John Anthony Miller interview
AUTHOR INTERVIEW
A little introduction:
I write all things historical—thrillers, mysteries, and romance. My novels are set in exotic locations spanning all eras of space and time, with complex characters forced to face inner conflicts, fighting demons both real and imagined. Each of my nine novels are unique: a Medieval epic, two Jazz Age mysteries, a Cold-War thriller, a 1970’s cozy/romance, and four WWII thrillers, including the award-winning novel, When Darkness Comes. I live in southern New Jersey with my family.
When did your love of books begin?
My love of books began at the age of seven, when I read a Hardy Boys book, The Viking Symbol Mystery. I was hooked from then on, and I now read constantly—research for the historical novels I write, as well as mysteries, historical fiction and the classics.
When did you start to have the wish to become an author?
I think I’ve wanted to become an author since an early age, but never thought publication was achievable. I wrote several books but never revised or submitted them until about ten years ago, when I decided to take an internet writing class. The instructor was a New York editor who, coincidentally, lived not far from me. This class led to one-on-one instruction, the completion of a new novel, finding an agent, and subsequent publication. I’m now a full-time author, with nine novels published and three more in the publishing queue.
How have you found the process for becoming an author?
I think the process to become an author is daunting, and takes skill (never stop working to improve your craft), luck, and connecting with the right people. There are many very talented authors who never get published, and there are many mediocre authors who are best-sellers. It’s a mystery to me.
What would you say to those wanting to become an author?
I think for those that want to become authors, the best advice I can give is to write. The more you write, the better you get. Try to write every day, even if your life is so busy you can only spare ten or fifteen minutes—I think then routine is important. And then when you think you’ve written and polished your book, or story, or poem, then submit it. And don’t give up. Every author has hundreds of rejections—if not more.
Tell us about your book/books:
My books all have a historical theme, but I like to do something different with each one, a different time period or even a slightly different genre. I write historical thrillers and mysteries, a touch of romance now and then, but what drives me to complete a manuscript is my interest in the time period and the location. If I start a book, and lose interest in the research, I set it aside for another day and move on to something else.
What do you love about the writing/reading community?
What I love most about the writing community is how many strong friendships I’ve formed across a broad spectrum. I’ve become friends with many writers and readers. I’ve actually become such good friends with one of the book clubs that follow me, that I know the names of their children, their favorite movies, and even their hobbies. I find these personal relationships to be very rewarding.
If you could say anything to your readers what would it be?
Thank you all so much for using my books to escape from reality for a few hours. I’m honored and privileged for the connection, and I enjoy our interactions.
Where can people connect with you?
Facebook: www.facebook.com/authorjohnamiller/
Twitter - twitter.com/authorjamiller
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