Interview with Owen Greer, Author of The Hunter

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write The Hunter?

Watching the American withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021 was painful. Over 20 years in country fighting the Taliban, al Qaeda, ISIS, and other foreign fighters, we lost thousands of soldiers, sailors, Marines, airmen, government agency personnel and civilian contractors. The hasty withdrawal did not do justice to the men and women who rotated through Afghanistan, fighting an enemy abroad so we would never have to see them on our shores again like we did on 9/11. Watching this unfold on the news made me think of all of the trusted Afghan partners who fought alongside our personnel – who were now being left behind. This story is about one brave American military operator who defies his orders and stays behind to protect his friend, an Afghan ally, who, alongside his family, is now a target for the Taliban.

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

“Brothers in Arms” by Dire Straits.

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

Military Special Operations Espionage Thrillers. Yes, it is the same genre as my book.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Left of Boom (Douglas Laux and Ralph Pezzullo) and Damascus Station (David McCloskey).

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

It’s hard for me to pick just one scene. I really enjoyed writing the dialogue between Devereaux and Deigo when they first meet. Here, we see Devereaux’s intellect as he manipulates Diego into believing he’s in charge, but it’s really Devereaux pulling the strings. The scene at the Islamabad Polo Club is a fun respite and much-needed section of levity after such a heavy passage in Afghanistan with Amir and his family. Finally, I loved writing the exchange between Devereaux and Babcock in the Mexican jungle. I wanted to juxtapose Devereaux’s confidence in his abilities against his lack of self-preservation.

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

Just writing in a quiet place preferably on a beach or with a scenic view. Now that I’m older, nothing happens without my reading glasses.

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

It’s not always about the end point, but the journey along the way. Make it a fun ride.

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

The character Martin Devereaux – his bravery and skills along with the flaws that make him human.

Owen Greer is the author of the new book The Hunter

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