Welcome to Story Deep Dive!
In this episode, Dana and Rachel dig into the intricate plot mechanics of The Whistleblower by Robert Peston.
Whether you're a crime writer, thriller lover, or just a story structure nerd, you’ll gain valuable insights into crafting layered investigations, writing emotionally resonant mysteries, and keeping tension high from scene to scene.
You can also watch the video version of this podcast on YouTube!
Estimate Timestamps
00:00 – Welcome Back + What We’re Working On
Rachel shares an update on the second edition of her Complete Crime Writer’s Workbook, including early reader feedback, revisions, and why clarity matters. Dana reveals what’s been happening behind the scenes in DTW and how monthly public workshops have reshaped her approach to teaching and content strategy.
12:32 – Book Overview + Why This Story Matters
Rachel gives a spoiler-free setup of The Whistleblower and explains why it’s a masterwork for crime writers. Dana talks about how it challenged her reader expectations and what it taught her about complexity in story structure.
19:15 – Crime Writing Essentials in This Book
Rachel breaks down the core building blocks of great crime fiction—starting with why your protagonist’s profession is more than just a backstory detail. Together, Dana and Rachel explore how this choice influences conflict, pacing, and investigative dynamics.
33:01 – Writing Investigative Scenes That Drive the Story
What makes an investigative scene compelling? Learn how to use tension, pivot points, and goal-obstacle strategies to make each conversation, confrontation, and clue feel essential.
45:47 – Using Layered Information to Create Twists + Turns
Rachel outlines how Peston masterfully uses layers of information to create conspiracy, build suspense, and increase stakes—without ever slowing the story down. Dana relates this technique to character-driven suspense, dark romance, and fantasy plotting.
1:04:08 – Emotional Resonance in a Crime Plot
What happens when your mystery is also personal? Dana and Rachel explore how grief, guilt, and internal transformation can be deeply embedded into the external plot—and why it makes readers care more.
Book Selection
1997. A desperate government clings to power; a hungry opposition will do anything to win. And journalist Gil Peck watches from the sidelines, a respected commentator on the sport of power politics. He thinks he knows how things work. He thinks he knows the rules.
But when Gil's estranged sister Clare dies in a hit-and-run, he begins to believe it was no accident. Clare knew some of the most sensitive secrets in government. One of them might have got her killed.
As election day approaches, Gil follows the story into the dark web of interests that link politics, finance and the media. And the deeper he goes, the more he realises how wrong he has been.
But power isn't sport: it's war. And if Gil doesn't stop digging, he might be the next casualty...
Where to Find the Book
The Whistleblower by Robert Peston is available in physical formats. It’s also widely available in libraries and online retailers. Details on the author’s website.
Next Episode:
In the next episode, Dana and Rachel will dive into the characters of The Whistleblower—especially Gil Peck—and how to write a deeply flawed protagonist that readers still want to follow. Don’t miss it!
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Connect with Rachel and Dana at www.storydeepdive.com to keep the discussion going!
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