What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write To Thine Own Self Be True?
To Thine Own Self Be True started with a question: how would POWs fare in a near-future World War III? Nations claim to be civilized, but POW experiences from Vietnam, Korea, and the war with Iraq show that this is hardly the case. And if not… how would a bona fide Navy hero cope with facing the worst humanity has to offer as a POW?
He is a man accustomed to combat, stress, and leadership under dire circumstances, but his chosen weapons are missiles and torpedoes. This is bare-knuckled leadership. Worst of all, he’s leading a motley, international group of POWs, one of whom is determined to give information to the enemy. With no resources, no system, and while facing ruthless interrogations, can Captain Alex Coleman keep his people alive while counteracting the traitor in their midst?
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of To Thine Own Self Be True, what would they be?
“This Is Me,” from The Greatest Showman.
What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
Tossup between military thrillers and epic fantasy, and yes, I write both.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
David Weber, Toll of Honor; James D. Hornfischer, Who Can Hold the Sea; and Dr. Robert Ballard, Into the Deep.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
This will sound horrible, but the scene after some prisoners try to escape just flowed like you wouldn’t believe.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
Writing sprints are my superpower.
Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?
“I will try.”
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
Even the best leaders are human, and humans are fallible.
R.G. Roberts is the author of the new book To Thine Own Self Be True
Connect with R.G. Roberts
Author Site
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