112: Nikki Smith on Destination Thrillers, Big Hooks and Why the Best Twists Feel Inevitable

This week I'm joined by bestselling author Nikki Smith, whose latest novel The Last Place You Look is a psychological thriller that takes readers from an exclusive gated community in Surrey to a luxury safari lodge in South Africa.

Known for her addictive destination thrillers, Nikki shares how she chooses the stunning locations for her novels, why she believes every great hook has to deliver on its promise, and how she balances meticulous plotting with surprises that emerge during the writing process.

We also chat about her journey from accountant to bestselling novelist, the creative writing course that changed everything, and the return of the much-loved In Suspense podcast.

Plus, Nikki recommends two brilliant books you won't want to miss.

• The Death of Us — Abigail Dean
• The Scandalous Ladies' Football Club — Frances Quinn

Find Nikki here: https://www.instagram.com/nikkismith_author/

Buy The Last Place You Look: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/the-last-place-you-look-nikki-smith/7b9d57401e4d544a?ean=9781405976121&next=t