Interview With Author Daniel Guardino
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I started my writing career as a screenwriter and have written over a dozen original screenplays. Several of those have been adapted into novels, including Guardians of the Land, which I’m currently expanding into a sequel. I’ve also worked as a script consultant for Americana Films and had the opportunity to co-write screenplays with film producer Michael Z. Gordon and actress Judy Norton, best known for her role as Mary Ellen Walton in the iconic TV series The Waltons. In addition to my own projects, I’ve been hired by other authors to adapt their books into screenplays, and I’m open to new adaptation collaborations. If you’re an author interested in bringing your book to the screen, feel free to reach out.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is Guardians of the Land. It’s a historical fiction novel inspired by my own Berryessa ancestors. The story is based on an original screenplay I wrote and takes place in 1840s California, during the Bear Flag Revolt and the Mexican-American War. It follows the Berryessa family as they fight to protect their land, heritage, and way of life in the face of political upheaval and betrayal. Writing it was a deeply personal journey, drawing from family history to tell a story of resilience and survival in a time of violent change.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I suppose one of my more unusual habits is that I like to write the screenplay first and then use it as a blueprint for the novel. Starting with the screenplay helps me focus on the structure, pacing, and dialogue, and then I build out the depth, emotion, and inner world of the characters when I adapt it into a book. It’s a cinematic approach to storytelling that works really well for me.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Some of the authors whose novels I’ve been hired to adapt into screenplays have had a big influence on me. Working so closely with their stories gave me a deeper appreciation for different writing styles, character development, and narrative structure. Each adaptation taught me something new about storytelling and helped shape the way I approach my own work.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on the sequel to Guardians of the Land. I’m developing it first as a screenplay, just like the original, and once the script is complete, I plan to adapt it into a novel. The sequel continues the story of the Berryessa family as they navigate the aftermath of war and the shifting cultural landscape of California. I’m excited to dive deeper into the legacy, conflicts, and evolving identity of the characters introduced in the first book.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m just getting started with book promotion, so, so far, I’ve mainly used the free promotional tools Amazon offers, along with sharing updates on Facebook. I’m beginning to explore other platforms and promotional sites to help reach a wider audience as I continue to grow as an author.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
I’m still learning myself, so I don’t feel qualified to give advice just yet. But if there’s one thing I’ve discovered, it’s that starting is the most important part. Write the story you feel passionate about, and be open to learning along the way.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
I haven’t received a lot of direct advice yet, but one thing that stuck with me is how important it is to have a standout book cover. Readers often do judge a book by its cover, especially when browsing online, so making that first impression count is key.
What are you reading now?
I’m not currently reading anything at the moment. Most of my focus has been on writing and developing my next project, but I’m always on the lookout for the next great story to dive into when I get the time.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Next, I’m planning to adapt my Silicon Valley screenplay into a novel. It’s a story I’ve wanted to expand on for a while, and I’m looking forward to exploring the characters and world in greater depth through the book format.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
I’d take Get Shorty by Elmore Leonard—it’s sharp, funny, and filled with great dialogue. I’d also bring The Godfather by Mario Puzo for its rich characters and epic storytelling. L.A. Confidential by James Ellroy would be another, for its gritty, layered crime world. And for something a bit different but still intense, No Country for Old Men by Cormac McCarthy—lean, powerful writing with a haunting atmosphere.
Author Websites and Profiles
Daniel Guardino Amazon Profile
Daniel Guardino’s Social Media Links
Author Interview Series
To discover a new author, check out our Featured Authors page. We have some of the best authors around. They are just waiting for you to discover them. If you enjoyed this writer’s interview feel free to share it using the buttons below. Sharing is caring!
If you are an author and want to be interviewed just fill out out Author Interview page. After submitting we will send it out in our newsletters and social media channels that are filled with readers looking to discover new books to read.
If you are looking for a new book to read check out our Featured Books Page.