How to Write a Damn Good Thriller: A Step-by-Step Guide for Novelists and Screenwriters

by James N. Frey

301 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 16, 2025

About the author

James N. Frey is an American novelist and acclaimed writing teacher, best known for his influential guide How to Write a Damn Good Novel. He has authored both fiction and non-fiction, including thrillers and several popular books on writing craft. Frey taught at the University of California, Berkeley, where he was honored as Teacher of the Year in 1994. He continues to lecture on creative writing at various conferences and institutions. His fiction has earned critical recognition, including an Edgar Award nomination. Frey lives in Berkeley, California.

Reviews

[Daniel Krotov]

An absolute gem of knowledge!

I am currently in the process of writing my first fictional novel and my first attempts sucked. I feel after reading this book I finally have a direction and thought process to get me there to a final product I’m happy with. Id highly recommend this read! I find myself a bit excited now, so off I go!