John St. Clair interview

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

A little introduction:

Hi there! My name is John St. Clair, and I'm an author living in Northern Virginia, USA. After spending 27 years working in various positions revolving around my degree in computer science, I am privileged to be able to write full time now—which has always been a life long ambition. 

When did your love of books begin?

At a very early age, for sure. Both my parents were voracious readers, and they naturally instilled the love of reading to both me and my brother. I can remember spending countless hours at the library, and always seemed to be reading something new. I was lucky to be surrounded by lots of books, and so reading is like a second nature to me. 

When did you start to have the wish to become an author?

Certainly for as long as I can remember. I always find myself thinking about some story, or other, in my spare cycles. Characters, plots, universes, and dialog are always at the forefront of my mind. I very clearly recall a short story I wrote in the second grade entitled “Star Gate 9.” For an 8 year old at the time, it was a pretty ambitious space opera! What I wouldn't give to find and read that story again! Being a full-time author was always a lifelong ambition, and I feel ecstatic to finally have achieved that dream.

How have you found the process for becoming an author?

For me personally—pretty easy—because I love writing. However, to be frank, the process of becoming an author actually involves sitting down and putting words on paper. Lots of people dream of being an author—the successful ones take that first critical step. 

What would you say to those wanting to become an author?

I would say there's never a wrong time to begin! Whether you're a teenager or a senior citizen, I think it's great that you want to write your stories. So—just go and do it. Believe me, once you start getting your thoughts on the page, the rest will take care of itself. Don't worry if it's good enough—just write for yourself. If you're passionate about your story, and take the time to hone and craft your work, then it'll find an audience! Just keep in mind that like anything else, it takes time. The more effort—blood, sweat, and tears you invest—the bigger the payoff with your readers will be. And if your work never connects with anyone else, just remember that it connected with the most important reader of all— yourself! If you're thinking of writing—remember the adage about planting a tree. The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The next best time is right now! 

Tell us about your book/books:

My debut novel “Stalin's Door” was published in March 2021. As you can probably derive from the title, its genre is Russian historical fiction, and the story begins in the 1930s in Moscow. My book follows the lives of 3 distinct individuals who find themselves caught in the middle of what is called “The Great Terror.” I certainly didn't think that my first book would be in this genre— I would have bet science fiction. That said, I believe the story you're gonna tell your readers is within a genre that speaks to you already. This one certainly had a profound effect on me. It took me 5 long years to research, write, edit, and publish. Historical fiction demands intensive research to get it right, and to make it authentic. I didn't live in the 1930s, I've never been to Russia, and I don't speak Russian. That said, based upon the favorable reviews I've been privileged to have received, I think I've hit a home run.

What do you love about the writing/reading community?

The writing community, especially the Twitter #writingcommunity is a delight to be a part of. The folks I've met and engaged with in 2021, following the publication of my novel, have been welcoming and supportive! Everyone I interact with believes in a greater community spirit—that putting someone else first and focusing on their goals and objectives—will have a positive net effect for everyone involved. I've never been a part of a more caring and delightful group of individuals! It's truly refreshing. My only regret was not being active in the writing community for the time leading up to the publication of my novel. I could have learned so much more and avoided a lot of pitfalls! So, if you're not a part of the writing community now, just come and join us! Especially if you're not published yet! The amount of good ideas, advice, and support you'll receive is quite invaluable. And keep in mind—as hard as writing and publishing is going to be—it's not over when your book comes out. The next critical part is coming up with great marketing, so that you can reach the readers who are going to love your work! The writing community is filled with experts who have been down the path you're contemplating—come and share our knowledge!

If you could say anything to your readers what would it be?

I would love to take this opportunity to personally thank all my readers! YOU are magnificent and have really been super welcoming and and supportive towards my debut novel! Having found an audience that connects with my words, is tremendously inspiring! I am so excited to be on this path, and cannot wait to show you what is coming next! 

Where can people connect with you?

The very easiest way is to find me on Twitter. It's where I'm most active. My Twitter handle there is @uusaint. Come and say hi—I'd love to meet you!