Episode 207 - When the hero lies to the reader.

Episode 207 - When the hero lies to the reader.

From Essential Guide to Writing a Novel by James Thayer

March 6, 2026 · 26 min

About this episode

This episode discusses techniques for creating an unreliable narrator and enhancing character thoughts in fiction writing.

Sometimes an unreliable narrator can be great fun to create, and great fun to read about. Here are techniques for developing a protagonist the reader learns not to trust. Also, how can we avoid dull interior monologue and instead show readers what a character is thinking? Support the show Buy the master class.

People in this episode

Host: James Thayer

Topics covered

  • unreliable narrator
  • character development
  • interior monologue
  • fiction writing
  • protagonist

Keywords

  • unreliable narrator
  • protagonist
  • interior monologue
  • fiction writing
  • character development

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