TJ Newman on Creating Emotional Connections through Storytelling Authenticity in Writing

On today’s 195th & Final episode of Season Six of The Thriller Zone, host David Temple interviews New York Times Bestselling Author TJ Newman about her latest book, Worst Case Scenario. 

They discuss the inspiration behind the book, the research process, and the challenges of writing a plot-heavy thriller. 

Ms. Newman shares her gratitude for the success of her previous books and the joy of connecting with readers. The conversation also touches on the importance of creating emotional connections with characters and the impact of storytelling on readers. 

TJ discusses the importance of keeping readers engaged and immersed in the story, comparing books to movies and highlighting the active participation of readers in books. She also talks about the challenges of getting attention in a world filled with distractions and the importance of writing the best story possible. 

TJ shares her experience of adapting her book into a screenplay and the art of compression in screenwriting. She emphasizes the need for authenticity and pursuing what interests you in writing and life. 

TJ also reflects on her journey as an author and the support she has received from her family and alma mater.

To learn more visit: TJNewmanAuthor.com and Pre-Order Your Copy of Worst Case Scenario Today!

• (00:00) - Introduction and Welcome
• (02:56) - The Success of Falling and Drowning
• (04:27) - The Inspiration for Worst Case Scenario
• (06:21) - Researching the Vulnerabilities of Nuclear Facilities
• (08:44) - The Process of Writing and Outlining
• (13:37) - Creating Emotional Connections with Characters
• (15:34) - The Enormity of the Situation in Worst Case Scenario
• (17:31) - Ethical Dilemmas and Gray Areas in Thrillers
• (19:53) - Gratitude for Success and Connecting with Readers
• (24:50) - The Power of Thrillers to Evoke Emotions
• (29:27) - The Writing Process and Character Development
• (31:54) - The Importance of Reader Experience
• (36:38) - Creating an Enjoyable Reading Experience
• (37:57) - Books vs Movies: Active Participation vs Passive Watching
• (45:22) - Making the New York Times Best Seller List as a Debut Author
• (47:09) - Cutting Through the Noise: Grabbing Readers' Attention
• (51:47) - Adapting Books into Screenplays: Compression and Economy of Words
• (59:28) - Authenticity in Writing and Life
• (01:05:21) - The Importance of Support on the Writing Journey

Award-winning Green Beret, Steve Stratton, is the author of the Shadow Tier Series and the novella, A Warrior's Path: the Lance Bear Wolf Story. Learn more at stevestrattonusa.com