The Writer Files

The Writer Files: Writing, Productivity, Creativity, and Neuroscience

Hosted ByKelton Reid

Kelton Reid studies the habits, habitats, and brains of a wide spectrum of renowned writers to learn their secrets of productivity and creativity. Tune in each week to learn how great writers keep the ink flowing, the cursor moving, and avoid block. Explore our archives at writerfiles.fm to find interviews with notable guests that include bestselling authors John Scalzi (Old Mans War), Greg Iles (Natchez Burning), Jay McInerney (Bright Lights, Big City), Kevin Kelly (founder of WIRED magazine), Emma Donoghue (Oscar Nominee for Room), Maria Konnikova (The Confidence Game), Andy Weir (The Martian), Dan Buettner (The Blue Zones), Austin Kleon (Steal Like an Artist), Daniel Pink (When), and serial guest hosts: neuroscientist Michael Grybko, journalist Adam Skolnick, and short story writer Robert Bruce.

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How NY Times Bestselling Thriller Author Shari Lapena Writes

September 14, 2020 The Writer Files: Writing, Productivity, Creativity, and Neuroscience 24:14

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The internationally bestselling author of “domestic suspense” thrillers, Shari Lapena, took a few minutes to chat with me about her circuitous path to success, how she subverts the idea of the perfect “white picket fence” family, and her unique process as a novelist.

“I always just start with an idea and write chronologically all the way through to the end. I don’t have a plan, but as I go along, ideas present themselves….it’s all very organic” — Shari Lapena

She’s the author of popular “suburban paranoia” thrillers – including The Couple Next Door and Someone We Know – and multiple New York Times and The Sunday Times (London) bestsellers.

The Couple Next Door was an international breakout and New York Times bestseller for an astounding 23 consecutive weeks. Her books have been sold in 37 countries and sold more than seven million copies worldwide.

Her latest is The End of Her, a book that “… will have readers questioning their spouse’s past and their own judgment as well.”

#1 NY Times bestselling author Ruth Ware said of the book, “No one does suburban paranoia like Shari Lapena — this slowly unfurling nightmare will have you biting your nails until the end.”

Note: This interview was recorded at the end of July, 2020.

Please help us learn more about you by completing this short 7-question survey If you’re a fan of The Writer Files, please click subscribe to automatically see new interviews. In this file Shari Lapena and I discussed:

  • How her process starts from the kernel of a perfect murder
  • Why she intentionally starts out not knowing the ending to her novels
  • Her work ethic, daily routines, and inspiration
  • And rules and no-nonsense advice to getting words on the page

Show Notes:

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