EPISODE 55: Insights with Anthony Award-Winning Thriller Author Simon Wood: Crafting Suspense and Plot Twists
Way-Word Writers Podcast · Way-Word Writers
Audio is streamed directly from the publisher (api.substack.com) as published in their RSS feed. Play Podcasts does not host this file. Rights-holders can request removal through the copyright & takedown page.
Show Notes
In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome USA Today bestselling thriller author Simon Wood. Wood shares insights into his whirlwind career shift from race car driver to writer, describing how his diverse experiences influence his gripping thrillers. He discusses the importance of real-life research, character development, and the method of building suspense and plot twists. Wood also reveals his process for immersing himself into crime scenes and integrating first-person interviews into his books, alongside touching on challenges, like cutting down his second book from 140,000 words. He concludes with a sneak peek into his upcoming project, 'Let Me Shoot You.' The episode is a deep dive into the nuts and bolts of thriller writing, enriched with personal anecdotes and professional tips.
00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers
00:33 Introducing Simon Wood
01:38 Simon's Journey to Writing
02:39 Incorporating Life Experiences into Writing
04:58 The Engineering Mindset in Writing
09:56 Writing Routine and Environment
12:30 Research and Realism in Writing
21:14 Debunking Parole Myths in Media
22:10 OJ Simpson and Jury Duty
23:06 Character Development Through Psychology
24:47 Crafting Compelling Villains
29:39 Balancing Pacing and Tension in Thrillers
33:33 Mastering Plot Twists and Red Herrings
38:17 Advice for Aspiring Thriller Writers
39:40 Challenges and Lessons in Writing
42:27 Upcoming Projects and Final Thoughts
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com