In this episode, April shares how a terrifying night in her Portland apartment set her on a path to become a master of suspense, with 32 published books and counting. You'll discover the behind-the-scenes details of that night, her journey from small-town Oregon to the bestseller list, and how real-life trauma transforms into fiction that hooks thousands of readers. We break down April's meticulous research, her favorite twists, and how her own vulnerabilities shape her storytelling. You’ll hear how her real-life brush with danger inspired her fascination with true crime, her extraordinary research methods (including creating a real-life canteen for her next book), and why she believes tenacity is the secret ingredient to success in writing—and in life. Whether you're an aspiring author, a thriller junkie, or someone seeking courage in adversity, this episode provides a blueprint for turning life’s scars into stories that captivate and inspire.Perfect for fans of crime thrillers, aspiring writers, or anyone looking for a dose of resilience, this conversation will leave you rethinking what it means to survive—and why stories of survival matter. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn a close call into a catalyst for creativity, April Henry’s backstory is a masterclass in resilience, research, and storytelling magic. April Henry is a bestselling author known for her gripping thrillers and meticulous research, blending her personal experiences with her storytelling craft.

Listen to NYT bestselling author Jennifer A. Nielsen recount the backstory of this thriller author.

Most writers dream of creating stories that truly matter — but for Ibi Zoboi, it’s also about the impact her words have on marginalized youth and those feeling invisible. In this powerful episode, she reveals how her Haitian roots, personal loss, and desire to be seen fuel her storytelling and her fight to keep diverse voices alive in literature.

Ibi shares how her early experiences navigating language barriers, cultural expectations, and the challenge of finding her own voice shaped her work as a novelist, poet, and advocate. She discusses her groundbreaking books—like American Street, a National Book Award finalist, and Nigeria Jones, a critically acclaimed novel celebrating marginalized girls—and how these stories serve as mirrors for readers who often go unheard.

Ibi Zoboi is a critically acclaimed, New York Times bestselling author, known for her powerful narratives that elevate Black and immigrant voices. Her work challenges the status quo and inspires countless young readers to see themselves in stories that demand to be heard.