The Englander received a 4+ star review, making it an IndieReader Approved title.
Following find an interview with author John Righten.
What is the name of the book and when was it published?
The Englander. Published 25 November 2022.
What’s the book’s first line?
“The brooding, granite-faced man with fixed, glacial-blue eyes stared down at the inscription in the desolate graveyard.”
What’s the book about? Give us the “pitch”.
A man stands by the freshly dug grave of his daughter. Behind him, assassins steal into the graveyard. It’s time for the Englander to face those who took those he loved.
What inspired you to write the book? A particular person? An event?
For thirty years, I was a volunteer truck driver on several medical aid convoys, and I wanted to base a fast-paced thriller on the larger-than-life characters I encountered – the good and the evil.
What’s the main reason someone should really read this book?
A dose of escapism is good for the soul when the world makes no sense.
What’s the most distinctive thing about the main character? Who-real or fictional-would you say the character reminds you of?
Connor Pierce, known as The Englander, is a former Irish Army Ranger, trained by some of the most elite and lethal security services around the world. But it is his tactical mind and quick wits that gives him the edge over more dangerous opponents. The Englander is based on the traits of several characters from my war convoy days.
When did you first decide to become an author?
In 2010, I lost dear friends, and that year I decided to tell their story and the tales of those I knew from my war convoy days.
Is this the first book you’ve written?
This is my tenth novel. I’ve also written my autobiography and a short, wry, play on writing, publishing and dealing with criticism, The ‘Pane’ of Rejection.’ Pane is a deliberate misspelling as it also discusses common spelling and grammar errors, but in a humourous (UK spelling), rather than dry way.
What do you do for work when you’re not writing?
I just completed my final medical aid mission to the Ukraine, and my day job is ‘Transactor’ for government.
How much time do you generally spend on your writing?
I write between 2 and 4pm every night.
What’s the best and the hardest part of being an indie?
The best part is freedom to write, which is denied to so many around the world. Writing is a joy, but the hardest part is marketing.
What’s a great piece of advice that you can share with fellow indie authors?
Don’t fear criticism. Often, critics are trying to be helpful, and if you heed their advice, the quality of your work can only improve. However, if the commentary is abusive, or is meant only to discourage you from writing, especially by someone you don’t know, ignore it. Have faith in yourself and take comfort from the fact that trolls always look the part.
Would you go traditional if a publisher came calling? If so, why?
Of course. Working with experts was the secret of the success of the war convoys, and the same goes with publishing. Expert advice helps ensure that your work is of the highest quality and is marketed through major outlets to reach more readers.
Is there something in particular that motivates you (fame? fortune?).
The joy of writing thrilling adventures that provide enjoyment to those who love the genre.
Which writer, living or dead, do you most admire?
George Orwell.
Which book do you wish you could have written?
Catch 22