Jan Gangsei on Writing YA Thrillers That Teens Devour

What was supposed to be the ultimate spring break getaway—four girls, no parents, a luxury yacht in the Caribbean—quickly turns into a deadly mystery. One heiress disappears. Another is accused. And nothing is as it seems.We sit down with former journalist and bestselling author Jan Gangsei to discuss her latest young adult thriller, Dead Below Deck. With themes of wealth, privilege, PTSD, social media influence, and the price of loyalty, Gangsei crafts a compelling reverse-chronology mystery that explores what happens when secrets surface.From boarding school dynamics to mega yachts and murder mysteries, Dead Below Deck is a must-read for YA and thriller fans alike. Discover how Gangsei’s background in journalism and military life shaped the layers of this unforgettable novel—and why no one saw the twist ending coming.