This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. One randomly chosen winner via rafflecopter will win a $50 Amazon/BN.com gift card. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.
Thank you for joining us at It's Raining Books. Why did you start writing?
I felt like I had something to say, and writing was a way to express myself. I started blogging for The Huffington Post, writing about politics, history, travel, sports, popular culture – whatever had me in the mood. And as with everything in life, the more I wrote, the better I got at it. At some point, I thought it was time to take a shot at a book.
Did you ever think it would pay the bills? Or do you hope that one day it will?
No, it’s always been a hobby. I’m fortunate – I’ve had a rewarding professional career, which has alleviated any pressure to write for commercial sales. I write what I want, when I want. And I love that.
Who is your favorite author? Why?
I have many favorites, but I consistently enjoy Jeff Shaara’s books, mostly because of his unique storytelling style of giving the reader different perspectives. In his war stories, you witness most events thorough the eyes of a foot soldier, a general, and an adversary. I love those competing perspectives. But I’ll also say Shaara’s last book was somewhat of a dud – proof we’re all human and fallible.
Have you ever received a rejection letter? If so, how did you recover?
I imagine every published author has. It’s part of our growing pains, but you just can’t take it personally. Publishers are making business decisions, and that’s all they are. It’s not a commentary on the quality of your writing.
Do your books simply come to you, or do you struggle for each chapter?
I wouldn’t call it a struggle, it’s all part of the writing process, and I make quite a few course corrections on the path to finishing a sotry. Sometimes, you realize a subplot or character just isn’t working, and you need to cut it loose and try something different. Every author knows that’s a thousand times easier said than done.
What is one genre or sub-genre you wish you could try writing in?
Young adult. I want to try writing something that my 16-year-old self would fall in love with.
Honorable Profession: A Novel of American Politics is a compelling, hopeful story of a cynical former Secret Service agent and his idealistic daughter as they follow a longshot candidate into the perilous arena of presidential politics.
After resigning from his agency under an ethical cloud, 46-year-old Dan Cahill commits himself to rebuilding his relationship with Megan, the college-aged daughter in Las Vegas he has long neglected. She persuades a reluctant Cahill to join the student-led campaign of a popular professor competing in the Nevada presidential primary against impossible odds. As they face powerful forces conspiring to clear the field, Cahill's deep-seated disdain for electoral politics collides with Megan's higher ideals. Each of their faiths are tested by political allies and adversaries, all desperate for victory, no matter the costs.
Crafted by award-winning author Andy Kutler, Honorable Profession is an absorbing, modern-day political drama filled with authentic and indelible characters, each struggling with their own loyalties and principles as they duel with unscrupulous rivals and the meaning of public service
Read an Excerpt
A waiter removed the unfinished salads and set down their main courses. Tilapia for him, penne pasta in arrabbiata sauce for her. Neither reached for a fork, and Anna sat expressionless, her eyes burning into him. Finally, she moved her plate aside and rested her chin again on her folded hands.
“Forty minutes now, we’ve known each other. Every political instinct in my body is telling me to laugh off your question. Tell you you’re misreading things and assure you I’m going to Washington because I believe I can do more good there, and better serve the people of my state.”
It was like he hit a nerve. “I didn’t mean to suggest you don’t care about people. You have—”
“I’m far from perfect, Dan, and I have my share of shortcomings. But dishonesty isn’t one of them. I’m going to Washington because I believe I can do far more good there, and for far more people.”
She paused, taking a long sip from her wine as she contemplated her next words.
“And yes, you’re right, there’s more to the story. But sharing that with a stranger would be more than reckless. Just like it’s unwise, if not self-destructive, to continue this conversation.”
“And yet we’re still talking.”
“And yet we’re still talking.”
“Vic is a phone call away.”
Anna leaned forward again, her eyes exploring his. “What is this between you and me? Or do you not have any idea what I’m talking about?”
He knew exactly what she was talking about. “I – I don’t know.”
About the Author:
Website: https://www.andykutler.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andykutlerfanpage
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AndyKutler
Buy Links:
https://www.amazon.com/Honorable-Profession-Novel-American-Politics/dp/1684338891
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/honorable-profession-andy-kutler/1140042789
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Thanks for hosting!
ReplyDeleteI have enjoyed the tour. Sounds like a great book.
ReplyDeleteFun! Thanks for hosting. What a fun interview.
ReplyDeleteI love the cover and think the book sounds good.
ReplyDeleteGreat interview and excerpt, Andy, I enjoyed following the tour and learning about your book, which sounds like a fascinating and thrilling read for my dad and me! Good luck with your book and I hope the tour was a success! Thanks for sharing it with me and have a terrific day!
ReplyDeleteI hope you do write YA.
ReplyDelete