Nice to See You AgainNice to See You Again
J Hirtle The Last Storyteller
Author Christine Richie Bomey talks with J Hirtle about her psychological thriller *Nice to See You Again*, the fears behind its stalking storyline, and the realities of indie publishing. Their chat touches on character creation, misdirection, editing and the courage it takes to share stories with the world.
31:10•7 Jul 2026
Christine Richie Bomey on Fear, Thrills and Taking the Leap into Indie Writing
Episode Overview
- Traumatic experiences can fuel believable thrillers, even when most of the story is crafted rather than autobiographical.
- Misdirection keeps readers engaged, but crossing into manipulation can break trust and push them away.
- Mentors, beta readers and a willingness to accept criticism strengthen both the story and the writer’s growth.
- Thoughtful cover design, created in partnership with an artist, can signal genre and mood without giving the plot away.
- Editing may be frustrating, but careful attention to details is vital before publishing and facing public reviews.
“I would say, don't be afraid. Be like the Nike commercials. Just do it.”
What can we learn from those who have battled addiction? Here, the focus shifts to storytelling as poet and host J Hirtle chats with psychological thriller author Christine Richie Bomey about her latest novel, *Nice to See You Again*. While the book sits firmly in the mystery and thriller space, the conversation keeps circling back to fear, resilience and the emotional weight people carry after traumatic experiences.
Christine explains that her story grew from watching a documentary on stalking and asking herself, "what does really happen to somebody who has been stalked?" The result is Lexi Stern, an independent woman trying to start over after a terrifying past, only to face the chilling possibility that it could all happen again. Christine admits roughly "25% would be personal" experience and "75% is more the writing", showing how she blends real emotion with crafted tension.
You’ll hear her talk about the fine line between misdirecting readers and manipulating them, insisting that pushing too far risks angering people and losing them entirely. She shares how twists often appear as she writes, and how leaving an open ending prompted readers to ask for a sequel – a reaction that made her "surprised, amazed and happy all at once".
There’s also plenty for aspiring indie authors: Christine chats about mentoring from fellow writer David, the value of beta readers and honest feedback, and why editing is a "necessary evil" where "the devil is in the details". Her passion is clear as she says she’d love to write full time and urges her past self, and anyone hesitating, "Don’t be afraid. Be like the Nike commercials.
Just do it." If you’re curious how ordinary life, unresolved experiences and a dose of courage can turn into page-turning fiction, this conversation may spark your own ideas – what stories are waiting inside you?
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