When Enemies Become Allies: Kate Kessler on Crafting the Most Compelling Thriller Characters
For me, the most important element of any thriller will always be the main character and how they interact with other characters. The Silence of the Lambs would not be as great without its “quid pro quo” agreement between Clarice and Hannibal.
There has to be character interaction, and oftentimes the weirder the better. I love when enemies become allies, such as in If Tomorrow Comes. I’m all about character—in my own books as well as others.
3 words: court room scene. I love this book for exploring the relationship between sisters, that love and loyalty that endures no matter what. Plus, it's just incredibly satisfying to read. One sister returns from a horrifying captivity only to find that her twin has been living in a prison of her own making.
The first thriller I ever read. Oh, how I wanted to be Tracy—so smart and cunning, not to mention gorgeous and brave. She goes from being a patsy to taking on—and beating—the mafia to controlling her own destiny as a con artist and thief. She even gets the guy. I mean, come on, what's not to love?
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