ThrillerFest XX: Where Crime Meets Craft in the Heart
Pitchwars – ThrillerFest XX, set to run from June 17 to 21 in New York City, kicks off its 20th annual celebration with some of the most iconic names in thriller fiction. As the first line of the program suggests, “Where crime meets craft,” the festival delivers just that an immersive experience for writers, readers, and industry professionals passionate about suspense and mystery. Thriller legends like John Grisham and Janet Evanovich will headline this year’s event. Offering attendees the rare chance to learn directly from the masters.
Organized by the International Thriller Writers (ITW), ThrillerFest XX is more than just a fan convention it’s a professional gateway. Writers from around the world gather not only to meet their literary heroes. But also to refine their own craft in a high-energy environment dedicated entirely to thriller storytelling.
“India and South Korea Join Forces to Combat Terror”
Masterclasses That Go Beyond the Basics
A major highlight of ThrillerFest XX is the series of intensive masterclasses led by bestselling authors. These sessions cover core storytelling techniques from building tension and plotting fast-paced narratives to shaping complex characters. With John Grisham sharing insights from his decades-long career in legal thrillers and Janet Evanovich offering her signature wit and wisdom on writing compelling series. Participants can expect hands-on learning that pushes their writing to the next level.
These masterclasses aren’t just lectures they’re interactive, encouraging real-time feedback and deeper discussion. For many attendees, it’s the most valuable part of the week.
PitchFest: Your Gateway to Publishing
Another central event at ThrillerFest XX is PitchFest, where aspiring authors present their book ideas directly to agents and publishers. It’s a rare opportunity for face-to-face networking that has led to dozens of success stories in past years.
In addition to daily panel discussions on the state of publishing, market trends, and the evolution of thriller fiction, ThrillerFest XX continues to serve as a launchpad for fresh talent and a hub for seasoned veterans. Ultimately, for anyone with a passion for crime fiction, it’s an unmissable week where creativity and opportunity collide.
