EPISODE 55: Insights with Anthony Award-Winning Thriller Author Simon Wood: Crafting Suspense and Plot Twists

Send us a text​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 Writers00:33 Introducing Simon Wood01:38 Simon's Journey to Writing02:39 Incorporating Life Experiences into Writing04:58 The Engineering Mindset in Writing09:56 Writing Routine and Environment12:30 Research and Realism in Writing21:14 Debunking Parole Myths in Media22:10 OJ Simpson and Jury Duty23:06 Character Development Through Psychology24:47 Crafting Compelling Villains29:39 Balancing Pacing and Tension in Thrillers33:33 Mastering Plot Twists and Red Herrings38:17 Advice for Aspiring Thriller Writers39:40 Challenges and Lessons in Writing42:27 Upcoming Projects and Final Thoughts​Simon Wood's Web Hideout 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