Who doesn’t love a good sequel? The characters feel familiar and we get that zing of being able to check in with what they are up to now. So, in this episode, Vicki Atkinson and I are delighted to be talking again with author Chris Thelen. We talked with Chris in episode 57 about his first novel, Islands of Deception. Now he’s back and we’re discussing his latest political thriller, Race for Redemption. It is so good!!
Chris shares insights into his writing process, the importance of character development, and the balance of managing multiple writing projects. The conversation also touches on the significance of research in creating authentic narratives and the creative growth that comes from switching genres. Chris offers valuable advice for aspiring writers, emphasizing the importance of networking and putting one’s work out into the world.
Takeaways
Writing a sequel presents unique challenges, including maintaining character consistency.
Chris balances multiple writing projects, including a light science fiction book.
Research plays a crucial role in Chris’s writing, enhancing authenticity.
Feedback from readers can significantly influence character development in sequels.
Switching genres can help authors grow creatively and expand their readership.
Blogging is a valuable tool for writers to share their work and receive feedback.
Networking within the writing community can open doors for aspiring authors.
The creative process often involves vulnerability and the courage to seek help.
Here’s a sneak peek of Chris talking about some of the challenges that come with writing sequels.
Here are some ways you can listen and watch to the full episode:
In this episode of 'How to Share', hosts Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson engage with author Marc Ross about his latest geopolitical thriller, 'Attacking the Dragon'. The conversation delves into the book's plot, which revolves around China's Belt and Road Initiative, and how Ross's background as a lawyer influenced his writing. They explore the complexities of Chinese politics, character development, and the nuances of storytelling, as well as Ross's personal journey from law to fiction writing.Takeaways:Marc Ross's book 'Attacking the Dragon' explores China's geopolitical landscape.The Belt and Road Initiative is a significant yet under-discussed topic.Ross aims to portray China as a victim rather than an aggressor in his narrative.His legal background provides a unique perspective on the thriller genre.Character names in Chinese culture are complex but manageable for storytelling.Ross's writing journey reflects a long-held dream to become an author.He emphasizes the importance of creating unique protagonists in thrillers.The art of storytelling involves engaging readers through vivid descriptions.Ross enjoys the process of writing and values reader feedback. His experiences as a lawyer enrich his fictional narratives.Links for this Episode:Sharing the Heart of the Matter HomeA. Marc Ross's website: https://www.amarcross.com/index.htmlAttacking the Dragon on Barnes & Noble and AmazonFrom the hosts:Vicki’s book about resilience and love: Surviving Sue; Blog: https://victoriaponders.com/My book about my beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith
I think that’s a really cool idea to provide links on your blog to actual sites you write about. What a fantastic idea! Chris also laid out very well the challenges of writing a sequel; “there’s a history we can’t change” and keeping the “magic” of the characters intact for readers. Ooo, and I loved the nonverbal writing that Vicki pointed out. THAT is hard to do, not only in books, but in directing movies, too. It is a very important element that elevates the story. Thanks, Wynne and Vicki! 😊
Thanks so much for introducing us to Chris Thelen, Wynne and Vicki! He has some powerful takeaways for sure. I look forward to listening to the full episode! 🎧🎤😊
Good interview, Wynne-or should I say “nice fireside chat?” The challenges Chris pointed out in writing a sequel are apparently important issues to consider even before writing the original. I have a couple political thriller readers in my family, so Chris’s books may be right up their alley. 🙂
You make such a good point about considering these things before we write the original. It implies having some confidence that we’ll have a sequel, doesn’t it? Thank you so much for tuning in, Nancy!
“Blogging is a valuable tool for writers to share their work and receive feedback.” This is fantastic news for those of us who hope to write a book ‘one day’, and are getting our feet wet and finding our voice in the blogging world. I really enjoyed the conversation between Chris and Vicki about being vulnerable when we’re doing new things, and having the courage to ask for help from the wonderful guides around us. Thanks Wynne, Vicki, and Chris for this great interview!
I love that this was great encouragement for you, Rose! Yes, the power of hitting the publish button and how it transforms us over time is great! Thank you so much for tuning in!
Love this conversation and learning more about his writing routine and also his insights into crafting a successful sequel and thoughts on the business side of writing, which is so vital for success.
I appreciated the care he puts into taking the readers to different places and also sharing that research on his website. Talk about added value!
His upcoming science fiction work sounds intriguing. Love the juxtaposition of traditional settings such as a farm with the exploration of the impact of modern technology on our lives. Sounds like a winner already!
The Heart of the Matter 
Oh my — the term “page turner” sure does apply to Chris’ new book! So good – so fun to chat with him! Thanks, Wynne! 🥰
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes – you are so right! Great book and another fun conversation. So grateful to be doing these with you, dear Vicki!! ❤ ❤ ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
Same, same, same! xo! 💝
LikeLiked by 1 person
This episode sounds like a real gem! Looking forward to listening. 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Erin!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I think that’s a really cool idea to provide links on your blog to actual sites you write about. What a fantastic idea! Chris also laid out very well the challenges of writing a sequel; “there’s a history we can’t change” and keeping the “magic” of the characters intact for readers. Ooo, and I loved the nonverbal writing that Vicki pointed out. THAT is hard to do, not only in books, but in directing movies, too. It is a very important element that elevates the story. Thanks, Wynne and Vicki! 😊
LikeLiked by 2 people
Oh, you are so good at picking up all the gems, Melanie!! yes!! Thank you for tuning in!! ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great podcast and lots of first hand experience from Chris and he’s so engaging. 🙌🏽
LikeLiked by 2 people
Oh, you said it perfectly, Cindy!! Thanks for tuning in, my friend!
LikeLike
Thanks so much for introducing us to Chris Thelen, Wynne and Vicki! He has some powerful takeaways for sure. I look forward to listening to the full episode! 🎧🎤😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much for tuning in, Kym!! Wishing you a most wonderful weekend!
LikeLiked by 1 person
You are so very welcome as always my dear Wynne. May you have a FANtabulous weekend too ladybug! 😍🙏🏼😊🥂😎
LikeLike
I’ll be sure to listen!
LikeLiked by 1 person
We so appreciate you tuning in, Elizabeth!
LikeLike
Good interview, Wynne-or should I say “nice fireside chat?” The challenges Chris pointed out in writing a sequel are apparently important issues to consider even before writing the original. I have a couple political thriller readers in my family, so Chris’s books may be right up their alley. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
You make such a good point about considering these things before we write the original. It implies having some confidence that we’ll have a sequel, doesn’t it? Thank you so much for tuning in, Nancy!
LikeLiked by 1 person
“Blogging is a valuable tool for writers to share their work and receive feedback.” This is fantastic news for those of us who hope to write a book ‘one day’, and are getting our feet wet and finding our voice in the blogging world. I really enjoyed the conversation between Chris and Vicki about being vulnerable when we’re doing new things, and having the courage to ask for help from the wonderful guides around us. Thanks Wynne, Vicki, and Chris for this great interview!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love that this was great encouragement for you, Rose! Yes, the power of hitting the publish button and how it transforms us over time is great! Thank you so much for tuning in!
LikeLiked by 1 person
It is such a wonderful treat – the creative process, unfiltered. Great podcast!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you, Mary! We so appreciate you tuning in!
LikeLike
Love this conversation and learning more about his writing routine and also his insights into crafting a successful sequel and thoughts on the business side of writing, which is so vital for success.
I appreciated the care he puts into taking the readers to different places and also sharing that research on his website. Talk about added value!
His upcoming science fiction work sounds intriguing. Love the juxtaposition of traditional settings such as a farm with the exploration of the impact of modern technology on our lives. Sounds like a winner already!
LikeLiked by 1 person