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The Thriller Zone

The Thriller Zone

By: David Temple
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About this listen

If you enjoy thriller books, films & TV series and the writers who create them, then you’ll enjoy the #1 thriller fiction podcast in the world, The Thriller Zone. Now in their 8th season, former radio host & current author Dave Temple talks with the best creative minds in the business for STORIES THAT THRILL!© 2025 All Rights Reserved, 82 MERCER Art Literary History & Criticism
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Episodes
  • Jack Stewart Unplugged: Co-Authoring and Crafting Thrillers
    May 15 2025

    Get ready to dive into Episode #227 when host Dave Temple leads The Thriller Zone with an electrifying conversation in the world of Silent Horizons with his pal Jack Stewart!

    We’re kicking off this chat by unpacking the thrilling journey of co-authoring this new gem, blending Jack's storytelling magic with Chad Robichaux's real-life experiences.

    Expect some juicy tales about the creative process, the ups and downs of writing alongside someone else, and a sprinkle of witty banter that keeps things light.

    We’ll touch on how this book isn’t just about action-packed moments; it’s a heartfelt exploration of faith, family, and the human experience in tough times.

    So, grab your snacks, settle in, and let’s get into the good stuff!

    Learn more at JackStewartBooks.com and TheThrillerZone.com

    Takeaways:

    • In this episode, Jack Stewart shares the behind-the-scenes process of co-authoring his latest book, 'Silent Horizons', and how it differs from his solo projects.
    • We dive into the unique challenges and joys of writing collaboratively, especially when it comes to balancing creative visions with a writing partner.
    • Jack gives an insightful glimpse into the themes of 'Silent Horizons', emphasizing its focus on authenticity and the struggles of faith amidst turmoil.
    • The podcast highlights the dynamic between humor and serious topics, showcasing how humor can be a great tool to connect with audiences about tough subjects.

    Companies mentioned in this episode:

    • Silent Horizons
    • Bogey Spades
    • Unknown Writer
    • Outlaw
    • Chad Robichaux
    • Saving Aziz
    • Mighty Oaks
    • Tyndale House Publishing
    • Web Griffin
    • Tom Clancy
    • Andrews and Wilson

    Mentioned in this episode:

    SEASON 9 PROMO

    Season 9 of The Thriller Zone launches Thursday, June 19th at 2AM-West/5AM-East.

    RIVIAN Open

    Rivian—electric adventure vehicles built for the wild. Go anywhere, do anything, and drive into the future with confidence. Explore more at Rivian.com

    RIVIAN Comm

    Rivian—electric adventure vehicles built for the wild. Go anywhere, do anything, and drive into the future with confidence. Explore more at Rivian.com

    Show More Show Less
    29 mins
  • Wes Browne's Success Recipe: Noir Crime, Craft Beer and Compelling Characters
    May 8 2025

    Welcome to our 226th episode of The Thriller Zone, as host Dave Temple welcomes Wes Browne, the mastermind behind the gripping novel 'They All Fall the Same,' for an enjoyable conversation. We chat about everything from the gritty reality of rural noir to the culinary chaos of running pizza joints and crafting beers.

    Wes spills the beans on how his background as a criminal defense attorney spices up his storytelling, making us ponder the fine line between right and wrong—much like a good pizza topping debate! Plus, there’s a side of humor that’ll have you chuckling as we explore the hilariously chaotic life of his character, Burl Spoon.

    The episode kicks off with a nostalgic nod to their last encounter at Bouchercon in sunny San Diego, where Wes's warm demeanor left a lasting impression on Dave. They dive headfirst into Wes's eclectic background as a criminal defense attorney and restaurateur, which perfectly fuels his storytelling prowess.

    Browne's dual life of defending the accused and managing multiple pizza restaurants provides a treasure trove of material for his writing, particularly in the Kentucky noir genre.

    The conversation flows smoothly into Wes's writing journey, with a spotlight on his first published work, 'Hillbilly Hustle,' a novel steeped in the quirky realities of small-town America, where pizza and pot intersect in unexpected ways.

    With a blend of humor and seriousness, Wes shares anecdotes from his pizza shop, revealing a past where ordering a 'spinach special' had a whole different meaning. He reflects on how the pandemic reshaped his law practice and how he transitioned into writing full time. Listeners get a peek into Wes's creative process, as he discusses the complexities of crafting characters who are, at times, morally ambiguous yet relatable.

    So grab a slice (or a beer if you’re feeling fancy), and let’s dig into this episode that’s packed with juicy stories and clever banter!

    Learn more about Wes at WesBrowneAuthor.com (and don't forget the letter e at the end of Browne).

    Links referenced in this episode:

    • indiebound.org
    • twodandelionsbookshop.com
    • countryboybrewing.com
    • bluestallionbrewing.com

    Companies mentioned in this episode:

    • Country Boy Brewing
    • Apollo Pizza
    • Crooked Lane Books
    • Ballast Point
    • Blue Stallion Brewing
    • Kroger
    • Two Dandelions Bookshop
    • Red Spotted Newt

    Mentioned in this episode:

    GARY QUESENBERRY SPONSOR

    Learn more about Gary Quesenberry's new Case Younger Thriller, HOMECOMING. Learn more at: GaryQuesenberry.com

    GARY QUESENBERRY SPONSOR

    GARY QUESENBERRY SPONSOR

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    42 mins
  • Air Marshal Turned Thriller Author Gary Quesenberry
    May 2 2025

    Today's Bonus Episode of The Thriller Zone with Dave Temple dives into a thrilling discussion with new author Gary Quesenberry, who's just dropped his debut book, *Homecoming*.

    We kick things off by exploring the gripping world of his main character, Case Younger, an air marshal who's trying to escape a violent past but soon finds himself in a small town where chaos reigns.

    Gary’s got a unique perspective on this, having been an army veteran and a Federal Air Marshal himself, which means he’s serving up some real-life insights mixed in with the fiction.

    We get into everything from the nuts and bolts of being an air marshal—like how to blend in on a flight—to the emotional rollercoaster that comes with high-stakes situations.

    So grab your headphones and settle in because this episode is packed with juicy tidbits and a sprinkle of wisdom for aspiring writers!

    Takeaways:

    • In this episode, Gary Quesenberry shares his exciting journey from being an Air Marshal to becoming an author, highlighting how real-life experiences shape storytelling.
    • Dave and Gary discuss the importance of blending emotional depth with action in writing, making characters relatable and their situations believable.
    • Gary's character, Case Younger, deals with trauma and the quest for peace, showing that sometimes, finding calm can come with unexpected challenges.
    • The duo dives into the nitty-gritty of writing, emphasizing that having fun and letting characters guide the story can lead to unexpected and satisfying outcomes.
    • Listeners get a glimpse into the writing process, where Gary reveals he uses personal experiences to create authentic narratives that resonate with readers.
    • The episode encourages aspiring writers to embrace their unique stories and share their journeys, reminding us that every writer has something valuable to contribute.

    Companies mentioned in this episode:

    • GaryQuesenberry.com

    KEYWORDS: podcast episode, Gary Quesenberry, Homecoming book, thriller novel, Federal Air Marshal, writing advice, thriller zone podcast, Case Younger character, military veterans, PTSD in fiction, human trafficking themes, book cover design, author interview, emotional reactions in writing, situational awareness, aviation security, writing process tips, character development, storytelling techniques, crime fiction

    Mentioned in this episode:

    GARY QUESENBERRY SPONSOR

    Learn more about Gary Quesenberry's new Case Younger Thriller, HOMECOMING. Learn more at: GaryQuesenberry.com

    GARY QUESENBERRY SPONSOR

    GARY QUESENBERRY SPONSOR

    Show More Show Less
    20 mins

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