Interview with Morley Swingle, Author of Songs From Dead Eyes

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write this book?

In real life, I was a district attorney for many years. I prosecuted over 100 homicide cases. I wanted to write a series of thrillers starring a prosecutor (or, in Wyatt’s case, a former prosecutor) that are true to life while still being page-turners. Songs From Dead Eyes is the fourth book in the Wyatt Blake series but can be read as a standalone.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of your book, what would they be?

As I was making a TikTok about Songs From Dead Eyes, I realized that Taylor Swift’s “I Did Something Bad” is the perfect theme song for private investigator Harper Easton, who is faced with a dark moral dilemma in this thriller.

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

My favorite genre is mystery thrillers. I have been a member of Mystery Writers of America for over 20 years. I’m a genre-jumping mood reader and will read anything so long as it is hard to put down. Good storytelling is good storytelling, no matter the genre.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

I am currently reading through the back catalog of Allen Eskens, another lawyer who is a wonderful thriller author. I’ve recently discovered Kristin Hannah and Jennifer Hillier. When I find a new author I like, I burn through their books.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

The climax of Songs From Dead Eyes is one of my favorite scenes in all the books I’ve written. I also love the twists and surprises I pulled, too, but no spoilers here!

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I joined BookTok on TikTok a year ago and have been making funny and/or informative book-related videos ever since. I limit myself to one per day. They are addictive!

Do you have a motto, quote or philosophy you live by?

“Do the right thing. It will gratify some people and astonish the rest.” — Mark Twain. I try to live by it. Don't always succeed.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

Even dark times can have happy endings.