Advice for Mystery, Thriller, and Suspense Writers & How to Craft a Credible Villain

A new interview episode is up on the Write It Scared Podcast all about creating the twisty, suspenseful and mysterious!

Episode 6: Writing Mystery, Thriller, and Suspense (MTS) with Author and Book Coach Samantha Skal

Here’s the cliff notes: 

I was thrilled, no pun intended, LOL, to have this conversation with Samantha Skal, an author and book coach of the mystery, thriller, and suspense genres (also my book coach), exploring what it takes to write and publish in these genres. 

We discuss the common challenges MTS writers face (we should know - we both write and coach in this vein #strugglebus) including self-doubt, thinking the story is painfully boring and obvious, plus understanding genre expectations, and forming a compelling villain.

We hit on various aspects of the writing process: the importance of revision, the value of beta readers, and how to use them when you write in this vein (you only get one shot with each beta), as well as the necessity of understanding and fulfilling reader expectations. 

Sam also busts some myths surrounding MTS genres and highlights the importance of emotional arcs for today’s audience and the psychological depth needed for villains that contribute to captivating storytelling and stellar twists. 

We dole out some practical advice, including viewing the first draft as a zero draft to reduce pressure, the benefits of book coaching, and the importance of finishing what you start.

Finally, Sam reveals her newest project, Shadows and Secrets Writing Retreats, and encourages MTS writers to keep writing because there can never be enough MTS in the world!

I can’t wait for you to listen to Episode 6!

And if you enjoy it, please leave a review and share it with someone else who might benefit! 

And thank you to those who have left a review! It means the world to me! You are awesome!

Need some help crafting the villain in your story?

I got you. 

Here’s a quick hit PDF guide for the questions you want to be asking about this person or entity and their motives!

Remember, as Sam says, twists are when the reader understands the villain’s truth and we never saw it coming, but ultimately it works and it’s logical!