Legal Thrillers and the Art of Tension with Robert Dugoni

The Thriller Zone

On today’s 204th episode of The Thriller Zone, host David Temple engages with bestselling author Robert Dugoni, exploring his journey as a writer, the intricacies of storytelling, and the challenges of adapting books for Hollywood.

With 4 different series, 6 complete stand-alone novels, and a couple of short stories to boot, Bob is a critically acclaimed New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, and #1 Amazon Bestselling author, reaching over 9 million readers worldwide.

David & Bob discuss the importance of tension in writing, the influence of Dugoni's legal background on his work, and the emotional weight behind his stories.

The conversation also touches on books, chess, the work of perfecting our craft, and a field of dreams, plus the creative process, the significance of antagonists in storytelling, and valuable advice for aspiring authors.

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Chapters:

00:00 The Art of Storytelling as a Conduit

00:53 Updates on Robert DeGoni's Writing Journey

02:55 Navigating Hollywood: The Long Road to Adaptation

06:08 The Influence of Legal Background on Writing

08:55 Researching Courtroom Dynamics

11:52 The Emotional Weight of Writing

15:04 Trusting the Creative Process

17:55 Balancing Standalones and Series

20:53 The Importance of Antagonists in Storytelling

23:51 Advice for Aspiring Authors

Takeaways:

Being a conduit for storytelling is essential.

The journey of writing involves constant learning and adaptation.

Hollywood adaptations can take years and require patience.

Tension is a crucial element in both courtroom settings and writing.

Researching courtroom dynamics enhances the authenticity of legal thrillers.

Emotional connections to characters can make writing more impactful.

Trusting the creative process is vital for writers.

Balancing standalones and series depends on reader interest.

Antagonists play a key role in sustaining a series.

Aspiring authors should not let reality constrain their fiction.

Best Sound Bites:

"I think it's natural for any human being to have self-doubt."

"You just have to trust that voice in your head."

"Never kill a good antagonist."

The Thriller Zone promises to wrap 2024 in a BIG way...Stay Tuned! Questions? Just write us at "[e-mail]"