Page 55 - Reader's House Magazine Issue 53

In this exclusive interview with Reader’s House, Goldsmith shares insights into his creative process, the inspirations behind his work, and the meticulous craft of construct- ing a compelling mystery. Whether you are a devoted fan or a newcomer to his work, his words are sure to offer a fascinating glimpse into the mind of one of today’s most exciting crime and thriller writers.
life detectives or literary figures?
Yes, and yes.
Like any of my characters, he is a combi- nation of parts. Different pieces of a fictional human puzzle. Elements of him are inspired by both literary characters and real-life detec- tives. What was crucial as a protagonist was not to be the stereotypical American detective. Also, I did not want an all-knowing Sherlock Holmes/Hercule Poirot type. I wanted a genu- ine human being and authentic detective.
Your bio mentions a military background with top secret clearance—did any of your experiences influence the storyline or themes in The Spire?
Perhaps in some way. I think my mili-
tary service was a desire for adventure and intrigue. However, most of my stories are built from research. It provides the avenues for your characters to go down.
Ultimately, my writing is a form of wish fulfillment. I’m just a middle-aged man who uses toy guns and cars to flesh out scenes and live vicariously through his work.
How did your time teaching ESL in the Middle East shape your perspective as a writer?
My teaching forced me to look at my own writing with a more critical eye. Although
I find it tedious, revising your work is an essential step in the writing process. My time there made me a better editor of their work, and ultimately my own. Plus, it was the most rewarding job I’ve ever had.
Your thriller screenplay Cold Autumn is in development—how does writing for film compare to writing a novel?
Historically, there has been an argument as to which is harder. Frankly, I’ve never under- stood it. To me, it’s as if two painters arguing which is better – watercolour or oil? Each has a distinct purpose. A screenplay is a blueprint. You are bound to put on the page only what you see and what you hear. Nothing else! You must write concisely with great brevity. In contrast, a novel allows you greater freedom to explore deeper, into the inner thoughts and feelings of a character.
Either way, they both must move with rhythm and flow. Otherwise, you bore the reader and that – whether you write scripts or novels – is the cardinal sin of writing.
What advice would you give to aspiring authors looking to write complex and compelling stories like yours?
Invest in the front end. Don’t race to the keyboard. Plan your story. Know your story cold before you draft it. Follow the great Dame Agatha. Start with the murder. Build everything from there. Your villain creates the catalyst of your story. Who are they? What do they want? Why do they want it?
And of course, keep at it. Don’t quit. Don’t
What inspired you to write The Spire, and how did you develop its intricate plot?
The idea stems from the classic Agatha Christie mystery, “And Then There Were None.” The key difference being the setting
– not an island but a luxury skyscraper with
a group of strangers being murdered one by one. Essentially, I was trying to create a locked room mystery inside a high-rise penthouse.
That said, I didn’t want to create a tradi- tional whodunit or police procedural. Instead, I decided to write a howcatchem’. This type of story requires intricate plot development.
I used a variety of techniques – index cards, step outlines, reverse plotting. Ultimately, it comes down to time and research.
Above all, I wanted a story grounded in reality, and a page turner while being poignant and reflecting our times. I was gunning for gritty realism. I wanted to inject the story with the paranoia of “All the President’s Men” and the true-life drama of “In Cold Blood.”
Shaun Goldsmith masterfully blends suspense, depth, and realism, crafting intelligent thrillers that captivate readers with intricate plots and unforgettable characters.
Your book blends mystery, thriller, and police procedural elements—how do you balance these genres while maintaining suspense?
Clearly understanding the rules, conven- tions and tropes of each. That allows you
to apply them more freely and organically. Basically, I’m saying knowing the rules allows you to break them.
As well, pacing is key when it comes to suspense and technique is a major factor in that. One example is referred to as the Fleming sweep. The creator of James Bond, would ‘sweep’ the reader from one chapter to the next by means of a cliffhanger, adding tension and forcing them to turn the page. It’s highly effective.
Nevertheless, with mysteries you cannot cheat! The author must give the reader the chance to solve the crime, which only adds to their suspense and engagement.
‘Diamond’ Mike Vogel is a compelling protagonist—was he inspired by any real-
Shaun Goldsmith’s The Spire is a gripping, fast-paced thriller blending an intricate murder mystery with dark political intrigue. Detective Mike Vogel is a compelling lead, grappling with professional and personal challenges. Sharp prose, intricate twists, and chilling stakes make this a must-read for fans of crime fiction. Highly recommended.
worry about writing a masterpiece. You must finish what you start.
Most of all, enjoy it! Love the writing you do. In the end, whatever fiction we write, we’re all writing some sort of fairytale.
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