By Roger Bray | Author Interviews | Psychological Thriller Insights
In this exclusive author interview, Roger Bray speaks with award-winning Canadian thriller author Kim Cresswell about creating high-stakes suspense, unforgettable characters, and the psychology behind compelling storytelling in psychological thriller books and crime fiction books.
Whether you love fast-paced thriller books, twist-driven psychological thrillers, or emotionally charged suspense novels, author interviews like this reveal how real writers build the tension and human behaviour that make modern thrillers so addictive.
Explore more conversations with thriller writers inside our Author Interviews & Psychological Thriller Insights Hub
AUTHOR INTERVIEW: MEET KIM CRESSWELL
First off, thank you for having me on your blog. I am the award-winning Canadian author of the action-packed WHITNEY STEEL series featuring investigative reporter Whitney Steel. I write action-packed thrillers and true crime.
I’ve also published Kindle Worlds novellas featuring characters from my Whitney Steel series.
How long have you been writing?
I’ve been writing since I was a teenager and decided to take it seriously in 2012 when I published my first book.
Tell us about your most recent book
My most recent book is RESURRECT (Whitney Steel Book Three).
Whitney Steel is back chasing the next big story when she uncovers a deadly biological threat involving a new chimera virus. As she digs deeper, she discovers a hidden conspiracy that could change everything.
A swiftly-paced page-turner that pulls you in and doesn’t let go until the gripping end. – Rick Mofina
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AUTHOR INTERVIEW: KIM CRESSWELL ON HER WRITING PROCESS
Do you have a specific writing process?
I’m a plotter. I always write the back cover blurb first, then plot each chapter before writing. The plot can change as I go.
What do you love about writing?
I love disconnecting from the real world and creating my own. I love bringing characters to life.
Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?
Write. Read. Study your craft. And keep writing.
“The best thrillers don’t just surprise us — they reveal uncomfortable truths about human nature.”
WHY READERS LOVE PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLERS AND CRIME FICTION
Readers are drawn to psychological thriller books and crime fiction books because they reflect real human behaviour under pressure.
These stories explore:
- moral ambiguity
- hidden motives
- emotional tension
- psychological conflict
- unpredictable human behaviour
👉 Learn more: why psychological thriller books are inspired by real human behaviour
👉 Explore more: how crime fiction books explore psychology and emotion
FIND YOUR PSYCHOLOGICAL READING TYPE
Not all readers experience thrillers the same way.
Some love manipulation and mind games.
Some love investigation and logic.
Some love emotional suspense and slow-burn tension.👉 Download the FREE Psychological Reader Types Guide
Find your psychological reading type and discover books matched to your mind
WHAT KIM CRESSWELL IS WORKING ON NEXT
I’m currently working on DEADLY SHADOW, the first book in the Assassin Chronicles series.
It follows FBI Agent Victory McClane as she investigates a serial killer tied to a government assassin program and a decades-old mystery.
Kim Cresswell has released an even newer book titled: All the Bad Girls: A heart-pounding Special Agent Lexi Stone suspense thriller.
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✔ Free Psychological Reader Types Guide
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FROM REAL HUMAN BEHAVIOUR TO FICTION THAT GRIPS YOU
Great psychological thriller books are powerful because they feel real.
They are built from fear, desire, secrecy, and emotional pressure — the same forces that shape real human decisions.
If you enjoyed this interview, explore Roger Bray’s psychological thriller universe.
👉 Explore the Roger Bray psychological thriller books collection
FAQs, AUTHOR INTERVIEW: KIM CRESSWELL
What is an author interview?
An author interview gives insight into how writers create stories, build characters, and develop ideas behind thriller books and crime fiction.
Why are psychological thriller books so popular?
They explore human psychology, suspense, and moral conflict, making readers question what they would do in similar situations.
What makes crime fiction books different from psychological thrillers?
Crime fiction focuses on solving crimes, while psychological thrillers focus on the emotional and mental state of characters.
How do authors create suspense in thriller books?
They use pacing, uncertainty, hidden motives, and psychological tension.
Why do readers enjoy suspense novels?
Suspense novels create emotional anticipation and keep readers engaged through uncertainty and tension.
Find more about Kim at her WEBSITE
