Writers On The Beat: Crime Writers and Crime Fighters

For this episode of Writers On The Beat, acclaimed author and screenwriter Aaron Philip Clark steps into the Interrogation Room to try getting his story straight. Aaron is a native son of Los Angeles, and he’s written works acclaimed by some of the heaviest hitters in writing today. Prior to putting pen to paper, he worked for the LAPD, and his experiences there informed his first fiction novel that came out last fall, entitled UNDER COLOR OF LAW. The main character, Trevor Finnegan, made critical errors during his rookie year that both set his career in motion and haunt his conscience. The second installment in this series, BLUE LIKE ME, releases in the fall of 2022.

In this episode, Aaron and host Gavin Reese discuss writing authentic crime fiction, creating relatable and gripping characters, and who Aaron would want investigating his own homicide.

Acclaimed debut novelist Peter Mann steps into the Interrogation Room to try getting his story straight. Host Gavin Reese has questions. Peter better have the answers.

Peter Mann has a Ph.D. in Modern European History and is a recipient of the Whiting Dissertation Fellowship. He teaches history and literature at Stanford and the University of San Francisco, and he’s also a graphic artist. Peter regularly creates and publishes “The Quixote Syndrome” comic strip.

In this episode, Peter and host Gavin Reese discuss genre, reader expectations, crafting complex and flawed characters, and the historical inspiration for this unique story.

Acclaimed international bestseller Brad Taylor steps in the Interrogation Room to try to get his story straight. Brad retired from the US Army as a Lieutenant Colonel in 2010 after more than twenty-one years of service. He spent of that with the 1stSpecial Forces Operational Detachment-Delta, commonly known as Delta Force. His last assignment was as an assistant professor of military science at The Citadel.

Brad’s written fifteen New York Times bestsellers, and he’s back with the 16th full-length installment in his popular Pike Logan series. The latest release is called “End of Days,” and it relies heavily on Brad’s expertise in asymmetric warfare and security threat protection.

In this episode, Brad and host Gavin Reese discuss research on lockdown, writing authentic, experience-based fiction, keeping series characters fresh, mentors, and which fictional characters Brad wants on Task Force Taylor.

Brian Andrews and Jeffrey Wilson step into the Interrogation Room to try getting their stories straight about their latest release in the storied Presidential Agent series: W.E.B. GRIFFIN – ROGUE ASSET.

Brian is a US Navy veteran, nuclear engineer, and former submarine officer. He graduated from Vanderbilt University with a degree in psychology, holds a Master's in business from Cornell, and is a Park Leadership Fellow. He is a principal contributor at Career Authors, a site dedicated to advancing the careers of aspiring and published writers: www.careerauthors.com.

Brian and Jeff co-author the Wall Street Journal and #1 Amazon best-selling TIER ONE thriller series, and the pair were tapped to write the W.E.B Griffin Presidential Agent Series by Putnam.

Jeffrey Wilson has at one time worked as an actor, a firefighter, a paramedic, a jet pilot, a diving instructor, a Naval Officer, and a Vascular and Trauma Surgeon. He also served numerous tours in Iraq and Afghanistan as a Navy combat surgeon, deploying with an East Coast-based SEAL Team as part of a Joint Special Operations Task Force.

In this episode, Brian, Jeff, and Gavin discuss carrying on the Griffin universe, using their personal military experience to inform their writing, op-sec, and leveraging their success to help other veterans to successfully transition to civilian life.

NYT bestseller Ralph Pezzullo steps into the Interrogation Room to try getting his story straight about his latest release, a fictionalized memoir called SAIGON.

Ralph grew up globetrotting as his father’s State Department assignments changed every few years. He lived in Saigon from 1962 to ’65, during the times of the Tonkin Gulf Incident, the overthrow of President Diem, a number of other coup d’etats, and almost daily Vietcong terror attacks against Americans. Ralph was in Bolivia while Che Guevara worked to establish a guerilla training camp there, and in Nicaragua during the first days of the Sandanista Revolution. He’s also lived in Uruguay, Mexico, Washington, D.C., Colombia, and Guatemala. He made friends with the locals wherever he lived, and he sometimes found that circumstances at the street level varied greatly from those advocated at higher levels of international diplomacy.

Ralph’s critically acclaimed writing has included thriller and mystery novels, nonfiction, plays, screenplays, and investigative journalism. He’s worked with directors such as Oliver Stone and James Foley, and with former CIA covert operative Gary Bernsten and former LAPD detective Steve Hodel.

His latest release, SAIGON, launched on November 1st. It’s a coming of age story based on his own experiences in Saigon during the early 60s.

In this episode, Ralph and host Gavin Reese discuss writing memoirs, fictionalizing personal experiences, and who would investigate Ralph's homicide.

In this episode, retired businessman David Rohfling steps into the Interrogation Room to try getting his story straight.

The first thing to known about David is that he suffered a major heart attack, a “widow maker,” in 2019 and had no sign of life for 15 minutes. Doctors brought him back, but he wants you to know that getting a Coronary Calcium CT Scan might help you avoid his fate. As most people with his condition are dead, he’d prefer that you not find out the hard way that your heart needs help.

Back to the show!

After a long career in business that allowed him to travel to all but one continent and countless countries around the globe, David created the Detective Sasha Frank Mystery Series. The award winning first novel in the series, “Deliberate Duplicity,” released in early January 2021. The second, “Cold Consequences,” released in July 2021, and the third installment will appear in 2022. David placed his detective in suburb of Bloomington, Illinois, which brings specific story and craft elements to his tales.

David and Gavin discuss writing small town and suburban cops versus bid city detectives, research and authenticity, and how you might avoid your next heart attack.

Marc Cameron steps into the Interrogation Room with host Gavin Reese to once again try getting his story straight. Marc is a retired Deputy Chief US Marshal and a New York Times bestselling author of the Arliss Cutter, Jericho Quinn, and Jack Ryan, Sr., series. His first novel published in 2011, and he’s since added sixteen incredible collective installments to these series. His latest release is TOM CLANCY: CHAIN OF COMMAND, which launches November 16th.

For this episode, Marc and Gavin discuss keeping Jack Ryan and John Clark fresh, writing relatable and objectively moral characters, and balancing authenticity with reader expectations.

Retired police captain and prolific, acclaimed crime author Frank Zafiro steps into the Interrogation Room to try to get his story straight.

Frank writes gritty crime fiction from both sides of the badge. His works include the River City series, which features an ensemble of police officers, and the SpoCompton series that features a rotating cast of criminals. His storytelling creed is that the good guys usually win… but not always, and never without a cost.

Frank served in the U.S. Army from 1986-91 in Military Intelligence as a Czechoslovak linguist. In 1993, he became a police officer in Spokane, Washington, and worked patrol and investigations before promoting into leadership roles. He was fortunate enough to command patrol officers, investigators, K-9s, and the SWAT team before retiring in 2013. From 2013-17, he taught law enforcement at the community college and university levels, as well as leadership courses as a national instructor for a prominent police institution. He also occasionally teaches a series of writing workshops. Frank earned a BA in History from Eastern Washington University in 1998, and an MS in Administration of Justice from the University of Louisville in 2012.

In this episode, Frank and host Gavin Reese discuss writing from their own experiences, criminals as people and characters, and balancing authenticity with reader experience.

Highly decorated former US Army Ranger Officer and acclaimed author Ray McPadden steps into the Interrogation Room to try to get his story straight.

Ray joined the Army in 2005 and soon earned his way into the Rangers and its elite 75th Ranger Regiment, which is considered to be the world's premier raiding force. Serving during the most combat-heavy period in this century, Ray spearheaded the first joint-strike force of Army Rangers and Navy SEALs and led his teams in a shadow war against foreign government agents. Lightning raids by helicopter, armored vehicle, and foot became his nightly routine.

In 2009, he returned to the same corner of Afghanistan where he first cut his teeth in combat, only to face an unexpected enemy, one that would prove to be the greatest challenge of all.

His latest release, "We March At Midnight: A War Memoir," is a textbook for authors of all genres striving to improve their reader's experience and the power of their writing.

In this episode, Ray and host Gavin Reese discuss authenticity, candor, reader experience, and the underrated importance of family.

Former Apache pilot, FBI Special Agent, SWAT team member, and renowned bestseller Don Bentley steps into the Interrogation Room to try getting his story straight.

Don Bentley flew Apache helicopters for the Army in South Korea, Germany, and Texas. While deployed to Afghanistan as a Troop Commander in support of Operation Enduring Freedom VI, Don earned the Bronze Star Medal and the Air Medal with “V” device for valor. Following his military service, Don worked as an FBI Special Agent and was a member of the Dallas Office Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team. Since leaving the FBI, Don has worked for a number of companies that develop technology for the U.S. Special Operations Community. He holds a B.S. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the Ohio State University, and an M.F.A in Writing Popular Fiction from Seton Hill University.

Don is the author of the Matt Drake thriller series including WITHOUT SANCTION, THE OUTSIDE MAN, and two forth coming titles, as well as TARGET ACQUIRED, a Tom Clancy Jack Ryan, Jr. novel.

For this episode, Don and host Gavin Reese discuss crafting characters, writing in the Jack Ryan universe, and standing in the room with Special Forces operators.

Bestselling author and computer scientist Tom Fowler steps into the  Interrogation Room to try getting his story straight with Gavin Reese.

Originally  from Baltimore, Tom’s an avid fan of that city and its culture. He  works by day in the IT and computer science field, and composes gritty  PI fiction by night. His first and primary series is that of CT  Ferguson, and that main character is something of a reformed computer  hacker compelled to do good for his own self-interest. In the vein of  Robert Parker’s Spenser series, Tom offers his readers flawed heroes,  action, intrigue, and a healthy serving of snark.

The latest CT  Ferguson installment, entitled BLOOD ON CANVAS, is currently available  as part of the forthcoming DEAD SILENT box set that releases on January  19.

In this episode, Tom and host Gavin Reese discuss creating  unique characters, researching for authenticity, reader expectations,  and who Tom would want investigating his own murder.

Lee Goldberg steps into the Interrogation Room to try getting his story straight. Lee is an international bestseller who broke into television with a freelance script sale to “Spenser: For Hire.” Since then, his TV writing & producing credits have included sci-fi (“seaQuest”), cop shows (“Hunter,” “The Glades”), martial arts (“Martial Law”), whodunits (“Diagnosis Murder,” “Nero Wolfe”), the occult (“She-Wolf of London”), kid’s shows (“R.L. Stine’s The Nightmare Room”), T&A (“Baywatch,” “She Spies”), and comedy (“Monk”) clip shows (“The Best TV Shows That Never Were”).

Lee’s mystery writing for television has earned him two Edgar Award nominations from the Mystery Writers of America. His two careers, novelist and TV writer, merged when he wrote the eight books in the “Diagnosis Murder” series of original novels. He followed that up by writing fifteen bestselling novels based on the television show “Monk” that have been translated and published internationally. Lee lives in Los Angeles and still sleeps in "Man From U.N.C.L.E." pajamas.

His latest release is "Bone Canyon” which is his second contribution to his Eve Ronin series.

In this episode, Lee and host Gavin Reese discuss police procedurals, crafting three-dimensional characters, and composing genre-breaking fiction.

Lee's works: https://www.amazon.com/Lee-Goldberg/e/B000APXNDQ/

Lee's site: https://leegoldberg.com

Gavin's works: www.amazon.com/Gavin-Reese/e/B072W5PPGS

Gavin's site: https://gavinreese.com

Joshua Hood steps into the Interrogation Room to try getting his story straight. He’s the bestselling author of the Search and Destroy series, and he’s added two books to the Robert Ludlum universe in the last twelve months.

Joshua graduated from the University of Memphis, joined the US Army, and served in the 82nd Airborne Division for five years as a team leader in the 3-504 Parachute Infantry Regiment. In 2005, he deployed to Iraq and conducted combat operations in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2005-2006, and from 2007 to 2008 he served as a squad leader in the 1-508th Parachute Infantry Regiment and was deployed to Afghanistan for Operation Enduring Freedom. Hood was decorated for valor in Operation Furious Pursuit. He worked as a cop and SWAT officer, and conducted countless stateside operations in support of the FBI, ATF, DEA, Secret Service, and US Marshals.

His latest release is "The Treadstone Exile,” which is his second contribution to the Ludlum universe.

In this episode, Joshua and host Gavin Reese discuss following in Robert Ludlum’s footsteps, writing fast-paced thrillers, Tom Clancy’s influence, and what fictional characters Joshua would want on his team.

Jason Pinter steps into the Interrogation Room to try getting his story straight.

Jason is the internationally bestselling author of the Rachel Marin series (HIDE AWAY and A STRANGER AT THE DOOR) and the Henry Parker thriller series (THE MARK, THE GUILTY, THE STOLEN, THE FURY, and THE DARKNESS), as well as the acclaimed standalone thriller THE CASTLE, and two children's books. He has been nominated for a number of prestigious awards for writing, and his books have sold more than 1.5 million copies worldwide. THE MARK has been optioned as a feature film.

Jason also founded Polis Books, and Publisher Weekly named him as a distinguished future leader in the publishing industry. He has written for The New Republic, Entrepreneur, Esquire, and The Daily Beast, and been featured in Library Journal, Publishers Weekly, Mystery Scene and more.

His latest release is "A Stranger at the Door," and it is the second installment in his Rachel Marin domestic series.

In this episode, Jason and host Gavin Reese discuss character development, the difficulties of writing domestic stories, Master Splinter, and what fictional investigators Jason would choose to save his life.

Michelle Medhat, an acclaimed USA Today and #1 Amazon bestselling author and technology innovator, steps into the Interrogation Room to try getting her story straight with Gavin Reese.

Michelle’s background has included studying law and finance at university, establishing a co-ed school in Dubai, facilitating technical innovation across the globe, and assisting various elements of the British and European governments to advocate for ethical tech adoption and development. Her bestselling fiction series cross traditional genre boundaries and earn international reader and critical acclaim.

The newest installment in her Trusted Series, entitled OPERATION OYSTERCATCHER, is currently available as part of the forthcoming DEAD SILENT box set that releases on January 19.

In this episode, Michelle and host Gavin Reese discuss writing espionage thrillers, keeping authentic details from overwhelming readers, composing cross-genre stories, and how once-daily death threats and surviving terrorism help her create authentic spy fiction today.

For this episode of Writers On The Beat, USA Today and Amazon #1 bestselling author Greta Boris steps into the Interrogation Room to get her story straight with Gavin Reese.

Greta writes the Seven Deadly Sins series about ordinary women and unexpected evil, as well as a series of standalone psychological suspense novels that exposes the dark side of sunny Southern California. Greta is a popular conference speaker and bestselling nonfiction author of two titles, “The Wine and Chocolate Workout - Sip, Savor, and Strengthen for a Healthier Life” and “PUBLISH: Take Charge of Your Author Career,” the latter with co-author Megan Haskell. Greta co-created “The Author Wheel,” a site for writers on writing.

Her latest story is entitled MORTUARY SCHOOL, and it begins a new series with a new heroine. The book is currently available as part of the forthcoming DEAD SILENT box set.

In this episode, Greta and host Gavin Reese discuss creating unique, three-dimensional characters, researching for authenticity, reader turn-offs, and what complicated task force she would assign her own homicide.

Critically acclaimed USA Today and Amazon international bestselling Judith Lucci steps into the Interrogation Room with Gavin Reese to get her story straight.

Judith loves to write about killing people, just the opposite of what she spent her professional life doing. Born in Virginia, Judith earned graduate and doctoral degrees from Virginia Commonwealth University and the University of Virginia. She has written numerous academic and health-related articles and documents, and worked as a nurse, educator, and college professor before becoming an acclaimed and beloved novelist. Her award-winning fiction spans several genres and includes the Michaela McPherson crime series, the Alexandra Destephano medical thriller series, Sonia Amon medical thriller series, the Women of Valor series, and her Artsy Chicks Cozy mystery series.

Her latest story is a Michaela McPherson installment entitled THE CASE OF THE MISSING PARTS, and it’s currently available as part of the forthcoming DEAD SILENT box set.

In this episode, Judith and host Gavin Reese discuss creating three-dimensional characters, presenting authentic medical realities without excessive gore, and who she would assign her own murder.

For this episode of Writers On The Beat, acclaimed USA Today and Amazon international bestseller Dan Petrosini steps into the Interrogation Room to clear up a few things.

Dan wrote his first story at the age of ten.. Having written and published more than twenty novels, his works include several standalones and twelve installments of his Detective Luca Mystery Series. Despite having no personal law enforcement experience, Dan’s research and technical advisors allow him to compose very realistic stories and craft complex, relatable characters and investigators. In addition to writing fiction, he also believes in transmitting a contagious positivity to the outside world, and Dan likes to remind those around him to exorcise negativity from their lives.

His latest story is a prequel to the Detective Luca Series entitled THE BARROW CASE, and it’s currently available as part of the forthcoming DEAD SILENT box set.

Fiona Quinn is a five-time USA Today bestselling author, a Kindle Scout winner, and has been listed as an Amazon Top 100 author in multiple categories. For those adamant adherents to the adage of writing what you know, it seems that Fiona knows about nearly everything. She has four college degrees, instructs Reiki and archery, and is qualified as a Second-Degree Tae Kwon Do Black Belt. Fiona’s also involved in the search-and-rescue community, has restored a shotgun house built in 1887, and successfully trained a medical alert service dog. Fiona’s also advocated for those impacted by suicide and homicide in the court system.

Six of her eight current series take place in the same Iniquuis universe and include the Lynx, Strike Force, Uncommon Enemies, Kate Hamilton Mysteries, and FBI Joint Task Force Series.

In this episode, Fiona and host Gavin Reese discuss balancing authenticity and reader experience, the magic of crossovers, why her writing studio looks like it belongs to a conspiracy theorist.

International bestseller and critically acclaimed wordsmith Marc Cameron stepped into the Interrogation Room to answer a few questions about his craft and writing. Marc writes the Jericho Quinn series, the Arless Cutter series, and, since 2016, the Jack Ryan, Sr., series in the Tom Clancy universe. He retired from more than three decades of law enforcement and last served as a Chief Deputy US Marshal.

For this episode, Marc and host Gavin Reese discuss his latest release, TOM CLANCY: SHADOW OF THE DRAGON;  keeping Mr. Clancy's characters fresh and relevant; international research in the age of COVID; and which fictional investigators and assassins he would call in to get him out of a bind.

Marc's site and works:

Acclaimed international bestseller Mike Maden steps into the Interrogation Room to clear up a few things about his writing and craft. Mike grew up in rural California, earned his Ph.D. studying politics and international conflict, and decided to answer his call to write after turning 40. He's written the bestselling DRONE series and has contributed four installments to the Tom Clancy and Jack Ryan universe since 2017. His latest project there is called "TOM CLANCY - FIRING POINT," and it may well stand among the best of all 29 books in that series.

In this episode, Mike and host Gavin Reese discuss FIRING POINT, writing Jack Ryan novels, work ethic, artificial intelligence, individual voice, and which fictional investigators Mike would call to help him investigate a friend's murder.

Adam Dunn steps into the Interrogation Room to answer questions about his writing, editing, and process, and how that specifically helped him create his latest release, entitled "Fractus Europa." Adam's an accomplished author and editor who’s written the "More" Series, which includes the novels "Rivers of Gold," "The Big Dogs," and "Saint Underground."

"Fractus Europa" is a collection of stories Adam coedited with the late Eric C. Anderson, a former US intelligence officer and author of the "New Caliphate" trilogy and a cyberthriller called "Byte." "Fractus Europa" features stories from a number of accomplished authors, journalists, and professionals, and includes tales of American journalists uncovering Russian secrets in Moscow, healthcare workers struggling to keep the NHS system afloat in post-Brexit England, and a Ukrainian soldier reconciling his pre- and post-war identities.

In this episode, Adam and host Gavin Reese discuss the potential near-future of Europe and the EU; helping professionals and specialists write reality-based fiction for the first time; economic turbulence as a driving and inspiring force for fiction writers; the necessity of humor amid dark fiction; how Dick Marchenko retasked the traditional detective story; and how governments may effectively retool their citizen workforce to sustain work in a robotics-based economy.

This is an incredibly important episode for thriller authors who want to compose stories that seemingly predict tomorrow's headlines today.

Fractus Europa:

The writing team known as Imogen Kealy stepped into the Interrogation Room to answer a few questions about their writing, craft, and co-writing partnership. Comprised of American screenwriter Darby Kealey and British novelist and television director Imogen Robertson, their first project is entitled LIBERATION, and it details a part of the story of real-life WWII hero Nancy Wake. Darby and his producer first found Ms. Wake’s story and he composed a screenplay which is currently being adapted into a feature film by Academy Award winner Anne Hathaway. In addition to discussing craft elements essential to screenwriting and concise creative works, our conversation touched on a number of topics relevant to every novelist who wants to turn their words into market success. This is among the most informative episodes of this podcast, and you'll notice the bias for Nancy and her story.

In this episode, Imogen, Darby, and Gavin Reese discussed co-writing partnerships; critical elements of fiction and screenplays; the accuracy demanded of historical fiction and thrillers; and their hopes that writers help pay tribute to more under-sung heroes like Nancy Wake.

Former Army Ranger and police sniper Joshua Hood steps into the Interrogation Room to clear up some questions on his writing and craft. His latest release, THE TREADSTONE RESURRECTION, continues Robert Ludlum's beloved Bourne series with a new character, Adam Hayes.

For this episode, Josh and host Gavin Reese discuss his journey to becoming a bestseller; his work ethic; realities of police and military life; and who should investigate Josh's hypothetical murder.

Hilary Davidson steps into the Interrogation Room to clear up a few things about her characters and craft. Hilary is a Toronto-born travel journalist who migrated to NYC in October 2001, and she has since become the bestselling author of numerous nonfictions, standalone thrillers, and crime series novels. Her latest release is entitled DON'T LOOK DOWN, and it's an incredible, suspenseful thriller worthy of two reads: treat yourself the first time for entertainment, and then take a second dive through for a master class on writing intrigue, suspense, and unforgettable characters. 

For this episode of Writers On The Beat, Hilary and host Gavin Reese discuss DON'T LOOK DOWN; the crafting of effective opening scenes; research and character development; and what fictional investigators Hilary would call to assist her with a criminal investigation.

Hilary's works:

Acclaimed bestseller and former Green Beret LTC Brad Taylor steps back into the Interrogation Room to clear up a few things about his writing and craft.

Brad Taylor grew up in rural Texas, graduated from UT, and commissioned into the U.S. Army as a second lieutenant. He served more than 21 years, held numerous Infantry and Special Forces positions that included eight years in 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment - Delta, and retired as a Special Forces Lieutenant Colonel.

For his final assignment, Brad served as the Assistant Professor of Military Science at The Citadel in Charleston, SC. He holds a Master's of Science in Defense Analysis from the Naval Postgraduate School with a concentration in Irregular Warfare. When not writing, Brad serves as a security consultant on asymmetric threats for various agencies.

Brad's debut novel, "One Rough Man," launched the Pike Logan series to immediate success in 2011. After 14 installments and nearly 3 million copies sold, the series consistently hits the New York Times bestseller list.

For this episode of Writers On The Beat, Brad and host Gavin Reese discussed character development; keeping a series fresh and relevant; research techniques; and who Brad trusts to save him in a hostage crisis.

Thriller writer Tori Eldridge stepped into the Interrogation Room to clear up a few things about her writing, craft, and authenticity.

Tori is the recipient of the 2019 Thriller Book of the Year by AOTA Global Radio Network and nominee for the Lefty Award’s Best Debut Mystery Novel. She has had several short stories and a non-fiction book on empowerment published, and Tori's a semi-finalist for the Academy Nicholl Fellowship for her screenplay The Gift. Born in Honolulu, Tori has performed, danced, and sung on Broadway, TV, and film. She is a wonderful mix of Hawaiian, Chinese, Norwegian ethnicities and holds a fifth-degree black belt in To-Shin Do ninjutsu. She’s traveled throughout the US teaching seminars on the ninja arts, weapons, and women's self-protection. She and her husband live in Los Angeles, which is where she’s based her current Lily Wong series. The debut release is titled The Ninja Daughter and its sequel comes out September 2020.

For this episode, Tori and host Gavin Reese discussed her background in writing, study, and creative craft; her extensive studies of To-Shindo Ninjitsu; mentoring women to lead empowered, confident lives; creating complex characters like Lily Wong; and what fictional characters she would wish to her rescue.

Critically acclaimed bestseller and longtime investigative journalist Hank Phillippi Ryan steps into the Interrogation Room to answer a few questions about her writing and craft. Hank began work as a reporter more than four decades ago, and her efforts have made a substantial and meaningful difference in the lives of her Boston-area neighbors. Her eleven bestsellers are frequently submitted for numerous literary awards, and they routinely earn acclaim from fans and critics alike.

For this episode, Hank and Writers On The Beat host Gavin Reese discuss her recent release, THE MURDER LIST; her point-of-view choices and character development; conflict in thrillers; her just-finished 12th-novel draft; and who should investigate her hypothetical murder.

Critically acclaimed bestseller JJ Hensley stepped into the Interrogation Room,  just to clear a few things up.  JJ's published works include a short story and five novels, counting the recently released RECORD SCRATCH. His debut novel, RESOLVE, was a finalist for the International Thriller Writers Awards – Best First Novel. JJ has worked as a local cop, a special agent with the US Secret Service, and now works for FLETC, the Federal Law Enforce Training Center. 

In this episode, JJ and host Gavin Reese discuss the realities of Secret Service work, how his previous experience as a cop and Special Agent invade his work, and how Agatha Christie ruined the crime genre for all of us.

Thriller icon and acclaimed bestseller Stephen Coonts steps into the Interrogation Room to clear up a few things. Stephen studied political science before commissioning into the US Navy and entering flight training. In 1969, he joined an A-6 Intruder Attack Squadron, completed two combat cruises aboard the USS Enterprise, and later served as an A6 flight instructor. Steven left the navy in 1977 and graduated from the University of Colorado School of Law in 1979.

In 1986, Naval Institute Press published his first novel, FLIGHT OF THE INTRUDER, and it spent 28 weeks on the NYT bestseller list before appearing on the big screen in 1991. He’s since been published in nearly four-dozen novels, nonfictions, and anthologies. Steve co-authored a nonfiction entitled Dragon’s Jaw that published in May, and his most recent novel, THE RUSSIA ACCOUNT, just released last month.

For this episode, Stephen and Writers On The Beat host Gavin Reese discussed the longevity of Jake Grafton and the impact of his stories; the study of creative writing and critical elements of fiction; his advice for aspiring writers; and why Nero Wolf should investigate Stephen's homicide.

USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestseller Lisa Regan steps into the Interrogation Room to clear up a few things about her writing and craft. Lisa writes the Detective Josie Quinn series as well as several other crime fiction titles. She has a Bachelor’s degree in English and a Master of Education degree from Bloomsburg University, and Lisa's a member of Sisters in Crime, International Thriller Writers, Crime Writers Association, and Mystery Writers of America. Her first Josie Quinn novel, entitled VANISHING GIRLS, is set for re-release on November 26th.

For this episode, Lisa and Writers On The Beat host Gavin Reese discuss conflict and tension; researching cop characters; realities of big-city police agencies; and who Lisa prefers to work her own homicide.

Author and educator Dan Petrosini steps into the Interrogation Room to clear up a few things about his writing and craft. Dan has traveled the globe extensively and plucks ideas for novels from his experiences and observations. Perpetually in the midst of another book, Dan has taught at several colleges in the Northeast and splits his time between Florida and New York City where he was born. His most recent release, UNCERTAIN STAKES, features Detective Luca of the Collier County Sheriff's Office in Southwest Florida, which is the real-life home of a portion of Everglades National Park, the city of Naples, and Marco Island. As Book 9 in that series, UNCERTAIN STAKES published on October 8.

For this episode, Dan and Writers On The Beat host Gavin Reese discussed character development; research and writing from experience; motivation and writer's block; and why Dan believes revenge is best when it's overdone.

Acclaimed novelist Kate Kessler steps into the Interrogation Room to clear up a few things about her writing and craft. A self-confessed former juvenile delinquent, Kate grew up in a north-east rural town reading Nancy Drew and Sidney Sheldon thrillers, and she began writing her own books the following year. Kate blames a young addiction to soap operas and an overblown sense of curiosity for often landing her in trouble in her teens. She now prefers to only write about trouble and claims to spend much of her time trying to figure out why people do the things they do. Her first series about a woman named Audrey Hart explored some of the darker sides of humanity, and her latest release in a new series, entitled SEVEN CROWS, features recently released convict and parolee Killian Delaney. Having just released last month, this novel forces its protagonist into a morally impossible choice and compels her to risk everything precious in her life.

For this episode, Kate and Writers On The Beat host Gavin Reese discuss SEVEN CROWS; developing authentic, dark anti-heroes; female characters and fight scenes; John Wick; and why Sherlock Holmes won't be called to investigate Kate's murder.

**CHARITY ALERT -- PAUL'S PUBLISHER DONATES $1 OF EVERY PURCHASE TO HELP PAUL BUILD AND PROTECT TIGER HABITATS**

Acclaimed filmmaker, naturalist, and author Paul Rosolie steps into the Interrogation Room to clear up a few things about his writing and the experience of a life spent in the wild. Specializing in the western Amazon for nearly a decade, Paul runs a conservation project called "Tamandua Expeditions" to support rain forest conservation through tourism. His work has taken him to the last few dark places left on the globe, and Paul states his mission as an author is to blend adventure and conservation to reach a broader audience. He's previously released a nonfiction entitled MOTHER OF GOD: AN EXTRAORDINARY JOURNEY INTO THE UNCHARTED TRIBUTARIES OF THE WESTERN AMAZON, and Paul just released his debut fiction, THE GIRL AND THE TIGER, to high praise in Sept-2019 as critics have proclaimed it an update to Rudyard Kipling's classic, THE JUNGLE BOOK.

In this episode, Paul and Writers On The Beat host Gavin Reese discussed writing updated classics; using fiction to raise awareness and call-to-action; the power of story and writing from experience; and how House, M.D., and Wolverine might be on the same Homicide Task Force.

Retired police watch commander Patrick Fitzgibbons steps into the Interrogation Room to clear up a few things about his life as a cop and criminal justice advocate. Patrick holds multiple advanced degrees and has more than two decades of experience in numerous law enforcement roles. As an adjunct college professor, he instructs the next generation of police professionals in crime scene investigation, police operations, and criminal law, as well as coaching and mentoring law enforcement professionals and others to achieve maximum potential.

A former Army Paratrooper with the elite 82nd Airborne Division, Patrick is an avid supporter of active military members and veterans. He is also the creator and host of CJEvolution, a top-ranked criminal justice podcast that recently topped three hundred episodes.

For this episode, Patrick and Writers On The Beat host Gavin Reese discussed the nature of cop work; caustic work environments; the importance of a positive mentor; and why Sipowicz gets the nod to investigate Patrick's murder.

Communications and behavioral expert Richard Spitzer steps into the Interrogation room to clear up a few things about his debut work. Rich has over 45 years' experience in communications and behavioral research and was Executive VP of one of the world's largest marketing research firms. After retirement, Rich pursued his interest in macro-trends, but also considered laws of attraction, manifestation and metaphysical concepts in his research. He applied his expertise to pursue and identify practical, modern methods to both the macro and the personal, such as manifesting thoughts and ideas to achieve our goals and remedy the convergence of global trends with potentially irreversible consequences. His debut novel, entitled The Margin of Error War, just released this past June.

For this episode, Rich and Writers On The Beat host Gavin Reese spoke about the origins of cyberwarfare; our current enemies' advantages over us; the impact of social media on our trust and distrust of news; and how Rich balanced this fact-based political science fiction.

Andreas Norman steps into the Interrogation Room to answer a few questions about his writing, craft, and real-life experiences. Andreas is a former diplomat who worked for the Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs for ten years on security issues and counterterrorism. Norman's debut novel, INTO A RAGING BLAZE, anticipated the Edward Snowden revelations, received international acclaim, and was shortlisted for the CWA International Dagger Award. His latest release, THE SILENT WAR, explores the personal lives and suspicions of covert operatives amid tremendous international cover-ups and betrayal.

For this episode, Andreas and Writers On The Beat host Gavin Reese discuss writing authentic spies and diplomats; the importance of humanity in characters; the real daily work of intelligence services and the double-life necessary for such agents; and who should investigate Andreas' murder.

Perennial NYT bestseller JA Jance steps into the Interrogation Room to clear up a few things about her writing and craft. JA started writing in the 60's when women were supposed to be teachers and nurses. In 1968, a publisher expressed interest in a children's story she'd written, but the public didn't read her novels until 1985 with the release of her first JP Beaumont story, entitled UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY. Since the beginning of that series, JA's released 70 fictions in 4 series and a book of autobiographical poetry. Her latest Beaumont release is entitled SINS OF THE FATHERS and releases on 24-Sept.

For this episode, JA and Writers On The Beat host Gavin Reese discussed her lifelong intent to write; the terrifying inspiration for her novels; how she met "Homicide Hunter" LT Joe Kenda; and keeping her aging characters authentic for the times and their personalities.

Attorney and bestselling author Jode Millman steps into the Interrogation Room to answer a few questions about her craft and writing. Jode earned a BA and JD from Syracuse University and an MA in English Literature from Eastern Michigan. She's since been recognized for her expertise and professional contributions to the legal and broadcasting fields, and she's served on the Adjunct Faculty at the University of Detroit Mercy Law School and Marist College. She founded the Hudson Valley Fiction Writers Workshop in 2011 and served as a Thrillerfest 19 panelist in 2017. Jode regularly contributes to Sisters In Crime's quarterly newsletter, called "InSinC."

For this episode, Jode and Writers On The Beat host Gavin Reese discussed her recent debut fiction release, THE MIDNIGHT CALL; writing legal thrillers; the guidance and help of writing mentors; the original insanity defense case that inspired her debut fiction novel; and the influence of Louise Penny and Robert Galbraith.

Attorney Cara Robertson steps into the Interrogation Room to answer a few questions about her writing and craft. Cara began researching the Lizzie Borden case in 1990 as a Harvard undergrad. She's since earned a Ph.D. in English from Oxford and a JD from Stanford Law. Cara clerked at the US Supreme Court, served as a legal adviser to the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia at The Hague, and has contributed to numerous publications. Her debut work, entitled THE TRIAL OF LIZZIE BORDEN: A TRUE STORY, just released from Simon & Schuster.

For this episode, Cara and Writers On The Beat host Gavin Reese discussed this historical "trial of the century;" criminal psychology and public perception; researching and writing about true crime; who Cara would trust to investigate her own murder.