Interview with John Etterlee, Author of Retribution
21 Apr 2022
What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Retribution?
I write mainly military and spy thrillers. Of course, they are mostly fiction. But I do draw on world events and my own experiences in the Army to craft thrilling and realistic stories.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Retribution, what would they be?
It may be because I’m a child of the 80’s, and it might sound cheesy, but only one song comes to mind. It would be Danger Zone by Kenny Loggins, which happened to be written for the movie Top Gun.
What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
Yes, absolutely. My favorite genre is definitely thrillers. I write what I’d love to read!
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
Right now, the books on my list are Jack Carr’s THE DEVIL’S HAND, Brad Thor’s RISING TIGER, and Tom Clancy’s CHAIN OF COMMAND.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
Probably the opening scene. I love the creative process, especially the part that forms the setting and tone of a book.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
As a matter of fact, I do! I love to listen to music like Breaking Benjamin, Seether and old Def Leppard songs as I write while my Sphynx cat lays on my desk. He’s my mascot!
Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?
Yes, it’s more of a philosophy. I hate laziness. And I believe in setting goals. Nobody reaches those goals by being lazy.
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
That many of the characters in the book are based on real people.
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