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I think authors are often asked where they get their ideas. It’s a good question. KYD’S GAME is an espionage thriller dealing with Russia’s complicity in a chemical attack in Syria (2017). I had seen a news video of a man and his young son who were hopelessly struggling to outrun the effects. It had a strong emotional impact on me. Evidence that the Russians were complicit is documented. I later read Bill Browder’s book “Red Notice”, which clearly illustrates the corruption and cruelty of Putin’s regime. Putting these influences together with my love of le Carre’s books pushed me forward.
For me, character authenticity is very important. No character sees themselves as a villain, they all have a rational for their actions. I try to see the world from each of their perspectives no matter how others might judge them.
I’m not a ‘pantser’. Coming from a screenwriting background, structure is very important to me. It’s very important for my confidence. I need to know where I’m going and how I’ll get there. I’m drawn to stories that are believable but unpredictable. If I get a better idea along the way, I’ll re-structure to make it work.
Written by Marc Rosenberg
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