Crafting Complex Mysteries with Shaun Goldsmith
Shaun Goldsmith discusses his inspirations, the intricacies of plotting The Spire, balancing mystery and thriller elements, crafting compelling characters, transitioning to screenwriting, and offering invaluable advice for aspiring writers.
Shaun Goldsmith is a name that has swiftly become synonymous with gripping detective fiction and masterful espionage thrillers. An award-winning author, Goldsmith has captivated readers with The Spire, a novel that seamlessly blends mystery, suspense, and intricate storytelling. Praised by Kirkus as “a fine whodunit full of satisfying twists,” his work demonstrates a rare ability to craft narratives that are as intellectually stimulating as they are thrilling. His meticulous attention to detail, combined with a penchant for weaving together intricate plots, has earned him widespread acclaim and a dedicated readership.
With influences ranging from Ian Fleming and Agatha Christie to Robert Harris, Goldsmith has carved out a space where classic detective storytelling meets modern-day intrigue. His background—one that includes military service with top secret clearance and years spent teaching ESL in the Middle East—lends a unique authenticity to his work. These experiences have not only shaped his perspective but also enriched the depth and realism of his characters and plots.
Beyond the written word, Goldsmith’s creative pursuits extend into the realm of film, with his thriller screenplay Cold Autumn currently in development. His ability to transition between mediums—capturing the essence of a story in both novel and screenplay form—speaks to his versatility as a storyteller.
In this exclusive interview with Reader’s House, Goldsmith shares insights into his creative process, the inspirations behind his work, and the meticulous craft of constructing a compelling mystery. Whether you are a devoted fan or a newcomer to his work, his words are sure to offer a fascinating glimpse into the mind of one of today’s most exciting crime and thriller writers.
Shaun Goldsmith masterfully blends suspense, depth, and realism, crafting intelligent thrillers that captivate readers with intricate plots and unforgettable characters.
What inspired you to write The Spire, and how did you develop its intricate plot?
The idea stems from the classic Agatha Christie mystery, “And Then There Were None.” The key difference being the setting – not an island but a luxury skyscraper with a group of strangers being murdered one by one. Essentially, I was trying to create a locked room mystery inside a high-rise penthouse.
That said, I didn’t want to create a traditional whodunit or police procedural. Instead, I decided to writea howcatchem’. This type of story requires intricate plot development. I used a variety of techniques – index cards, step outlines, reverse plotting. Ultimately, it comes down to time and research.
Above all, I wanted a story grounded in reality, and a page turner while being poignant and reflecting our times. I was gunning for gritty realism. I wanted to inject the story with the paranoia of “All the President’s Men” and the true-life drama of “In Cold Blood.”
Your book blends mystery, thriller, and police procedural elements—how do you balance these genres while maintaining suspense?
Clearly understanding the rules, conventions and tropes of each. That allows you to apply them more freely and organically. Basically, I’m saying knowing the rules allows you to break them.
As well, pacing is key when it comes to suspense and technique is a major factor in that. One example is referred to as the Fleming sweep. The creator of James Bond, would ‘sweep’ the reader from one chapter to the next by means of a cliffhanger, adding tension and forcing them to turn the page. It’s highly effective.
Nevertheless, with mysteries you cannot cheat! The author must give the reader the chance to solve the crime, which only adds to their suspense and engagement.
“Knowing the rules allows you to break them.” – Shaun Goldsmith
‘Diamond’ Mike Vogel is a compelling protagonist—was he inspired by any real-life detectives or literary figures?
Yes and yes.
Like any of my characters, he is a combination of parts. Different pieces of a fictional human puzzle. Elements of him are inspired by both literary characters and real-life detectives. What was crucial however, for him as a protagonist was not to be a stereotypical American detective. Also, I did not want him to be an all-knowing Sherlock Holmes/Hercule Poirot type. I wanted a genuine human being and authentic detective.
Your bio mentions a military background with top secret clearance—did any of your experiences influence the storyline or themes in The Spire?
Perhaps in some way. I think my military service was a desire for adventure and intrigue. Most of stories are built from research. It provides the avenues for your characters to go down.
Ultimately, my writing is a form of wish fulfillment. I’m just a middle aged many who uses toy guns and cars to flesh out scenes and live vicariously through his work.
How did your time teaching ESL in the Middle East shape your perspective as a writer?
My teaching forced me to look at my own writing with a more critical eye. Although I find it tedious, revising your work is an essential step in the writing process. My time there made me a better editor of their work, and ultimately my own. Plus, it was the most rewarding job I’ve ever had.
Your thriller screenplay Cold Autumn is in development—how does writing for film compare to writing a novel?
Historically, there has been an argument has to which is harder. Frankly, I’ve never understood it. To me, it’s as if two painters are arguing which is better – watercolour or oil? Each has a distinct purpose. A screenplay is a blueprint. You are bound to put on the page only what you see and what you hear. Nothing else! You must write concisely with great brevity. In contrast a novel allows you greater freedom to explore deeper, into the inner thoughts and feelings of a character
Either way, they both must move with rhythm and flow. Otherwise, you bore the reader and that – whether you write scripts or novels – is the cardinal sin of writing.
What advice would you give to aspiring authors looking to write complex and compelling stories like yours?
Invest in the front end. Don’t race to the keyboard. Plan your story. Know your story cold before you draft it. Follow the great Dame Agatha. Start with the murder. Build everything from there. You villain is the catalyst of your story. Who are they? What do they want? Why do they want it?
And of course, keep at it. Don’t quit. Don’t worry about writing a masterpiece. You must finish what you start.
Most of all, enjoy it! Love the writing you do. In the end, whatever fiction we write, we’re all writing some sort of fairytale.
“Start with the murder. Build everything from there.” – Shaun Goldsmith
EDITOR’S CHOICE
The Spire is a masterfully crafted thriller, combining intrigue, emotional depth, and unexpected twists that keep readers completely engrossed. Highly recommended!
