Slaying the Craft: Inside the Mind of a Thriller Writer

In this episode, Sabrina Thatcher talks with Brianna Heath about her debut book Robbie McNeil’s Hit List—a genre-bending, queer mystery about lesbian contract killers running a karaoke bar while staging musicals and navigating murder, friendship, and identity. Brianna shares how a joke between friends became a sharp, heartfelt thriller, discusses writing morally gray characters, queer joy without trauma as the central narrative, neurodivergence and craft, and the balance between chaos and structure in storytelling. The episode blends hilarious behind-the-scenes research on “accidental” murders with thoughtful reflections on representation, community, and why sometimes the darkest stories can still feel like a fairy tale.

In this episode, host Sabrina Thatcher sits down with retired U.S. Army Colonel turned author Jack McTavish to talk about his debut action-adventure novel Royal Diamonds and the long, often humbling road to publication. Drawing on a 36-year military career and a love of high-stakes storytelling, Jack shares how he evolved from writing a shelved romance novel to crafting a fast-paced Caribbean treasure hunt filled with pirates, family legacies, and dangerous secrets. He dives into his writing process—from structuring stories around “commander’s intent” to balancing action with character—along with candid insights on rejection, indie publishing, and learning the craft through persistence. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at building a story (and a writing career) that prioritizes adventure, escapism, and just plain fun.

In this episode, Sabrina Thatcher sits down with bestselling thriller author Melinda Leigh to discuss her latest novel You Can Tell Me, the first in a new series featuring true crime writer Olivia. Leigh shares how the character evolved from a side role into a lead, why she was drawn to exploring trauma and resilience through Olivia’s story, and how her organic, character-driven writing process shapes her twists and plots. She also dives into the realities of writing dark fiction, balancing humor with heavy themes, and the discipline behind producing multiple books a year, while also offering insight into her creative instincts, love of mystery, and what she hopes readers feel when they close one of her thrillers: satisfied, thrilled, and just a little unsettled.

In this episode, Sabrina Thatcher talks with author Karin Nordin about her upcoming thriller Home Sweet Home, a psychological suspense novel about a woman pulled back into the alien doomsday cult she escaped as a teenager, forcing her to confront trauma, belief, and the blurred line between truth and manipulation. The conversation dives into Karin’s writing process, from character-driven storytelling and multi-POV structure to pacing techniques and genre shifts, while exploring how personal experience, fascination with cult psychology, and the complexity of memory shape both her work and the reader’s experience of it.

In this episode, Sabrina Thatcher talks with bestselling author Marcy McCreary about her books and writing process. Marcy shares her intuitive, pantser writing process, why she rejects rigid outlining in favor of discovery and revision, and how setting can function as a living, evolving character. Marcy also shares the personal stakes behind her work, including how caregiving and life experience have shaped her perspective on storytelling, as well as the meaningful mission tied to her latest release. Auction link:https://www.32auctions.com/MysteryLit_ALZ

In this episode of Slaying the Craft, Sabrina Thatcher interviews bestselling author Ande Pliego, discussing her latest book 'The Library After Dark' and the intricacies of writing thrillers. They delve into character development, the role of fairy tales, the challenges of writing a sophomore novel, and the importance of beta readers. Andy shares her unique approach to crafting locked room mysteries and the emotional depth she aims to achieve in her stories, emphasizing the balance between plot and character-driven narratives.

In this episode, Sabrina Thatcher talks with Tessa Wegert about her latest book 'In the Bones', the first in her North Country series, and the transition from her previous Shana Merchant series. Tessa explores the unique crime phenomenon of frogging, the challenges of writing from multiple perspectives, and the importance of community in the writing process. Tessa shares her insights on creating an unsettling yet satisfying reader experience, creating characters for series, her attraction to dark themes, and valuable advice for aspiring writers. She also dives into her writing rituals and favorite old school mysteries, providing a comprehensive look into her creative process.

In this episode, Sabrina talks with thriller author Vanessa Lillie discusses her latest novel, 'The Bone Thief,' and the intricate themes of identity, cultural representation, and the writing process. She shares insights into her character development, the challenges of writing thrillers, and the importance of connecting with Indigenous communities. She also delves into the discomfort inherent in the writing journey and the joy of surprising oneself and readers with unexpected twists.

In this episode of Slaying the Craft, host Sabrina Thatcher shares personal updates, including her move back to Seattle and the challenges she faced with grief and writing. She emphasizes the importance of allowing oneself to take a break from writing during tough times and introduces her upcoming webinar on misdirection in mysteries. Sabrina also discusses her book coaching services and shares valuable resources for aspiring writers, while looking forward to exciting events and guests in the upcoming season.

This week, Sabrina Thatcher talks with Elle Marr about her latest book, 'The Lie She Wears,' and the intricate themes of family dynamics, particularly the mother-daughter relationship. She shares insights into her writing process, the importance of authenticity, and how personal experiences shape her narratives. Marr emphasizes the emotional impact of storytelling and the challenges of writing while balancing family life. She also offers valuable advice for aspiring writers, highlighting the significance of passion and research in crafting compelling stories.

In this episode of Slaying the Craft, host Sabrina Thatcher interviews the father-son writing duo Jack and Josh Viertel about their debut thriller, The Glass Eel. They discuss the inspiration behind the book, the unique narrative techniques they employed, and the importance of incorporating indigenous perspectives. The conversation also delves into their collaborative writing process, the themes they hope to convey to readers, and the challenges of writing a novel compared to theater. The duo shares valuable insights and advice for aspiring writers, emphasizing the importance of rewriting and the creative process.

In this episode, Sabrina Thatcher interviews horror and dark-fantasy author Christina Henry about her newest novel The Place Where They Buried Your Heart. Henry unpacks the book’s haunting premise—a sentient house that literally consumes children—and explores themes of grief, guilt, motherhood, community, and the evolution of a girl who carries a childhood mistake for the rest of her life. She discusses her intuitive, image-driven writing process, her long-distance-walker drafting ritual, the emotional backbone beneath horror, and the importance of reading widely. The conversation also dives into zombies, body horror, gentrification, found family, creativity, and the realities of writing in today’s publishing landscape.

In this episode of 'Slaying the Craft', host Sabrina Thatcher interviews bestselling author Victoria Helen Stone, known for her thriller 'Bald-Faced Liar'. They discuss the themes of the book, including the protagonist's complex relationship with lying, the impact of the Satanic Panic on her character's life, and the writing process. Victoria shares insights on transitioning from romance to thrillers, building tension in storytelling, and offers valuable advice for aspiring writers. The conversation delves into the darker aspects of storytelling while maintaining a sense of humor and lightness.

In this episode of 'Slaying the Craft', host Sabrina Thatcher interviews horror writer V.S. Lawerence, exploring her journey in writing spooky novels, including '80s Ghosts', 'Chalupa Cabra Y2K', and 'Friends Like These'. V.S. shares insights into her writing process, the challenges of self-publishing, and the cathartic experience of writing horror. The conversation delves into the importance of friendship in her stories, the fun of creating dark narratives, and the unique concept behind her latest work. V.S. also offers valuable advice for aspiring writers, emphasizing the need for enjoyment in the writing process.Check out her website:https://vslawrence-author.com/

This week, Sabrina Thatcher sits down with psychological thriller author Courtney Psak to talk about her whirlwind year of publishing — from The Tutor to The Hostess to The Aunt. Courtney shares how a “digital-first” three-book deal with Hodder & Stoughton changed her writing rhythm, why she completely rewrote The Tutor under pressure, and how she builds tension through her signature “W-shaped” plotting method.

This week, Sabrina Thatcher interviews intellectual property lawyer Dwayne Goetzel about the importance of copyright and trademark laws for writers. They discuss the fears writers have about sharing their work, the implications of AI on copyright, and the challenges of navigating the publishing industry. Dwayne shares insights on protecting creative ideas, the writing journey, and the significance of networking within the writing community. Dwayne emphasizes the need for persistence and adaptability in the writing process, as well as the importance of crafting compelling stories that resonate with readers.

In this episode, host Sabrina Thatcher interviews author and literary agent Jenna Sattherwaite about her latest thriller, 'A Killer Getaway.' They discuss the unique challenges of writing a villain as a main character, the balance between romance and thriller elements, and the intricacies of the publishing world. Jenna shares insights into her writing process, the importance of character development, and offers advice for aspiring writers. They highlight the complexities of genre blending and the emotional journey of writing.

In this episode of 'Slaying the Craft', host Sabrina Thatcher interviews author Jennifer Fawcett about her new thriller 'Keep This For Me'. The conversation delves into the complexities of storytelling, particularly how violence impacts victims and their families. Fawcett shares insights into her writing process, the challenges of developing characters, and the moral ambiguities that intrigue her as a writer. The discussion also touches on the real-life inspirations behind her work and the importance of giving oneself permission to create.

SummaryIn this episode of Slaying the Craft, host Sabrina Thatcher interviews author Allison Buccola about her latest book, 'The Ascent.' They delve into the themes of psychological suspense, exploring the impact of cults and motherhood on the protagonist. The conversation covers the writing process, the importance of character development, and the role of critique in improving one's craft. Allison shares her insights on navigating the complexities of writing, the significance of internal conflicts, and the balance between fiction and reality in her work.

In this episode of Slaying the Craft, host Sabrina Thatcher interviews Brian Asman, a writer, actor, and director, discussing his latest book 'Man, Fuck This House.' They explore the themes of horror writing, character perspectives, and the writing process, including the use of beta readers and the importance of finishing what you start. Brian shares insights on writing dark and twisted stories, the influence of filmmaking on his writing, and offers valuable advice for aspiring writers.

In this episode of Slaying the Craft, host Sabrina Thatcher interviews USA Today bestselling author Kristin Bird. They discuss Kristin's latest book, the Dakota Green series, and her transition from writing dark novels to cozy mysteries. Kristin shares insights on writing multi-POV narratives, the importance of dialogue and character voice, and her experiences as a book coach. The conversation also touches on the business side of writing, the challenges of querying, and the significance of revision in the writing process.https://www.kristenbird.com/Want to chat? IG: https://instagram.com/sabrinathatcherauthorYT: https://www.youtube.com/@sabrinathatcherauthorcrimeandquill@gmail.comsabrinathatcherauthor.com

This week, Sabrina Thatcher interviews author Hannah Mary McKinnon about her transition from writing romantic comedies to thrillers, driven by personal experiences and a desire to explore darker themes. Hannah shares insights into her writing process, including character development, the importance of tension, and the role of editors. The discussion highlights the significance of understanding characters' motivations and the evolution of a writer's craft over time. https://hannahmarymckinnon.com/Want to chat? IG: https://instagram.com/sabrinathatcherauthorYT: https://www.youtube.com/@sabrinathatcherauthorcrimeandquill@gmail.comsabrinathatcherauthor.com

In this episode of 'Slaying the Craft', host Sabrina Thatcher interviews Brian McAuley, a WGA screenwriter and HWA author, discussing his latest novel 'Breathe In, Bleed Out'. They delve into the creative process behind the book, exploring themes of horror, character development, and the intricacies of writing thrillers. Brian shares insights on his drafting techniques, the importance of scene dynamics, and the emotional depth that horror can convey. The conversation also touches on the differences between horror and thriller genres, as well as rapid-fire questions that reveal Brian's personal writing rituals and philosophies.https://www.brianmcwriter.com/Brian's debut novel was named one of the best horror books of 2022.'Breathe In, Bleed Out' is a slasher with a murder mystery twist.The creative process often reveals personal themes the writer is working through.Brian prefers starting with a plot premise rather than character.Detailed outlines help streamline the writing process.Scene dynamics are crucial for maintaining reader engagement.Horror can provide a unique lens to comment on societal issues.The first draft is often the hardest part of writing.Voice consistency is key when writing multiple perspectives.Authenticity in writing comes from drawing inspiration from various influences.thriller writing, horror novels, Brian McAuley, Breathe In Bleed Out, writing process, character development, plot structure, horror genre, suspense, creative writing

In this episode of Slaying the Craft, host Sabrina Thatcher interviews James L'Etoile, a seasoned author and former law enforcement officer. They discuss the intricacies of writing thrillers, particularly focusing on the creation of strong female protagonists, the importance of research, and the challenges of addressing complex societal issues in fiction. James shares insights from his own experiences in law enforcement and how they inform his writing, as well as the significance of character development and the writing process. The conversation also touches on the realities of the publishing industry and the patience required for authors. James offers valuable advice for aspiring writers, emphasizing the importance of trusting oneself and the writing process.James L'Etoile: https://jamesletoile.com/James L'Etoile draws on his law enforcement experience to create authentic characters.Creating strong female protagonists requires careful consideration and empathy.Researching complex societal issues enhances the depth of storytelling.The writing process involves trust and perseverance, especially in the middle of a manuscript.Character development is crucial and should be prioritized before outlining a story.Revision is a rewarding part of the writing process that allows for refinement.The publishing industry requires patience and understanding of its complexities.Writing is a personal journey, and each author must find their unique voice.Engaging with writing communities can provide valuable support and feedback.Craft resources can be explored simultaneously with writing to enhance skills.Want to chat? IG: https://instagram.com/sabrinathatcherauthorYT: https://www.youtube.com/@sabrinathatcherauthorcrimeandquill@gmail.comsabrinathatcherauthor.com

In this engaging conversation, host Sabrina Thatcher delves into the mind of New York Times bestselling author J.T. Ellison, exploring her latest thriller 'Last Seen.' They discuss the dark themes of the book, including manufactured memories and the impact of isolation on characters. J.T. shares her insights on character development, the allure of writing dark stories, and the challenges of transitioning from series to standalone novels. The discussion also touches on the importance of experiencing life outside of writing, the role of social media, and the writing process itself. J.T. emphasizes the need for writers to trust their process and explore new ideas, while also providing valuable advice for aspiring authors.LAST SEENJ.T. Ellison's latest book 'Last Seen' explores dark themes.The concept of manufactured memories plays a key role in the story.Isolation can significantly impact character development.Characters often juggle complex emotions throughout the narrative.Understanding sociopathy can enhance the portrayal of villains.Writing dark and twisted stories can be both challenging and rewarding.Transitioning from series to standalone novels presents unique challenges.Aging characters can reflect realistic life changes and decisions.Writers must access and express their emotions to create authentic characters.Experiencing life outside of writing enriches the writing process.Want to chat? IG: https://instagram.com/sabrinathatcherauthorYT: https://www.youtube.com/@sabrinathatcherauthorcrimeandquill@gmail.comsabrinathatcherauthor.com

In this episode of Slaying the Craft, host Sabrina Thatcher interviews author Jamie Lynn Hendricks about her latest thriller, 'Their Double Lives.' They discuss the intricacies of writing suspense, character development, and the challenges of the writing process. Jamie shares her experiences with critique partners and the importance of perseverance in the writing journey. The conversation also delves into the dark and twisted themes prevalent in thrillers, offering insights and advice for aspiring writers.THEIR DOUBLE LIVESJamie Lynn Hendricks is the author of 'Their Double Lives'.The book explores the lengths one would go to save their pet.Character development is crucial in creating relatable protagonists.The writing process can be filled with uncertainty and self-doubt.Critique partners play a vital role in refining a writer's work.Writing thrillers involves understanding pacing and sub-genres.Perseverance is key in the writing journey.It's important to separate the business side from the creative process.Every writer experiences challenges and frustrations with their work.There's a supportive community among authors that fosters growth.Want to chat? IG: https://instagram.com/sabrinathatcherauthorYT: https://www.youtube.com/@sabrinathatcherauthorcrimeandquill@gmail.comsabrinathatcherauthor.com

In this episode of Slaying the Craft, host Sabrina Thatcher introduces herself and shares her journey as a writer in the thriller genre. She discusses her passion for crime fiction, her experiences at writing conferences, and her ongoing efforts to improve her craft. Sabrina emphasizes the importance of learning through writing and making connections within the writing community. She also shares her excitement for future episodes and resources for aspiring writers.Thriller Thursday SubstackTakeawaysSabrina introduces herself and her passion for thrillers.She emphasizes the importance of learning from established authors.She shares her journey of transitioning to a writing career.Attending Thriller Fest was a life-changing experience for her.She highlights the value of writing and learning through practice.New episodes will be released every Thursday.Sabrina encourages aspiring writers to subscribe to resources like Thriller Thursday on Substack.Want to chat? IG: https://instagram.com/sabrinathatcherauthorYT: https://www.youtube.com/@sabrinathatcherauthorcrimeandquill@gmail.comsabrinathatcherauthor.com

Mystery and thriller fanatic, Sabrina Thatcher, interviews some of the best thriller, chiller, and mystery writers working today. Go inside the mind of a thriller writer to discover how they tap into the darkness that taps away something animalistic in all of us. Learn about their latest books and recommendations then stick around for tips on how you too can write dangerously.New episodes every Thursday. Premiering July 8, 2025Where to find me:Instagram: @sabrinathatcherauthorBook Coaching IG: @crimeandquillYouTube: youtube.com/@sabrinathatcherauthor