What Inspired RoomMate: Writing the Thriller That Keeps You Guessing

When you think of chilling psychological thrillers, RoomMate sets itself apart not by relying on monsters or supernatural forces but by delving into the unsettling realities of human nature. The story follows Charlet—a self-made woman living a lavish life in Hollywood as a powerful producer. Beneath her glamorous exterior lies a mind shaped by trauma, obsession, and a deeply buried darkness. With twists and turns rooted in a realistic portrayal of a killer, RoomMatedelivers a gripping mystery that keeps readers on edge.

From Screenplay to Page

Originally written as a screenplay, RoomMate began as a collaboration project where writer ChadO envisioned a unique take on the thriller genre. Inspired by Jason Mewes, who was considered for the lead role, the screenplay presented a fresh version of the calculated, cold-blooded anti-hero, reminiscent of Dexter but with a distinctive edge. When it came time to rewrite the story as a novel, Olshavsky reimagined the character as a female serial killer—Charlet. This change added layers of complexity, creating a protagonist who is as fascinating as she is terrifying. Readers who purchase the book receive an exclusive PDF of the original screenplay, alongside a 20-page foreword from Olshavsky detailing the creative process and the journey from screenplay to novel.

A Killer Inspired by Life

Charlet’s character mirrors aspects of Olshavsky’s own experiences. Like Charlet, Olshavsky lived in Hollywood as a screenwriter but grew up in the South, and his Southern roots and personal encounters with trauma deeply influenced the narrative. While the book addresses gut-wrenching themes such as torture, abuse, and abduction, these elements aren’t included for shock value alone. Instead, they serve as a backdrop for a suspenseful mystery filled with unpredictable twists.

Olshavsky placed multiple trigger warnings on the book, acknowledging the visceral nature of its content. However, he’s quick to emphasize that RoomMate isn’t just a collection of dark moments. At its core, it’s an intricately crafted mystery that weaves together secrets, lies, and the psychological unraveling of its characters.

A Realistic Thriller That Keeps You Guessing

What sets RoomMate apart is its commitment to realism. Charlet isn’t a monstrous caricature or supernatural entity. She’s a woman who built her empire from the ground up, using her cunning, ambition, and charm to navigate the cutthroat world of Hollywood. Her Southern charm contrasts sharply with her calculated, often ruthless actions, making her a character readers can’t help but be captivated by—even as they fear her.

The story is full of old-school mystery and unexpected twists that will keep you guessing until the final page. With every revelation, the stakes climb higher, leaving readers questioning not only the motives of the characters but also their own perceptions of morality and justice.

Why RoomMate Is a Must-Read

Olshavsky has crafted a thriller that is both chilling and thought-provoking. The 20-page foreword provides a unique window into his creative process, shedding light on how his experiences and inspirations shaped the narrative. From its screenplay origins to its reinvention as a novel, RoomMate is a story that stands out in the psychological thriller genre.

If you’re looking for a book that explores the human psyche, delivers gut-wrenching drama, and keeps you hooked with its suspenseful twists, RoomMate is the perfect choice. Once you step into Charlet’s world, you won’t want to leave.