Interview with John Etterlee, Author of Blood Red

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Blood Red?

The current conflict in Ukraine inspired me to write the book. I thought it would be an interesting story to include a top secret team (which may or may not be true) working with Ukraine behind the scenes to keep Russia from expanding and infringing on sovereign nations.

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

I think I would have to go with Blow Me Away by Breaking Benjamin. It’s such a powerful song that seems like it would be the perfect theme song for war and Rob Walker.

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

It certainly is. My favorite genre is, by far thriller books.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Currently I am working on Armored by Mark Greaney, Rising Tiger by Brad Thor, and Rouge Asset by Andrews & Wilson. But the amount I’ve been writing lately leaves little time to read.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

My favorite scene would probably be the explosion in Poland. I don’t want to give it away for those who haven’t read it yet. But I think it added a nice plot-twist to the book.

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

Well, I always have a hot cup of coffee from my Keurig and a couple Sphynx cats laying around me in my office. They are basically my mascots. I have photos of them jumping onto my desk and giving me face rubs.

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

Yes, I do. It is actually a poem written by Marianne Williamson called, “Our deepest Fear“ If anyone reading this has never read the poem I encourage them to give it a Google. It’s very good life advice!

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

It would be that the books I write are written from military experience. I try to be as real as I possibly can with locations, gear, equipment, etc…

John Etterlee is the author of the new book Blood Red

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