Today’s thriller novels plunge the reader into an adrenaline-fueled world of nonstop action and intense conflict. Writing the thriller requires an understanding of the basic conventions of the genre necessary to keep readers on the edge of their seats. Award-winning author Vic DiGenti, also known as Parker Francis, reveals Seven Secrets to Writing the Thriller at the meeting of the Florida Writers Association Ponte Vedra Writers at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 14 at the Ponte Vedra Beach Branch Library.
“There’s a reason the thriller has found its way into popular culture, and onto the bestseller lists,” DiGenti said. “Readers love the vicarious thrills of a heroic figure caught up in high stakes and life and death action.”
During the one-hour presentation, DiGenti will discuss the seven essential elements of a thriller, identify the differences between mysteries and thrillers, and illustrate the best ways to add tension and conflict.
After a career in broadcasting and special events as the producer of the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Vic DiGenti turned to his first love — writing. He followed his three “Windrusher” adventure/fantasy novels with the Quint Mitchell Mystery series using the pen name Parker Francis. The series includes the thriller “Hurricane Island.” He has also penned biographies for two WWII veterans, and written four other personal biographies. As a working author and publisher (Windrusher Hall Press), Vic has taught writing classes at the University of North Florida and workshops at numerous writers’ conferences throughout Florida and other states.
The Ponte Vedra Writers group is part of the Florida Writers Association, a statewide, nonprofit organization with nearly 1,500 members dedicated to the support of both aspiring and published writers in any genre.
The Sept. 14 meeting is free and open to FWA members and nonmembers alike. For information about FWA, visit www.floridawriters.net.
