Interview with Stephen Johnson, Author of The Royal Road

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

I have always been fascinated by history and how events from the past can help shape our present and future. When I lived in Nevada, entire towns were emerging in the Lake Mead area due to the drought and the lake receding. After the hurricanes in 2024 reshaped areas of the Florida coast, I contemplated a story where a pirate ship and its treasure emerged from the chaos and how ancestors on both sides (hero and villain) would pursue it.

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

I actually try to include music in my books. My main character has a terrible singing voice, but that does not stop him from singing in his vehicle. In this book, I like to include Linkin Park’s new song “The Emptiness Machine.” Because he has a young client, she is a Taylor Swift fan, and her music is also referenced.

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

I enjoy crime novels, thrillers, and military fiction. But I am always open to new authors and genres if they have a compelling story and great characters.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

My TBR list right now is mainly thrillers: Ironwood by Michael Connelly, The Monster I Keep by Shade Owens, Blood Sport by Cameron Curtis.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

While I enjoy doing the fight scenes, in this book my favorite scenes were the letter that Lorelei writes to her daughter, which is discovered in the mysterious box.

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

Unfortunately, I don’t have any quirky habits. I need to have some background noise on when I write, either the TV or music.

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

Never give up.

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

Family. Be it the family you are born into or the family you make on your own through the years. Surround yourself with people who will always be there to pull you up when you need it.