Author Interview – Zander Hatch – Rose Island

On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment eBook magazine UK“, Zander Hatch talks about Rose Island which sees former Marine Jake Harper lead a special ops team to a secret Cold War island during a hurricane, where they battle mercenaries and uncover deadly secrets.

Written by JJ Barnes

www.jjbarnes.co.uk

I interviewed Zander Hatch about his life and career, what inspired him to write his new book, Rose Island, and his creative writing process.

Tell me a bit about who you are.

I’m Zander Hatch. I recently separated from military service after serving 10 years in the Marine Corps. I’m a first-time author of my debut novel, Rose Island.

When did you first WANT to write a book?

The first time I wanted to write a book was when I was 14 and it was this book I’m releasing, although the plot and details have changed considerably.

When did you take a step to start writing?

I started writing short stories when I was around the age of 12 or 13.

How long did it take you to complete your first book from the first idea to release?

From the first idea to release, it was taken Rose Island over 14 years.

What made you want to write Rose Island?

The desire to create a world and craft a story, to give readers something fun to read. I’m a big fan of 80’s and 90’s action movies because I thought they were awesome and so cool, I had fun watching them. I wanted to see if I could create something similar.

What were your biggest challenges with writing Rose Island?

The biggest challenge was with the editing process. An earlier version of the book was slowed down with even more action set pieces and other characters and I had to learn how to streamline the book so that it flowed more efficiently. I really liked those parts, but I had to cut them in order to make a better book, which I think it is.

Who or what inspired you when creating your Protagonist?

My own background as a Marine inspired the Marine background of the main character, Jake Harper, although it is vastly different in terms of experience. His green eyes are borrowed from Clive Cussler’s novels featuring Dirk Pitt; the books that got me into reading. His drive to fight and win despite overwhelming odds are inspired by the action heroes of the 80’s and 90’s and by Matthew Reilly’s Scarecrow novels.

Who or what inspired you when creating your Antagonist?

I wanted to make the character of Walter O’Neal as evil and narcissistic as possible, just no way anyone would root for him. If he were real, he’d probably be diagnosed as a psychopath or sociopath.

What is the inciting incident of Rose Island?

A reconnaissance team’s flight is shot down after intercepting radio signals from a mysterious island erased from the maps and it’s Cold War history forgotten.

What is the main conflict of Rose Island?

Jake Harper and his team must rescue those of the downed reconnaissance flight as they race against a hurricane and armed mercenaries, unraveling their motives and the secrets of the island in the process.

Did you plot Rose Island in advance, or fly by the seat of your pants and write freely?

I will generally have the basic plot down and an idea of the bigger scenes briefly outlined out. I try to plan it scene by scene, but I always add stuff or move things around. I tend to do more flying by the seat of my pants than planning it out in detail.

Did you get support with editing, and how much editing did Rose Island need?

Yes, I worked with editors from Izzard Ink Publishing. Looking back now that it’s finished, the book needed quite a bit of editing. The book was overstuffed to put it simply. I’m glad I went through it because I learned a lot.

What is the first piece of writing advice you would give to anyone inspired to write a story?

Just write it, not every earth-shattering advice I know. To me, even if no one reads my book and it completely flops, I can say I accomplished my dream of publishing a book and I’m proud of that. Will it be good and will others like it, you’ll never know unless you try.

Can you give me a hint about any further books you’re planning to write?

Yes, this book if the first of a seven-book series that I have planned, don’t hold me to that number. I’m currently writing the sequel and there’s a hint to its setting towards the end of Rose Island. I even have an idea for a spin-off novel.

And, finally, are your proud of your accomplishment? Was it worth the effort?

Absolutely. Since I can remember I’ve always wanted to be author and its awesome to see it finally happen. It was a lot of work, and stressful at times, but I’m glad I did it.

Pop all your book, website and social media links here so the readers can find you:

https://zanderhatch.com/
Instagram: @zanderhatch_author

Apple Books: https://apple.co/3QDc8qx

Kindle: https://amzn.to/3QBeg1Q

Paperback: https://amzn.to/438fzgk

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