The Círculo Ecuestre welcomed writer, publicist, and change management professor Iván de Cristóbal for the presentation of his book, "Nos falta un muerto" (We're Missing a Dead Man), a thriller about an eternal love that transcends the death of a loved one.
The Barcelona-born author engaged in conversation with Helena Torras, a member of the Círculo Ecuestre's Governing Board and moderator of the event. He offered a large audience of readers a comprehensive presentation of his novels, delivering a masterclass on crafting stories that captivate, move, and linger in the reader's memory.
During the session, titled "No Twist, No Bestseller," the author explained the essence of his two latest books. Regarding "Sala de espera" (Waiting Room), Iván de Cristóbal emphasized that it "tells the story of two women in their own waiting rooms, each about to learn the outcome of a conflict they themselves have created due to their convictions and values." Regarding his book, "We're Missing a Dead Person," he explained that the work deals with "how to navigate grief in the technological age we live in," a theme he considers especially relevant in a world where the digital presence of those who have passed away remains very much alive.
Iván also shared his ten tips for aspiring writers, with recommendations ranging from crafting a solid story to the importance of having your own experiences before writing about them. "Don't write without a story. If you don't have a story, don't write," he stated, emphasizing that "an ending can save a bad film. An ending is emotion. Because that's what you'll take home with you."
The author reflected on the importance of narrative twists, reader retention, and the transformative impact of a story—elements he considers fundamental not only in literature but in any narrative, even when applied to brands or personal branding. Furthermore, he spoke about how each book is also a learning exercise: while the first was built with a very detailed plan, the second allowed for more creative freedom, letting himself be guided by the characters and delving deeper into their development.
Beyond technique, Iván emphasized the importance of connecting with readers and choosing themes of genuine interest. In the case of ‘Nos falta un muerto’ (We're Missing a Dead Man), grief and loneliness were chosen not only for their emotional weight but also for their social relevance: according to data he shared during the session, "20% of Spaniards suffer from unwanted loneliness, and 49% of young people have considered suicide at least once in their lives."
During the meeting at the Barcelona club, the writer showed that writing is a path of shared experiences, learning, and emotions. He also stressed that the goal of any story is not only to entertain but to touch the reader, leave a lasting impression, and, above all, generate emotion that endures long after the last page.