For every reader who finds themselves glued to a J.J. Carson novel, there is a deeper world behind the scenes—a world where raw ideas evolve into meticulously plotted thrillers. From Baghdad Heist to Pillars of Evil, Carson’s ability to transform a spark of inspiration into a heart-pounding narrative has made him one of the most compelling thriller writers of our time. But how does he do it? This blog explores the step-by-step journey of how J.J. Carson turns ideas into impact.
- Inspiration: Finding the Spark
Every great thriller begins with a simple “what if” question. For Carson, inspiration comes from a wide range of sources: current events, historical mysteries, overlooked news stories, and personal experiences. He keeps a digital notebook filled with intriguing articles, headlines, and questions.
“What if an ancient artifact held the key to a modern-day conspiracy?”
“What if a government operative disappeared in plain sight, with the world watching?”
These questions fuel his imagination and serve as the seeds from which entire novels grow.
- Research: Laying the Groundwork
Before he writes a single word, Carson dives deep into research. If the story involves ancient maps, secret societies, or covert military operations, he wants to know everything about them. He consults historical documents, reads scholarly work, and even interviews experts when necessary.
His novel Curse of the Catalan Atlas required extensive research into medieval cartography, Mediterranean trade routes, and Templar legends. Carson believes that authentic details give thrillers their edge.
“The reader doesn’t have to know every fact—but I do. That’s how the world feels real.”
- Building the Framework: Outlining the Plot
Carson is a meticulous outliner. He creates a roadmap for each novel, including major plot points, turning points, character arcs, and emotional beats. He often uses the three-act structure as a skeleton, then layers in subplots, twists, and revelations.
He also creates what he calls a “pulse chart,” tracking the tension level across chapters. This ensures the narrative builds properly, keeping readers hooked with increasing intensity.
- Character Development: Making It Personal
Characters drive Carson’s thrillers. Before writing scenes, he crafts detailed profiles for every major character—from protagonists to minor players. These profiles include backstories, motivations, fears, and contradictions.
He believes that even the best plot falls flat without emotional investment. His heroes often carry emotional scars, while his villains operate on ideologies or personal traumas. This depth makes every confrontation feel charged and real.
- Writing: Drafting the Story
With outline and research in hand, Carson begins drafting. He writes in intense blocks of time, often producing 2,000-3,000 words per day. He doesn’t edit much during this phase, instead focusing on momentum.
Each chapter ends on a note of suspense or revelation. Carson is a master of the cliffhanger, believing that thrillers should be hard to put down.
“If a reader says ‘just one more chapter’ and ends up finishing the book at 2am, I’ve done my job.”
- Editing: Sculpting the Narrative
After the first draft, Carson takes a break—then returns with fresh eyes. His editing process includes:
Tightening dialogue
Strengthening emotional arcs
Ensuring continuity
Enhancing tension
Eliminating slow spots
He revises multiple times before involving beta readers and professional editors. Feedback is crucial, and he actively seeks out critiques that challenge his assumptions.
- Polishing for Publication
Once the manuscript is solid, Carson collaborates with a publishing team to refine the work further. Cover design, interior formatting, marketing strategies, and launch timelines all come into play.
He is deeply involved in this process, ensuring that the final product aligns with his vision—and resonates with his readers.
- Engaging the Audience
After publication, Carson doesn’t disappear. He actively engages with readers through book tours, podcasts, blog posts, and social media. He listens to feedback, discusses themes, and occasionally teases future projects.
This engagement has helped him build a loyal community of readers who eagerly anticipate every new release.
Final Thoughts
The journey from idea to impact is long, demanding, and incredibly rewarding. For J.J. Carson, each book is a carefully engineered experience, designed to thrill, provoke, and entertain. Through relentless research, thoughtful plotting, and emotional storytelling, he transforms simple questions into unforgettable adventures.
Whether you’re a reader curious about the process or an aspiring writer looking for guidance, Carson’s journey offers valuable lessons in passion, perseverance, and precision.
Stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes looks, book updates, and insights into the world of J.J. Carson.
