Back on January 13, 2022, I received the following email: “I am a retired Chicago PD Lieutenant. I have been retired almost 15 years and am good for about a book a week. I think your first book was outstanding and wish you more success.” It’s always rewarding to hear someone enjoyed RELENTLESS, but when it’s from someone with a law enforcement background, it’s validating. Over the next year, John and I exchanged several emails. Everything from his recollection of things that happened on the job to memories of growing up on Chicago’s North Side to books and authors. Like many Midwesterners, John and his wife, Joan, retired to Arizona. When I registered for Left Coast Crime in Tucson, I decided to also spend a few days in Scottsdale. As a result, I was able to meet them in person. The photo above was taken outside the restaurant where we had lunch. A true book lover, John brought along a prized possession, a copy of CATCH-22 signed by Joseph Heller.
Yes, writing is a solitary pursuit, but as an author I’ve had some great experiences—this was one of them!
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