Interview with John Chirillo, Author of Reborn

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Reborn (The Reborn Chronicles Book 1)?

Reborn started with one question I couldn’t get out of my head: What happens when a person is pulled between two worlds—science and faith—and suddenly discovers something that challenges everything they believe? I’ve spent my life in cybersecurity and tech, but I’ve always been fascinated by the unseen parts of the human experience—intuition, belief, connection. This book grew out of that curiosity and out of a desire to tell a story where ordinary people are pushed into extraordinary situations that test who they really are.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Reborn (The Reborn Chronicles Book 1), what would they be?

• Jonah: “Demons” by Imagine Dragons — fits his inner struggle and awakening.
• Dina: “Warrior” by Avril Lavigne — strong, loyal, and driven.
• Livvy: “A Sky Full of Stars” by Coldplay — hopeful, luminous, bigger than the moment.
• Dr. Vogs: “Control” by Halsey — cold, calculating, obsessed with power.

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

I love reading YA fantasy and supernatural thrillers — anything with emotion, mystery, and a sense of wonder. That’s definitely aligned with what I enjoy writing now. Stories that explore identity, connection, and “what if” moments have always pulled me in, and writing in the same space feels natural.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

I’ve got a mix of YA fantasy and thrillers stacked up: The Nature of Witches by Rachel Griffin, The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes, and Gleanings from the Arc of a Scythe series. I like reading widely across the YA and thriller space to stay inspired and keep my storytelling sharp.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

One of my favorite scenes between Jonah and Dina is the moment when they finally let their guards down and talk honestly about what Jonah is experiencing. They’re sitting together—just the two of them—away from the noise of everything happening around them. Jonah is scared of the changes he feels inside, unsure whether what’s happening to him is something supernatural, spiritual, or something darker. Dina doesn’t try to fix him or give him answers; she simply listens, pushes him to breathe, and reminds him he isn’t facing this alone. It’s quiet and intimate, but it’s the first time Jonah realizes that Dina isn’t just someone helping him through the chaos—she’s someone who sees him, believes in him, and anchors him in a world that suddenly feels unstable. Their connection deepens not because of action, but because of vulnerability, and that moment becomes a turning point in the way they trust each other moving forward.

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

I definitely write with a certain atmosphere — low light, a single lamp, and instrumental music that sets the mood. I also tend to write in long, uninterrupted bursts once I get going. No cats on my lap, but plenty of coffee, and probably too many late-night writing sessions when the house is silent.

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

“Stay curious.” It applies to everything — technology, relationships, writing, and the world around us. Curiosity keeps you honest, open, and willing to explore the things you don’t understand yet.

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

That we’re more connected than we realize. Even when we feel alone, isolated, or unsure of our path, we influence and support each other in ways we don’t always see. That theme sits at the center of Reborn and carries through the whole series.

John Chirillo is the author of the new book Reborn (The Reborn Chronicles Book 1)

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