How to Open Strong and Escalate the Stakes in a Thriller

Thriller & Suspense • Writing Craft
2014
Featuring Blake Fontenay, Chuck Barrett, Craig Faris, John Dobbyn, Terry Irving

This audio session is available to KNU members.

Explore Membership Options

ABOUT THIS SESSION

Blake Fontenay, Chuck Barrett, Craig Faris, John Dobbyn, and Terry Irving break down the essential building blocks of a gripping thriller. From opening scenes that hook immediately to pacing, character, and escalating tension, this session focuses on the craft choices that pull readers in and refuse to let them go.

MORE LIKE THIS


Inside the Psychology of a Villain
Jule Selbo, Kimberly Dana, Kit Sanders, Sandy Clements, Sateash Hime, T.O. Paine
2025
Balancing Creativity, Life, and the Work of Being a Writer
Clay Snellgrove, Mary Burton, Nelda Copas, Paul Parsons, Scott Pearson
2012
Flawed, Difficult, and Unforgettable Characters
Brett Parks, Darryl James, Jeri Westerson, Kim Hammond, Mara Purl
2014
How Mysteries Are Crafted From the Inside Out
Richard Helms
2017
Creating Investigators Readers Trust
Chris Berg, James Glass, John DeDakis, Lynn Chandler Willis, Mark Troy
2022
Writing a Query That Opens Doors
Charlie Pearson, Diane Sismour
2021
Finding Success in Self-Publishing
J.A. Konrath, Richard Helms
2018
Finding Humanity in Darkness
Holly West, Janice Hamrick, Julie Compton, Laura Caldwell, Marcia Talley, Rachel Brady
2011