind them: why people commit these acts, how they live undetected among us, and what our collective fascination with crime reveals about society.



Mike lives in San Francisco with his family and, when he’s not writing or recording the podcast, he’s probably out in the city listening to a murder pod. In our conversation, we dig into how Crime Adjacent was born, the craft of writing for the ear versus the page, and why this unique format resonates so deeply with listeners.



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* Guest: Mike Adamick, writer/performer and former journalist (NPR, NYT, Parade), creator of the podcast Crime Adjacent, which blends true crime aesthetics with fictional storylines.



* Concept: A fictional thriller presented like a true crime podcast; framed as if hosted by a character, Chase Patrick, letting listeners “follow” a favorite thriller protagonist week to week.



* Motivation/Ethics: Adamick loves true crime but avoids profiting from real victims’ trauma; fiction overlay gives creative freedom to explore themes without exploiting real cases. – Season 1 premise: Set around “Ridgewood, CA,” echoing Bay Area crimes (Zodiac, Doodler). The “rest stop killer” murdered three men in the ’90s; new deaths suggest a return or copycat tied to a powerful family and a contentious development.



* Craft/process: Originally drafted as a novel; shifted to audio to merge narrative nonfiction voice with fiction. Writes in Apple Notes,

Dan Buzzetta is a litigation partner at a national law firm with more than 1,100 attorneys, where he has built a reputation for tackling complex, high-stakes cases. A graduate of Tufts University and Fordham Law School, Dan’s legal career has taken him from corporate boardrooms to high-profile investigations, including a landmark case in which his team worked closely with the U.S. Department of Justice and the FBI to recover over $240 million for thousands of investors defrauded by an international criminal network.



A self-described “mafia aficionado,” Dan has long been fascinated by organized crime and the intricate dynamics of power, loyalty, and corruption. That passion, combined with his deep experience in the legal world, inspired his debut novel, The Manipulator. This fast-paced legal thriller introduces readers to Thomas Berte, a brilliant Harvard-educated lawyer thrust into a deadly battle with a global crime syndicate while confronting corruption that hits dangerously close to home.



When he’s not in the courtroom or at his writing desk, Dan enjoys traveling and skiing with his wife and their three children. He also serves as a volunteer firefighter in his hometown of Colts Neck, New Jersey, where his commitment to service and community mirrors the themes of integrity and resilience that run through his fiction.



The Manipulator, the first book in the Tom Berte series, will be released on August 19, 2025, with two more installments planned for 2026. Blending legal authenticity with page-turning suspense, Dan’s work is earning early praise from readers and bestselling authors alike.



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Summary




* Dan Buzzetta, a litigation partner and thriller author, discusses his debut novel “The Manipulator,” part of the Tom Berte Legal Thriller series.



* Buzzetta’s interest in law began early due to his love for advocacy and persuasion, leading him to a career in litigation.



* He shares a past experience involving a legal case with the Department of Justice and FBI that inspired his book series.



* Buzzetta outlines the plot of “The Manipulator,” featuring a Harvard-educated lawyer facing moral dilemmas and high-stakes situations.



* The novel explores themes of justice versus moral compromise, with a focus on creating engaging cliffhangers.



* Buzzetta discusses the process of writing legal thrillers, leveraging his legal background for authenticity while enjoying the creative freedom of fiction.



* He writes primarily in the mornings, balancing his legal career, volunteer firefighting, and writing.



* Buzzetta received a four-book deal, with subsequent books continuing the protagonist’s story and exploring new legal and ethical challenges.



* He advises aspiring writers to make intentional time for writing and pursue stories they are passionate abou...

In the world of thriller writing, few authors capture the imagination quite like Ty Hutchinson. Renowned for his high-concept, fast-paced novels, Hutchinson keeps readers turning pages late into the night with gripping plots that dive deep into the “what ifs” of human nature.



His latest novel, DarkBright, is no exception. The first in a chilling new trilogy, it explores mysterious and dystopian themes in a world where everything appears perfect—but nothing is as it seems.



Hutchinson’s approach to writing is as unconventional as the stories he tells. A full-time digital nomad since 2013, he draws inspiration from life on the road—immersing himself in unfamiliar places, curious cultures, and the occasional chaos. This ever-changing backdrop fuels his imagination and helps him craft stories filled with tension, twists, and unforgettable characters.



Whether it’s the relentless FBI agent Abby Kane, a shadowy assassin, or a seemingly ordinary person hiding a dark secret, Hutchinson excels at creating complex, relatable protagonists who pull readers into the heart of the action.



With DarkBright, Hutchinson once again proves that storytelling can both entertain and provoke, leaving readers breathless—and eager for more.



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Summary




* Alan Petersen hosts “Meet the Thriller Author” podcast episode 219 featuring Ty Hutchinson, a USA Today bestselling author known for the Abby Kane Thriller Series.



* Ty Hutchinson shares that his stories often begin with “what if” questions, leading to unique, high-concept thrillers like “DarkBright.”



* The Abby Kane series was inspired by Hutchinson’s real-life aunt, a retired FBI agent, and the character’s personality is based on Hutchinson’s mother.



* Hutchinson, a former advertising professional, draws on his marketing experience to create relatable, humanized characters and compelling storylines.



* Since 2013, Hutchinson has been a digital nomad, traveling extensively and using his experiences to enrich his writing.



* He writes in various locations, preferring the chaos of busy environments over quiet settings, a habit from his advertising days.

Alex R. Johnson is an award-winning writer and filmmaker based in Brooklyn, New York. His critically acclaimed feature film Two Step premiered at SXSW in 2014 and was named a New York Times Critic’s Pick. A versatile storyteller with a talent for character-driven narratives, Johnson has had multiple screenplays recognized in the industry, including Northeast Kingdom, selected for the prestigious Black List in 2016, and Any Rough Times Are Now Behind You, developed at the Austin Film Society’s Artist Intensive under the mentorship of the late director Jonathan Demme.



Johnson also wrote the screenplay adaptation of Big Bucks, a novel by Shaft creator Ernest Tidyman, for Pascal Pictures and Sony Entertainment. His deep ties to Latin America—his family hails from the Andes of Ecuador, where their century-old dairy farm still operates—inform much of his work’s emotional and cultural texture.



With his debut novel Brooklyn Motto, Johnson brings his cinematic sensibility and noir instincts to the page, crafting a gritty, heartfelt mystery set in the rapidly changing streets of 1990s New York.



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Alex R. Johnson Author Interview Summary:




* Alan Petersen hosts the “Meet the Thriller Author” podcast featuring interviews with mystery and suspense writers.



* Alex R. Johnson, a filmmaker and screenwriter, discusses his debut novel “Brooklyn Motto,” set in 1990s New York City.



* Johnson initially intended “Brooklyn Motto” to be a TV show but shifted to novel writing due to creative freedom and personal interest.



* The novel follows Nico Kelly, a reluctant detective who stumbles onto a murder and a larger mystery.



* Johnson shares his writing process, which involves a “spillage page” for brainstorming and a focus on character dialogue.



* He leverages his film background in his novel writing, focusing on pacing and character development.



* “Brooklyn Motto” explores Johnson’s personal and familial experiences, drawing on his mixed Ecuadorian and Irish heritage.



* Johnson expresses interest in adapting his book back into film or TV, acknowledging the challenges in the current TV industry.



* He advises aspiring writers to overcome imposter syndrome and to study story structure by comparing screenplays with their film adaptations.



* Johnson is active on Instagram and promotes his work, including his film “Two Step,” available on major streaming platforms.




Trailer for Two Step

Joshua Moehling grew up as an Army brat, living all across the United States and Germany. After attending college in South Dakota and Minnesota, he moved to Minneapolis, where he built a career in the medical device industry before becoming a full-time writer.



Joshua is the USA Today bestselling author of the Ben Packard thriller series. His debut novel, And There He Kept Her, was a 2023 Lambda Literary Award finalist for Best LGBTQ+ Mystery. The second book in the series, Where the Dead Sleep, was published in August 2023, followed by the third installment, A Long Time Gone, released in February 2025.



When he’s not writing, Joshua enjoys hiking, biking, and seeing live bands. He currently lives in Minneapolis.



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Show Notes and Transcription



Summary:




* The podcast “Meet the Thriller Author” hosted by Alan Petersen features an interview with Joshua Moehling, a USA Today bestselling author.



* Joshua Moehling is known for the Ben Packard Thriller Series, with the latest book “A Long Time Gone” released on February 4th.



* Alan Petersen announces the release of the audiobook version of his psychological thriller, “The Basement.”



* Joshua Moehling shares his background as an army brat and his journey to becoming a full-time author.



* He discusses the development of his main character, Ben Packard, a gay sheriff’s deputy in a small Minnesota town.



* Joshua talks about his writing process, which involves a mix of outlining and discovery writing.



* Moehling emphasizes the importance of finding a writing community for feedback and support.



* Joshua attended the Scott County Sheriff Citizens Academy to enhance his understanding of police procedures for his novels.



* He shares the challenges and perseverance needed in his 20-year journey to becoming a published author.



* Moehling plans to continue the Ben Packard series and also work on standalone novels.




Transcript




This transcript was generated using AI and has been only lightly edited by a human. As a result, there may be occasional typos or transcription errors. I appreciate your understanding.



[00:00:00.000] – Alan PetersenYou are listening to Meet the Thriller Author, the podcast where I interview writers of mysteries, thrillers, and suspense books. I’m your host, Alan Petersen, and this is episode number 217. Today’s guest is Joshua Moehling, the USA Today bestselling author of the critically acclaimed Ben Packard Thriller Series. Joshua’s latest novel, A Long Time Gone, the third book in the series,

In episode 216 of the “Meet the Thriller Author” podcast, host Alan Petersen interviews Marcie R. Rendon, an award-winning author, poet, and playwright, known for her Cash Blackbear mystery series. Rendon, an enrolled member of the White Earth Nation, discusses her latest novel, “Broken Fields,” the fourth installment in the series, which delves into a rural murder mystery set in 1970s Minnesota.



Rendon shares her journey to writing crime novels, highlighting the inspiration behind her protagonist, Cash Blackbear, a character influenced by the powerful native women she knows. Despite initial struggles with writing crime fiction, Rendon found success with Cash Blackbear, a character who emerged naturally as a compelling force in her storytelling.



Throughout the conversation, Rendon touches on her diverse writing career, from children’s books to plays, and her background in criminal justice and American Indian studies, which she has drawn from to enrich her narratives. She also discusses the importance of addressing real-world issues, such as the foster care system and historical trauma of Indigenous People, in her work.



Rendon emphasizes the significance of intuition in her storytelling, a nod to her Ojibwe heritage, where dreams and gut feelings play a crucial role. She reflects on the growing awareness of the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) crisis and its impact on her writing.



The interview provides insight into Rendon’s writing process, her commitment to portraying authentic experiences, and her dedication to crafting engaging crime novels. Petersen also shares his excitement about his own audiobook release, “The Basement,” available for pre-order on Audible.



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Summary:




* Episode 216 features Marcie R. Rendon, an award-winning author, poet, and playwright, known for her Cash Blackbear mystery series.



* Rendon is an enrolled member of the White Earth Nation, and her latest book in the series, “Broken Fields,” is set in rural 1970s Minnesota, featuring cultural depth and a gripping murder mystery.



* The series protagonist, Cash Blackbear, is inspired by the resilient native women that Rendon knows, embodying characteristics like intuition and strength.



* Rendon has experience writing in diverse fields, including plays and children’s books, and she emphasizes writing what she knows from her life as a Native American in Minnesota.



* She discusses the importance of intuitive abilities in her characters, drawing from cultural beliefs in listening to dreams and gut instincts.



* Rendon highlights real-world issues like farm labor abuse and ...

Exploring the World of Crime Fiction with Walter Mosley



Meet the Thriller Author welcomes back Walter Mosley, an iconic figure in the world of crime fiction, has captivated readers for decades with his masterful storytelling and complex characters. Known for his extensive body of work that spans over 60 books across various genres. His stories not only entertain but also deliver sharp social commentary, reflecting the multifaceted nature of society. Among his notable creations are the beloved Easy Rawlins series and the Joe King Oliver novels.



Mosley’s latest novel, “Been Wrong So Long, It Feels Like Right,” marks the return of Joe King Oliver, an ex-New York City cop turned private investigator. In this gripping tale, Joe finds himself entangled in two intense investigations that challenge his wit and emotions. One involves a billionaire with a perilous agenda, while the other takes him on a personal journey to reconnect with his estranged father. Through Mosley’s skillful narrative, readers are taken on a fast-paced ride that explores themes of family, loyalty, and the complexities of human relationships.



What sets Mosley apart as a writer is his ability to craft stories that resonate with readers on multiple levels. His approach to writing is both intuitive and exploratory, allowing the narrative to unfold organically. Mosley believes in the power of mystery, where the end remains uncertain until the very last page. This unpredictability keeps readers engaged, as they piece together the puzzle alongside the characters. The interplay between the known and the unknown is a hallmark of his storytelling, creating a dynamic reading experience that leaves a lasting impression.



Aspiring writers can learn much from Mosley’s insights into the craft of writing. He emphasizes the importance of writing consistently and immersing oneself in the process. For Mosley, writing is not just about reaching a final product but about the journey of creation itself. His advice to writers is to embrace the evolving nature of storytelling, allowing characters and narratives to develop organically. By doing so, writers can tap into the deeper layers of creativity and produce work that is both authentic and engaging. Walter Mosley’s contributions to literature serve as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and its ability to illuminate the human experience.



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Summary:




* The podcast “Meet the Thriller Author” hosted by Alan Peterson features an interview with crime fiction legend Walter Mosley.



* Mosley has written over 60 books across various genres, including the famous Easy Rawlins series.



* The discussion focuses on Mosley’s latest novel, “Been Wrong So Long, It Feels Like Right,” featuring Joe King Oliver.



* Joe King Oliver, an ex-NYC cop turned private investigator,

This episode is different from the others. I won’t be interviewing an author, but instead, I’ll be looking back on ten years of the podcast!



On June 23, 2025, Meet the Thriller Author officially marks its 10-year anniversary! It’s hard to believe that what started as a passion project has grown into a long-running show featuring interviews with some of the biggest names in the thriller and mystery genres.



But my journey with podcasting started long before Meet the Thriller Author.



I first discovered podcasts in 2005 when Apple added them to iTunes. Former MTV VJ Adam Curry, one of the early pioneers of podcasting, was the first person to introduce me to the medium. By 2006, I was hooked and wanted to start my own podcast.



On January 15, 2007, I launched Costa Rica Talk Radio, a podcast about my home country. Unfortunately, like many early podcasts, it PodFaded—I didn’t even make it to 20 episodes. Over the years, I experimented with other podcasting ideas, but none of them stuck.



Then in 2015, I launched Meet the Thriller Author, and something clicked.



What started with me reaching out to fellow writers on forums has grown into a show with over 215 episodes, featuring legendary authors like Dean Koontz, Lee Child, Walter Mosley, and Freida McFadden. The podcast has reached thousands of listeners, and I’m incredibly grateful for the support over the years.



Thank you to all the listeners, authors, and supporters who have made this possible.



Want to check out my most popular episodes? Visit ThrillingReads.com/10.

Excited to welcome back bestselling author Gregg Hurwitz to the podcast.



Gregg Hurwitz is the New York Times, #1 internationally bestselling author of 24 thrillers, including the Orphan X series, and two award-winning thriller novels for teens. His novels have won numerous literary awards, graced top ten lists, and have been published in 33 languages. Gregg currently serves as the Co-President of International Thriller Writers (ITW).



Gregg has written screenplays for or sold spec scripts to many of the major studios (including SWEET GIRL and THE BOOK OF HENRY), and written, developed, and produced television  for various networks. He is also a New York Times bestselling comic book writer, having penned stories for AWA (Knighted and the critically acclaimed anthology NewThink), Marvel (Wolverine, Punisher) and DC (Batman, Penguin). He has published poetry, numerous academic articles on Shakespeare, taught fiction writing in the USC English Department, and guest lectured for UCLA, and for Harvard in the United States and internationally. In 2022, he helped write the opening ceremony of the World Cup. In the course of researching his thrillers, he has sneaked onto demolition ranges with Navy SEALs, swum with sharks in the Galápagos, and gone undercover into mind-control cults.



Currently, Gregg is actively working against polarization in politics and culture. To that end, he’s produced several hundred commercials and creative content which have gotten several hundred million views on digital TV platforms. His editorial pieces have appeared in The Wall Street Journal, The Guardian, The Huffington Post, The Bulwark, The Telegraph, Salon, and others.



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Show Notes & Transcirpts



Summary:




* Episode 214 welcomes Gregg Hurwitz, known for the Orphan X series, discussing his latest book, “Nemesis.”



* Gregg Hurwitz reflects on the journey of writing 10 books in the Orphan X series, sharing insights into character development.



* “Nemesis” is set for release on February 11, 2025, and Gregg will embark on a significant book tour across the United States.



* The book “Nemesis” explores a clash between main character Evan Smoak and his close friend Tommy Stojack, highlighting emotional and philosophical themes.



* Gregg emphasizes the importance of character development alongside action and suspense in his writing process.



* He conducts extensive research for his novels, consulting with experts to incorporate cutting-edge technology a...

In this episode of the podcast, I’m joined by the incredible Jerri Williams, a former FBI special agent turned bestselling author and podcaster. With 26 years in the Bureau, Jerri specialized in major economic fraud investigations, uncovering schemes where “with a gun, they can steal hundreds, but with a lie, they can steal millions.” Now retired, she’s using her real-world experiences to tell compelling crime stories and debunk common FBI myths.



Jerri is the host of the popular podcast FBI Retired Case File Review, which has over 10 million downloads. On the show, she interviews retired agents about high-profile cases, offering listeners an authentic look at the FBI. Her expertise also extends to her book, FBI Myths and Misconceptions: A Manual for Armchair Detectives, where she breaks down 20 common clichés about the Bureau found in books, TV, and movies.



In addition to her nonfiction work, Jerri writes crime fiction, including the novels Pay to Play and Greedy Givers. Her stories feature FBI agent Kari Wheeler, a flawed but relatable investigator balancing family life and dangerous cases. Her books are must-reads for fans of authentic crime fiction.



During this episode, we discuss Jerri’s fascinating career, her transition to writing and podcasting, and her advice for aspiring authors.



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Show Notes & Resources



Summary:




* Episode 213 features Jerri Williams, a former FBI agent with 26 years of experience in economic fraud investigations.



* Jerri Williams transitioned into writing crime fiction, podcasting, and consulting for TV networks after retiring.



* Her podcast, “FBI Retired Case File Review,” features interviews with retired FBI agents and has over 10 million downloads.



* Jerri authored “FBI Myths and Misconceptions,” a guide debunking common clichés about the FBI, and two crime novels.



* Her career faced challenges as she was among the first Black female agents in the FBI during a male-dominated era.



* Williams discusses the difficulty and fascination of fraud cases, particularly a $350 million Ponzi scheme she investigated.



* Her writing process involves outlining and using Scrivener, and she is currently working on new crime fiction.



* She consults for TV networks to ensure accurate FBI portrayals, working on shows like “Class of ’09” and “Duster.”



* Jerri Williams encourages aspiring writers to trust their work but seek...

J.D. Barker is the New York Times and international best-selling author of numerous novels, including DRACUL and THE FOURTH MONKEY. 



His work has been broadly described as suspense thrillers, often incorporating elements of horror, crime, mystery, science fiction, and the supernatural. He is also a frequent collaborator with James Patterson (their latest novel, THE WRITER, will be published on May 17, 2025).



J.D.’s books have been translated into two dozen languages, sold in more than 150 countries, and optioned for both film and television. Barker resides in coastal New Hampshire with his family.



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Episode Summary:




* JD Barker is a bestselling author, known for novels like “Dracul” and the 4MK Thriller series, and is collaborating with James Patterson.



* Barker’s journey to success was gradual, shaped by a childhood steeped in reading and writing without the distraction of TV.



* Despite a corporate career in finance, Barker pursued writing, working as a book doctor and ghostwriter, which greatly honed his craft.



* He indie published his first novel, “Forsaken,” which gained attention and led to a traditional publishing deal for his next book, “The Fourth Monkey.”



* Barker discusses the evolving publishing landscape and the advantages of hybrid publishing, including his own imprint deal with Simon & Schuster.



* He emphasizes the importance of understanding the business and marketing side of writing for success in the industry.



* Barker is involved in writing collaborations with other authors and values the creative synergy these partnerships bring.



* He highlights the significance of branding and maintaining control over the presentation of his work, even in contracts with co-authors.



* Barker’s experiences with film and TV adaptations have been varied, with several projects optioned but not yet produced.



* He advises aspiring writers to write consistently and understand the importance of marketing and brand building in achieving success.




JD Barker Interview Transcript



Click here for full transcript

This transcript was generated by AI and only lightly edited, so there may be errors or typos.



[00:00:00.000] – Alan PetersenHi, everybody. This is Alan Petersen with Meet the Thriller Author. And on the podcast today, I have JD Barker, who is a New York Times and international bests...

Best thriller books 2024 as chosen by the Amazon Editors




In the latest episode of “Meet the Thriller Author,” host Alan Petersen closes out 2024 by welcoming Vannessa Cronin, a Senior Editor for Amazon Books. Vannessa offers an insider’s perspective on how the Amazon Editors curated their list of the Best Mystery, Thriller, and Suspense Books of the year, describing the passionate debates and in-depth discussions that go into each decision. She also highlights key industry trends—from genre-blending to increased diversity in authorship—that defined 2024’s top picks.



Two standout titles include “The God of the Woods” by Liz Moore and “All the Colors of the Dark” by Chris Whitaker, praised for their intricate plots and emotional intensity. Beyond recapping 2024, Vannessa shares a sneak peek into what thriller fans can expect in 2025, spotlighting emerging authors and exciting new releases on the horizon. Plus, she gives aspiring writers her best advice for crafting compelling openings—essential for keeping readers hooked and avoiding the dreaded “DNF” (Did Not Finish).



To see the Amazon Editors’ Best Mysteries and Thrillers of 2024, click here. And if you’d like to check out Alan Petersen’s personal Top Five of the year, click here.








Best Thriller books 2024















































Show Notes & Resources



Summary:




* The podcast “Meet the Thriller Author” hosted by Alan Petersen features Vannessa Cronin, a senior editor for Amazon Books.



* Vannessa discusses Amazon’s selection process for the best mystery, thriller, and suspense books of 2024.



* The editorial team reads extensively and compiles a “best of the month” list, which contributes to the annual “best of the year” list.



* The selection process involves debates and discussions among the editors, who have over 100 years of combined publishing experience.



* Books with strong emotional range and genre-blending have been significant trends in 2024.



* Social commentary and diverse voices are increasingly evident in the thriller genre.



* Vannessa highlights the importance of engaging opening chapters to avoid books being marked as “DNF” (Did Not Finish).



* Vannessa shares her excitement for upcoming books in 2025, including works by Alan Eskins and Joseph Finder.



* Emerging authors, like Kirsten Modglin, who self-publish through platforms like KDP, have the potential to break into mainstream success.



* Vannessa advises aspiring writers to hook readers early to avoid losing potential word-of-mouth promotion.




Author Mentions:




* Baalu Girma – Oromay

In the latest episode of the “Meet the Thriller Author” (#210) I had the pleasure of welcoming back to the podcast bestselling author and former prosecutor in the L.A. District Attorney’s office, Marcia Clark.



In this compelling Marcia Clark interview we delve into her new book, “Trial by Ambush,” which explores the sensational 1953 case of Barbara Graham. The book highlights the perils of media distortion and systemic injustice, drawing parallels to modern-day issues. Clark shares insights into her extensive research process, including her quest for historical trial transcripts, and reflects on her unique perspective as a former prosecutor. The episode also touches on the challenges of balancing fiction and nonfiction writing and the broader implications of true crime stories in today’s society and a lot mor. I even had to ask her about the The Menendez Brothers case.



Marcia Clark is the author of Guilt by Association, Guilt by Degrees, Killer Ambition, and The Competition, all part of the Rachel Knight series. A practicing criminal lawyer since 1979, she joined the Los Angeles District Attorney’s office in 1981, where she served as prosecutor for the trials of Robert Bardo, convicted of killing actress Rebecca Schaeffer, and, most notably, O. J. Simpson. The bestselling Without a Doubt, which she cowrote, chronicles her work on the Simpson trial. Clark has been a frequent commentator on a variety of shows and networks, including Today, Good Morning America, The Oprah Winfrey Show, CNN, and MSNBC, as well as a legal correspondent for Entertainment Tonight.



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Samantha Brinkman Legal Thrillers





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Show Notes and Transcript




* Clark’s latest book, “Trial by Ambush,” explores the 1953 Barbara Graham case, highlighting media distortion and systemic injustice.



* The book reveals new insights and documents about Graham’s trial, which had not been thoroughly covered before.



* Clark discusses the challenges of researching old cases and obtaining trial transcripts from archives.



* She reflects on the media scrutiny she faced during the O.J. Simpson trial, drawing parallels with Barbara Graham’s experience.

Noelle West Ihli is a best-selling author known for her gripping psychological thrillers that captivate readers with their heart-stopping suspense and intricate character development.



Debuting in 2021 with “The Thicket,” Ihli quickly made a name for herself in the thriller genre, crafting narratives that often explore survival against daunting odds. Her approach to storytelling is deeply influenced by her fascination with true crime and her background in editing and ghostwriting before turning to writing her own novels.



Ihli’s novels, such as “Gray After Dark”, “Ask for Andrea“, and “Run On Red,” frequently feature strong female protagonists and are set against eerie, wilderness backdrops that heighten the tension and suspense. Her works are not only a favorite among thriller fans, but have also gained recognition on platforms like BookTok, where her stories continue to resonate with a broad audience and her books are tagged as the “Best of #BookTok” by Amazon.



With a penchant for weaving lesser-known historical crimes into modern narratives, Ihli’s storytelling is both innovative and immersive, inviting readers to explore their own fears and anxieties through her characters. Her latest work, “None Left to Tell,” is a historical thriller based on the Mountain Meadows Massacre, showcasing her ability to blend factual events with fictional storytelling.



Noelle lives in Idaho with her husband, two sons, and two cats. When she’s not plotting her next thriller, she’s scaring herself with true-crime documentaries or going for a trail ride in the foothills (with her trusty pepper spray).



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Show Notes & Transcript



Summary




* Alan Petersen hosts episode 209 of the “Meet the Thriller Author” podcast, featuring Noelle West Ihli.



* Noelle discusses her love for the thriller genre and how it inspired her to transition from editing and ghostwriting to writing her own novels.



* Her first published book, “The Thicket,” was released in 2021 after initially pursuing traditional publishing.



* Influences on her writing include authors like Mary Higgins-Clarke and Harlan Coben.



* Noelle’s novels often include survival elements and focus on strong female characters and their psychological perspectives.



* She talks about her writing process, which involves creating comprehensive outlines that she eventually set...

Jeffrey Archer, whose novels include the Clifton Chronicles, the William Warwick novels and Kane and Abel, has topped bestseller lists around the world, with sales of over 300 million copies. He is the only author ever to have been a #1 bestseller in fiction, short stories and non-fiction (The Prison Diaries). A member of the House of Lords for over a quarter of a century, the author is married to Dame Mary Archer, and they have two sons, two granddaughters and two grandsons, and divide their time between homes in London, Cambridge and Mallorca.



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Show Notes & Transcript



In the latest episode of the “Meet the Thriller Author” podcast, host Alan Petersen sits down with the illustrious novelist Jeffrey Archer. Renowned for his gripping storytelling and intricate plots, Archer has sold over 300 million copies of his books across more than 100 countries. His works have captivated readers for decades, and his latest novel, “An Eye for an Eye,” continues this tradition. The novel, which is the seventh installment in the William Warwick series, promises to deliver the same twists and turns that fans have come to expect. Archer’s unique blend of fiction and insider knowledge from his political career makes his novels both exciting and insightful.



Archer’s journey with the character William Warwick is particularly fascinating. Originally conceived as a fictional character within another series, Warwick has grown into a fully-fledged protagonist in his own right. Archer explains how Warwick’s career progression from a young constable to potentially the Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police was carefully planned across eight books. Each novel tackles a different aspect of police work, with “An Eye for an Eye” focusing on international negotiations and high-stakes drama involving a handwritten copy of the Declaration of Independence. Archer’s meticulous research, including consultations with experts like former detectives, adds authenticity to his narratives.



The podcast also delves into Archer’s writing process, which is both rigorous and traditional. Starting his day at 5:30 AM, Archer writes multiple drafts by hand, a method that has served him well throughout his career. Each book goes through 14 drafts before publication, reflecting his dedication to perfecting his storytelling craft. Archer emphasizes the importance of hard work and perseverance, likening the process to the dedication of a prima ballerina at the Royal Ballet. This disciplined approach, combined with his natural storytelling ability,

Jenny Milchman is the Mary Higgins Clark Award-winning and USA Today bestselling author of five novels. Her work has been praised by The New York Times, New York Journal of Books, San Francisco Journal of Books, and many more. She has earned spots on multiple “Best Of” lists, including PureWow, POPSUGAR, The Strand, Suspense, and Big Thrill magazines, and has received starred reviews from Publishers Weekly, Library Journal, Booklist, and Shelf Awareness. Four of her novels have been selected as Indie Next Picks.



In addition to her novels, Jenny’s short fiction has appeared in numerous anthologies and Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine. Most recently, her piece on book touring was included in the Agatha Award-winning collection Promophobia.



Jenny is launching a new series with Thomas & Mercer, introducing psychologist Arles Shepherd, a character who fights to save the most vulnerable children while battling her own inner demons. The Usual Silence is the first book in that series which will be published on October 1, 2024.



She lives in the Hudson Valley with her family.



In this episode, Jenny Milchman shared insights into her journey from a psychotherapist to a successful author. Milchman’s latest novel, “The Usual Silence,” delves into the suspenseful world of child psychotherapy, drawing from her professional background. As she explained, her career in psychology significantly influenced her writing, providing a unique depth and realism to her characters and plots. This transition wasn’t straightforward; it took Milchman over two decades and multiple rejections before her work found its audience. Her perseverance is a testament to the importance of determination and passion in the creative process. And a lot more, so make sure to check it out.



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Show Notes



In this podcast interview, Alan Petersen speaks with Jenny Milchman about her latest suspense novel, “The Usual Silence,” which delves into the psychological background of psychotherapy with children, a field Jenny worked in before starting her writing career. Jenny shares how her experiences as a psychotherapist influenced her writing, particularly a case involving a violent five-year-old that inspired her to write suspense novels. The conversation highlights Jenny’s journey to becoming a published author, including the numerous rejections she faced before her eighth manuscript was finally accepted, thanks to the intervention of a respected author.



Jenny also discusses the significance of true crime podcasts in her latest book and how she integrates tough, real-life subjects like trauma and abuse into her novels while ensuring the characters ultimately find some form of triumph. She reflects on her unique writing process, which involves collecting ideas in a filing cabinet and writing without a strict outline.