Get ready to uncover the secrets behind bestselling author Neil P Randle's captivating spy thriller trilogy on the latest episode of the CT Book Festivals Podcast. Host Jed Doherty welcomes Randle to discuss his journey from a 60-year-old first-time writer to a celebrated author of page-turning espionage tales.
Randle shares how his lifelong love of spy movies and novels inspired him to put pen to paper, creating a heroine named Stephanie who is the polar opposite of his own introverted personality. Listeners will be fascinated to learn how Randle carefully crafted his characters, taking advice from thriller masters like Dan Brown to ensure each player brought a unique dynamic to the story.
But Randle's creative process didn't stop there. With the help of his insightful editor, he was able to overcome writer's block and reimagine the trilogy's central hero, turning an eccentric scientist into the main protagonist for the final book. Randle's willingness to evolve his vision resulted in a captivating alternate history that seamlessly blends fact and fiction around pivotal moments like the fall of the Berlin Wall and Nelson Mandela's rise to power.
As Randle bids farewell to his beloved characters, he shares the bittersweet experience of letting them go, especially the complex villains that readers love to hate. Listeners will be inspired by Randle's charitable approach, with all proceeds from his books benefiting cancer research in honor of loved ones.
Whether you're a lifelong fan of spy thrillers or simply enjoy discovering new literary talents, this episode of the CT Book Festivals Podcast is a must-listen for anyone who loves being transported into the high-stakes world of international espionage.