NEW YORK TIMES AND INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLING AUTHOR

On Writing

Nov12024

Rolling Stone – The Heartbeat of Suspense: Mastering Pacing in Thriller Writing

In the pulsating world of thriller fiction, pacing is the silent conductor, orchestrating a symphony of tension and release that keeps readers perched on the edge of their seats. It’s the art of manipulating the reader’s pulse, accelerating it with bursts of action, then allowing brief moments of respite before plunging back into the maelstrom. This delicate balance is what transforms a good thriller into an unputdownable page-turner. More…

Oct112024

Rolling Stone – Mastering the Art of Dialogue: Writing Natural and Engaging Conversations

IN THE WORLD of fiction, dialogue is the lifeblood that pumps through the veins of every great story. It’s the invisible thread that weaves characters together, propels plots forward and breathes life into the static words on a page. But for many aspiring writers, crafting authentic and engaging dialogue can feel like trying to capture lightning in a bottle. Fear not, wordsmiths and storytellers, for the art of dialogue can be mastered with practice, patience and a keen ear for the rhythm of human speech. More…

Oct12024

Latin Post – J.D. Barker’s Approach to Creating Unforgettable Protagonists

ON WRITING: When J.D. Barker sets out to craft a protagonist, he conjures literary legends that leap off the page and into readers’ imaginations. With a deft touch and a keen eye for detail, the bestselling author guarantees that each protagonist is unforgettable. After all, these characters are the stars that keep readers coming back for more. More…

Sep192024

Rolling Stone – Creating Complex Villains: Crafting Antagonists That Readers Love to Hate

IN STORYTELLING, A captivating villain can elevate a narrative from good to unforgettable. These characters haunt our thoughts long after the story ends. But what separates a run-of-the-mill bad guy from an antagonist that readers love to hate? The answer lies in complexity, nuance and a dash of humanity. More…

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