Shaun Goldsmith Reveals the Craft Behind His Award-Winning Thriller The Spire
Mastering Mystery And Suspense With Shaun Goldsmith
Shaun Goldsmith discusses his inspirations, writing process, blending genres, character creation, and advice for aspiring writers in this exclusive interview about The Spire.
Shaun Goldsmith, the acclaimed author behind the thrilling The Spire, has rapidly established himself as a master of gripping detective fiction and espionage thrillers. His work, praised by Kirkus as “a fine whodunit full of satisfying twists,” showcases a rare talent for blending complex mysteries with suspenseful, page-turning narratives. Goldsmith’s commitment to crafting realistic plots and compelling characters has earned him a devoted following, and The Spire is no exception, offering readers a perfect balance of suspense and intricacy.
Shaun Goldsmith excels at creating complex, gripping thrillers, masterfully blending suspense, mystery, and realism with unforgettable characters and plot twists.
Goldsmith’s writing draws inspiration from literary greats like Ian Fleming and Agatha Christie, but he infuses his work with a modern flair, incorporating his own unique life experiences into his stories. With a background in military service and years spent teaching ESL in the Middle East, his characters and plots are imbued with authenticity and realism.
Beyond his novels, Goldsmith is also making waves in the film industry, with his screenplay Cold Autumn currently in development. His ability to transition seamlessly from novel to screenplay speaks to his versatility as a storyteller.
In this exclusive interview with Reader’s House, Goldsmith shares insights into the creative process behind The Spire, discussing everything from plot development to character creation, and offering invaluable advice for aspiring writers.
Crafting The Spire and Developing Its Intricate Plot
Goldsmith’s inspiration for The Spire comes from classic Agatha Christie mysteries, but with a twist. “The idea stems from And Then There Were None, but set in a luxury skyscraper rather than an island,” he says. He sought to create a “locked room mystery” inside a high-rise penthouse, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. “I didn’t want to write a traditional whodunit. I wanted a ‘howcatchem’ story, which requires meticulous planning and development,” he explains. The intricate plotting involved reverse plotting, index cards, and extensive research to ensure a grounded yet suspenseful narrative.
Balancing Mystery, Thriller, and Suspense
Goldsmith’s success in blending different genres lies in understanding their rules. “Knowing the rules allows you to break them,” he notes. Pacing is key to maintaining suspense, and he draws from classic techniques, like the Fleming sweep, to propel the reader from one cliffhanger to the next. His focus on giving the reader the chance to solve the crime adds to the engagement, ensuring the story doesn’t cheat its audience.
Creating a Compelling Protagonist
Diamond Mike Vogel, the protagonist of The Spire, is inspired by both literary detectives and real-life figures. Goldsmith emphasizes that Vogel is not a typical American detective or a Holmes-like figure with all the answers. “I wanted him to be a genuine, human character,” he says, steering away from stereotypes and aiming for authenticity.
Influences from Military Service and Teaching Abroad
Goldsmith’s military background and time spent teaching in the Middle East have influenced his writing in subtle but significant ways. “My military service was driven by a desire for adventure, and much of my writing is based on research, which provides various paths for characters to follow,” he reflects. His experience teaching ESL, however, has made him a more critical editor of his own work, improving his writing through the process of revision.
From Novels to Screenplays
Goldsmith’s transition to screenwriting with Cold Autumn has allowed him to explore storytelling in a new medium. “A screenplay is a blueprint—concise and visual. In contrast, a novel allows deeper exploration of a character’s inner thoughts,” he explains. Both forms, however, must maintain rhythm and flow to avoid boring the reader or viewer.
Advice for Aspiring Writers
Goldsmith’s advice for writers is simple yet effective: “Invest in the front end. Don’t race to the keyboard. Plan your story. Know it cold before you start drafting.” He emphasizes the importance of building a strong foundation for your story and starting with the core element—whether it’s a murder or a pivotal event. “And, most importantly, keep at it. Don’t quit. Love the writing you do.”
The Spire is a testament to Goldsmith’s dedication to his craft, blending suspense, depth, and realism into a compelling narrative that captivates readers. Whether you’re a fan of detective fiction or just love a great thriller, Goldsmith’s work is one that will keep you hooked from start to finish.
Originally published in Reader’s House Magazine.
