Tess Gerritsen Talks Characters: How Her Books Nearly Write Themselves!

Thriller writer Tess Gerritsen, the brilliant mind behind over 30 award-winning novels, is back on our podcast, and we're diving headfirst into her latest gem, "The Summer Guest," here on our 216th episode of Season 8; perhaps our best season yet!

Right off the bat, Tess shares her magical writing process, where her characters practically write themselves—talk about a fun twist on the typical writing grind!

We’ll chat about The Martini Club, where retired spies tackle mysteries, and explore the juicy conflict between amateur sleuths and local law enforcement. Plus, Tess reveals how her real-life experiences with retired spies in her Maine neighborhood spark her stories. It's a cozy chat filled with humor, insights, and a dash of intrigue, so grab your favorite beverage and join us on this literary adventure!

If you’re a fan of thrillers, get ready to pop a cork because Tess is back on my podcast to spill the tea on her latest book, "The Summer Guest." Tess dives into the nitty-gritty of writing, sharing how her characters often take the reins of the story, leading her down paths she never expected.

This epic episode is a fascinating look at the creative process that many writers can relate to. We also chat about the dynamics of friendship, the tension between the old guard and the young blood, and how those themes resonate in her work.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to Tess’s novels, this episode will leave you eager for more. Learn more at: TessGerritsen.com, SUBSCRIBE to our Youtube Channel @thethrillerzone and whatever you do...share this episode with your Bestie Writer Friend (aka BWF).

To learn more visit: TessGerritsen.com. And if you need some takeaways, check this out:

• Tess Gerritsen emphasizes that the magic of writing comes from letting characters take over the story, revealing their own narratives.
• In this episode, Tess discusses how she draws inspiration from real-life retired spies living in her neighborhood in Maine.
• The importance of friendship and loyalty is a central theme in Tess's novels, particularly in her Martini Club series.
• Tess highlights her unique writing process, explaining that she often waits for her characters to speak to her before plotting the story.
• Writing across different genres allows Tess to explore a variety of themes and keeps her creativity flowing without getting stagnant.
• Tess shares her belief that every book has an overriding emotion, which she uses to guide the narrative and character development.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Amazon Studios
• Simon & Schuster
• Random House
• Thomas and Mercer

As always, we ask that you FOLLOW + SUBSCRIBE to us at: TheThrillerZone.com

Mentioned in this episode:

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com

LITC New 12-21-25

Life In Two Columns: Shit That Matters. And Everything Else. Get it now for ONLY $.99 in ebook or $9.99 in paperback on Amazon, and you can get in audiobook, read by me, for only $10.99 at DavideTemple.com