Miranda Armstadt interview

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

A little introduction:

I am a multi-genre author, currently working on my second novel. My first—‘Cut Back to Life’—is a very adult romantic suspense story. Now working on a historical fiction novel based on my father’s time with the US State Department in Cold War Yugoslavia—a World War II/Cold War espionage thriller. It’s looking like there will be a sequel to that as well. So lots of writing ahead.

When did your love of books begin?

I really loved fairy tales as a little girl. Grimm’s, Disney, Perrault (he was a French 17^th century author, and wrote some of the original versions of classics like Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, and Puss in Boots).

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

I always was a writer, but more in the realm of hard news. Fiction writing, I took up about four years ago, when I wrote ‘Cut Back to Life.’

How have you found the process for becoming an author?

It’s always challenging and tests your mettle.

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

This is not a career to pursue for money or fame. Maybe one percent will achieve those in their lifetimes. Many authors we admire today were less successful in their own times. Write because you have a story to tell. It’s amazing to think that perhaps two centuries from now—or even more—your words may affect a reader deeply.

Tell us about your book/books:

‘Cut Back to Life’ is the story of an A-list movie star in her sixties who goes to L.A.’s top neurosurgeon when she needs spinal fusion surgery. From there, both their lives change forever, as they are forced to face both their demons and their dreams. It delves into some of the #MeToo issues in Hollywood, from a very real perspective.

The work-in-progress is based on my parents’ real letters from their years in service to the US State Department, which isn’t always just about diplomacy. Especially during the Cold War era of the 1950s and 60s. It will be more than an espionage thriller—readers will get a backstage look at how governments become a puppeteer in steering the media and information, which continues to have significant relevance today. There are several love stories, and we see how living a secret existence has a ripple effect on everyone it touches. I expect to have this novel out by early 2024.

What do you love about the writing/reading community?

It’s fascinating to share our triumphs, roadblocks, even our failures. No matter what genre you write in (or enjoy reading), all writers share the common journey of creating a story out of air. It’s quite a feat when you think about it. Then to get feedback from readers is extraordinary.

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

Thank you so much for choosing my books out of the millions available to you.

Where can people connect with you?

At my website: https://miranda-armstadt.com/