Jeff Wheeler, a Wall Street Journal bestselling author, discusses his recent pivot into writing thrillers. Topics include maximizing productivity as a full-time writer, navigating genre transitions from fantasy to thrillers, and crafting compelling stories from personal experiences.
Transitioning from part-time to full-time authorship requires commitment to deadlines and structured routines.
Exploring different genres can lead to creative growth and enhance future writing endeavors.
Deep dives
Jeff Wheeler's Transition to Full-Time Authorship
Jeff Wheeler discusses his transition to full-time authorship, having left his day job at Intel a decade ago to focus on writing. He mentions signing a three-book deal with Amazon Publishing, committing to write all three books within a year, highlighting the shift from part-time to full-time authorship.
Productivity and Writing Habits Post-Career Transition
Jeff Wheeler reflects on his productivity post-career transition, emphasizing his structured writing routine starting early in the day with minimal distractions. He describes his commitment to meeting deadlines, attributing his efficiency to past experiences at Intel and the pressure of publishing contracts, which motivate him.
Exploring Genre Shift with Thriller Novels
Jeff Wheeler delves into his foray into thrillers, elaborating on the creative challenges and research involved in shifting from fantasy to suspenseful storytelling. He discusses the strategic approach to transitioning genres by leveraging thematic elements from his fantasy works while adapting to the pacing and tropes characteristic of thrillers.
Creative Growth and Future Writing Endeavors
Jeff Wheeler talks about his creative growth through exploring different genres and the potential impact on his future writing endeavors. He shares his plans to return to fantasy writing while acknowledging the valuable experiences gained from testing new genres and the importance of maintaining a dynamic and engaging creative process.
Variety is the spice of life – but is it also the secret to a long and prosperous author career? Wall Street Journal bestselling author Jeff Wheeler knows his stuff, and with a recent pivot into writing thrillers, he’s the perfect author to have this discussion with.
This is an unedited chat loaded with questions and answers. Listen in!
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